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Manu Joseph's article delves into the rationale behind Donald Trump's stricter stance on international students seeking visas to the United States, particularly in light of increasing student activism on American campuses. Joseph argues that Trump's concerns about agitators entering the country are not entirely unfounded, highlighting the complexities and potential contradictions inherent in student activism, especially among foreign students from developing nations. The author initiates the discussion by lamenting the increasing difficulty and risk associated with sending children to the US for education, citing visa revocations for minor infractions and pauses on visa interviews. This sets the stage for examining Trump's rationale, which Joseph acknowledges as having some validity. The core of Joseph's argument rests on the assertion that student activism, despite its noble themes of struggle and justice, is often a more nuanced and even problematic phenomenon than it appears. He points out the irony of foreign students from affluent backgrounds, often beneficiaries of inequality and potential corruption in their home countries, protesting for democracy and human values in the US. This ‘hyper-morality,’ as Joseph calls it, can seem like a luxury product, a way for these students to fill a void in their lives or even an extension of a right-wing agenda disguised as liberal outrage. One of the most contentious aspects of the article lies in its discussion of student activism related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Joseph notes that the liberal arts outrage against Israel on American campuses is decades-old and a significant part of the Palestinian movement. He suggests that this activism may even have been factored into Hamas's calculations during the October 7th attacks. While acknowledging the Jewish perspective that anti-Israel movements can be a form of anti-Semitism, Joseph clarifies that at least a strand of the Palestinian movement in America can be interpreted as anti-Jewish, fuelled by envy of Jewish prosperity and influence, compounded by historical religious prejudices. The article further explores the potential naiveté of student activists, suggesting they may be unwittingly used as political instruments by unseen handlers. Joseph argues that activism is often a clash between unseen elites who recruit the naive to fight for their agendas. Additionally, he posits that activism can be a magnet for individuals struggling with depression, providing a grander purpose for their personal dejection through involvement in global conflicts. The author also touches on the historical context of US foreign policy, noting that the US has historically exported student activism to other nations as a means of creating favorable chaos to control those regions. This historical precedent, according to Joseph, is one reason why the American right-wing takes student activism seriously, recognizing its potential to disrupt and create chaos. Ultimately, Joseph concludes that the Trump administration's policies have successfully altered the perception of America among non-Americans, particularly students, in order to discourage certain types of migrants. While acknowledging the presence of other advanced economies with excellent colleges, such as the UK, Joseph asserts that these nations lack the vibrant promise of America. However, he suggests that the American dream may now be over for the Indian student due to the stricter visa policies and the perceived risks associated with studying in the US.
The undercurrent of Joseph's argument is a critical examination of the motivations and consequences of student activism. He challenges the simplistic view of activism as a purely virtuous endeavor, highlighting its potential for hypocrisy, manipulation, and even unintended negative consequences. His analysis forces the reader to consider the complex interplay of factors that drive student activism, including privilege, political agendas, and personal motivations. He brings up the crucial point that activism may provide a sense of belonging or purpose to those who are depressed, giving their sorrow a name and a grander context. However, he cautions that the pit of ceaseless bad news might exacerbate their condition, blurring the lines between genuine engagement and a desperate search for meaning. The assertion that some student activists are merely pawns in larger political games, manipulated by unseen elites, raises ethical questions about the responsibility of those who mobilize and influence student movements. It suggests that students, in their idealism and desire to effect change, may be unaware of the broader agendas at play and the potential for their actions to be exploited for ulterior motives. This underscores the importance of critical thinking and independent analysis for student activists, urging them to question the narratives they are presented with and to consider the potential consequences of their actions. The discussion surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is particularly sensitive, and Joseph's analysis is likely to provoke strong reactions. His suggestion that anti-Israel activism on American campuses can be interpreted as anti-Jewish touches on a complex and deeply divisive issue. While he acknowledges the validity of the Jewish perspective, his claim that a strand of the Palestinian movement in America is motivated by envy and historical prejudice is sure to spark controversy. However, his willingness to address this sensitive topic reflects a desire to provide a nuanced and critical perspective on the issue, even if it is uncomfortable or unpopular. His comparison of US foreign policy and its historical use of student activism to create chaos in other nations adds another layer of complexity to the discussion. By suggesting that the US has historically employed similar tactics to those it now seeks to prevent, Joseph raises questions about hypocrisy and the potential for unintended consequences. He implies that the US, by attempting to control student activism at home, may be undermining its own historical legacy of promoting democracy and freedom abroad.
Joseph's article also carries a cautionary note for developing nations, particularly those whose students aspire to study in America. He implies that the era of unrestricted access to American education may be coming to an end, as the US government prioritizes security and ideological purity over openness and diversity. This shift in policy has significant implications for aspiring students, who must now navigate a more complex and uncertain visa process. The focus on social media scans and thorough screening reflects a growing concern about the potential for foreign students to engage in activities that are perceived as threatening to national security or social order. This raises concerns about privacy and the potential for discriminatory practices based on political beliefs or online activity. However, Trump's policies could be viewed from the perspective of national interest. With numerous challenges within the United States itself, including socio-economic disparities, it makes sense that some leaders would prioritize the wellbeing of their own citizens, which they are charged to protect. The author concludes by suggesting that the American dream may be fading for Indian students, despite the continued appeal of American education. This reflects a growing sense of disillusionment among international students, who may now perceive the US as a less welcoming and less accessible destination. While other advanced economies offer excellent educational opportunities, they lack the unique combination of vibrancy, opportunity, and cultural dynamism that has traditionally characterized the American experience. Joseph's article is a thought-provoking analysis of the complexities of student activism, the rationale behind Trump's immigration policies, and the changing perception of America among international students. It challenges readers to question their assumptions about activism, to consider the potential consequences of political agendas, and to recognize the shifting dynamics of global power and influence. Ultimately, it is a call for greater critical thinking, independent analysis, and nuanced understanding in a world of increasing complexity and uncertainty. The article is targeted toward an audience interested in political analysis, international relations, and the impact of policy changes on individuals and global communities. Its provocative arguments and controversial assertions are likely to generate debate and discussion among readers, prompting them to reconsider their own perspectives on these important issues.
Source: Manu Joseph: Why Trump is right about student activism in America