Dear Reader,

We Americans have come to the very difficult crossroad of how to deal with immigration and globalization in this new "flat world." Many argue that Mexicans and other foreign born individuals take the jobs away from willing Americans. While this is true, securing our borders will not solve this problem. Nor will deporting the millions of illegal of immigrants from our country. While it is conceivable that, with mass deportations, unemployment will plummet, it is only a very short term solution. The innovative ability of American business is second to none. If productivity remains where it is, higher wages will only result in greater automation. This is apparent through the lessening demand of laborers for check in/checkout purposes, (if you have been to a grocery store lately or airport you will have noticed the check your self in/out area). Technical help by phone is primarily based in India, and the previous factory jobs are disappearing to incredibly fast computer run assembly lines.

This is nothing to fear. A solution can be seen in one of America’s greatest shortcomings, education. While we are the best at educating our top 10%, we are abysmal at educating the bottom third. Now, considering that we are embracing globalization (which is a must), we have a responsibility to those who cannot find work. The primary goal for the United States should be to bring the average amount of college, competed by an American, from one year to two years.

This can be done in a very simple, and hopefully inexpensive way. Guarantee all banks, that funds used towards educating Americans will be paid back, and make sure this message gets to all Americans in high school or working in low-skilled labor positions. If you have your high school diploma, there will be a place for you in a 2 year or 4 year college. While the dropout rate will increase, and the measure may be costly, the potential benefit will be enormous.

Globalization has made it totally unfeasible to live in America unskilled. This is a fact we must embrace and act upon. While we reap the benefits of cheaper goods and services we must also help our fellows to find something to do in which they can feed their families. Education is the key, and while it is impossible to suggest that America should pay for it, it is perfectly reasonable for America to help out.

Regards and I hope everyone had a fabulous mother’s day,
LeftyRighty