A Matter Of Chance

[Peter Parka]

I see plenty of discussions about immigration. Was wondering, why do some people feel that a pure accident, i.e. what country they happened to be born in and the nationality of their parents, should entitle them to a better standard of living than others? Why do they get so angry and indignant if others want this too, just because they through no fault of their own were born in another country?

 

[edgray]

It's beyond me, to be honest. I think the world can only improve with immigration.

I suppose you could say the same about patriotism. I've always found that strange, especially flag worship. I love Britain, but would happily burn a union jack, just for the hell of it. It wouldn't bother me in the slightest to see it go up in flames. It's just a piece of cloth.

I remember when I was in Canada, when they beat the US in hockey there was some huge scandal because apparently the US team had a Canadian flag in their changing rooms and were stamping on it. My friends were beyond angry about it. So I asked them, what do you care if they're standing on a bit of cloth with a maple leaf on it. "It's what it represents that's important" and they rattled off everything that makes them proud to be Canadian. It was sweet to see them so proud of their country, but I really still didn't get it...

 

[Zorak]

Patriotism isn't a collective pride between the people of one nation.

Patriotism is a collective hatred for neighboring nations.

 

[edgray]

Patriotism isn't a collective pride between the people of one nation.

Patriotism is a collective hatred for neighboring nations.

that's the profoundest thing you've said Zorak! Bravo and couldn't agree more

 

[MoonOwl]

I have no problem w/immigration as long as it's done legally.

Especially here in America. We are a nation of immigrants. All my ancestors went through Ellis Island and were thrilled & proud to become American Citizens.

 

[Minor Axis]

Yes, it is a matter of chance, but every sovereign country has the right to control immigration of people entering their borders. It's a standard the human race has established. Entitlement is part of the human psyche when you are in the group known as "the haves".