Tariffs and Modern Political Institutions: An Introduction (original) (raw)

The paper discusses the intricate relationship between politics and international trade policy, emphasizing that while free trade can benefit nations, political motivations often lead to protectionist policies. It introduces public choice theory as a framework to analyze the influence of political institutions and self-interested actors on trade policy decisions. By examining how political leaders navigate the political market of trade, the paper reveals the complexity of determining whose welfare is prioritized in economic policymaking.