Exodus: How Migration Is Changing Our World

Exodus fits within the genre of policy-oriented social science books that aim to bridge academic research with real-world policy debates. Similar to Why Nations Fail by Daron Acemoglu, Exodus presents a structured, empirically driven argument that seeks to inform both policymakers and a general readership about a pressing global issue.

Like the exploration of institutional development in Why Nations Fail, Collier’s book is concerned with the structural conditions that shape economic and social outcomes. While Why Nations Fail focuses on the role of political institutions in fostering or hindering prosperity, Exodus examines how migration interacts with existing economic and social systems, potentially disrupting or reinforcing inequalities between nations. Both books emphasize the long-term consequences of policy choices, arguing that decisions made today will shape the trajectory of societies for generations. 

Another important parallel between Exodus and Why Nations Fail is their shared emphasis on the unintended consequences of policy decisions. Acemoglu and Robinson argue that inclusive institutions are crucial for long-term prosperity, but these institutions can be fragile and subject to erosion if governance structures are not maintained. Collier applies a similar framework to migration, suggesting that while open immigration policies can generate economic benefits, they can also weaken social cohesion if integration is not carefully managed. He warns that high levels of migration, if not accompanied by policies that encourage assimilation and institutional stability, could lead to increased societal divisions and political backlash.

Additionally, Exodus aligns with Collier’s broader body of work, particularly The Bottom Billion (2007), in its concern for the structural forces that shape economic and political stability. In The Bottom Billion, Collier examines why some nations remain trapped in poverty while others progress, identifying economic stagnation, conflict, and poor governance as major obstacles to development. Exodus extends this analysis by considering how migration interacts with these same factors, exploring how the movement of people from fragile states to wealthier nations can both alleviate and increase global inequality. While migration provides opportunities for individuals, Collier warns that the large-scale departure of skilled workers may hinder the institutional development of poorer countries, echoing themes from his earlier work on the challenges of state-building.

What sets Exodus apart within this genre is its balanced treatment of a highly charged topic. While books on migration often fall into polarized camps—either advocating for open borders as an economic necessity, or arguing for restrictionist policies to protect national identity—Collier takes a pragmatic middle ground. He acknowledges the economic benefits of migration for both sending and receiving countries, but also highlights the potential strains on social cohesion and institutional stability.