Final answer:
The legitimacy of imposing higher safety standards on imported goods depends on the balance between ensuring global safety standards (option a), protecting domestic consumers, and adhering to international trade agreements and fair trade practices.
Step-by-step explanation:
Legitimacy of Imposing Higher Safety Standards on Imported Goods
When it comes to whether it is legitimate to impose higher safety standards on imported goods than those that exist in the foreign country where the goods were produced, there can be various perspectives. If the goal is to ensure global safety standards and protect domestic consumers, one could argue that it is legitimate for a country to impose stricter safety standards. This would be seen as taking necessary precautions to safeguard public health and safety.
On the other hand, imposing higher safety standards could be interpreted as a form of protectionism, potentially being used to favor domestic producers over foreign ones, which could be seen as an unfair trade practice. Moreover, such measures might conflict with international trade agreements that countries have entered into, which aim to promote fair trade practices and prevent discrimination against imported goods. Therefore, the legitimacy of imposing higher safety standards on imported goods can be a complex issue that involves balancing consumer protection with adherence to trade agreements and fair trade principles.