China Quote by Ambrose Bierce
“TARIFF, n. A scale of taxes on imports, designed to protect the domestic producer against the greed of his consumer.”
About This Quote
A tariff is framed as a protective tax on imports, but the definition cynically suggests it serves producers’ greed more than consumer protection.
In simple terms: Tariffs protect producers, not consumers.
Key Takeaway
Economic policy can mask self‑interest.
Themes
economics
politics
protectionism
consumer behavior
producer incentives
Mood
skeptical
cynical
critical
Type
definition
satire
When to use this quote
- government trade negotiations
- business lobbying
- consumer price debates
- import regulation discussions
Key Concepts
taxation
trade policy
market distortion
power dynamics
Practical Applications
- policy analysis
- educational case studies
Questions to Reflect On
- How does framing affect public perception of tariffs?
- What alternatives exist to protect domestic industries without harming consumers?
![“What I am anxious to do is to get the best bill possible with the least amount of friction… I wish to avoid [splitting our party]. I shall do all in my power to retain the corporation tax as it is now and also force a reduction of the [tariff] schedules. It is only when all other efforts fail that…” quote by William Howard Taft](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/07b/william-howard-taft-3006_amount_what-i-am-anxious-to-do-is-to-get-the-be_41279.jpg)
![“[The Dalai Lama] told me some years ago, "I've made every concession to China, and I've been as open and tolerant as I could, and still things get worse in Tibet." If you look at it from one point of view, as he himself says, his monastic position of forbearance and nonviolence hasn't reaped any…” quote by Pico Iyer](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9fe/pico-iyer-1252_benefits_the-dalai-lama-told-me-some-years-ago-i_678.jpg)
