1.The Right to Own Property

In preparation for a consideration of the tariff prob lem, let us discuss seven .basic assumptions to which practically everyone will agree. It may seem unnecessary to do this since these assumptions are so generally ac cepted; but the advocates of tariffs, while perhaps agree ing to these assumptions, often violate them in their defense of tariffs and other trade restrictions. 1. The Right to Own Property Ask any cross section of people in this country if they believe in an individual's right to own property, and an overwhelming majority will say: "Why, of course!" This belief is so commonly accepted as a part of our way of life that it is seldom questioned.' Yet in actual practice, the principle underlying the belief is constantly violated. The free exchange of goods and services.between in dividuals depends on the idea that a person has the right to own property. If a person has the right to own 17 property, it follows that he has the right to use or dis pose of his property as he wishes, so long as he does not infringe on the same right of others.· 2. Doing Things .the Easy Way Man attempts to satisfy his desires with the least pos sible effort-a worthy trait indeed, so long as he does not tread on the equal right of others to do the same.