Question

In the past there have been violent protests against the World Bank and the World Trade Organization. The protesters argued that these institutions promote free trade and also encourage corporations in rich countries to invest in poor countries. The protesters contended that these practices make rich countries richer and poor countries poorer. An economist would?

Answer 1

Answer:

An economist would most likely disagree with those positions.

Explanation:

Most economists agree that free trade (a policy that is actively promoted by the World Trade Organization and the World Bank) is a positive-sum game, meaning that all countries that engage in trade benefit from it.

Economists would point out that the policies of the WTO have reduced tariffs, making consumer goods cheaper for people in low-income countries. They would also agree (some would disagree) in that the World Bank is an institution that has provided much needed economic aid to poor countries.