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Originally Posted by Johnj
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Originally Posted by Bleuachdu
If we ever declare English as the official language of the country, then I'd agree that immigrants should have to learn the language. Until then, I don't believe forcing English upon anyone is a very prudent move. That said, I don’t think we should ever declare an official language. Not only does it go against the founding principles of this country, it also would promote the trend of globalization. Many of you who claim immigrants “ruin our economy” should be concerned about the economic implications of globalization rather than Mexicans “stealing” US jobs.
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I believe your point would Balkanize this country more than help it. Americas strength is that it is a melting pot. People from different cultures come here and assimilate into our population. Parts of the different cultures are absorbed into our culture. Language is how that assimilation occurs. |
Assimilation is neither a hallmark nor a desirable quality of diversity. Instead, embracing foreign culture and recognizing what separates ourselves from others is what we should strive for. Assimilation may naturally follow, however it shouldn't be forced via language restrictions or anything similar.
That said, you and Tiberius still missed my point. My point was less about language and more about globalization. I should make it clear that I am a proponent of globalization. I realize that it is inevitable. I also believe that in the long term it will have a very positive effect on our nation. However, I think that the short term initial effects will have a negative impact on our economy. These impacts will likely include a leveling out of the American standard of living, a weaker job market, and inflation. We're already beginning to see such things, with the weakening of the dollar vs. foreign currency.
What you need to realize is that the demolition of local labor markets is nothing new. It's impossible to blame an immigrant for wanting a better life and taking extremely low pay. If anyone is at fault, its the American citizens who hire illegals and pay them unfair wages. Don't get me wrong; I'm a bloodsucking capitalist too. I just believe that playing by the rules can lead to wealth too.