Free To Choose

Some countries subsidize their industries to get trade advantages, and their products tend to be less expensive as a result. This puts additional pressure on similar industries in other countries. Should those countries trade with the ones that subsidize, or should they refuse? Explain.

Most people believe that opportunity should be available to all. Some argue, though, that if the results aren’t also the same, this proves that the opportunities were never really open to everyone. Do you agree or not? Defend your response.

Many educators believe inner-city schools are a necessary protector of equality for minorities, and that open competition from a voucher system might cause those schools to collapse and their protective effect be destroyed. Construct an argument for or against this assertion.

The FDA is reluctant to approve medicines that might cause deaths; as a result, many drugs that could save lives are still in the testing stage. Suggest a way this dilemma might be resolved.

Government consumer-protection regulations tend to increase the cost of products. Would you rather wait for the government to sign off on items you would like to purchase, or would you rather buy them sooner and cheaper and take your chances? Explain why.

Unions often have the right to force a firm’s employees to join up. Argue for or against this power.

The Social Security system might be privatized in part by offering bonds or annuities to current workers in lieu of future payments. Explain briefly how this might (a) improve or (b) worsen the American retirement system.

The US government has the power to coin money. Does this give it the right to add dollars into circulation whenever it needs more? Provide reasons for your conclusion.