How experts became an unchallenged authority
DeepDip 2The text discusses how the transition from traditional knowledge transmission to relying on experts as the ultimate authority has led to a loss of self-trust and autonomy. The shift towards expertise has impacted various aspects of life, from leisure activities like Nordic walking to workplace dynamics. The text emphasizes the dangers of solely depending on experts for guidance, highlighting the need to balance expert knowledge with individual experience and diverse learning approaches.
A ‘free’ market? II
DeepDip 2The text discusses the social construct of property rights and markets, the necessity of rules and regulations in modern society due to increased complexity and cultural diversity, the potential consequences of eliminating rules, such as inefficiency and corruption, and the importance of balancing deregulation with ethical considerations. It emphasizes the need for a pragmatic and contextual approach to discussions around regulations and free markets, warning against the dangers of oversimplification and the potential negative impacts of prioritizing efficiency over sustainability and fairness.
A ‘free’ market? I
DeepDip 2The text critiques the notion of "free markets" within a neoliberal framework, highlighting how property rights are defined and enforced by the state within a society. It emphasizes that markets are not truly "free" as they operate within societal institutions and rules. The author discusses myths surrounding market efficiency and proposes in the second part of the blog to explore how eliminating rules in the name of efficiency may ultimately harm markets. The text also mentions the influence of crowd dynamics on sports referees as an analogy for hidden influences in market dynamics.
A long tale of ‘enablers’ (Part II)
DeepDip 2The text discusses the impact of enablers, specifically focusing on the historical consequences of horsemanship enabling long-distance warfare, causing societal transformations and conflicts between settled agriculturalists and nomads. It delves into the fear of the "other" represented by nomads, strategies to cope with nomadic threats, and the lasting effects of enablers on societies. The narrative also touches on the concept of morality in politics and the importance of adapting to changes brought about by enablers.
A long tale of ‘enablers’ (Part I)
DeepDip 2This blog entry discusses the concept of 'enablers,' focusing on how they drive societal evolution, using horsemanship as an example. It explores the emergence of conflicts between nomadic and agricultural societies and traces the historical development of nomadism through key steps such as domesticating animals and inventing tools. The text also touches on the interaction between nomads and agriculturalists, which often involved trade or raiding. The process of nomadization over 5000 years is highlighted, emphasizing how societies adapt to environmental constraints and human ingenuity.
War crimes tribunals
DeepDip 2War crimes tribunals in Yugoslavia, Rwanda, and other places between 1993 and 2009 cost $3.43 billion. The international community convicted over 130 individuals, but faced challenges and criticisms, with blame even put on the U.S. There are concerns about the tribunal's impact on peace processes, like in Libya. The tribunals focus on "rogue" states, leaving powerful nations to address international law themselves. The complex nature of justice and outcomes cannot always be predicted accurately, highlighting the challenges faced by war crimes tribunals.
1848
DeepDip 2In 1848, revolutionary movements in Europe were quashed by reactionary forces, forcing patriots to flee. However, by 1866, Italy and Germany had made political advancements, with Hungary gaining power in 1867. The evolution in the Middle East in recent years shares parallels with Europe in 1848/49. While current changes may not align with past hopes, progress towards democracy is evident. Patience is required, as rapid judgments and interference can hinder progress. The West must adapt to a multi-polar world. Democracy's development is gradual, and expecting instant transformations is unrealistic. The future remains uncertain but promises surprises.
Are democracies really peaceful?
DeepDip 2The message challenges the notion of democratic peace theory, pointing out flaws in assuming democracies are inherently peaceful. It questions the theory's validity in modern times and its transformation into a narrower concept. The idea that all democracies will ensure world peace is criticized, highlighting the complexities of real-world conflicts. The text also discusses the misuse of the term "theory" in social sciences, emphasizing the need for caution in labeling assertions as such. Overall, the text brings into question the efficacy and practicality of democratic peace theory in the context of international relations.
Are people prisoners of their history?
DeepDip 2The text discusses the idea of people being prisoners of their history, genes, and narratives that explain conflicts. It questions determinism and explores the concept of adaptation in humans, using the analogy of police dogs. The author emphasizes the importance of cultural adaptation and the interplay between genes and culture in shaping behavior. The text ultimately argues for the existence of vast possibilities for adaptation between determinism and free will, guided by the principle of consequentialism.
When is “due process” arbitrary?
DeepDip 2The text discusses the case of George from Sanford, Florida, who allegedly killed a black youth and claimed innocence under the Stand Your Ground Law. There is criticism of the judicial system and media influence on the case. The concept of "due process" is explored, highlighting its arbitrariness, especially in the discretionary decisions made by authorities. The text also draws comparisons to international affairs, pointing out the political nature of human rights scrutiny and the use of "shaming" as a tool. The importance of being careful with the power dynamics involved in such processes is emphasized.