Loss Aversion and Protectionism

Abstract

The concept of loss aversion in behavior economics was proposed by Kahneman and Tversky in 1979 with the famous prospect theory. Loss aversion is a cognitive bias suggesting that an avoidance of loss is preferred by people than an equivalent gain. The impact of loss aversion is profound in multiple areas of human life, including economics, society, politics, media, etc. This study aims to investigate the relation between loss aversion and trade policies, in particular, the implementation of protectionist trade policies. Literatures in the area of political economics about trade policy are reviewed. The Grossman-Helpman model, which predicts a set of determinants of trade policy, is discussed. Three empirical studies the U.S. steel industry, the U.S. Section 301 proceedings, and the Chinese cotton industry as well as the influence of loss aversion in each case, are analyzed and discussed in detail. Overall, the study draws its conclusion based on previous literatures and empirical studies, and it further confirms that loss aversion would lead to a risk-averse behavior of policy makers by reviewing empirical cases.