Questão 96546

Historically, mercantilist economic theory presupposed that global wealth was a zero-sum game; that is, one nation's gain was intrinsically linked to another's loss. This perspective fueled colonial expansion and protectionist policies, as states vied for finite resources, primarily precious metals. Adam Smith's seminal work, 'The Wealth of Nations', fundamentally challenged this view. He argued that through free trade and specialization, all nations could benefit simultaneously, creating new wealth rather than merely redistributing it. Contrary to the prevailing mercantilist doctrine, Smith proposed a model of mutual economic benefit, laying the intellectual groundwork for modern capitalism.

Which discourse marker most accurately fills the blank to signify a direct opposition and rejection of the previously mentioned idea?