Caldwell raises some important points, and sheds light onto the Muslim immigration debate in Europe:
“SPIEGEL ONLINE: Is America more successful when it comes to integrating immigrants?
Caldwell: For now, yes. I think the first reason is the ruthlessness of the American economy. You either become a part of it or you go home. There are more foreigners in the workplace, and that’s where a lot of integration happens.”
It’s the economy, stupid. But we also have an immigration debate problem of our own (about which I think the Republicans have the best chance to unify now with reasonable, hands-on compassionate policies from the grass roots). The right sees the flimsiness of overextended multi-culti ideas and overly idealistic egalitarians…but I believe also needs to avoid over-reaction (protectionism and scare-mongering) in response.
There are genuine immigration problems to solve and small-business growth, economic freedom and economic opportunities (and neither Bush nor Obama bloated government solutions) may be the best way to address them. We’re Americans after all.
Just my two cents to avoid the pitfalls of the kind of debate they’re having in Europe.
See Also On This Site: A review of Caldwell’s book: From The NY Times: Review Of Christopher Caldwell’s Book “Reflections on the Revolution in Europe: Immigration, Islam, and the West”
Are secular humanism and the kind of political freedoms we enjoy in the West really incompatible with Islam?: From YouTube: Roger Scruton On Religious Freedom, Islam & Atheism
Are we becoming more like Europe, or is this too a false premise?: Charles Murray Lecture At AEI: The Happiness Of People
Ayan Hirsi Ali is a Muslim immigrantto Europe, who seems quite populist and anti-Islam: Ayan Hirsi Ali At The CSM: ‘Swiss Ban On Minarets Was A Vote For Tolerance And Inclusion’
A long time ago, and not so long ago. *chiwai*’s photostream here. Excellent photo.
