I'll break my vow and reply.

I must make quite an impression if you feel the need to vow not to reply to me (and then break it).  Frankly, I'm not sure as too whether I should laugh or send a "Thank You" card.

The problem with his theory is that it was formulated at a period when money was based upon gold.

No.  It was formulated during a period in which Saudi Arabia was an oil-rich desert while America was not.  That's a period that continues today.  My basic point -- the one that apparently makes me "thick" (thank you, Metatone) -- was that comparative advantage is a theory dealing primarily with natural differences between nations/places.

You seem to be under the impression that I'm disputing the notion of costs being borne by others in the case of your example, pollution.  Why you believe this, I don't know.

Oh, to be young again and know all the answers...

Yes.  Now, if I could only demonstrate what a classy fellow I am by tallking down to younger members of the site, life would truly be complete.

Conservatives want live babies so they can raise them to be dead soldiers. - George Carlin