The Argument Why We Feel Screwed: Immigration, Growth, and the Zero-Sum Mindset
Dec 8, 2025
Economist Sahil Chinoy, known for his extensive research on economic beliefs and zero-sum thinking, joins host Jerusalem Demsas to explore why many feel threatened by immigration. They dive into Chinoy's large study linking family histories, economic attitudes, and the rise of zero-sum perspectives among younger Americans. The discussion touches on how economic stagnation fuels a sense of scarcity and why certain policy topics trigger zero-sum instincts. They also examine the potential for shifting these entrenched beliefs through persuasion and policy change.
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Family Histories And Coercion
- Chinoy notes family histories of coercion like enslavement and internment strongly correlate with more zero-sum beliefs.
- He frames Black Americans and others with coercive pasts as groups whose historical experiences raise zero-sum outlooks today.
Generational Split From Growth
- Younger Americans are markedly more zero-sum than older generations, linked to lower income growth during formative years.
- Cohort exposure to economic stagnation predicts higher zero-sum thinking across countries, not just an age effect.
Worldview Predicts Policy
- Zero-sum worldview predicts policy preferences even after controlling for other attitudes like beliefs about luck or effort.
- It meaningfully correlates with support for redistribution and other major policy stances.