In the realm of activism, college campuses have long been hotbeds of political and social movements. Recently, the Palestinian cause has gained traction among college students, with a significant portion expressing support for protests advocating for Palestinian rights.

A survey conducted by Intelligent.com sheds light on the nuanced attitudes and opinions of college students regarding pro-Palestinian protests, revealing a complex picture that challenges simplistic narratives.

Majority of College Students Support Pro-Palestinian Protests, Some Acceptance of Disruptive Tactics, Survey Finds
PEXELS / Pavel Danilyuk

Support for Protests and Acceptance of Disruptive Tactics

The survey, which polled 763 current, full-time college students, found that nearly two-thirds of respondents expressed at least some level of support for pro-Palestinian protests on their campuses. This majority support indicates a significant level of engagement and concern among college students regarding the Palestinian cause. However, the survey also revealed a willingness among some students to accept disruptive tactics as part of these protests.

Of those who expressed support for the protests, a substantial percentage indicated acceptance of various disruptive tactics. For example, 36% said they at least somewhat agree with the use of violence as a protest strategy, while 37% approve of the use of hate speech. Additionally, a significant share of respondents supported protesters blocking graduation (38%), preventing students from going to class (46%), and erecting encampments on campus (75%). These findings suggest a willingness among some students to tolerate or even endorse disruptive actions in support of the pro-Palestinian cause.

Views on Jewish People and Attitudes towards Protesters

One notable aspect of the survey was the examination of attitudes towards Jewish people among those who support pro-Palestinian protests. Approximately 8% of students who expressed support for the protests-and 10% of the protesters themselves-said they have an unfavorable view of Jewish people. This finding highlights a concerning trend of anti-Semitism among a segment of the pro-Palestinian activist community on college campuses.

However, it is important to note that the survey also found that a similar percentage of those who opposed the protests (4%) reported having an unfavorable view of Jewish people. This suggests that negative attitudes towards Jewish people are not confined to supporters of the pro-Palestinian movement but exist among a broader subset of college students. This underscores the need for education and dialogue to address misconceptions and prejudices.

Engagement in Protests and Attitudes towards Consequences

Despite the overall support for pro-Palestinian protests, the survey revealed that less than half of those who expressed support (43%) have actually participated in them. This finding raises questions about the nature of support among college students and the factors influencing their level of engagement in activism. It suggests that while many students may express verbal support for a cause, their willingness to take concrete action, such as participating in protests, may be more limited.

Furthermore, the survey explored students' attitudes towards consequences for protesters who break laws or university policies. Surprisingly, a majority of students indicated support for imposing consequences on protesters who engage in unlawful or disruptive behavior. Only 18% said they opposed punishments for violating laws, and 21% opposed them for breaches of university policy. This indicates a recognition among students that activism should be conducted within the boundaries of the law and university regulations.

The survey by Intelligent.com offers valuable insights into the attitudes and opinions of college students regarding pro-Palestinian protests. It reveals a complex picture characterized by majority support for the protests, acceptance of disruptive tactics among some students, and concerns about anti-Semitic attitudes among a segment of activists. It also highlights the need for education and dialogue to address misconceptions and prejudices and emphasizes the importance of conducting activism within the boundaries of the law and university policies.