There is a vast discrepancy between scientific findings as to the magnitude and permanence of Mexican migration to the United States, on the one hand, and the public's perceptions, on the other. The reason for this is a process of ideological formation which responds to diverse economic and political interests. (Author/GC)

Introduces six papers reflecting a research emphasis on four interrelated features of host societies pre-existing ethnic and race relations; labor markets and related institutions; government policies and programs for both immigration and broader institutional regulation; and the changing nature of international boundaries, (related to…

Examines current trends in mass international immigration and refugee resettlement and discusses related legal and humanitarian concerns. Briefly reviews the articles which follow in this special issue. (GC)

In different ways, J. Carens and M. Weiner have overlooked important ethical issues raised by the human migration phenomenon. Weiner avoids moral issues in his conceptualization of alien admissions, and Carens focuses too intensely on the issue of whether national borders can be justified or not. (SLD)

Discussions about the ethics of migration require both a realistic approach that focuses on what is possible given the existing realities and an idealistic approach that requires policymakers to assess current reality in light of the nation's highest ideals. Migration issues require a full range of perspectives. (SLD)

A 1993 poll surveyed attitudes of 1,363 Americans toward immigration. Attitudes relate to views about the economy, feelings of social and political alienation, and isolationist sentiments, with an important finding being the close connection between restrictionist immigration attitudes and an isolationist perspective on other international issues.…

Discusses issues concerning forced migration. In today's climate, there is an increased willingness to intervene in other countries' affairs to avert the creation of new floods of immigrants or to assist internally displaced populations, and there is the expectation of large-scale and voluntary returns of refugees in asylum. (SLD)

Studies the politics of immigration in the major immigrant-receiving countries, focusing on the United States, Canada, and Australia. A strong pattern of restrictionism in the face of pressures for entry is found, coupled with exceptions, amnesties, and hesitation to enforce the law. Consequences of these inconsistencies are discussed. (SLD)