sueddeutsche.de
Customs Officials: From Historical Pariahs to Modern Power Brokers
The article contrasts the negative historical perception of tax collectors with the modern role of customs officials, highlighting the significant power wielded by US customs in imposing tariffs and the crucial work of German customs in combating smuggling and supporting overburdened border police.
- What are the most significant impacts of modern customs agencies' power, as illustrated by the contrasting examples of US and German customs?
- The article contrasts the historical perception of tax collectors, viewed negatively in the past, with the modern reality of customs officials playing a crucial role in trade and border control. Specific examples include the high tariffs imposed by the US on various goods and the German customs officers' work in combating smuggling and supporting border police.
- How do the roles and responsibilities of customs officials today differ from their historical counterparts, and what factors contributed to this evolution?
- The author uses the contrasting image of tax collectors in ancient times and modern customs officials to highlight the evolving role and significance of these professions. The high tariffs imposed by the US, ranging from 10% to 145%, are cited as examples of the significant power wielded by modern customs authorities, particularly in the context of trade wars. The support provided by German customs officers to border police facing increased pressure from asylum seekers further illustrates their evolving role.
- What are the potential long-term consequences of using tariffs as instruments of international trade policy, considering the increasing strain on border control agencies?
- The future of customs agencies will likely be shaped by ongoing geopolitical tensions and the increasing need for effective border management. The article suggests a growing trend towards using tariffs as tools in international trade disputes, underscoring the significant power wielded by customs authorities. The strain on border police, which customs officers are tasked with supporting, highlights the need for increased resources and improved coordination between agencies.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative frames customs work negatively by starting with a historical analogy linking tax collectors to sinful figures. The article uses Trump's controversial trade policies as the central example of modern customs work, overshadowing other aspects of the job. The headline (if one existed) would likely reinforce this negative portrayal.
Language Bias
The article uses loaded language such as "Geldeintreiber," "Kollaborateure," "sündhafter Gestalten," and "Zollhammer." These terms evoke negative connotations and prejudice against customs officers. More neutral alternatives could be used, such as "tax collectors," "revenue agents," or "enforcement officers." The comparison to Trump further contributes to a negative tone.
Bias by Omission
The article omits discussion of the positive aspects of customs work, focusing heavily on negative historical connotations and the controversial actions of specific political figures. It doesn't mention the role customs officials play in protecting national security or facilitating legitimate trade. This omission creates a skewed perspective.
False Dichotomy
The text presents a false dichotomy between the historical perception of tax collectors and the modern reality of customs work, neglecting the complexities and nuances of the profession. It simplifies the role of customs officials to either historical figures or Trump's actions, ignoring the broader societal contributions.
Gender Bias
While the article mentions "Kolleginnen und Kollegen," the overwhelming focus is on male figures (Jesus, Trump, and a generalized "Mann der Stunde") leading to an implicit gender bias. There's no discussion on gender representation within customs agencies.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the significant disparities in economic power and the potential for abuse of power by customs authorities, particularly in the context of US trade policies under Trump. The arbitrary and excessive tariffs imposed on various goods disproportionately affect certain countries and industries, exacerbating existing inequalities. The comparison to historical injustices faced by tax collectors further emphasizes the potential for exploitation and abuse of power within customs systems, furthering inequality.