Tariffs are Theft

 https://ronpaulinstitute.org/tariffs-are-theft/

No Ron, it was opposite day when that took place, so Tariffs are actually savings. 

Its part of the 12D Chess. The changed it to opposite day using Tesla Time Travel tech. 

please elucidate why tariffs are theft.

ChatGPT said:

Tariffs can be considered a form of theft when viewed through a libertarian or voluntaryist lens, where the initiation of force or coercion against peaceful individuals is seen as illegitimate. Here’s why:

1. Coercion and Force – Tariffs are government-imposed taxes on imported goods. If an individual or business refuses to pay, they are ultimately met with fines, legal penalties, or force. This violates the principle of voluntary exchange.

2. Violation of Property Rights – When a tariff is imposed, the government forcibly takes money from individuals or businesses who are simply engaging in trade. The buyer and seller have agreed on a price, but the government inserts itself and demands a cut, despite providing no value to the transaction.

3. Protectionism Through Punishment – Tariffs artificially raise the price of foreign goods to protect domestic industries. This forces consumers to either pay more for the imported goods (giving the government money under duress) or buy domestic alternatives they may not prefer. In either case, it distorts free market choice.

4. Government Monopoly on Trade Barriers – If a private organization attempted to impose tariffs in the same way (e.g., a gang demanding payment for allowing goods to enter a town), it would be seen as extortion. Governments, however, do this under the guise of policy and enforcement.

5. Double Taxation – Citizens already pay taxes on income, sales, and businesses. Tariffs add another layer of taxation, making goods more expensive while providing no additional benefit to those paying them.

6. Economic Harm and Inefficiency – Tariffs interfere with the natural efficiency of trade by making goods more expensive than they otherwise would be. This benefits a small group (protected industries) at the expense of the majority (consumers and businesses that rely on imports), making it an unfair redistribution of wealth.

In essence, tariffs extract wealth from people without their consent, distort market choices, and impose economic penalties under threat of force—hallmarks of theft by any practical definition.