Celebrating state power
DeepDip 2The post discusses the media's sensational coverage of a siege in Toulouse and the state's elaborate display of power during the event. It questions the true public interest served and the effectiveness of such responses to terrorism. Highlighting the imbalance in allocating resources for acute versus chronic threats, it argues that excessive state force can inadvertently legitimize terrorist claims. Drawing historical parallels, the text examines the impact of asymmetrical power dynamics between states and terrorists, cautioning against the pitfalls of overzealous displays of state power in the fight against terrorism.
On “command and control structures”
DeepDip 2The author critiques "command and control structures" and principal-agent models, highlighting their inefficiency due to contextual challenges and human fallibility. A humorous visual representation illustrates the hierarchical system's shortcomings, suggesting a lack of clarity and miscommunication in such structures.
Multiculturalism as a public policy
DeepDip 2The Dutch government is moving away from multiculturalism as public policy, emphasizing the integration of immigrants. This shift includes requiring immigrants to learn Dutch, obey Dutch values and laws, and prohibiting face-covering Islamic clothing. The government believes obligatory integration is essential to prevent societal division. This change reflects a broader historical context of transitioning from pre-industrial and medieval multiculturalism towards a more nationalist acculturation approach, promoting societal engagement and respect for diversity.
How much is Facebook worth to the nation?
DeepDip 2The article questions if Facebook's contribution to the economy justifies its value to the nation. It critiques a study by Deloitte on Facebook's economic impact, highlighting the complexities of attributing benefits to the platform. The piece discusses how Facebook's influence on consumer behavior and employment may not always lead to significant gains for the economy. It also debates whether the time spent on Facebook truly adds value to individuals. Overall, the article suggests that Facebook's socio-economic relevance may be overstated based on the analysis provided.
What is a humanitarian catastrophe?
DeepDip 2The post delves into humanitarian catastrophes, urging caution in emotionally-driven responses. It highlights biases in perceiving crises, emphasizing the need to consider long-term consequences of aid efforts. The text also questions the impacts of past humanitarian interventions and advocates for a thoughtful, reflective approach to address complex emergencies. The author warns against the impulsive "action now" mentality, stressing the importance of avoiding unintended harm in humanitarian endeavors.
Eric X. Li: A venture capitalist writes from Shanghai
DeepDip 2Eric X. Li, a venture capitalist in Shanghai, argues in the New York Times that China's political model may be superior to the U.S. based on differing views of political rights and democracy. While the West emphasizes human rights as absolute, China views them as conditional for economic development and national interests. Li suggests that democracy encourages diversity of ideas but struggles with consensus, while an authoritarian regime may lack creativity but excel in execution. He contrasts the ability of democracy to correct errors through bankruptcy with an autocratic regime's limited ability to revise mistakes.
Is France a democracy
DeepDip 2France, known for its democracy, faces upcoming elections with a candidate from the left leading polls. President trails in popularity, at risk of losing to the center-left contender. Extreme right candidate Marina poses a threat, using nationalist rhetoric to gain support. The electoral system allows for weeding out undesired candidates in the first round. To prevent Marina's candidacy, 500 sponsors from various regions are needed, a possible strategy to exclude her. Failure to include Marina could spark democracy concerns and expose manipulation within the ruling class.
Of bedbugs and landfills
DeepDip 2The text discusses the concept of animal rights and a new political theory called Zoopolis, which focuses on the relationships between humans and different types of animals. It also introduces the idea of vital materiality and how nonhuman forces play a role in events. The metaphorical connection between bedbugs' rights and landfills inspires a "green materialist" eco-philosophy. The post also alludes to the overwhelming influx of new theories and academic works, comparing the situation to the White Rabbit's rush in "Alice in Wonderland.
From a clenched fist (2011) to Guy Fawkes (2012)
DeepDip 2Examining the evolution of protest symbols over time, this blog analyzes their impact on political movements and public consciousness from 2011's clenched fist to 2012's Guy Fawkes mask.
How does it feel to see a bat?
DeepDip 2Bats are seen as symbols of happiness and good fortune in Chinese culture. The author discusses the placebo effect and suggests that bats and other lucky charms might have had positive effects through placebo mechanisms in Asian cultures. They propose exploring scientifically whether these symbols can help change perceptions and cope with negative influences. The author also contemplates the potential of technology, like an iPhone app, in influencing attitudes and behaviors. Lastly, they reflect on the power of social networks in diffusing information and suggest using them to spread hope and reassurance rather than anger.