Even though tariffs have been used for some time here the intensity of the debate over them will rise and fall depending on the times. As with the resc3nt tariffs the past five years especially in regard to China which includes the conflict of trade practices and other issues which are in focus.
“ The lesson learned here is that steel tariffs are driven by politics and that economics only matters to the extent it is impacting politics.” - from the OP ‘s article.
That politics often are common in regard to this issue is clear. When politics are in a phase of Extreme disorder and can be described as in a state if irrational schizophrenia then things become havoc. Like now. Clear heads still prevail in my opinion. Of course my opinion can be labeled therefore as any variations of descriptions that are thought up. Good-bad-or indifferent , take your pick. It don’t hurt my feeling.
Oh yes and definitely this is the case. Despite this being so one need only have the opinion for example that for example;
“Tariffs are always bad because it raises the cost of goods to consumers”.
Though Tariffs are levied and it does effect the price raising it still it is used and for various reasons. To conclude that because indeed it raises prices is as far as some people ever get. The larger picture takes into account other factors considered which have a cost impact in another place if not implemented.
It seems to be a slam dunk belief that it only increases costs to consumers. Obviously it will have to increase costs for sure and yet there are valid considerations to acknowledge where they will have the desired positive effect.
Consider please this article.
Article;
The Truth About Tariffs | Council on Foreign Relations
There are times when these are levied that there likely are bonifide reasons for having them. The reasons are often needlessly politicized as they are today.