English serves as a global lingua franca, facilitating communication among diverse populations. Concerns about cultural preservation seem misplaced when American culture itself often lacks depth in foreign cultural knowledge. A suggestion to address language barriers involves implementing an English fluency requirement for immigrants, which could alleviate fears surrounding cultural dilution. Moreover, a broader cultural literacy test could further enhance integration while promoting understanding, suggesting that the solution to cultural concerns lies in education rather than exclusion.
Bryan Caplan of George Mason University and EconLog blogger talks with EconTalk host Russ Roberts about immigration. Caplan takes on the common arguments against open borders and argues that they are either exaggerated or can be overcome while still allowing more immigration than is currently allowed in the United States.