BAUDRILLARD? I’ll admit to anything, Katharina!
aldo 5.000-, DeepDip Analogies and metaphors BlogsThe text discusses the concept of mental maps, highlighting the distinction between maps of reality, like climate change, and cultural maps. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing conventions and their arbitrary nature, as well as the need for logic to resolve conflicts between different conventions. The author also mentions his upcoming commentary on a book about climate change, likening the field to a graveyard of errant metaphors. The message concludes with a quote about the tragedy of science.
Don’t blame man, blame the Polynesian rat
aldo 5-10.000, DeepDipAnalogies are powerful tools but can be misleading. The origin of Easter Island's moai statues is often misunderstood, blaming Polynesians for deforestation. In reality, the Polynesian rat played a crucial role by eating native plant seeds and hindering tree regeneration. Additionally, misconceptions about how the moai were moved were corrected when evidence showed they likely "walked" into place. Analogies can limit our understanding, emphasizing the importance of testing them against empirical evidence. In this case, rather than blaming humans, the Polynesian rat should take the responsibility for environmental degradation on Easter Island.
Better safe than sorry?
aldo 5.000-, DeepDipThe message questions the efficacy of the Precautionary Principle by using breast cancer screening as an example to illustrate potential harm from false positives. It highlights the dilemma of saving lives versus subjecting many to unnecessary treatments due to inaccuracies in screening. The text emphasizes the importance of considering costs and the varying nature of cancers in decision-making, cautioning against overreliance on precautionary actions. The mention of Vice-President Dick Cheney's stance on preventive action is used humorously to underline the consequences of acting solely on precaution.
The power of small things
aldo 5.000-, DeepDipA traveler in Kerala, India made a small suggestion to rearrange the buffet at a resort to promote local cuisine. By placing Kerala dishes first, an increase in demand and morale was noted among guests and staff. This simple adjustment had a significant positive impact, showcasing the power of small changes in influencing behavior and improving experiences.
Great lesson in mediation by Swiss diplomat Olivier Long (Algeria negotiations 1961-1962)
aldo 5-10.000, DeepDip Conflict resolution & Mediation, Diplomatic theory and practice, Negotiations BlogsSwiss diplomat Olivier Long played a pivotal role as an intermediary during the Algeria negotiations in 1961-1962. His approach, detailed in a memoir, highlights the importance of neutral facilitation, logistical support, and maintaining the rhythm of negotiations. Long's emphasis on explaining statements, avoiding over-negotiation, and building confidence between parties showcases the key qualities of a successful mediator. Ultimately, Long's ability to fade into the background after enabling a successful negotiation process demonstrates the true mark of his effectiveness as an intermediary.
A ‘Thematic’ EU Parliament – A Novel Institution for Europe (II of 116)
aldo 5-10.000, DeepDipThe text proposes the creation of specialized 'Thematic Parliaments' within the EU to address issues like environment or health. These bodies would be elected in direct Europe-wide elections, fostering trans-national parties and politicians. Thematic Parliaments would lead discussions, propose legislation, and complement existing EU structures. By focusing on specific themes, they aim to foster a transnational political class, enhance democratic processes, and promote substantive outcomes, ultimately strengthening Europe's democratic legitimacy.
Is outcome a good measure of performance?
aldo 5-10.000, DeepDip Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsThe text discusses the debate over whether outcome is a good measure of performance, showcasing different perspectives on this topic. It questions the validity of solely focusing on outcomes, highlighting the importance of considering other factors like effort, creativity, and external influences in evaluating performance. The text emphasizes the necessity of a holistic approach to performance evaluation, acknowledging that while outcomes are significant, they should not be the sole indicator of success.
Putting planning on its head
aldo 5.000-, DeepDip Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsThe text discusses the concept of planning and the Constructal Law, proposing a shift from traditional top-down planning to focusing on natural designs that facilitate flow. The Constructal Law explains how designs in nature emerge to enhance efficiency and access. It suggests leveraging these natural designs when planning. The coexistence of chaos and design is highlighted, emphasizing the importance of creativity and adaptability in navigating complex systems. The text encourages embracing this interplay for continuous improvement and evolution.
Election as catharsis
aldo 10.000+, DeepDip BlogsThe text discusses the French presidential election and analyzes the process as an "emergent" one, dismissing historical determinism and emphasizing the unpredictability of electoral outcomes. It critiques narratives that attempt to explain voter intent and highlights elections as a cathartic process that marks a break with the past. Additionally, it touches on the role of personalities in politics and predicts a potential outcome for the election. Ultimately, it emphasizes the complexity and flexibility of political contexts.
A long tale of ‘enablers’ (Part II)
aldo 10.000+, DeepDipThe 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.
