Quote:
Originally Posted by sck5
Another conservative fantasy - You guys think everyone wishes they were American. Actually, most people love their own country and are proud of it, just like all of us. Dont mistake economic migration for something other than what it is.
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You really don't understand much about the American experiment, or democracy in general, do you? Without economic freedom there are no other freedoms. In fact, when you read an historical document you can pretty much assume that they're talking about economic freedom when they use the word freedom. Most other areas where freedom is associated with are covered by the word liberty.
No, everyone doesn't wish they were American. We should be thoroughly glad for that fact as it indicates that they enjoy a life of freedom and liberty in their own country. Many, if not most, immigrants to this country continue to hold deep affection for their native land. But when one looks at immigrants one finds that they come here specifically to achieve something they could not within their own land. Only someone so blessed with economic security that they need never worry in a serious way would discount such motivations towards emigres.
In my travels, I've met many people who wondered why they could not enjoy the life we have in America within their own country. This was particularly evident within the Soviet Union. By the Soviet citizen's lights he should have been living as well as an American. After all, his government told him that the USSR was America's equal or superior. Ironic that the only people who believed such were Americans! At some point in time, people flee their native soil to either escape persecution or to achieve what they cannot at home. this does not mean that they do not retain affection for their native land and people but it does mean that they reject their old government and/or an economic system that denies them opportunity.
Another irony is that so many Americans such as yourself do not see the vast and desirable opportunity that America offers. I guess you need to be from somewhere like Cuba, China, or Eastern Europe to see that clearly. After all, it's tough to love a country that keeps you either enslaved or perpetual poverty, with no hope out of either. Most people arriving as immigrants, legal or otherwise, arrive with hope as their only possession. It's sad that this must be explained to Americans.