Jean Raspail's 'Camp of the Saints' is a controversial dystopian novel depicting a mass migration of impoverished people from the Third World to Europe. The novel explores themes of immigration, cultural identity, and the potential consequences of unchecked population growth. Raspail's provocative narrative and unflinching portrayal of societal upheaval have sparked considerable debate and controversy. The book's depiction of the breakdown of social order and the clash of cultures has resonated with readers on both sides of the immigration debate. 'Camp of the Saints' serves as a cautionary tale about the potential challenges of mass migration and the importance of managing population growth. The novel's enduring relevance stems from its exploration of complex social and political issues that continue to shape global discourse.
The Guarded Gate tells the story of the scientists who argued that certain nationalities were inherently inferior, providing the intellectual justification for the restrictive immigration law of the 1920s. The book explores the anti-immigrant campaign launched by Boston Brahmins, the role of eugenics in shaping American immigration policy, and its implications for current discussions on immigration. Okrent brings to life a rich cast of characters, including Henry Cabot Lodge, Theodore Roosevelt, Francis Galton, and Margaret Sanger, among others.
In 'Tyranny, Inc.', Sohrab Ahmari presents a detailed critique of neoliberal capitalism, arguing that private corporations have become a significant threat to American liberty. The book explores various examples of corporate abuse, including the misuse of arbitration agreements, predatory practices by private equity firms, and the manipulation of working conditions. Ahmari argues that these practices are a result of the neoliberal vision that has dominated economic and political discourse since the 1970s, and he proposes that a more integrated approach between economy and politics is necessary to address these issues.
In *Justice Is Coming*, Cenk Uygur presents a compelling argument that progressives are correct on key issues and that America is fundamentally a progressive country. The book aims to rally activists and citizens around a concrete progressive agenda, addressing historical forces and strategies for change. It offers a sharp critique of current political dynamics, calling for a shift away from corporate influence and toward a more equitable society.
In 'Adios, America,' Ann Coulter tackles the contentious issue of immigration, criticizing policies and practices that she believes are harming the United States. The book targets various groups, including Democrats, media outlets, churches, and businessmen, accusing them of profiting from or covering up the negative impacts of mass immigration. Coulter uses her characteristic humor and sharp critique to argue that immigration is the most critical issue facing America today.
The United States is home to more immigrants than any other country in the world. It is a truism that everyone who lives here at some point came from somewhere else. At the same time, debates about who and how many people to let in have roiled the nation since our very founding.
And in the past few years, things have heated up to a new level.
That’s no surprise, considering that unlawful attempts to cross the southern border hit a record high of about 2.5 million last year. In the past four years, nearly 5 million attempts to cross the border illegally occurred in Texas alone.
We’ve all seen the videos of mothers with babies shimmying under barbed wire, of migrant caravans marching toward Texas, of young men charging Border Patrol agents.
It’s why immigration is the top issue for voters in the 2024 election. Indeed, the influx has made even progressive cities, which previously declared themselves immigration sanctuaries, sound the alarm. Last May, former Chicago mayor Lori Lightfoot said “we’ve reached a breaking point,” while declaring a state of emergency in her city. In September, New York mayor Eric Adams said the influx of migrants “will destroy New York City.”
All of this is the subject of our first live debate of 2024, which took place in Dallas, and that we wanted to share with you on Honestly today. The proposition: Should the United States shut its borders?
Arguing in the affirmative are Ann Coulter and Sohrab Ahmari. On the opposing side, arguing that no, the United States should not shut its borders, are Nick Gillespie and Cenk Uygur.
They also cover questions like: Is mass immigration is a net gain or a net loss for America? How do we balance our humanitarian impulse with our practical and economic needs? Do migrants suppress wages of the already strained working class? Do they stretch community resources impossibly thin? Does a porous border impact our national security? And what does a sensible border policy really look like?
We hope you listen, share, and discuss.
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Honestly with Bari Weiss 
