The Accidental American: Immigration and Citizenship in the Age of Globalization (16pt Large Print Edition) (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780369370105)

This book tells the story of modern immigration through the life of Fekkak Mamdouh, an ordinary, if somewhat fortunate, immigrant who found himself at the center of historic events. Situations like his have given rise to a contentious debate across the United States about immigration and the purpose of contemporary policy. Politicians, media pundits, populist organizations, and policy advocates have focused either on stopping unauthorized immigration or on legalizing undocumented immigrants. The current discussion prompts seemingly discrete questions. How big should the fence along the southern border be? Should undocumented immigrants be allowed to correct their status, and if so, how easily? The debate is intensely polarized, yet too narrow to lead us to real solutions. The wall-versus-amnesty framework hides the far more fundamental question: Should the United States continue to welcome immigrants in large numbers? To answer that question in a humane manner that promises the best possible outcomes for both immigrants and current residents, for both the United States and for the countries that send immigrants, we need a holistic new framework within which to plan future action.

Author: Rinku Sen
ISBN-10: 0369370104
ISBN-13: 9780369370105
Publisher: ReadHowYouWant
Language: English
Published: 02/23/2009
Pages: 608
Format: Paperback
Weight: 1.67lbs
Size: 9.21h x 6.14w x 1.51d