Uncanny Valley | WIRED Why Silicon Valley Needs Immigration
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Jun 5, 2025 The hosts delve into the shifting landscape of U.S. immigration policies and their impact on the tech industry. They discuss how visa restrictions hinder innovation and the need for foreign talent in Silicon Valley. The conversation also touches on the tech sector's complex relationship with H-1B visas and the implications of political inaction. Additionally, engaging personal recommendations and a film critique add a lighter element, providing insights on how storytelling intersects with the current tech drama.
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Impact of Visa Scrutiny on Universities
- The Trump administration's enhanced scrutiny of student visas targets Chinese students broadly, affecting about a quarter of international students in the U.S.
- International students financially support many universities by paying full or near-full tuition, subsidizing domestic students in effect.
Social Media Screening and Education War
- Enhanced social media screening for visa applicants signals a new level of surveillance impacting free speech and expression.
- The political conflict involves not just visa policies but broader war on higher education, causing a chilling effect on U.S. as a destination for international students.
Immigration's Role in AI Leadership
- Foreign nationals make up the majority of new computer science PhD students and have founded most top AI companies in the U.S.
- Restricting their visas during the AI arms race with China risks undermining U.S. leadership in technology and innovation.