WATER - MAN THE NARRATOR (10) Autobiographical-Philosophical story - by Ajith Rohan J.T.F.

 

Tariffs a double-edged sword - (Last part of the Article)

 

 Ajith Rohan J.T.F. 

Tariffs a double-edged sword 

Tariffs have always been a double-edged sword—sometimes fostering local culture while at other times limiting global cultural diversity. On one hand, they can serve as a shield, protecting local industries, artisans, and cultural products from being overshadowed by mass-produced or imported goods. This can help preserve unique traditions and craftsmanship that might otherwise struggle to compete on a global scale.

On the other hand, tariffs can act as barriers, reducing access to diverse cultural expressions from around the world. They can limit the flow of ideas, art, and goods that often thrive in an interconnected, globalized environment—potentially curbing innovation and mutual cultural enrichment.

One notable historical example of tariffs influencing cultural exchange is the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act of 1930 in the United States. This act raised tariffs on over 20,000 imported goods to record levels, aiming to protect American industries during the Great Depression. However, it had unintended consequences for cultural exchange:

Reduced Access to Foreign Cultural Goods 

The high tariffs made imported cultural products, such as books, films, and art, more expensive and less accessible to the American public. This limited exposure to international cultures during a time when global understanding could have been beneficial.

Retaliatory Tariffs 

Other countries imposed their own tariffs in response, further restricting the flow of cultural goods and ideas. This created a more insular environment, where nations focused inward rather than engaging in cultural exchange.

Impact on Global Relations 

The act strained diplomatic relations, as countries viewed the tariffs as protectionist and hostile. This hindered international collaboration, including cultural initiatives.

The Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act is a powerful example of how economic policies can ripple through cultural and social spheres, shaping the way nations interact and share their heritage. On one hand, they can serve as a shield, protecting local industries, artisans, and cultural products from being overshadowed by mass-produced or imported goods. This can help preserve unique traditions and craftsmanship that might otherwise struggle to compete on a global scale.

On the other hand, tariffs can act as barriers, reducing access to diverse cultural expressions from around the world. They can limit the flow of ideas, art, and goods that often thrive in an interconnected, globalized environment—potentially curbing innovation and mutual cultural enrichment.

What reforms could help balance local and global cultural interests?

Balancing local and global cultural interests is a delicate task, but some reforms and strategies could help foster a more harmonious relationship between the two:

Adjusting Tariff Policies: 

Instead of blanket tariffs, countries could adopt targeted measures, such as reduced tariffs on goods that promote cultural exchange (e.g., art, films, or traditional handicrafts), while maintaining protection for vulnerable local industries.

Cultural Collaboration Agreements: 

Establish international agreements encouraging collaborations between artists, writers, musicians, and filmmakers from different cultures. These partnerships can create hybrid cultural products that celebrate diversity while respecting local traditions.

Subsidies for Local Creators: 

Governments could provide financial support to local cultural creators, allowing them to compete on the global stage without needing to restrict imports.

Enhanced Trade of Ideas: 

Create incentives for educational and cultural exchanges, such as grants for studying or working abroad, to foster an appreciation of global diversity while deepening pride in local heritage.

Cultural Safeguard Mechanisms:

 Implement policies that preserve endangered cultural practices, languages, and traditions, ensuring they are not overshadowed by global trends.

Promotion of Fair Trade:

Support fair trade initiatives that encourage sustainable and ethical production of cultural goods, helping local artisans while making their work available globally.

Digital Access Policies:

Invest in digital platforms to allow local creators to share their work globally, bypassing traditional distribution barriers and tariffs.

Inclusive Urban Planning:

 Use public spaces to celebrate diverse cultures—through festivals, art installations, or cultural hubs—to balance local and global influences.

Each of these approaches can support a vibrant cultural ecosystem where the local and global coexist, complementing rather than competing with each other.

(end of the article on Tariffs 2025)

USA First 02 - How do Tariffs Influence Cultural Exchange Between Countries? by Ajith Rohan J.T.F.

 

Tariffs can have a significant influence on cultural exchange, often creating barriers that hinder the flow of goods, ideas, and traditions between countries. Here's how they might impact cultural exchange:

Restricted Access to Cultural Products: Tariffs on imported cultural goods—like books, films, music, art, or even traditional crafts—can make these items more expensive or less accessible. This limits the spread of cultural expressions and reduces opportunities for people to experience and appreciate other cultures.

Economic Impact on Creators and Industries: Higher costs for exporting cultural products can discourage artists, filmmakers, and other creators from sharing their work internationally. This also affects industries like tourism, where cultural exports often play a big role.

Reduced Opportunities for Collaboration: Tariffs can strain international relations, making it harder for countries to partner on cultural initiatives like exhibitions, festivals, or exchange programs. These collaborations often thrive on goodwill and open trade.

Local Cultural Protectionism: On the flip side, tariffs are sometimes used to protect local culture from being overshadowed by foreign influences. This can promote domestic art and traditions but may also create an environment where global cultural diversity is less embraced.

Tariffs don't just shape economies—they shape how we see and connect with the world.

Tariffs influence cultural exchange in different regions of the world.

Tariffs influence cultural exchange differently across various regions, depending on the economic, political, and cultural contexts of those areas. Here's an overview:

Europe: Many European countries are part of the EU, which fosters free trade within its member states. This supports vibrant cultural exchange, as goods and ideas flow more freely. However, tariffs on imports from non-EU countries can limit access to cultural products from regions like Asia or the Americas, potentially reducing exposure to non-European cultures.

North America: The United States, Canada, and Mexico have agreements like the USMCA (formerly NAFTA) that reduce tariffs within the region, encouraging cultural exchange between these countries. However, tariffs on goods from other regions, such as Asia, might limit cultural imports like traditional crafts or entertainment, depending on trade policies.

Asia: In diverse regions like Asia, tariffs play a complex role. In areas with high tariffs, such as some parts of South Asia, cultural goods like films, books, or music from other regions may become costlier or less accessible. On the other hand, trade agreements like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) lower tariffs among member nations, encouraging cultural exchange within the bloc.

Africa: African nations often face tariff-related challenges in exporting cultural goods to wealthier regions due to trade barriers. This can limit the global spread of African art, music, and traditions. However, within Africa, initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) aim to reduce tariffs and encourage intra-continental cultural exchange.

South America: Tariffs can affect the import and export of cultural products between South America and other regions. However, regional trade agreements like Mercosur lower tariffs among member countries, fostering cultural exchange within the region.

In regions where tariffs are high, they can sometimes unintentionally protect local cultures by reducing foreign competition. Conversely, low tariffs tend to promote a richer cultural exchange by making global goods and ideas more accessible. So, we can understand that historically, tariffs (or "dazi") have played a complex role in shaping cultural exchange.

CONTINUE

FOLLOW YOUR DREAM - by S.A. Shenoli T. Perera

 

U.S.A. first Nationalism, Tariffs and rest of the world - part 01 - by Ajith Rohan J.T.F.

 

One of the main issues with the “USA First” socio-political-economic-cultural viewpoint of actual U.S. President Donald Trump is the emphasis on domestic industrial protection and promotion through tariffs. We know tariffs are taxes imposed on imported or exported goods and services between countries. Ultimately, the customer bears this indirect tax as part of the market price of the purchased goods or services.

Some analysts argue that this approach reflects economic nationalism. Others suggest it may be a geopolitical strategy targeting countries like China to curb their growing economic and political influence. A third possibility could be fulfilling electoral promises to Trump’s supporters, particularly in regions affected by globalization, where he positioned himself as a defender of American jobs. Could there be other motivations? Regardless, these policies sparked significant debate. Critics argue they risk trade wars and economic instability, while supporters view them as necessary to reassert U.S. economic sovereignty.

Economically, these protectionist measures aim to shield U.S. industries but have destabilized global supply chains, particularly in technology and manufacturing sectors. Countries like China, Canada, and Mexico have been directly impacted, with tariffs reaching as high as 25% on certain goods. This has led to increased costs for consumers and businesses, potentially fuelling inflation.

Politically, these moves might weaken international alliances and institutions, as Trump’s policies often challenged global norms and prioritized unilateral action. This could create opportunities for other powers, such as China and Russia, to expand their influence. It’s a complex situation with far-reaching consequences.

Here’s a deeper dive into the implications:

• Economic Impact: Disrupted global supply chains, increased production costs, and higher consumer prices. This tit-for-tat approach risks slowing global economic growth.
• Political Ramifications: Strained diplomatic relations and weakened international alliances.
• Domestic Effects in the U.S.: While tariffs aim to protect domestic industries, they could lead to job losses in sectors reliant on international trade. Stock markets have reacted negatively, reflecting investor concerns about economic instability.

The situation remains dynamic, with potential for further escalation.

(continue)

Towards a Complementary Humanism - save humanism and human world - by Ajith Rohan J.T.F.

 

Common Objective – "Save humanity and the human world." By "human world," we refer to the "man-made world" within the common platform of the so-called "natural world." I emphasize that we are political beings as far as we value cultures and civilizations. Thus, without politics and correct administration, we cannot be either cultural or civil people.

Introduction – With the concept of "complementary humanism," I am moving beyond "integral humanism" or the French "humanisme complementaire," where they emphasize the recognition and integration of diverse human experiences and values for a collective whole. They simply intend to find harmony between different cultural, social, and individual perspectives to create a more inclusive and interconnected society.

However, these aspects, while great, are not exhaustive. Our "Complementary humanism" aims to dynamically integrate "classic humanism" with new perspectives. This platform envisions a world where diverse individuals with their own identities, cultures, and civilizations are always willing to open their minds for mutual understanding of their differences in values, principles, and actions. The objective is mutual enrichment and understanding of the dynamic world in flux. In this way, they can collaborate to address not only common challenges and achieve shared goals but also individual realization.

Objectives and Benefits – Complementary humanism seeks to create a harmonious balance between individual aspirations and collective goals, fostering an environment where everyone can flourish. By recognizing and integrating diverse human experiences, we can address contemporary challenges more effectively and create a more inclusive and interconnected society.

Examples of Complementary Humanism in Action – For instance, consider how international collaborations in science and technology have led to ground-breaking discoveries. These collaborations often involve scientists from different cultural backgrounds working together, sharing their unique perspectives and expertise.

Addressing Counterarguments – Some might argue that complementary humanism is too idealistic or difficult to achieve. However, by actively promoting mutual understanding and cooperation, we can overcome these challenges and create a better world for all.

Conclusion – In short, with complementary humanism, we must seek to create a harmonious balance between individual aspirations and collective goals, fostering an environment where everyone can flourish.

WATER - MAN THE NARRATOR 2025 - WHEN "I = 0" - BY AJITH ROHAN J. T. F. - W. U.