When the grass really is greener on the other side, it’s natural for people to want to cross the border. This is the crux of the illegal immigration debate raging in the United States. Mexican nationals desiring greater prosperity go to tremendous lengths to cross the border into a country that promises more opportunity. The Index of Economic Freedom confirms that the U.S., with a score of 78, is economically freer than Mexico, which scores 68.8. The grass is definitely greener in the United States. Many have suggested building a …
Seven of the eight economies ranked most free in the Index of Economic Freedom were once British colonies or trade posts. It’s no coincidence. Political institutions developed by the British such as representative democracy and rule of law provide a vital base for economic freedom. Yet the U.K. no longer has the distinction of being ranked in the top ten freest economies. Its economic freedom score has fallen significantly in recent years due to expensive welfare programs that have eroded economic freedom and slowed growth. The U.K.’s predicament is an …
