Americanists....worldwide!

From Lugano to La Jolla....what a remarkable amalgam of ideas, insights, and perspectives. Welcome to this site. Mr. Izsa (TASIS) and Mrs. Shaul (LJCDS) invite you to join us in our conversations about the history and the realities of America's history and culture--from a decidedly international perspective.

Each month a new series of questions will be posted here by Mr. Izsa and Mrs. Shaul. Please click on the blog posts and write in your comments for the questions below, per your teacher's instructions.

Please make certain that entries are thoughtfully written (check for typos and grammatical faux pas), as erudite as you can make them, and appropriately worded for a school-related activity (note: students from other parts of the world may not share your same philosophies or your same sense of humor, so please be mindful of our differences).

With every blog session assigned, one or two can be direct responses to the questions, but at least one MUST respond directly to the students who have already written posts, answering one thread per question (more is welcome, this is the minimum requirement).Be specific. Explain why you might agree or disagree with their (his/her) opinions. Feel free to "debate" or "discuss" with your international counterpart. Make sure we can identify you with your name so you can receive credit for your contributions.


Wednesday, February 5, 2014

February question #2: Immigration

February question #2: Immigration

In an era of globalization, some academics argue that borders mean less than they did even just 10 years ago (think EU). As the world attempts to move toward more unification and cooperation, should there be fewer immigration restrictions? What, in your opinion, are reasons to deny people entry into your own country? Why? What is the best way to discourage/end illegal immigration?

Nativists of the 19th and early 20th century often complained of immigrants because they took away jobs from "native born" Americans, were uneducated (didn't speak English), poor, and utterly different (leading to discomfort of those already in America). Are such nativist arguments heard today in your own country? Is there any validity to such arguments?


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2 comments:

  1. UnknownFebruary 20, 2014 at 5:04 PM

    There are many nativists in the US, including many prominent politicians and adults in Southern California. There is validity in these arguments due to some immigrants taking advantage of the US government. However, I do think people should be allowed to enter the country permanently if they already have a job lined up, and a way to support themselves right away. I don't think it is possible to ever end illegal immigration, but increasing immigration officers would help cut down illegal entry as well as create jobs for American citizens.

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  2. UnknownFebruary 20, 2014 at 5:55 PM

    In response to Frank U's comment below:
    I agree that fewer restrictions on tourism visas would have economic benefits, but then there is the issue of preventing "tourists" from staying permenantly. I wonder if the benefits would be worth the potential illegal immigration?

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