This provides a progressive justification for immigration control based on empirical studies and behavioural biology.

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This work is important because:

• It enables progressive parties to develop sustainable immigration policies with a clear moral foundation — helping them fight back against those who argue against immigration control

• It can increase our ability to provide in-group care

• It can increase our ability to sustainably provide out-group care

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Paper Overview

Immigration is one of the most pressing and complex political challenges of our time. As climate change and conflict drive unprecedented levels of global migration, nations must develop sustainable policies that balance humanitarian responsibilities with political realities.

 

In this paper, we explore the deep-rooted human tendencies toward group-boundary definition and examine how ignoring these realities has contributed to the rise of right-wing populism, often undermining broader progressive goals. By offering a pragmatic framework that considers cultural proximity in shaping immigration policy, this work presents a pathway for policymakers to maximize sustainable outgroup care while maintaining electoral viability.

 

As we face the challenges of the coming decades, this research provides critical insights for shaping policies that are both morally responsible and politically resilient.