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I've also been of two minds on this subject-- I'm a strong believer in capitalism, and don't like to see government intervention. But the system only works when everyone is on a level playing field.

I agree with you on the current situation, but you're arguing the wrong point with Taxes_Dawg. He rails against government intervention, but the H1-B visa program IS GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION. It creates an artificial pool of labor that does not have the same rights as you and me. That is, this labor pool does not have the RIGHT OF LIBERTY. Taxes_Dawg is violating his supposed most sacred principle, his staunch opposition to government intervention, by arguing for what? GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION. H1-B IS GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION. So, Dawg, are you in favor of changing the visa law to allow workers to move to whichever job they choose? Hmmm? Does the current law violate you free market principles?

I agree completely. My understanding is that Dawg is a purist where capitalism is concerned. Pure capitalism, if it works at all, would only work if nations were not a factor-- in a truly global environment, where everyone was subject to the same laws, checks/balances, and especially the same operating costs (taxes, etc.) Even then, regional differences in the cost of making a product would prevail-- which isn't necessarily a bad thing.

However, along with being a capitalist, I'm a nationalist. I don't want the U.S. to disappear or lose ground on the economic playing field. Therefore, anytime an American worker is paying for the upkeep of our country, and is competing against a foreign worker who doesn't need to worry about that, the government must (and should) step in and level the field. That's one of the core roles of any government-- to promote the general welfare. India (et al) certainly is promoting their peoples' general welfare in setting up and taking advantage of the current laws-- why shouldn't our government?

I haven't explored the reason for the H1-B visa's initial creation. My understanding is that there was a temporary shortage of workers in the affected areas. I can't think of ANY other good reason for us to be literally giving our job market to foreign workers.