The ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine is shaping the experiences of college students across the globe. At Brown University, students are grappling with a divisive narrative that often reduces complex issues to slogans like “Free, Free, Palestine.” For many, this is the only version of Israel they encounter, which can lead to misunderstandings and missed opportunities for deeper engagement.
As a rising sophomore at Brown, Rchin Bari reflects on how her perspective evolved during her first year on campus. Initially drawn into the prevailing sentiments, Bari’s outlook shifted after attending a talk by Dan Senor, a prominent author and political commentator. Senor, who served as a Senior Foreign Policy Advisor during the second Bush administration, provided insights that framed Israel not merely as a conflict zone, but as a vital ally of the United States. His discussion highlighted Israel’s role as a source of intelligence and economic innovation, challenging the typical campus narrative that often portrays Israel negatively.
Bari’s interest in understanding Israel more deeply led her to join The TAMID Group, a business organization that connects students with Israeli startups. Engaging with this group opened new avenues for exploring the country’s dynamic culture through the lens of business rather than politics. She discovered that while many Israeli entrepreneurs draw from Jewish values, others view Israel as a hub of opportunity driven by creativity and innovation.
Over the past year, Bari has come to respect the resilience inherent in Israeli business culture. In Israel, nearly 70% of startups fail within five years, yet this failure is often viewed as a stepping stone to success rather than a setback. This acceptance of risk fosters an environment where innovation thrives. The competitive nature of Israeli businesses is complemented by a cultural commitment to adaptability and learning from failures.
This resilience is not limited to the corporate world; it permeates everyday life in Israel. Citizens are often caught in the tension between security and openness, balancing the harsh realities of their environment with a commitment to community. Bari notes that during crises, such as the recent escalation of violence since October 7, 2023, many Israelis have come together to support each other. Instances of individuals stepping in to help colleagues called to serve in the military or providing shelter to those displaced by conflict highlight a strong community spirit.
In a broader context, Bari observes that the pervasive culture of mutual responsibility stands out in a world increasingly marked by loneliness. The United States, alongside countries like France and the UK, has recognized loneliness as a public health issue, appointing officials to address it. In contrast, Israelis often regard connection and community care as fundamental aspects of daily life.
While many politicians focus on conflict, numerous Israeli business leaders are actively working towards coexistence and peaceful solutions. Initiatives include hiring Arab and Palestinian suppliers, funding internships for joint Arab and Israeli student projects, and collaborating on technological innovations that benefit all communities involved. These efforts illustrate a commitment to building bridges rather than walls, suggesting that the narrative surrounding Israel is not solely one of division.
Bari’s experiences underscore a critical lesson: discussions about Israel and similar contentious topics often become overly simplified. The complexities of these issues are frequently lost in ideological sound bites. For her, the story of Israel and its relationship with the United States transcends mere policy discussions; it serves as a case study in perception.
Engaging deeply with these narratives encourages individuals to look beyond headlines and social media algorithms. By focusing on the lived experiences of people, their adaptability, and their innovative spirit, students like Bari are challenging the status quo of campus discourse.
In an era where polarization can easily dominate discussions, choosing to listen and learn from diverse perspectives emerges as a vital practice. Embracing complexity can foster a richer understanding that benefits not just individual growth, but broader societal dialogue.
