Participate in a discussion with your classmates by describing the role international trade plays in your life. Review the “EYE on YOUR LIFE” caption titled “International Trade” on page 235 in the textbook. Consider and share the international trade policies which serve your self-interests and those which best serve the global social interests. As a consumer, describe your benefits regarding the availability of a wide range of low-cost, high-quality goods and services which are produced in other countries, such as, cell phones and flat-screen televisions. As a voter, describe your concerns regarding international trade, such as the politics of free trade versus protection. Do you think tariffs or quotas should be imposed on imported goods to provide U.S. producers an “even playing field”?
Finally, as an employee, describe your concerns regarding the loss of U.S. jobs, since international trade spurs job offshoring, and it also provides freer access to U.S. markets by foreign producers.