China Quote by Henry George
“Blockading squadrons are a means whereby nations seek to prevent their enemies from trading; protective tariffs are a means whereby nations attempt to prevent their own people from trading. What protectionism teaches us, is to do to ourselves in time of peace what enemies seek to do to us in time of war.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Progress and Poverty, Henry George, 1879
Protectionist policies mirror wartime enemy tactics, harming domestic trade and prosperity during peace.
In simple terms: Protectionism harms a nation’s own trade.
Key Takeaway
Promote open trade for economic health.
Themes
economics
trade
protectionism
peace
war
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- government trade policy
- business strategy
- consumer pricing
- international relations
Key Concepts
political economy
liberalism
national policy
Questions to Reflect On
- Is protectionism ever justified?
- How to balance security and openness?
A Different Perspective
Short‑term political gains may outweigh long‑term costs.
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