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"Fair Trade" equals more poverty

Trade is one of the most enriching activities that we humans engage in - providing all of us with far more things (and better things) than we could ever produce on our own.  Here's the problem: when the government dabbles in the trade business, the enriching power of trade is lost.  In the name of helping people, the government hurts them.

To illustrate: The Smith's make their own food from scratch.  Let's say that Dad makes fish sandwiches, Mom makes salad, and Junior makes lemonade.  Each family member trades with each other.  Everyone is employed and happy, right?

Junior gets so good at making lemonade, he can produce enough for his family and the Franklin's, next door.  Since he likes the cookies Mrs. Franklin produces, he works out a deal - if she'll overproduce cookies, Junior will overproduce lemonade.  Now, both families get more to eat - and some variety. 

Things get even better when other neighborhood families enter the trade.  

The Path to Riches is Paved with Freedom

This helpful chart from the Heritage Foundation demonstrates one of the most important aspects of growing an economy: more government equals less wealth.

(Click to enlarge the chart)

Politicians are quick to promise assistance in the form of medical care, free insurance, help with heating bills, free food, free transportation, free housing (need we continue?) - but in fact, such "help" actually hurts.  The more the government taxes citizens and redistributes their money (no matter how noble the motives may be), the less wealth the nation enjoys. 

Even though in the short term it may feel good to "help" the poor or disgruntled, those who truly care won't offer a free lunch - instead, they'll protect your right to make and keep your own lunch!  If you have more than you need, you can share on your own.

The best way to help America's poor is also the best way to help the world's poor - lower taxes on everyone, reduce government intervention in the economy, give people the responsibility to provide for themselves and the freedom to pursue their dreams.