Samriddhi, in collaboration with the Kathmandu University Economics Society, hosted a book discussion on Trade and Globalization by Eamonn Butler. The event brought together 13 students from various semesters studying economics at KU School of Arts.
The session kicked off with participants sharing their impressions of the book. Many appreciated its accessible language and smooth flow, which they found ideal for beginners. However, others felt the book catered more to a general audience rather than the students of economics, as it seemed overly generic in parts. A key highlight for several participants was the book’s focus on non-tariff barriers and its inclusion of historical and cultural perspectives.
As the discussion shifted toward the core ideas in the book, the concept of protectionism took center stage. Participants debated its complexity, noting that its drawbacks are often difficult to grasp without a background in economics or trade. This led to an important question: How do we make these ideas more accessible to the general population? Concerns were also raised about the role of political leaders in failing to disseminate enough information, which often results in misguided public judgment.
An intriguing idea emerged during the discussion: could Nepal leverage its strategic geographical position between India and China to become a “connector economy”? While some argued that Nepal’s future lies in the trade of services, others believed that focusing on product-based trade, with a certain degree of protectionism, was still essential for the country’s growth.
The readers also critically examined the author’s perspective on development. Some felt that Butler presented development as a linear process, which they disagreed with. A particularly controversial point in the book—that if it was unreasonable to deny developing countries the same opportunities as rich countries by strapping them with environmental concerns—was also brought up.
While the discussion didn’t lead to definitive conclusions, it successfully sparked a meaningful conversation about trade and globalization. It highlighted the diverse viewpoints among students and the need for deeper engagement with these complex topics.