Does a society “need” large-scale immigration if it is replacing itself demographically?

Some key takeaways from the conversation with Economist Garett Jones

Integration & assimilation:

-The idea that immigrants fully integrate within a generation is largely a myth. Assimilation often takes multiple generations—and is slower and more difficult when cultural and value differences are large. High immigration volumes, and high immigrant levels as a proportion of the population (as they have become in Canada over the past 30 years) make integration more difficult.

Social trust:

– Generalized social trust is a foundational asset for prosperity and good government. Once eroded, it is difficult to rebuild.

Diversity:

-Skill diversity can enhance productivity and innovation, but ethnic and deep value diversity reduce trust and social cohesion.

Innovation & immigration:

-High levels of innovation do not require high immigration. Countries like Japan, South Korea, Germany, and Scandinavian countries combine world-class innovation with low immigration and low ethnic diversity. Institutions, trust, and long time horizons matter more than population churn.

Political & institutional effects:

-Large-scale, rapid immigration can reshape politics and institutions over time—lowering trust, weakening government quality, and increasing social conflict.

The bottom line is that immigration is not a free lunch. Scale, selection, and integration capacity determine whether it strengthens or undermines a society.