Candid Comment - Let's Talk Sex And Disabled Peeps Dispelling Myths

Ah yes, sex, a subject that for many people is quite taboo, this is even more true when it comes to speaking about people who are disabled. The myth among many is that people with disabilities are not interested in sex at all, Asexual, or are like rabbits, Hyper Sexual. While it is true, some are one or the other, not all disabled people are one or the other. So with that out of the way, here are some other myths that need to be busted. Sorry, the Myth Busters are not joining in this discussion as there are no explosions or other things like that, I just had to throw that in.

For the record, I am a person with a disability, vision loss. I also have some breathing challenges occasionally, and my knees are not as strong as they were when I was younger due to a touch of arthritis. My girlfriend, whom I just started dating, is also a person with disabilities. Muscular Dystrophy being the one that is most prevalent, so you can imagine what it will be like when we decide to have sex, Sorry kids, I am not going to blog about it.

1. People with disabilities can have have sex and they like it! Sex is normal, people with disabilities like to have sex and while it may be challenging for some, it is not impossible. There maybe requirements for support from a third person to facilitate sexual activity, but, it can be done. Furthermore, people with disabilities are intelligent and, despite the myth, are not childlike. Ok, perhaps some are but, most are not. They know what they are doing. Now, of course, the caveat here is that sex should be an activity between adults no matter what. But, you can rest assured, most disabled people do get it, and they know what they are doing when it comes to sex.
2. So in some circumstances you may have to plan the adventure. While it is true that traditional sex is possible for people with disabilities in certain situations, you are going to have to think ahead. We'll take my girlfriend as an example. As noted, she has MD. So I have to think how do I approach her sexually? Starting off slow, being gentle for sure. Other ways to be sexual without going for the big bang are hugging and kissing and gentle touches. Sex is more than the heavy breathing and wham bam thank you ma'am or sir.   
3. You might be surprised to know that there are people out there that are disabled and sexy, I mean real sexy. Sexy is not limited by size or race, and certainly is not by disability. There are many men and women out there who are disabled and very hot. Some are even models and eh hem porn stars! The disabled are no longer closeted in this area. The fact is, there are loud voices advocating for the disabled regarding sex and the definition of sexy and how that should be viewed in society as a whole.
4. 
   People with disabilities date, marry and have sex with people who are not disabled. The pretty lady on the left is my late wife, Darlene. We were married 26 years before her death on Jan 4 2024. For the most part, Dar was not disabled but, eventually, did become diabetic and had autoimmune hepatitis, which can be considered as disabilities. Up into the later years of our lives together, she was not disabled, and we had a good marriage, when she did become disabled, we still had a good marriage. In short, people who are and are not disabled do get together and form relationships, including ones that are sexual in nature. There is no rule that says a person with a disability must marry or have sex with another disabled person.
5. People who have lost feeling in their limbs are still in many circumstances able to achieve sexual stimulation. Whether it is limited or not depends on the disability. How do people who use a wheelchair have sex? The simple answer is, usually in bed! Yes, just like any normal person would. They may also do it on the couch, or even dare I say the kitchen!! You may have to plan a little or, in some cases, a lot, but sex is still possible for people with mobility issues. And we cannot neglect the fact that meds and other factors can cause our sex drive to be affected, but again, with some planning and patience, that can be overcome. However, for some older and really sick people, sex is no longer an option and while that is hard to except for some, it is important to remember that love exceeds sex. And sex is not limited to what is traditional. You can still be sexual without being sexual. Cuddles, hugs, and gentle loving touches and words can be just as sexy as actually having sex.
6. Did you know that people with spinal cord injuries have reported experiencing great pleasure from stimulation in areas like the arms, earlobe, neck, cheek, and nipple. So much so that it can even lead to orgasm! Sex happens in the brain too. There are ways to enhance this, whether it’s through fantasies, relaxation, meditation or breathing techniques. It’s all just a matter of working out personal turn-ons and turn-offs, the best way to do this is with a loving partner you trust! So, in short, what I am saying here is that sex is not just about the genitalia, it's in the mid too.

There are other things to take note of. People with disabilities do identify as LGBTQ2S+. This is the acronym used to represent the diverse community of people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, two-spirit, and other sexual and gender identities. The + indicates inclusivity of additional identities. Many disabled people actually connect with sex workers for sex. The reason they do so is because in many instances they tend to be judged by the ability to be sexual. Ableism is a real thing in society and its impacts are felt not only with respect to to employment for the disabled, but in housing, politics and sex. People with disabilities want to be seen as normal people in the community, and they are also wanting to be considered sexy along with employable, housable and able to express opinion on topics including politics. In short, they aim to be a part of the community in every way.

Being a person with a disability myself, I have had to face ableism, mostly related to employment. But, even in terms of sexuality, I have been looked as odd for wanting a relationship, especially since I have a preference towards plus-sized women. People have thought that to be weird and kinky, which frankly it is not. My late wife was a BBW big and curvy, sexy in every way as well as one of the loveliest people I had the privilege of being with. So to close, it's quite normal for everyone, including the disabled, to enjoy a healthy sex life, it's not kinky or weird, believe me.

Below are some resources you can look at that should help you get some insights to understanding what sex and disability are all about.

Kennedy Krieger has an article about intellectual disabilities as it is related to individuals with intellectual disabilities and sex. Sexuality and Adults with Developmental Disabilities is the title.

Ableism 101 is the title of an article / fact sheet about ableism presented by Access Living, an organization that advocates for the disabled in Chicago, IL.

The CBC has some interesting content regarding disability You Can't Ask That is a documentary series exploring various topics re disabilities. Some backgrounder is also on Wikipedia. The CBC has also had radio shows on the topic and even a podcast or two on the subject.

For more resources, head over to Google and search based on disabilities.

Candid Conversations - Canada 51st State - Non-Starter - Here's Why

    

The idea of Canada becoming the 51st state of the United States is a recurring thought. In fact, at one time, a bill was introduced in congress called the Annexation Bill of 1866. Suggested was that the president, at the time Andrew Johnson, be authorized to annex what back then was British North America. The idea, of course, was to come to an agreement with the governments of the British provinces. Then to publish by proclamation that, from the date thereof, the States of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Canada East, and Canada West, and the Territories of Selkirk, Saskatchewan, and Columbia would be created.

The Annexation Bill would have created four states and three territories from what is today Canada, additionally, most of the Arctic Archipelago and parts of the Canadian mainland would have become unorganized territory. Below is a list of what this would look like if this were the case today. 

• New Brunswick. Modern-day New Brunswick.
• Nova Scotia. Modern-day Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island.
• Canada East. Modern-day Quebec, Newfoundland and Labrador, and part of modern-day northern Ontario.
• Canada West. Modern-day southern Ontario, and part of modern-day northern Ontario.
• Selkirk Territory. Modern-day Manitoba, and parts of modern-day northwestern Ontario, Nunavut, Saskatchewan, and the Northwest Territories.
• Saskatchewan Territory. Modern-day Alberta, and parts of modern-day Saskatchewan, British Columbia, the Northwest Territories and Yukon.
• Columbia Territory. The part of modern-day British Columbia and Yukon west of the Rocky Mountains. 

You can read more about this bill on Wikipedia.

    

This cockamamie idea is often raised during times of political upheaval or economic uncertainty in either country. While it is a far-fetched and frankly ridiculous fantasy, it's a proposition that sparks lively debate, prompting consideration of the potential benefits and drawbacks for both nations. An ipsos poll suggests that the idea of becoming a state is of no interest to most Canadians. But, there are some who would say yes to statehood.

According to Ipsos, four in ten (43%) of Canadians age 18-34 would vote to be American if citizenship and conversion of assets to USD is guaranteed.

The supposed "Good" A Unified Vision. Proponents of the 51st state scenario often point to the potential for increased economic prosperity.

It has been suggested that a single North American economy could eliminate trade barriers, streamline regulations, and foster greater investment, potentially creating a powerhouse that could dominate the global market. Imagined is the elimination of border crossing delays for goods and people that would fuel the economy.

A unified military would consolidate resources and potentially enhance national security. This could lead to a more coordinated response to global threats and a more robust defense posture.

Politically speaking, some argue a union would balance out the American political landscape. Canada is considered to be more progressive with respect to social policies, particularly regarding healthcare and gun control. It is felt among advocates of statehood for Canada that there could be potential to moderate the increasingly polarized American political system. Adding millions of voters would significantly alter the electoral map.

The "Bad": Cultural Clash and Loss of Identity. However, there are downsides that are equally compelling. Canada, fiercely proud of its distinct national identity, could see its unique culture swallowed by the much larger and more dominant American culture.

Becoming a 51st state would probably cost the following: Canada losing its sovereignty, its universal healthcare system, its multiculturalism policies, and its parliamentary democracy would be a devastating blow to Canadian identity. For these reasons, most Canadians, and the government of Canada is making it clear, Canada becoming the 51st state is a non-starter.

Economically, while a boosted economy is possible, the reality is that Canadian industries convert to the American style of business they could struggle to compete with their larger American counterparts. That potentially would lead to job losses and economic exploitation. Furthermore, the absorption of Canadian resources, particularly oil and water, could raise concerns about environmental sustainability and long-term resource management. In short, "Drill Baby Drill". Could cost the continent environmentally.

Politically, the integration process would be a monumental undertaking. Reconciling vastly different political systems, legal frameworks, and social values would be a logistical and cultural nightmare. Not to mention decades to implement. Also, indigenous peoples and the francophones of Quebec would not tolerate any attempt to be forcibly assimilated into an Anglo-Saxon culture.

The balance of power in the US Senate and House would be drastically reshaped, leading to significant political potential gridlock. Congress and the Senate would have to be reconfigured to allow for up to 50+ representatives in the house, and 2 senators in the Senate. Which means several states would lose members in the lower house, as the law states that the congress shall not have a seat count exceeding 435.

Canada uses a different approach politically. A constitutional Monarchy means that King Charles is the head of state. The leader of the party who wins an election in Canada is invited by the Governor General, who represents the king, to form a government. And it is the members of the House of Commons with its representatives, using the Westminster system. And there are no term limits like in the US. Oh, and Canada has a Prime Minister, not a Governor. And Canada has provinces, not states, nor are they led by Governors but rather by premiers, who, by the way, are also leaders of parties who are invited to form government after elections by Lieutenant Governor Generals, who also represent the King. And all provinces have legislatures.

Also of note is the idea of the Second Amendment. The right to bear arms.

The US constitutions Second Amendment reads as follows.

A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed

Canada has no such provision in its constitution. Canada has strict gun laws. For example, it is illegal to own fully automatic weapons, a taser, and handguns. There are exceptions to these laws. That said, most Canadians would NOT want that to change, especially in Quebec.

Canadian law is unified by the Criminal Code. While in the US, states create their own laws. True, there are provincial laws in Canada and federal laws in the US but, in Canada, the laws provincially and federally are just about the same.

The biggest drawback is in health care and other social programs. In Canada, taxes pay for a universal health care system. Which means that, with a few exceptions, like cosmetic surgery and dental care, Canadians do not pay out of pocket for health care. In general, it is illegal to have a tiered health care system in Canada, though there has been somewhat of a push to allow some privatization. The US has a multi tier system of public and private health care. And while care is easy to get, it's costly and predatory.

It has gotten to the point where recently a CEO of a major health care insurance company in the US was murdered. Luigi Mangione is accused of the crime, killing CEO Brian Thompson, head of United Health. Health care costs in the US can and do bankrupt people, and many of the denials by all health insurance providers have proven fatal for many of their clients. This could happen in Canada but, generally, does not.

Let's get Real, the likelihood of Canada becoming the 51st state is extremely low. It's a nons-tarter period!

Both countries benefit from the current relationship, characterized by strong trade ties and close cultural exchange, without the complexities and sacrifices inherent in a full political union.

However, the debate itself is a valuable exercise. It forces everyone to consider the strengths and weaknesses of the respective nations, to examine values and priorities, and to contemplate the potential consequences of radical political, economic and social change is a good idea from time to time. It sobers the minds of those proposing such a merger and clarifies the fact that, for the most part, making Canada the 51st state is a bad idea. The cost in terms of cultural identity, sovereignty, and logistical challenges makes it a highly unlikely scenario. The current symbiotic relationship between the two nations, characterized by mutual respect and cooperation, appears to be the most beneficial and sustainable path forward for both Canada and the United States. For now, the prospect of a union remains an interesting thought experiment, best left as a conversation starter rather than a concrete political objective.


Resources for this post.

US vs. Canadian Healthcare: What is The Difference? This article outlines the two systems and the differences between them.

Another resource looking at healthcare is the Commonwealth Fund. While Canada is not ranked in the top 3 according to the report, the US fares worse. Ranking last! The report is titled Mirror Mirror 2024.

Worldwide, according to International Citizens Insurance, Canada ranks 4th out of 10 countries worldwide as one of the best countries for healthcare. The US, did not even rank in the top 10.

One of the reasons gun control is fiercely defended in Canada is due to the École Polytechnique massacre. On December 6, 1989, a gunman entered École Polytechnique a school in Montreal, Quebec and killed 15 women and injured 14 others in a terrorist anti-feminist act. This along with other events has been pointed to as the main reason to ban automatic weapons across Canada and, in particular, Quebec.

As for safety and peace, Canada ranks 11th as a safe country, the US 131st! Global Peace Index. Also, in the US, the incarnation rate is high. 1.8 million men and women, and children and teens, are in jail in the US. making it the country with the highest incarnation rate. And, the US does execute juveniles. A teenager aged 14 is the youngest in the US to be put to death.

Thank you for reading this post. You are welcome to comment on this topic. Please note, all comments are reviewed before being posted and any that are deemed inappropriate will not be approved.

Candid Comment - What You Should Never Do On and Off a Train: A Guide to Safety and Etiquette

    

While I was on a train heading to Ottawa last November, I saw a passenger do a stupid thing that nearly got them kicked off the train and arrested. 

This individual decided to board the train heading to Ottawa, that was where they were going. The problem was: He was on the wrong train. The train manager caught this and explained that they would have to reach out to other colleagues and decide next steps. The passenger was a bit miffed at this. Claiming he was not told he was boarding the wrong train as no one checked his ticket. The thing is, when you buy a ticket from Via Rail here in Canada, the train number, car, and seat number are clearly marked on the boarding pass. The person claimed they were a senior, so what. So am I, but I knew what train to board in Toronto and what car and seat I was in. Why, because I read the boarding pass! DUH. Fortunately, for this person, the manger as she put it was going to be a nice lady and move his ticket and seat to her train. Which she did. But, she also noted that the incident would be noted on the traveller's account. Meaning, DO'NT EVER TRY THAT AGAIN!

Train travel comes with responsibilities for you the traveller and the staff on board the train and at the station. Both safety and courtesy play significant roles in ensuring a smooth journey for all passengers. Here’s a guide on what you should never do on and off a train and some of the things that will get you in put in front of the police and ultimately a judge.

Never Neglect Safety

1. Never Ignore Safety Announcements: Safety instructions and announcements are provided for a reason. Never disregard them; they may contain important information about emergency procedures, exits, or changes in schedule.

2. Do not Stand Too Close to the Edge: Whether waiting for your train or exiting, always maintain a safe distance from the platform's edge. Trains can come in unexpectedly fast, and standing too close can be dangerous. I have actually seen teens and some adults make the stupid choice to stick their feet and legs out as a train enters the station. Not only is that going to cause injury to the leg, you may end up under the train DEAD! Never, ever do this. The same applies to sticking your head over the track or in the mouth of a subway tunnel.

3. Do Not Block Emergency Exits: Familiarize yourself with the location of emergency exits and never obstruct them. In the event of an emergency, these exits are crucial for a quick and safe evacuation.

4. Never Cross the Tracks in Unmarked Areas: Trains can travel faster than expected. Always use designated crossing points and never attempt to cross the tracks where it's prohibited. Never try to beat a train at a crossing in a car or on foot. This can lead to serious injury, and often' death.

5. Do not Engage in Horseplay: Playful behavior, such as pushing or shoving, can lead to serious accidents. Always act responsibly in train stations and while on board a train.

Never Disregard Courtesy

1. Do not Use Loud Electronics: Be mindful of your volume. Whether you’re talking on your phone or playing music, keep the volume low to avoid disturbing fellow passengers. Use headphones to keep your audio private.

2. Do not Ignore Reserved Seating: Many trains offer reserved seating. Never occupy seats that are clearly marked for others. Respect the personal space of fellow travelers by adhering to seating guidelines. Remember that your ticket / boarding pass has your assigned seat, sit there and if the car is not full ask the conductor if you may move to another seat. If you are in economy, don't try to crash the business class car and sit there. You paid for economy, you sit in economy.

3. Do not leave a Mess Behind: Clean up after yourself. Leaving trash or food remnants can create an unpleasant environment for others. Use designated bins for waste, and leave your space tidy.

4. Greet and Thank Conductors and Staff: Even though it’s not mandatory, acknowledging the staff with a simple “hello” or “thank you” that can go a long way in fostering a positive travel atmosphere. 

Never Overlook Personal Space

1. Avoid Crowding the Aisles: On busy trains, it can be tempting to push through without regard for personal space. Be polite about navigating aisles, and always allow others to pass if you are blocking their way.

2. Do not Invade Personal Space: Be conscious of the surrounding space. Sitting too close or leaning over someone’s shoulder can create discomfort. Respect the bubble of personal space. In short, don't be creepy.

3. Try No To Travel with Bulky Bags: Keep luggage and bags manageable to avoid taking up too much space. Large items can obstruct pathways and become hazards during an emergency.

Off the Train: Essential Etiquette

1. Do Not Rush Off the Train: When the train stops, resist the urge to leap up and rush out. Be patient. Let others disembark first, especially the elderly, disabled, or those with young children.

2. Do Not Stand in the Middle of the Platform: After exiting, move off to the side of the platform to avoid congesting the area. Allow space for other passengers to disembark safely.

3. Know Where You Are And Where You Are Going: When transferring to another mode of transport, such as a bus or subway, or to another train, keep an eye on the schedule and platforms. Always be aware of your connections to ensure a smooth transition. Know what train or bus, or subway or destination at the end of the trip you are heading to. Never make hasty decisions at the last minute, like running for a train while carrying oversized luggage. This can cause accidents and delays for everyone around you.  So with that said, here are some things that can land you in serous trouble onboard a train or in a station.

1. Disruptive Behavior

One of the most common reasons for passenger arrests on trains is disruptive behavior. This includes yelling, causing a scene, or engaging in hostile interactions with fellow travelers or train staff. Such disruptions can lead to complaints from other passengers and may ultimately require law enforcement intervention to restore order. It’s essential to remember that public transport is a shared space, and everyone deserves a peaceful journey. In short, leave your entitlement behind. 

2. Substance Abuse

Consuming alcohol on trains is permissible in many regions, but excessive drinking can lead to unruly behavior. Being publicly intoxicated, especially if you start bothering other passengers, is a surefire way to attract law enforcement's attention. Additionally, using illegal drugs on a train is strictly prohibited and can lead to immediate arrest. Many transit systems have strict policies regarding drug use, and being caught can result in serious legal consequences. Consuming your booze on trains is a no no, and so is smoking and vaping.

3. Trespassing and Fare Evasion

Failing to have a valid ticket can lead to legal consequences, particularly in systems where fare evasion is treated as a criminal offense. In some areas, you can be cited for trespassing if you attempt to board the wrong train or, a train without a ticket or enter restricted areas, such as maintenance zones or the tracks. Always make sure to follow ticketing regulations to avoid fines or arrest. Yes, a train will stop in the middle of nowhere if you board it and have not paid, and you will be asked to pay or be handed over to the police. And you will be banned from riding trains, possibly for life.

4. Vandalism

Damaging train property, such as seats, windows, or any other part of the train, falls under vandalism laws and can lead to arrest. Many train systems employ surveillance cameras, and perpetrators often find themselves facing hefty fines, community service, or even jail time. It’s crucial to treat public property with respect.

5. Sexual Harassment or Assault

Unfortunately, sexual harassment and assault can occur in any public space, including trains. Making inappropriate remarks, unwanted physical contact, or any form of sexual proposition can lead to criminal charges. Transit authorities take these incidents very seriously, and victims are encouraged to report misconduct. Protecting the safety and dignity of all passengers must be a priority while travelling. Remember this, the staff are not there to make booty calls, and in most cases passengers are not either.

6. Refusing to Follow Instructions from Conductors or Staff

Train conductors and staff have the authority to enforce rules and ensure passenger safety. Ignoring their instructions—whether it’s to exit the train at a specific stop or to comply with safety protocols—can lead to arrest. It’s essential to recognize that these individuals are trained to handle various situations and that following their directions can help ensure a smooth journey.

7. Possession of Prohibited Items

Every train service has its own list of items that are prohibited on board, which in most cases include weapons, explosives, large quantities of alcohol, or hazardous materials. Trying to bring such items onto a train can lead to immediate arrest and charges related to possession of illegal goods. Always check your train service’s policies on prohibited items before travelling.

Conclusion

Travelling by train can be a delightful experience when everyone adheres to safety and etiquette guidelines. From respecting personal space to being aware of your surroundings, small actions can lead to a positive experience for all passengers. Remember, every journey is shared with many others, and practicing
courtesy and responsibility can make a significant difference in enhancing that shared experience. Happy travels!

Candid Comment -Tariffs

  

Tariffs, the word seems to be everywhere these days. But, what exactly is a tariff? How does it work? And why is it not always the best way to go?

Many people think that tariffs are simple, easy to implement, and that they are a great way to get more money into the public purse of a country.  

To understand how tariffs work, we have to know what the point of them is. Tariffs are essentially a tax on imported goods. They work in two ways, the first is an additional cost added to an imported good. Cars are a good example. So a car that is valued at 25,000 might have a tariff added when it is exported to another country, that country pays an additional sum of money, say 1,000. So that car now has 26,000 in cost. You, the consumer, pay that extra 1K for buying that car that was exported to your country because your country levied a 1k tariff on that car that has been imported. A more common approach is to add a percentage to the value. Like 10% on that 25k, which means that same car would have a price tag of 27,500k. 

Many politicians think that tariffs are great ways to get consumers to buy local, protect national security, and get extra money into the economy of their country. Well, yes, they do that, but there are some serious downsides to tariffs. Tariffs are intended to protect domestic industries, encourage local production, or even exert political leverage. However, these seemingly simple taxes can ripple through economies far beyond their intended use. The biggest risk to the economy by imposing a tariff is severe price increases in the economy of the country imposing the levy.  Costs are always going to be passed down to the consumer via the supply chain.  This can hit families particularly hard, especially those on tight budgets, who may find themselves paying more for everyday necessities. Whether it's clothing, electronics, or groceries, tariffs erode purchasing power and can contribute to inflation. High inflation can cause job losses as well. Businesses will always look to maintain the bottom line. Part of that means lowering production of goods and reducing staff. Less product drives up the price of the item being sold in another country, so while a tariff does hurt the exporter, it also impacts the importer.

Trade Wars and Global Instability are another risk. Tariffs by nature are often used in hostile ways against another country. They can cause the attacked nation to escalate, devolving into a tit-for-tat trade war, where countries retaliate with their own tariffs on goods from the original imposing nation. This form of protectionism can disrupt global supply chains, create uncertainty for businesses, and lead to a decline in international cooperation. These trade disputes damage economic relationships and can create political instability in the nation imposing the tariff as well as the target nation, which right now in our world is a risk that no politician should want to take. 

Tariffs are often intended to protect domestic industries, they can ironically have the opposite effect. By making imported components more expensive, tariffs can raise production costs for domestic manufacturers who rely on these goods. This can make their products less competitive both domestically and internationally. Tariffs can shield domestic industries from the competition that drives innovation and efficiency, leading to stagnation and a lack of long-term growth.

Tariffs can also restrict the choices available to consumers. When imports are made more expensive, businesses may choose not to import certain products, limiting consumer access to diverse and potentially innovative goods. By limiting international competition, tariffs can also stifle innovation, as domestic producers face less pressure to improve quality and develop new products.

Tariffs can artificially inflate the price of goods and services in certain industries. This causes a drain on investment. Tariffs also cause resources to be used in a manner that hinders growth in an economy. The misallocation of resources can hinder overall economic growth and reduce long-term prosperity. Resources are diverted from industries that may have stronger growth potential to those being artificially protected, potentially stunting, or radically slowing down innovation and economic advancement.

Tariffs are complex and their Implementation, enforcement, and administration of them is a time-consuming process. It requires dedicated government resources and can lead to bureaucratic inefficiencies. Furthermore, tariffs can be easily circumvented through legal loopholes or illegal smuggling, resulting in further complications and loss of government revenue.

While tariffs may appear to be a quick fix to perceived economic and other political problems, their downsides are often considerable. Increased consumer costs, trade wars, damage to domestic industries, reduced choice, distorted resource allocation, and challenges in implementation all point to the fact that the use of tariffs are not the smartest way to help a country. Instead, policymakers need to consider the broader economic implications and explore more effective approaches that foster fair trade, encourage innovation, and promote long-term sustainable growth. A more considered and comprehensive strategy is crucial to harnessing the benefits of global trade without resorting to the potentially damaging effects of widespread protectionism. Lastly, they should never be used to enforce the will of one nation upon another. Such tactics risk causing the one nation to possibly go to war against another. It's wiser to use diplomatic resources to resolve differences and develop cooperation between nations.

Want to learn more about Tariffs, check these resources out.

EDC, a Canadian website, has an article called Tariffs 101: What are tariffs and how do they impact international trade?

Another source, this one from the US perspective is USC Dornsife, the article Tariffs: What are they, who pays for them and who do they benefit?

And we cannot forget about Wikipedia, yes they have an article about tariffs.