The article discusses the implications of the “liberation day” measures of April 2024, which led to significant market volatility and highlighted divisions within Donald Trump’s circle, particularly between Elon Musk and Peter Navarro. Navarro’s book critiques supply chain dependencies, linking them to national security issues, while Musk’s departure from the MAGA ideology allowed for the permanence of Trump’s protectionist policies.
The piece explores the resurgence of autarky—a focus on national self-sufficiency—as part of a broader protectionist movement that has evolved since 2016. This shift aligns with historical trends in nationalism and autarkism, showing parallels between contemporary American sentiments and past fascist ideologies that favored self-sufficiency and military preparedness.
The article cites Quinn Slobodian’s argument that the rise of right-wing populism found its roots within neoliberalism rather than in opposition to it. It also traces the ideological evolution of autarkism, linking it to historical figures like Friedrich List, a proponent of protectionist policies. While recognizing that economic nationalism has gained traction, the article notes that it coexists with neoliberal policies in various contexts, as evidenced by the divergent attitudes within modern political movements.
