Fair Trade [was: New meeting place discussion]

Discussion
1

Morey,

You wrote:

There is nothing unlibertarian
about advocating fair trade over free trade

I agree the advocacy is not unlibertarian, since in simply advocating this you are not initiating force.

However, the Govt policy itself is unlibertarian since it does initiate force.

Best, Michael

2

Morey:

What do you mean by Fair Trade? Can you give an example of a what
libertarian fair trade would entail?

-Derek

3

Michael,

My understanding is that the people who control the Fairtrade(tm) seal
of approval are doing so on a completely voluntary basis. The
producers and sellers who participate hope to attract more consumers
to their product for ideological reasons, even thought the price is
higher. This is a completely voluntary excercise.

Or maybe you know something I don't.

-Morey

4

Just reading now...

http://www.fairtrade.org.uk/about_what_is_fairtrade.htm

5

I guess what was unclear is that "Fairtrade" *is* free trade, and of
course, we all love free trade.

At the core, the difference is just a marketing angle.

6

Morey,

It sounds like you're restating what I said in my original response--we agree.

The Govt is not involved--it's voluntary.

Best, Michael

7

I will point out that in a market unencumbered by Government
regulation, businesses that voluntarily adhere to the policies of
organizations like FairTrade will tend to be outcompeted by those
pursuing unfettered free trade.

And I predict consumers will vote with their wallets to shop at the
"free trade" stores. Consider the fabulously low prices at WalMart.

-Derek

8

I agree that they are unlikely to become the industry leaders, but
there is still room for this niche market of people who view
capitalism as inherently unfair. Since it exists without any form of
coercion, everybody's happy.

-Morey

9

Morey:

Yes, I agree. Sort of like the niche market for organic foods.

Derek