&gt;Artificial barrier: Something arbitrary synthesized by a party not involved in an A&lt;-&gt;B transaction.<p>Yes, other than:<p>* Being responsible for the welfare of A and B.<p>* Being responsible for mediating any disputes between A and B regarding their transaction.<p>* Being responsible for cracking down on potential fraudulent activity between A and B.<p>* Providing the medium whereby A and B can discharge their debts.<p>The government has nothing to do with the transactions. Absolutely nothing.<p>&gt;Does allowing a company from California hire someone from New York &#x27;drive down wages hurt everyone except the top 1%&quot;? If not why does it suddenly &#x27;drive down wages hurt everyone except the top 1%&quot; when you change New York to India?<p>Because they&#x27;re capitalizing on India&#x27;s relative poverty.