Om Utvandringen, Dess Betydelse Och Orsaker: Föredrag, Hållet I Stockholm Den 25 Och Den 28 November Samt I Upsala Den 3 December 1881

A scholarly essay written in the late 19th century. The work addresses the significant phenomenon of emigration from Sweden, primarily to North America, analyzing its causes and implications for Swedish society. Wicksell argues that understanding this mass movement is crucial for grasping the economic and social dynamics affecting both emigrants and those who remain. The opening of the essay sets the context for a discussion on the rising number of emigrants from Sweden during the late 1800s, highlighting a sharp increase from previous years, particularly during severe economic downturns. Wicksell notes the demographic characteristics of those leaving, typically young, labor-ready individuals, and signals the societal indifference towards this development among influential figures and publications in Sweden. He frames emigration as a critical societal issue that warrants serious examination to understand its broader economic impacts and the potential loss associated with human capital as individuals seek better opportunities abroad.