Exodus: How Migration Is Changing Our World

Migration is a subject that touches deep human emotions and values. It is not merely an economic phenomenon but a social and ethical one, fraught with taboos and polarized opinions. People often hold strong views on migration that are less about cold facts and more about their moral compass. Indeed, research has revealed that people tend to make moral judgments first and then seek out evidence that supports those judgments. This means that debates on migration can become entrenched, with each side dismissing opposing arguments as biased or ignorant.

Consider how opposition to migration has historically been intertwined with racism. For example, a speech in the 1960s warned of dire racial conflict due to immigration, which effectively shut down open discussion on migration for decades. The fear of being labeled racist has made many politicians and intellectuals avoid the topic altogether, creating a vacuum filled by extremes and misinformation.

At the heart of migration debates lies the concept of national identity. Nationalism is both the foundation for justifying immigration restrictions and a source of fear because of its association with past violence and exclusion. Without a shared sense of belonging, it becomes difficult for societies to collectively decide who should be allowed entry. Yet, rejecting nationalism outright risks undermining the very social cohesion needed for cooperation and redistribution within societies.

This tension is evident in Europe, where revulsion against nationalism has led to efforts like the European Union’s free movement of people. Some young Europeans now identify more with their city than their nation. But this postnational identity depends on the stability and prosperity of rooted societies that continue to function well.

In short, migration debates are complex and cannot be reduced to simple good or bad judgments. They require acknowledging the emotional and ethical layers that influence public opinion and policy.

With this understanding of the emotional and moral landscape, we can now explore the forces that drive migration itself, examining why it accelerates and what dynamics sustain it over time.