Contrast how functionalists and conflict theorists would explain the brain drain

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Conflict theorists see the current brain drain as yet another symptom of the unequal distribution of world resources. In their view, it is ironic that the United States gives foreign aid to improve the technical resources of African and Asian countries while maintaining an immigration policy that encourages professionals in such nations to migrate to our shores. These very countries have unacceptable public health conditions and need native scientists, educators, technicians, and other professionals. In addition, by relying on foreign talent, the United States is not encouraging native members of subordinate groups to enter these desirable fields of employment.
From a functionalist perspective, many students who come to the country stay back and make their talents available in the United States. More than one out of four physicians in the United States are foreign-born and plays a critical role in serving areas with too few doctors. In addition, about 70 percent of illegal immigrant workers pay taxes of one type or another. Supporters of immigration reform point to increased tax revenue and even more net financial benefits to all local governments if illegal immigrants move toward legal residency. A variety of recent studies found that immigrants are a net economic gain for the population in times of economic boom as well as in periods of recession.