The Forgotten Man, and Other Essays

by William Graham Sumner

"The Forgotten Man and Other Essays" by William Graham Sumner is a collection of essays focusing on political economy and social philosophy written in the early 20th century. The work explores various economic concepts, particularly addressing the implications and critiques of protectionism, as well as advocating for free trade and sound money principles. Sumner's compelling arguments delve into the moral and economic dimensions of state intervention and taxation, urging readers to consider the broader impacts of these policies on society. The opening of this work includes a preface that sets the context for the collection and introduces the reader to Sumner's critical examination of protectionism. He notes that the ensuing essays were written to address misunderstandings surrounding free trade and protectionist policies that had emerged during his time, particularly around the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Sumner expresses his intention to make economic concepts accessible to the general public rather than merely academic, thus underlining the democratic significance of economic understanding. He asserts that protective tax policies lead to economic inefficiencies and moral injustices, advocating instead for a system that prioritizes individual rights and emphasizes the importance of free trade as a path toward genuine prosperity.