Do tariffs help protect American Jobs and wages

Check these sites. But note, that there is no universal agreement on the answer.

http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080313141647AAIQcMb

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tariffs

Tariffs are a tool used by governments to impose taxes or duties on imported goods, raising their prices in the domestic market. The primary objective of tariffs is to protect domestic industries and stimulate domestic production. However, the impact of tariffs on American jobs and wages is a complex and debated topic.

To assess whether tariffs help protect American jobs and wages, you could consider the following steps:

1. Analyze economic theory: Tariffs aim to make imported goods more expensive, making domestic products relatively more competitive. This protectionism may help some industries, but it can also lead to negative consequences, such as higher costs for businesses that rely on imported inputs.

2. Evaluate historical evidence: Analyze specific cases or studies that have examined the effects of tariffs on jobs and wages. Look for empirical evidence on the job creation or loss associated with tariffs in different industries and regions.

3. Consider long-term effects: Tariffs may initially protect some jobs, but they can also disrupt global supply chains, reduce export opportunities, and invite retaliatory measures from other countries. These factors can have adverse effects on American jobs and wages in the long run.

4. Examine alternative policies: Explore alternative methods of protecting jobs and wages, such as investing in education, promoting innovation, and implementing supportive labor policies, which may have a more positive and sustainable impact on the overall economy.

It's vital to note that economists have differing opinions on the effectiveness and implications of tariffs. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a variety of reputable sources and studies to form a well-informed opinion on the topic.