Doug Irwin, an economist at Dartmouth and author on trade policy, dives into the notorious Smoot-Hawley Tariffs and their disastrous effects during the Great Depression. He illustrates how this historical blunder led to a cautionary tale about tariffs. The conversation connects the past to modern-day issues, including the recent tariff practices under Trump and Biden. Irwin warns of the dangers of protecting local markets at the expense of consumer costs and international relations, all while weaving in amusing anecdotes and economic insights.

Doug Irwin, a Dartmouth Professor specializing in global trade, shares insights on the complexities of U.S. trade policies and the shift of tariff powers to the executive branch. Gautam Mukunda from Yale analyzes the political ramifications of the trade war, questioning if there’s any bipartisan will to resolve it. They delve into the economic impact of tariffs on North American supply chains, the troubling dynamics within both political parties, and how leadership decisions are shaping the ongoing conflict and investor sentiment.

Doug Irwin, an economics professor at Dartmouth College and trade author, discusses the significant history of tariffs in the U.S. He explores how tariffs were employed under different administrations, including Trump's. Irwin highlights Alexander Hamilton's influence and critiques the belief that high tariffs always stimulate growth. The conversation also touches on global trade dynamics, particularly concerning China's role, and the political complexities surrounding tariff policies today, illustrating how past decisions echo in current economic relations.