Autarky is the idea of self-sufficiency, or a nation or economy attempting to minimize the level of outside influence and imported goods, while pursuing a policy of economic isolationism. Autarky is typically grounded in the belief that the full potential of a nation or economy lies within its own borders, and that any external influence or dependence can hinder or limit future growth. Autarky is, therefore, an economic and political idea rather than a practical goal, since nations rarely completely shut themselves off from outside contact and rely entirely on domestically produced goods and services.

The policy of autarky is attractive to some individuals and groups because it can provide more domestic control over a nation’s economic resources and strategic policy decisions. Protectionist policies make it more difficult for foreign competitors to enter the local market and deprive domestic producers of market share. It also provides more control over the currency, allowing it more flexibility in pricing and stabilizing the exchange rate. This, in turn, helps domestic producers remain competitive and make it more difficult for foreign competitors to enter the market.

However, autarky has some significant drawbacks. By heavily restricting imports and exports, countries may become dependent on their own market and not widely benefit from global events such as technological advances, new discoveries, and increased market opportunities. This limits the ability of a nation to take advantage of new innovations and abilities that are not necessarily found or developed domestically. Autarky also can deprive citizens of access to goods and services foreign countries may provide. This could lead to poorer living standards, as the goods and services that are available to citizens would be limited to what can be produced domestically.

Although there are no nations that have achieved autarky, history provides some examples of countries that have pursued a policy of autarky. Perhaps the most notable of these is Nazi Germany, which adopted a policy known as “autarky for German goods” in the 1930s. The idea was to reduce reliance on imports and maximize the value of goods produced within Germany’s borders. The policy also served to increase control of the German economy and reduce the potential influence of foreign competitors. While these were the goals of the autarkic policy, it ultimately failed as the isolationist stance of autarky exacerbated food shortages and led to famine. Similarly, North Korea has adopted a policy of autarky since the 1950s, but this too has been largely unsuccessful due to economic mismanagement and the lack of foreign investment.

Autarky can be a controversial issue, as it can lead to both economic advantages and disadvantages to countries that pursue it. Advocates of autarky emphasize the control it gives a nation over its economic resources, while opponents point to its potential for economic stagnation, lack of global engagement, and insufficient access to goods. As such, it is not a policy that can be recommended to countries as every nation must balance its potential benefits and disadvantages.