Closing the Door, Losing the Lead: Academic Isolation in an Age of Global Talent

Many countries in recent years have expressed skepticism toward international collaboration and a resistance to the global trend of increased partnership and exchange in higher education.Using the United States as an example, this article assesses the value gleaned from such exchanges and considers the economic and security impacts of academic isolation.he United States has benefited greatly over the years as a leading hub for research and innovation.Being an attractive destination for global talent has served the country as an investment in the minds of tomorrow as well as an enduring endowment for its own national security and prosperity.Turning away from these mutual dividends-for the United States or any country-now, at this critical juncture in international affairs, could carry much heavier costs than benefits.