Benefits Quote by Milton Friedman
“That's an interesting paradox to think about. Make it legal and it's no good. Why? Because as long as it's illegal the people who come in do not qualify for welfare, they don't qualify for social security, they don't qualify for the other myriad of benefits that we pour out from our left pocket to our right pocket. So long as they don't qualify they migrate to jobs. They take jobs that most residents of this country are unwilling to take. They provide employers with the kind of workers that they cannot get. They're hard workers, they're good workers, and they are clearly better off.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Economic Freedom and Immigration, 1975
Illegal status denies benefits, making migrants attractive labor for undesirable jobs.
In simple terms: Illegal migrants fill jobs locals avoid.
Key Takeaway
Recognize labor market dynamics of immigration.
Themes
economics
immigration
labor market
policy
benefits
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
economic
policy
When to use this quote
- employment analysis
- policy reform
- social services
- business hiring practices
Key Concepts
Labor economics
public policy
welfare state
Questions to Reflect On
- What are the trade‑offs of legalizing migrant labor?
- How can societies balance fairness and economic need?
A Different Perspective
Legal pathways may reduce exploitation but complicate labor supply.
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