Authoritarianism: A Comment

11 Pages Posted: 29 Mar 2012

See all articles by Richard Delgado

Richard Delgado

Seattle University School of Law

Date Written: March, 27 2012

Abstract

What is behind the current wave of anti-immigrant fervor? Racism? Nativism? National security concerns? A recent article by Camilo Ortiz posits that psychological authoritarianism explains the recent outbreak of vigilantism and harsh law better than any of these other motives. My essay agrees with Ortiz and shows how understanding anti-immigrant sentiment in these terms advances our understanding of it. Once one understands how the syndrome underlies much of the current reaction toward immigrants, particularly ones from south of the U.S. border, it becomes easier to frame measures to limit some of its excesses. I argue that Mr. Ortiz’s interpretation constitutes a significant advance in our understanding of social attitudes toward immigration and immigrants and can pave the way toward more sensible policies in this troubled area.

Keywords: Immigration, Nativism, Race, Civil Rights, Latinos and the Law, U.S.-Mexico border

Suggested Citation

Delgado, Richard, Authoritarianism: A Comment (March, 27 2012). Rutgers Race and the Law Review, Forthcoming, Seattle University School of Law Research Paper No. 12-13, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2029808

Richard Delgado (Contact Author)

Seattle University School of Law ( email )

WA
United States

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