New Books in Economics
Walls, Warnings, and the War on Fentanyl: Peter Andreas on Trump’s Border Politics
Mar 31, 2025
Peter Andreas, John Hay Professor of International Studies at Brown University and author of influential works like "Border Games," dives deep into the complexities of Trump's border policies. He discusses why these policies resonate despite lower deportation rates, exploring the performative politics surrounding the U.S.-Mexico border. Andreas sheds light on the nuances of the illicit economy, the blurred lines between legal and illegal trade, and how fentanyl and tariffs shape U.S. relations with neighboring countries.
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Quick takeaways
- Trump's border policies, despite lower deportation numbers, create a resonant narrative of tough immigration enforcement that instills fear among migrant communities.
- The intertwining of tariffs with drug trafficking issues reflects a complex U.S.-Mexico relationship that requires balancing control and cooperation in border politics.
Deep dives
Understanding the Illicit Global Economy
The global illicit economy has long existed and is often misunderstood in terms of its significance and structure. Contrary to popular belief, it is not dominated by powerful criminal organizations but is instead composed of a diverse range of actors and activities. This economy is deeply intertwined with the legal market, indicating that the two should not be viewed in isolation when studying their impacts and interactions. Historical perspectives reveal that concerns about illicit activities often suffer from amnesia, leading to exaggerated claims about their current danger and prevalence.
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