5 . 25 . 21 When liberalism was young, it had great faith in markets—specifically, the ability of markets to ease social conflict. The theory had a French name, the doux commerce thesis, and it went like this. Trade would encourage people to set aside tribal attachments and disagreements on big questions so that they could make money. Why argue about religion and politics when doing so could get in the way of business? As people became wealthier, the theory maintained, they would care less about divisive identities and issues; personal relations would thus become more tranquil and productive. This virtuous cycle would work both domestically and globally, creating greater peace and prosperity both within and among nations.