[Johnny_Cipher]

Mere discussion of the possibility of amnesty encourages illegal immigration.

Ridiculous. Discussion of the "possibility" of something doesn't encourage a given behavior any more than the publication of a cookbook encourages obesity.

Thanks, but I'll pass on the author's suggestion. I don't look at all good with a gag over my mouth.

[MissAmericanPie]

Of course it does and is, they are packing their bags in El Salvador right now.

[Capitalist Eric]

Discussion of the "possibility" of something doesn't encourage a given behavior any more than the publication of a cookbook encourages obesity.

WRONG!

What happens if a rumor surfaces of a merger between two large companies...? Say, between GTE and Bell-Atlantic (BA bought GTE)??? People clamor to buy the stocks, because the value of the stock is suddenly worth more.

If there is a possibility to come to the USA illegally, and suddenly get a pass to come and go as desired, then more people WILL try to get here by any means available.

Your knee-jerk reaction ignores group psychology... And therefore fails.

[Teacher317]

Discussion of the "possibility" of something doesn't encourage a given behavior

JEEZ! Have you never heard of a quaint little concept called, "Hope"?

Hell, have you ever heard of FLIRTING?!?! Never had a girl "tease" you? Never seen a girl get showered with gifts, praise, and attention all on the barest of indications that they guy might... someday... get somewhere with her?

How about the lottery and other forms of gambling ("You could win!!")?

Now try a million other situations where one person is very hopeful (like, oh, say, destitute people living in a nation of squalor on the border of an incredibly wealthy nation), and that hope is encouraged by what they see, hear, or read... still no effect on that person?