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.