> But why is it "making it" in some countries to leave and go to America? Why not build up your own country and affect their living standards in a positive way?

> But why is it "making it" in some countries to leave and go to America? Why not build up your own country and affect their living standards in a positive way? Many reasons. * Because they'll be able to add more value to society in the other country. * Because they're part of a marginalized group and the other country has better protections for people like them. Maybe they can't get married in their home country but can in the other country, say. * Most importantly, because they might not want to. People should generally be free to do what they like, right? > I have no desire to leave my country because I like it and want to make it better. Great, sounds awesome! You're free to do as you desire. Others have different desires or constraints and should be free to do as they wish as well.