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Entry: The Lie of Assimilation Link: http://www.takimag.com/blogs/article/the_lie_of_assimiliation#8785 Post contents: I don't think most prospective immigrants think of the USA as a place where they can "assimilate." I think they, in keeping with modern "multicultural" thinking, regard America as a place where they can go on being themselves and maintain their native culture, but in the context of a safer and more prosperous society. People don't really want to give up who they are just because they move to another country, at least not if their main motive in immigrating has to do with escaping an unpleasant economic or political situation at home (as was the case, for example, for my in-laws, who left Mao's China as the Cultural Revolution was getting underway). The "melting pot" image of America is nothing but rhetorical nonsense, especially for those who do not share our Western European heritage. When you note that most Muslims think of themselves as Muslims first, and Americans second, you fail to ask whether this is in fact how it should be, not only for Muslims, but for anyone who is a serious believer in any religion. Are you not a Christian first and an American second? If God tells you one thing, and the Supreme Court or Congress tells you differently, which should you believe and, more importantly, act on? Sent at: 2008 07 24