Exploring the political and economic determinants of trade protection, this study provides a range of information on key American industries and documents the process of seeking and conferring protection. Eight analytical histories of the automobile, steel, semiconductor, lumber, wheat, and textile and clothing industries demonstrate that trade barriers rarely have unequivocal benefits and may be counterproductive. They show that criteria for awarding protection do not take into account the interests of consumers or other industries and that political influence and an organized lobby are major sources of protection. Based on these findings, a final essay suggests that current policy fails to consider adequately economic efficiency, the public good, and indirect negative effects. This volume should interest scholars in economics, business, and public policy who deal with trade issues.
- ISBN10 0226454894
- ISBN13 9780226454894
- Publish Date 15 February 1996
- Publish Status Active
- Publish Country US
- Imprint University of Chicago Press
- Format Hardcover
- Pages 470
- Language English
- URL http://wiley.com/remtitle.cgi?isbn=9780226454894