International trade theory provides explanations for the pattern of in-
ternational trade and the distribution of the gains from trade. The theory
convinces most economists of the benefits of liberal trade. But many non-
economists oppose liberal trade. Opponents include some who may have
encountered trade theory but nevertheless fall prey to fallacious reasoning.
This essay attempts to convey why trade theory is so persuasive to economists
and also to deal with why many non-economists are not persuaded