Put the Internet for World Heritage List (instead)!
DeepDipThe message advocates for the inclusion of the internet on the World Heritage List due to its crucial global impact, arguing that its absence would lead to societal collapse. The writer critiques the current selection criteria emphasizing exceptionalism over fundamental enablers like language or agriculture, and highlights the internet's systemic importance in today's world.
Gödel’s theorem and the Italian garbage collection system
DeepDipThe author reflects on Gödel’s theorem in a satirical way, discussing its application to the complexity of the Italian garbage collection system. They draw parallels between the inherent contradictions in Gödel’s theorem and the convoluted nature of bureaucracy, highlighting how excessive documentation and processes can hinder efficiency and obscure true understanding.
Droning on about drones (II) – Humanitarian law may be counterproductive
DeepDipThe text discusses the potential counterproductive nature of humanitarian law in the context of drones and lethal autonomous robots. It highlights unintended consequences, the limitations of law enforcement, and the complexities of governance dynamics. The text emphasizes the need to consider unforeseen outcomes and the challenges of achieving effective international humanitarian interventions.
Droning on about drones (I) – The framework
DeepDipThe text discusses the complex issue of lethal autonomous robots and the implications on international law. It questions the effectiveness of relying on laws and regulations to govern war and conflict, highlighting the limitations of applying humanitarian principles in warfare. The author criticizes the teleocratic view of the international community and delves into the broader context of international politics, war origins, and the role of drones. The narrative challenges the idea of a universal application of humanitarian law and hints at a future discussion on raiding as an alternative to traditional warfare.
The ultimate human right – the “right to a non-projected future”
DeepDipThe text discusses the concept of the "right to a non-projected future" as a fundamental human right, suggesting that individuals should not dictate the future but embrace uncertainty and history. The author reflects on the idea in relation to human rights and ethics, challenging traditional interpretations of these concepts.
Diplomats on a swing … (not swinging diplomats)
DeepDipA peaceful scene at a Kerala resort involves a mother and her sons on a swing, symbolizing a traditional and harmonious way of conversation. The swing, a social relic in India, fosters closeness and open communication. The author suggests incorporating multi-seat swings in negotiation venues to encourage collaboration and creativity. The gentle movement of the swing represents cooperation and synergy. This old-fashioned setting promotes understanding and may lead to significant outcomes through subtle changes.
Drunk-driving and diplomacy…
DeepDipThe Swiss Ambassador to France was stopped for drunk-driving and lost his diplomatic immunity. The deeper message discusses how humans internalize habits through socialization, emphasizing the roles of conscious and unconscious brain functions. Education is seen as a means to cultivate habits and practical knowledge. The text highlights the importance of experience and practice in shaping behavior. The Ambassador's misstep is attributed to a lack of internalized behavior due to a missing long process of guidance. The learning process is portrayed as essential for developing sensibilities that cannot be taught through formulas.
What if 25% of the French population were vagrants?
DeepDipIn rural France under the Ancien Regime, a quarter of the population resorted to vagrancy due to extreme poverty and harsh living conditions. Peasants faced perpetual labor, meager food, and societal strife, with many seeking work away from their villages to survive. Despite modern advancements, some aspects of society remain unchanged, morphing into familiar forms like commuting and celebrity culture. The historical struggles serve as a reminder of progress made since then.
Is “human rights law” the framework of democracy?
DeepDipThe text questions whether human rights laws constitute the framework of democracy, critiquing the idea that democracy equates to majority rule. It challenges the notion of a universal human rights framework and emphasizes the importance of ongoing deliberation in shaping policies for the common good within societies. The author highlights concerns about the assumption of transcendent rights and the potential implications of rigid entitlements. The piece calls for careful consideration of varying degrees of democracy and stresses the collective responsibility in maintaining democratic principles.
Transfers of the third kind – what are they?
DeepDipThe text discusses different types of transfers between people: exchanges, gifts, and "transfers of a third kind" (T3T). T3Ts are unilateral payments or fees individuals pay to belong to a group, such as apprenticeships, initiation rituals, and membership fees. T3Ts differ from exchanges and gifts in that they entail an obligation to pay rather than a willingness. Paying a T3T allows the individual to benefit from group membership, while also addressing the issue of free-loading. Examples of T3Ts include dowries, taxes, and institutionally sanctioned slavery.