This satirical petition from French candlemakers to their Chamber of Deputies humorously argues for the banning of sunlight to protect their industry. The petition uses the absurdity of this proposal to expose the flawed logic of protectionist trade policies. It highlights the inconsistency of protecting domestic industries from cheaper foreign goods while simultaneously accepting free natural resources like sunlight. The author, Frédéric Bastiat, uses this example to advocate for free trade principles, emphasizing the benefits of cheaper, even free, goods for consumers. Bastiat cleverly shows that restricting access to “free” goods like sunlight is as illogical as restricting access to cheaper foreign goods. The text ultimately champions free markets and the advantages of reduced prices.
