Final answer:
Tariffs are not defended on the grounds that they improve the terms of trade of foreign nations, but they are traditionally justified as a means to protect domestic jobs, young industries, and to avoid over-dependence on a few sectors.
Step-by-step explanation:
Tariffs are taxes placed on imported goods and have been traditionally used to protect domestic industries and economies. Defending tariffs on various grounds reflects the complexities and trade-offs of implementing such protectionist measures. In regards to the question, tariffs are not defended on the grounds that they improve the terms of trade of foreign nations. Instead, they are more commonly justified because they protect jobs and reduce unemployment, promote growth and development of young industries, prevent over-dependence on only a few industries, and protect domestic producers from foreign low prices. These justifications align with the protectionist philosophy that sometimes guides a country’s trade policies. While tariffs can offer short-term advantages for protected industries, excessive reliance on tariffs might lead to inefficiencies and increased costs for consumers as well as international trade tensions.