International Relations and Free Trade

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses the validity of free trade principles as they have been put into practice. It looks at the history of free trade and examines the countless examples of flaws within the system that opponents of free trade use to support their case for its dismantling. The paper discusses the issue on a practical level and on a theoretical level.

From the Paper:

"Lastly, the distribution of the wealth generated by free trade is being called into question. There is evidence showing that the gap between rich and poor is growing. Ultimately, the goal of each nation in entering into trade agreements or the WTO is to improve its economic situation. If this is happening, the path of international free trade will continue to progress. However, there is the risk that the balance of power will tip too much towards the large Western multinational interests, jeopardizing the improving wealth of developing countries. The underlying theory does not address wealth distribution, merely wealth creation. The issue of distribution will be a major factor shaping the future of international free trade."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Crook, Clive. "Beyond Belief." Atlantic Monthly. Oct 2007. 44-47.
• Keohane, Robert O. & Nye, Joseph S. Jr. "Globalization: What's New? What's Not? (And So What?)." Foreign Policy. Spring 2000. 104-119.
• Barker, Debi & Mander, Jerry. "The WTO and Invisible Government." Peace Review. 2000. 251-255.
• Abdedal, Rawi & Segal, Adam. "Has Globalization Passed its Peak?" Foreign Affairs. 2004.
• Gladwell, Malcolm. "The Risk Pool". Dept. of Human Resources.

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• Analytical Essay # 132453 : "Free Trade is Good for Workers"
• Analytical Essay # 73280 : "Free Trade and US Workers"

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