This week we are discussing some of the political contradictions relating to

migration and globalization. On one hand our globalized world is increasingly

characterized by migration.  On the other hand, our conceptions of rights and

citizenship are restricted to members of national (sovereign) states.  How are

those, such as migrants, who live transnational lives, to enjoy rights that are

supposedly guaranteed to us all?  What ethical claims do sovereign states

have, if any, to restrict the rights of migrants?  Should borders be controlled?

How are we to ensure that migrants enjoy access to basic rights?  To begin

dicussing some of these questions, listen to this radio program on an

American 'border control' organization called the 'minutemen'.  How do

you react to the description of the 'citizen patrols' the minutemen conduct?

Do they have any ethical basis for their 'defense' of the border?  Who

has the right to decide who can cross the border and under what conditions?