On xenophobia and other links

Is this xenophobia?

Xenophobia can manifest itself in many ways involving the relations and perceptions of an ingroup towards an outgroup, including a fear of losing identity, suspicion of its activities, aggression, and desire to eliminate its presence to secure a presumed purity.

–Wikipedia

I would argue that latent xenophobia always comes to the surface during periods of economic insecurity. This is natural. So I certainly see the links below as manifestations of xenophobia. The question is whether the policy remedies used to allay the economic insecurities are appropriate. For example, Pat Buchanan makes a number of valid arguments in the article on academia. What should be done, then?

My take: there is always going to be some measure of ‘xenophobia overreach’ in tough times. How much is the question. Discussing these divisive issues without a reptilian response is difficult but necessary to avoid particularly nasty cases of xenophobia overreach. I disagree with the ethos underlying Buchanan’s take on losing white America. But perception is reality and he does seem to be expressing views many voters have. What about addressing these concerns constructively instead of dismissing them out of hand?

The Usual Fare

Related Posts