Tag Archives: Immigration

Social norms and the hubris of pro-immigration people

There is an enormously rich body of work about the unique development of high trust, capitalism, and modern civilization.

It is arrogant and naive to dismiss it all and assume that culture plays no role whatsoever, and that any people, with any habits, and any traditions, from any culture, can come in any number, with no negative consequences.

Social norms are important and fragile.

On Immigration and my recent posts.

I’ve been posting many anti-immigration stories. I pointed out in one argument that the whole world is against multi-culturalism except (partially) the west, and was asked, “So what, you want the West to be more like the rest of the world, which you seem to despise so much?”

Good question.

Firstly, recognize that the social norms of high trust societies are VERY expensive. Every time we behave well we pay the opportunity cost of not behaving well. We pay for our social norms.

Social norms must be defended as if they are property.

Secondly, realize that there’s nothing wrong or unnatural about preferring the company of people who share your culture, values, and (yes) even genes. All animals display kin preference.

I happen to think that a society benefits when it admits a modest portion of foreigners, especially the intelligent, law abiding, capable, hard working ones.

(Relevant observation: It seems that when a population reaches somewhere between 5-10% of the population they seek political power.)

What is lost is trust (diversity DOES reduce trust) is gained in their economic velocity. So that’s my ideal society. Though I’d prefer more societies in general.

Let a thousand nations bloom. Let each one choose it’s formula — from complete segregation to complete diversity.

ps – I don’t despite the rest of the world. I’ve enjoyed vacations on every continent. I like the diversity. But diversity means preserving cultures, not destroying them through forced integration.

Refugees allowed into Italy after threat to drown babies

Almost 1,000 illegal immigrants landed in Italy yesterday after threatening to throw babies into the sea if their rusting ship was turned back.

The 240ft Monica had been spotted in international waters during the night.

When Italian coastguard boats drew alongside, the crews were shocked to see men and women on board begin dangling the infants over the side.

The refugees – mostly Kurds and many said to be heading for Britain – calmed down only when they were assured they would not be turned away from Italy.

The ship was towed to the Sicilian port of Catania, where 400 men, 200 women and 361 children were taken to Red Cross shelters.

A 21-year-old woman had earlier been lifted off by helicopter after giving birth to a girl. They were doing well in hospital last night.

www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-105630/Refugees-allowed-Italy-threat-drown-babies.html