Grok says:
Economists are a strong starting point for American trade policy advice due to their expertise in markets, tariffs, and global supply chains. They analyze data-driven impacts of trade agreements, like GDP growth or job creation, using models grounded in historical trends. For example, studies from economists at institutions like the Brookings Institution often quantify how tariffs affect consumer prices or export competitiveness.
However, trade policy isn’t just economics—it’s politics, geopolitics, and culture too. Economists might undervalue non-quantifiable factors like national security or domestic manufacturing sentiment. Other groups, like political scientists, industry leaders, or even labor unions, bring perspectives on strategic alliances, sector-specific needs, or worker impacts that economists might gloss over. For instance, a steel tariff might look inefficient on paper but resonate with voters or protect critical infrastructure.
The best approach is a synthesis: lean on economists for rigorous analysis but cross-check with diplomats, industry experts, and policymakers for a fuller picture. No single group has a monopoly on trade policy wisdom.
