American history Quote by Gary Becker
“I argued last year on my shared blog that selling the right to immigrate would be the best approach to legal immigration. Among other benefits, the revenue from immigrants' payments could reduce taxes. Paying for the right to immigrate would also negate the argument that immigrants get a free ride when they gain health care and other benefits. Moreover, making immigrants pay would attract the type of immigrants who came much earlier in American history: young men and women who are reasonably skilled and want to make a long-term commitment to the United States.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Blog post on immigration policy, 2022
Proposes selling immigration rights as a market mechanism to fund public services and attract skilled, committed migrants.
In simple terms: Charge for immigration to fund services and select skilled migrants.
Key Takeaway
Implement a fee-based immigration system.
Themes
immigration policy
economics
public finance
skill-based migration
Mood
analytical
critical
policy‑oriented
Type
argumentative
policy proposal
When to use this quote
- policy drafting
- budget planning
- immigration advocacy
- public debate
Key Concepts
market mechanisms
public goods
incentive design
Questions to Reflect On
- How would fees affect low‑income migrants?
- What safeguards ensure fairness?
A Different Perspective
May overlook humanitarian concerns and equity issues.
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