Question

In this chapter we really got into comparative advantage and gains from trade.  We highlighted the benefit of trade, and showed that it works BOTH on the micro (individual) and macro (economy) level.   Often the discussion of free trade is contrasted by comparing to its logical opposite, "protectionism".  "Protectionism" is an idea that certain domestic industries should be protected (from new products or foreign producers) in order to ensure that their employees aren't negatively impacted.  Those who favor protectionism have very good intent, but it is almost universally viewed as bad for economic welfare by professional economists.  
There are multiple factors at work here.  First, there's a concept called "Creative Destruction".   Creative Destruction is the concept that new technology disrupts the existing model so much that old industries will be replaced with new industries.  (Think the automobile industry destroying the horse and horse related business, the computer destroying the typewriter, the digital camera destroying film, Streaming video replacing VHS, etc).  The creation of the new improved product DOES displace those who are in the old industry.  It IS harmful to those impacted.  However, there is clearly a benefit from the newer, improved product to society as a whole.  With each evolution, societal welfare has improved, but it costs some their jobs (until they can be retrained and utilized elsewhere).  Both trade and creative destruction causes a reorganization of resources and people.   It's destructive, but powerful.  
Question #1)
If you were an economic advisor, briefly (one paragraph) explain which of the following would be your primary economic goal:  Protecting existing jobs and industries or improving societal welfare?   How could you economically explain your position?  
Hint:   One wonderful historical critic of protectionism is Frederic Bastiat (a French Economist from early 1800s).  He took protectionism to an extreme in his satirical writing "Candle Maker's Petition".   Read the article Bastiat's Candle Maker Petition that highlights the flaw of protectionism when taken to the extreme.   (Or if you can make a sound counter-argument, please do so).   Bonus points if you can tie this to a Simpsons episode!  
Question #2)  
Watch this 3-minute Video on Creative Destruction.  
Identify a market that has been fundamentally changed due to creative destruction (not one mentioned in the video).  Explain how the negative impacts are often more visible than the positive impacts.   
Please answer both questions for this discussion.  

Answer 1