Trade War, War of Emotions: A World Mirror Reflecting Human Wounds

The Nature of Trade War

Trade wars are not just simple economic disputes. They are a clash of human emotions taking place on the grand stage of the world, a psychological drama intertwined with wounded trust and feelings of betrayal. Beneath the external language represented by tariffs, sanctions, agreements, and numbers, there lies an internal language we seldom articulate—fear, anger, contempt, and a sense of loss—layered one upon another.

Source of Emotions

These emotions are not merely the products of diplomatic calculations. Rather, they are a repeated pattern of wounds that we commonly encounter in human relationships. The feelings experienced when a being that yearns for love is ignored or when one is betrayed by someone they trusted are remarkably reflected in the underlying dynamics of the inter-state conflicts we are witnessing today. Trade wars are a struggle of emotions disguised as economic confrontations.

Lessons from Historical Trade Conflicts

Looking back at history, most trade conflicts have worsened when the emotional truths hidden beneath the facade of 'economic reasons'—the psychology of humiliation, betrayal, and breakdown of trust—were overlooked. While figures and indicators may seem to circulate on the surface, the reality is that it is a condensation of subtle emotional resentments built up between individuals and groups. Attempting to address emotional issues with numbers is nothing more than putting a numeric band over a deep wound.

The Two Faces of Tariffs and Trade Barriers

Nations often come to the negotiating table wielding the blunt instruments of tariffs and trade barriers. However, the sharp end of such instruments targets not only the economy of the other country but also pierces the heart of emotions. This emotional shock, which we may easily overlook, leads to long-term distrust beyond short-term retaliation. It turns the ground of the economy into a barren wasteland. If the underlying truths of emotions remain unhealed, no matter how sophisticated the policies are, they are merely facades.

Direction for Resolving Trade War

Therefore, the true solution to the trade war is the restoration of trust, the healing of wounds, and the acknowledgment of emotions. Psychology has long stated that humans want to be understood, to be empathized with, and to be forgiven. Only then does a true relationship begin. The same applies to relationships that transcend borders. Diplomacy without empathy is merely a facade, and cooperation without forgiveness is just a matter of luck.

The necessity of apology and empathy

In reality, when there was a sincere apology and efforts for mutual understanding after the conflict, the door to cooperation finally reopened. Sincerity can be felt. A wounded relationship can only be healed through the language of understanding and courage. The point we need to reach is not the destination of mechanical compromise, but the starting point where emotional solidarity begins.

Beyond the Era of Conflict

We must recognize that diplomacy is not a technique but a study of humanity, and that the economy is not merely an exchange but a reflection of emotions. Based on this understanding, we should create policies, language, and relationships. At that time, we will have transcended the trade war rather than just overcome it, reaching the beginning of coexistence rather than the end of competition.

Our Attitude Towards the Future

Humanity must now learn the language of deeper understanding, broader empathy, and warmer forgiveness. That is the true future we should aspire to. The end of trade wars will only be possible on the day when the world begins to understand emotions.