Extensive immigration restrictions are an attempt by the U.S. government to centrally manage the demographics, labor market, and culture of the United States instead of letting those facets of our society develop naturally – as they have throughout most of history. Many objections have been raised against a return to America’s traditional free-immigration policy, but they are without merit and ignore immigration’s tremendous benefits.
In this Broadside, Alex Nowrasteh explains how a policy of open immigration is consistent with America’s founding principles, the ideals of a free society, and the foundation of a free-market economy. Immigration restrictions should be based on protecting the life, liberty, and private property of Americans from those who are most likely to infringe upon them. A freer immigration system would not only be economically beneficial to the United States, but it would also be consistent with American values.
Open Immigration: Yea & Nay
About the Author
Alex Nowrasteh is the vice president for economic and social policy studies. His popular publications have appeared in the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, the Washington Post, and most other major publications in the United States. Nowrasteh regularly appears on Fox News, MSNBC, Bloomberg, NPR, and numerous television and radio stations.