The Importance of Migration |
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“Whether or not migrants realize it, the impetus for their emigration is to escape from those aspects of their countries of origin that have condemned people to low productivity," (Collier, 148)
Author Paul Collier discusses important themes abut immigration in an interview with The Economist.
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Migration shapes the world as we know it. In Exodus, Paul Collier writes with the idea that immigration is neither good nor bad, but rather how much immigration is beneficial for the people in the country of origin, the immigrants, and the indigenous people of the country that is receiving immigrants. There is a lot of controversy regarding migration and how strict migration policies should be. People often times have strong beliefs on migration without little factual evidence. In an attempt to take the morals out of immigration policy, Collier weighs the pros and cons of migration based on evidence. Migration is extremely complex and incredibly important due to its affect on the economy and culture.
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Poverty, although decreasing, is a huge problem in the world that limits the quality of life of millions. Emigrants leave their country of origin in hope of finding a better life for themselves and their families. Migration is important because it has the ability to greatly affect worldwide poverty. There is a lot of debate about whether rich countries have a moral obligation to accept immigrants from poorer countries. An open door policy would be detrimental to the host societies, and a completely closed door policy would lead to surges of illegal immigration in many circumstances. Migrants often prosper economically when they move to a richer country. Remittances, money migrants send back to their families in their country of origin, then act as a huge source of income for a migrant's country of origin. Remittances stimulate the economy of poor countries, and the remittances from one individual can improve the lives of many. However, most of the people in the deepest poverty will not migrate to a richer country because they do not have the resources. Migration is more of an option for middle-class individuals. A moderate migration policy is probably best suited for many rich countries. This way migrants benefit economically, but there does not become huge competition between native citizens and immigrants as well as competition between immigrants and immigrants for jobs. Also, some rich countries such as Norway have maintained very restrictive immigration policies but still make a strong effort to reduce poverty. Norway does not accept many immigrants but compensates by offering large amounts of developmental aid. Still, many live out their lives in poverty. Although migration has the ability to help alleviate some of this poverty, it also could escalate it if migration was too extreme.
In addition to affecting poverty and the economy, migration is significant because it contributes to the spread of culture. Many countries such as the United States are created from immigrants. Anytime a person moves they bring their language, ideas, and culture. This shapes the cultural landscape and influences the spread of ideas. Migration influences how people identify themselves and view others. Migration can result in prejudices and racism which can cause conflict. Nationalism, a feeling of loyalty people have towards their country, is influenced by migration. Some believe that nationalism and a sense of unity is destroyed by immigrants. However, immigrants also contribute to diversity within a culture. Foods, music, and cultural trends all spread around the world through relocation diffusion due to migration.
There is a lot of debate regarding migration. Whether a person believes it is good or bad there is no denying that it is a very important and contentious issue. Migration has affected poverty and culture and will continue to do so into the future.
In addition to affecting poverty and the economy, migration is significant because it contributes to the spread of culture. Many countries such as the United States are created from immigrants. Anytime a person moves they bring their language, ideas, and culture. This shapes the cultural landscape and influences the spread of ideas. Migration influences how people identify themselves and view others. Migration can result in prejudices and racism which can cause conflict. Nationalism, a feeling of loyalty people have towards their country, is influenced by migration. Some believe that nationalism and a sense of unity is destroyed by immigrants. However, immigrants also contribute to diversity within a culture. Foods, music, and cultural trends all spread around the world through relocation diffusion due to migration.
There is a lot of debate regarding migration. Whether a person believes it is good or bad there is no denying that it is a very important and contentious issue. Migration has affected poverty and culture and will continue to do so into the future.