Andrew Johnson, Chapter 12, Question #7

What I have learned from this chapter is why trade is (and has been) emphasized when it comes to economic development of countries. The fact that humans are out to improve their way of life and look to one another for goods and services in order to maximize productivity is clearly demonstrated by Wheelan through many examples. The idea that protectionism has also come to light as being a hindering force of future growth for the perseverance of the few. Wheelan also points out the weight of environment on the importance of trade, such as sweat-shops in Asia have allowed those countries to grow and raise the standard of living and the environment.