--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: There is a phrase in trade theory; it's…" description: "\"There is a phrase in trade theory; it's called \"kicking away the ladder.\" First you violate the rules - the market rules - and then by the time you suc..." image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/104/noam-chomsky-42_developing_there-is-a-phrase-in-trade-theory-it-s-c_2176047.jpg" --- # There is a phrase in trade theory; it's called "kicking… ![“There is a phrase in trade theory; it's called "kicking away the ladder." First you violate the rules - the market rules - and then by the time you succeed in developing, you kick away the ladders so others can't do it too, and you preach about "free trade."” quote by Noam Chomsky](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/104/noam-chomsky-42_developing_there-is-a-phrase-in-trade-theory-it-s-c_2176047.jpg) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/104/noam-chomsky-42_developing_there-is-a-phrase-in-trade-theory-it-s-c_2176047.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/104/noam-chomsky-42_developing_there-is-a-phrase-in-trade-theory-it-s-c_2176047.jpg) > “There is a phrase in trade theory; it's called "kicking away the ladder." First you violate the rules - the market rules - and then by the time you succeed in developing, you kick away the ladders so others can't do it too, and you preach about "free trade."” [Noam Chomsky](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/noam-chomsky/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. Powerful entities often break market rules to gain advantage, then remove those rules to block others while advocating free trade. **In simple terms:** Those who benefit from breaking rules later block others from using them. Key Takeaway Beware of double standards in trade policy. Themes power trade ethics inequality Mood skeptical critical analytical Type political economic philosophical When to use this quote - policy making - business strategy - development aid - academic critique Key Concepts neoliberalism gatekeeping strategic behavior Questions to Reflect On - Who benefits from current trade rules? - How can fair competition be ensured? A Different Perspective The claim may overlook cases where regulation is necessary for safety. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet [China](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/china/) [Free trade](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/free-trade/) [Investing](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/investing/) [Kicks](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/kicks/) [Trade](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/trade/) ## Related quotes > [Governments do not necessarily act in the national interest, especially when making detailed microeconomic interventions. Instead, they are influenced by interest group pressures. The…](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/paul-krugman/governments-do-not-necessarily-act-in-the-national-interest/) [Paul Krugman](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/paul-krugman/) > [The aim of academic trade theory is to tell students, "Look at the model, not at how nations actually develop." 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