Psychologist's Tweet Ignites Debate on Immigration's Impact on Western Societies

A recent social media post by J.D. Haltigan, PhD, a developmental psychologist and honorary research fellow, has sparked discussion regarding the effects of immigration on Western nations. In a concise statement on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Haltigan asserted, > "Mass immigration is destroying the West."

Dr. Haltigan, known for his critical stance on prevailing academic and social narratives, particularly those concerning Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, has frequently voiced concerns about what he perceives as ideological conformity in academia. His background includes a PhD in developmental psychology from the University of Miami and a past role as an Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto. He is currently an Honorary Research Fellow at the Centre for Heterodox Social Science at the University of Buckingham, an institution dedicated to fostering free inquiry and challenging established orthodoxies in social sciences.

The statement by Dr. Haltigan touches upon a complex and widely debated topic with varied perspectives and documented impacts. Immigration significantly influences demographics, economies, and social structures in Western countries. For instance, in 2022, immigrants constituted 5.3% of the European Union's total population, with an additional 4.4% born in a different EU member state, contributing to a total of 9.7% of the EU's population being foreign-born. These populations are often younger and of working age, potentially offsetting the aging native-born populations in many Western nations.

Economically, immigrants are noted for filling labor shortages across various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, and STEM fields, and demonstrate higher rates of entrepreneurship and patent filing. In the United States, immigrants paid an estimated $458.7 billion in taxes in 2022, contributing to public services. However, concerns persist regarding potential wage impacts on low-skilled native-born workers and increased strain on public services like education, healthcare, and housing in areas with high immigrant concentrations.

Socially, immigration introduces cultural diversity but also presents challenges related to social cohesion and the integration of diverse populations. Public opinion on immigration's impact remains divided; a 2023 Eurobarometer survey indicated that 49% of EU citizens view immigration positively, while 47% see it negatively. Debates often arise concerning national identity, cultural values, and the balance between humanitarian responsibilities and security concerns.

Dr. Haltigan's tweet, while succinct, reflects a viewpoint present within the broader discourse surrounding immigration and its long-term implications for Western societies, emphasizing a critical perspective on these ongoing demographic and social shifts.