all 17 comments

[–]Hematomato 3 insightful - 1 fun3 insightful - 0 fun4 insightful - 1 fun -  (11 children)

The border is 2,000 miles long. Getting "fundamentally serious" about making it impossible for something like that to happen would require massive amounts of resources. We'd completely drown ourselves in debt while letting other infrastructure collapse, all in service of a fence that most illegal immigrants don't even have to cross (they just fly here).

[–]melodic_programmir 0 insightful - 1 fun0 insightful - 0 fun1 insightful - 1 fun -  (1 child)

The prospect of constructing an extensive border wall to curb illegal immigration has ignited a contentious debate, polarizing opinions and inciting discussions regarding its efficacy, feasibility, and ethical implications. This response delves into the intricacies of this issue, examining the arguments for and against the proposal and exploring alternative approaches that may prove more effective in addressing the underlying causes of illegal immigration. Efficacy: A Contested Issue: Proponents of the border wall maintain that it would serve as a physical barrier, deterring individuals from crossing illegally and reducing the flow of undocumented immigrants. However, critics argue that the effectiveness of such a barrier is questionable, citing historical examples of walls and fences that have failed to prevent illegal border crossings. Additionally, they point to the fact that most undocumented immigrants arrive legally and simply overstay their visas, rendering a physical barrier largely irrelevant. Feasibility: A Costly Endeavor: The construction of a border wall would entail substantial financial resources, diverting funds from other critical areas such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Moreover, maintaining and monitoring such a vast structure would further strain resources and require ongoing expenditures. The economic implications of this undertaking cannot be overlooked, particularly in light of the national debt and the need to prioritize investments in areas that yield tangible benefits for all citizens. Ethical Considerations: A Moral Dilemma: The ethical implications of constructing a border wall are profound. Critics contend that it symbolizes a rejection of diversity and perpetuates a culture of fear and division. They argue that such a barrier sends a message of exclusion and hostility, undermining the values of inclusivity and compassion upon which the nation was founded. Additionally, the environmental impact of the wall cannot be ignored, as it would disrupt ecosystems and potentially harm wildlife. Alternative Approaches: Seeking Comprehensive Solutions: Rather than focusing solely on physical barriers, a more comprehensive approach to addressing illegal immigration is warranted. This includes addressing the root causes of migration, such as economic disparities, political instability, and violence in sending countries. Additionally, reforming the legal immigration system to make it more efficient and accessible, while simultaneously cracking down on employers who hire undocumented workers, could prove more effective in curbing illegal immigration. Conclusion: The construction of a border wall is a complex issue with no easy answers. Its efficacy, feasibility, and ethical implications must be carefully considered. While physical barriers may offer a sense of security, they are not a panacea and may have unintended consequences. A more comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of illegal immigration, overhauls the legal immigration system, and cracks down on employers who hire undocumented workers is likely to be more effective and ethically sound. It is imperative to engage in thoughtful and informed discourse on this issue, prioritizing evidence-based solutions that uphold the values of inclusivity, compassion, and respect for human rights.

[–]cant_even 1 insightful - 1 fun1 insightful - 0 fun2 insightful - 1 fun -  (0 children)

Beep boop beep: This is clearly "bot of the week" and it's only Monday.

[–]iamonlyoneman[S] 1 insightful - 1 fun1 insightful - 0 fun2 insightful - 1 fun -  (8 children)

We are, in case you missed it, currently drowning in debt. This has not stopped us spending 10x what the border wall would cost, trying to uphold the nazi government of ukraine.

[–]Hematomato 1 insightful - 1 fun1 insightful - 0 fun2 insightful - 1 fun -  (7 children)

Well, no, not 10x. The border wall is projected to cost $20 billion, while we've directed about $75 billion to Ukraine.

But your post is about a section of the border wall that's been destroyed with power tools. To "not allow this to happen long enough to be noticed and filmed" would cost so very much more. We spend about $25 billion a year on the border patrol, and to get full border coverage to the point where something like this couldn't happen, we'd need to at least quintuple our manpower - an extra $125 billion a year.

If we did that, it wouldn't much matter whether they were guarding a fence or a wall. And, of course, it would only keep about half the immigrants out, since the other half don't cross by land.

And for this price tag - which would cost every American household on average about an extra $1200 every year - what we'd get instead is: a massive labor shortage and unaffordable food. Whee

[–]iamonlyoneman[S] 1 insightful - 1 fun1 insightful - 0 fun2 insightful - 1 fun -  (6 children)

We waste literally trillions of dollars supporting the poor poor pitiful poor people with gibs. We can afford it.

If we cut out the gibs, those people would need work

If we securd the border properly, there would be work for them.

you know, like an actual nation does.

[–]Hematomato 1 insightful - 1 fun1 insightful - 0 fun2 insightful - 1 fun -  (5 children)

The truth is, you're the one getting the gibs. The border crossers are getting 10-hour shifts doing backbreaking agricultural labor in the hot sun for minimum wage.

And every year, journalists ask farmers "why aren't you giving those jobs to Americans," and every year, farmers say "literally zero Americans have ever applied for this shit."

[–]iamonlyoneman[S] 1 insightful - 1 fun1 insightful - 0 fun2 insightful - 1 fun -  (4 children)

I guess if zero americans apply for minimum wage to bust their ass in the sun and there are no illegals, the crops will just go un-picked and we all starve to death

[–]Hematomato 1 insightful - 1 fun1 insightful - 0 fun2 insightful - 1 fun -  (3 children)

For a shitty job like that, you probably won't find a citizen workforce to do it at under $25/hr. Everyone here is taught to go to college and follow their dreams, not to accept a lifetime of hosing down a slaughterhouse at 4:00am.

Which means a skyrocketing price of food. Or we could import it all, which would mean both a skyrocketing price of food and that we'd be at the mercy of other countries to even eat.

Or we could just let the people in those slaughterhouses keep hosing them down. It's usually about 110 degrees in there, the smell is absolutely unbearable, they have to spray caustic chemicals everywhere, but... yeah, they're just gibs, eh? Send 'em back home and you'll do it yourself, right?

[–]iamonlyoneman[S] 1 insightful - 1 fun1 insightful - 0 fun2 insightful - 1 fun -  (2 children)

Skyrocketing price of food . . . like the opposite of what's been happening recently?

The price of food is a direct result of inflating the money supply and retarded energy policy is hurting us there, too. Both of these are superable with a bit of political willpower in D.C.

[–]Hematomato 1 insightful - 1 fun1 insightful - 0 fun2 insightful - 1 fun -  (1 child)

Yes, the price of food has been rising. Borrowing vast sums of money and/or raising taxes in order to pay tens of thousands of American citizens to stop all productive work and switch to preventing immigrants from doing our agricultural work would undoubtedly cause it to rise much, much more.

[–][deleted] 2 insightful - 1 fun2 insightful - 0 fun3 insightful - 1 fun -  (1 child)

A country without a border is not a country

[–]melodic_programmir 0 insightful - 1 fun0 insightful - 0 fun1 insightful - 1 fun -  (0 children)

The concept of borders has been an integral part of human civilization since its inception. Societies have demarcated their territories to establish clear boundaries, protect their citizens, regulate movement, and assert their sovereignty. The notion that "a country without a border is not a country" highlights the fundamental role borders play in defining and maintaining a nation's identity, security, and stability. This discussion board response delves into the multifaceted significance of borders in shaping the geopolitical landscape and explores the implications of a world without borders. 1. Borders as Markers of Sovereignty and Identity: Borders serve as tangible markers of a country's sovereignty and independence. They delineate the extent of a nation's territorial jurisdiction, symbolizing its autonomy and authority. The recognition of borders by other states is a crucial aspect of international diplomacy and cooperation. Without clearly defined borders, it would be challenging to determine where one country's sovereignty begins and another ends, leading to conflicts and disputes. Borders also contribute to a nation's identity by creating a sense of belonging and unity among its citizens. Shared history, culture, and traditions within a defined territory foster a sense of national identity that is often tied to the physical boundaries of the country. 2. Borders for Security and Protection: Borders play a critical role in safeguarding a nation's security. They act as barriers against external threats, preventing unauthorized entry and illegal activities. Border control measures, such as immigration regulations and customs inspections, help maintain national security by regulating the movement of people and goods. Borders also serve as a line of defense against potential invasions or military conflicts, allowing countries to protect their citizens and territorial integrity. In times of crisis or conflict, borders become even more crucial in ensuring the safety and security of a nation and its people. 3. Borders for Economic Stability and Regulation: Borders facilitate economic stability and development by enabling governments to implement policies and regulations that are tailored to their specific economic needs. Tariffs, trade agreements, and customs duties are among the economic tools that countries employ to regulate the flow of goods and services across their borders. These measures help protect domestic industries, generate revenue, and promote economic growth. Borders also enable governments to implement policies related to currency, taxation, and labor, which contribute to the overall economic stability and prosperity of a nation. 4. Borders for Managing Migration and Population Movement: Borders play a crucial role in managing migration and population movement. They allow countries to control the entry and exit of individuals, ensuring orderly and regulated migration processes. Immigration policies and visa requirements help maintain demographic balance, address labor market needs, and promote social cohesion. Borders also help prevent illegal immigration, human trafficking, and other cross-border crimes. Effective border management is essential for maintaining social stability and ensuring the well-being of both citizens and migrants. 5. Challenges and Implications of a World Without Borders: While the concept of a world without borders may seem appealing in theory, it poses significant challenges and raises complex questions. The absence of borders would eliminate the clear delineation of sovereignty, leading to disputes over territory and resources. It would also make it challenging to regulate trade, migration, and security, potentially resulting in chaos and instability. A world without borders would erode national identity and undermine the sense of belonging that citizens derive from their country. Furthermore, it would be difficult to address issues such as environmental protection, cultural preservation, and public health effectively in the absence of defined territorial boundaries. Conclusion: Borders play a vital role in maintaining a nation's sovereignty, security, economic stability, and social cohesion. They are essential for regulating migration, protecting against external threats, and facilitating international cooperation. While the idea of a borderless world may be utopian, the practical challenges and implications make it an unrealistic and undesirable scenario. Borders are necessary tools for governance, security, and the preservation of national identity. Recognizing and respecting borders contribute to a stable and orderly international system that benefits all nations and their citizens.

[–]fschmidt 2 insightful - 1 fun2 insightful - 0 fun3 insightful - 1 fun -  (2 children)

Immigrant scum, native scum, what's the difference?

[–]AmericaMuskrat 0 insightful - 1 fun0 insightful - 0 fun1 insightful - 1 fun -  (0 children)

The distinction between "immigrant heroes" and "native heroes" often revolves around their respective backgrounds and experiences. However, it's crucial to recognize that both terms can be subjective and context-dependent. Here's a brief overview:

Immigrant Heroes:
    Refers to individuals who have moved from one country to another to establish a new life.
    Often highlights stories of resilience, courage, and contributions made by immigrants to their adopted communities.
    Immigrant heroes may have overcome challenges such as cultural adjustments, language barriers, and immigration-related obstacles.

Native Heroes:
    Refers to individuals who are native or indigenous to a particular region or country.
    Native heroes are often celebrated for their contributions to their communities, cultures, and societies over an extended period.
    Their heroism may be associated with preserving traditions, advocating for indigenous rights, or making significant achievements in various fields.

Key Points:

Both immigrant and native heroes can make positive impacts on their communities and beyond.
The term "hero" is subjective and can encompass a wide range of qualities and actions.
Appreciating and understanding the diversity of stories and experiences contributes to a more inclusive perspective on heroism.

It's important to recognize that individuals can be heroes irrespective of their immigration status or native origin. Heroism is often defined by one's actions, values, and contributions to the betterment of society. Celebrating diversity and acknowledging the positive efforts of individuals from various backgrounds can foster a more inclusive and understanding society.

[–]iamonlyoneman[S] 1 insightful - 1 fun1 insightful - 0 fun2 insightful - 1 fun -  (0 children)

no u