Retrieving the Social Sciences · UMBC Center for Social Science Scholarship

Ep. 20: The Economics of Immigration w/ Dr. Giovanni Peri

May 30, 2022·19 min·1 clip

Host Ian Anson reveals how immigration economics challenges catchy musical lines with serious social science questions.

This episode examines the economic dimensions of immigration to the United States. Host Ian Anson, an associate professor of political science, interviews Dr. Giovanni Perry, a professor of economics at UC Davis and founder of its Global Migration Center. Dr. Perry's research focuses on the economic decision-making behind migration patterns. A central topic is challenging the assumption that migrants are primarily the poorest individuals from their home countries. Dr. Perry discusses how the actual costs and risks of migration create significant financial barriers. The conversation explores the concept of "positive selection," where migrants often possess higher education or skills relative to their origin communities. Specific economic models and data from the National Bureau of Economic Research are referenced to analyze these trends. The discussion reveals that migration flows are frequently shaped by existing diaspora networks, which lower costs for subsequent migrants from the same area. Dr. Perry explains how immigration policy changes, like visa caps, can inadvertently alter the skill composition of migrant groups. An interesting insight is that stricter border enforcement may not deter migration but can instead lengthen migrants' stays abroad to amortize the higher journey cost. The economic impact of immigration on U.S. native-born workers' wages is presented as more nuanced than public debate often suggests. Research indicates effects vary significantly by the skill level of both migrants and native workers. The episode highlights how migrants often fill critical labor market niches, supporting broader economic growth. Dr. Perry's analysis extends to the fiscal impacts, considering taxes paid versus public services used by immigrant households. The tone is educational and conversational, grounded in economic research and data. The style is analytical, using economic concepts to dissect common perceptions about immigration. Listeners interested in evidence-based policy, labor economics, or understanding migration beyond political rhetoric would appreciate this episode. Those seeking a highly politicized debate or a purely narrative-driven human story might find it less engaging.

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