Suppose That Elimination of Tariffs on Agricultural Products Means That

question 12

Essay

Suppose that elimination of tariffs on agricultural products means that 1,000 farm workers lose jobs that pay an average of $20,000 per year. At the same time, because of the importation of relatively cheaper foreign vegetables, 150 million consumers save $2 per year on their grocery bills.
a) What is the total income lost by farm workers because of the free trade?
b) What is the total dollar amount saved by all consumers combined?
c) Which is greater, the lost income or the consumer savings? Do the benefits of free trade out-weigh the costs in this simple example?
d) Which group is most likely to become politically involved over the issue of removing the tariffs, the farm workers or the consumers? Why?

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Definitions:

Self-Esteem

The subjective evaluation or appraisal of one's own worth, value, or significance.

Negative Thoughts

Involves patterns of thinking that are pessimistic, self-critical, or defeatist, and can affect one's mood and mental health.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

A form of psychotherapy that aims to improve mental health by identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviors and replacing them with healthier ones.

Major Depressive Disorder

A mental health disorder characterized by a persistently depressed mood or loss of interest in activities, causing significant impairment in daily life.