PHIL Matters of Life and Death U2

The argument against closing borders suggests it is not only impermissible morally but is also contrary to our moral obligations toward others.
- Acknowledges the moral dilemma wherein most developed nation-states have political institutions that enforce limitations on immigration.

The speaker will present arguments advocating for open borders and the freedom of movement.

Moral Obligation
- Closing borders contradicts the moral responsibility to assist others.
- The prevailing philosophical stance highlights our obligations toward others, emphasizing that limiting movement is not morally justifiable.
Libertarian Values
- Emphasis on individual liberty, asserting that individuals should possess the right to move freely within states and internationally.
- Limiting immigration is viewed negatively as it infringes on the individual's autonomy and well-being.
- Example: Individuals should not be confined to their home state (e.g., Iowa) without the option to relocate.
Reasons for Freedom of Movement
- Escape from Oppressive Regimes:
  - People should be able to flee oppressive political regimes and seek asylum in safer areas.
- Economic Opportunity:
  - Closed borders hinder the ability to negotiate employment opportunities and limit the labor market.
- Social Associations:
  - Restriction of movement affects familial relationships and social interactions, limiting opportunities for romantic partnerships, friendships, and family gatherings.

The majority of the global population lives in poverty, where migrating to wealthier regions is often the best means of improving economic conditions.
- Importance of recognizing the lengths individuals will go to escape poverty, often risking illegal crossings in search of better living conditions.
Moral Implications:
- Preventing individuals from migrating to improve their economic standing is considered inhumane.
- Urges critical thought on the justification for denying access to individuals seeking better living standards.

Impact on Workforce:
- Increased immigration contributes to an expanded labor force which can affect wage levels, leading to increased job competition.
- Insights from economists emphasize that expanded workforce dynamics can have a general net positive effect on the economy.
- Increased competition for jobs may lead to lower wages for native-born workers but simultaneously results in more consumers, driving economic activity and business profitability.
Economic Flourishing:
- Businesses benefit from a larger workforce, which allows for potential salary adjustments and increased consumer activities.
- More laborers equate to more consumers leading to higher product prices and overall business health.

Acknowledgement of the potential negative impacts on native-born workers, including:
- Job competition leading to wage reduction.
- Risk of being displaced from their jobs based on the influx of immigrants.
Calls for a principle justifying why native-born individuals should have preferential access to job markets over immigrants are deemed inadequate.
- Questioning the inherent entitlement of native workers in the labor system raises ethical concerns regarding fairness and equality.

Discussion around citizens receiving services (education, public health, infrastructure) raises concerns about the impacts of open borders on public welfare systems.
Potential issues with resource allocation and the sustainability of welfare systems if unrestricted immigration were to occur were discussed, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to immigration policies.