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Gender equality in diplomacy: Chinese and other foreign ministries

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We examine gender equality in diplomacy, focusing on Chinese and other foreign ministries, to understand the global landscape and propose strategies for progress. This analysis reveals significant disparities, urging actionable steps towards inclusivity and diversity in diplomatic representation.

The border-making process in Africa

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The text discusses the border-making process in Africa and questions the necessity of borders, highlighting historical aspects of African social structures without borders. It delves into the impact of colonialism, the creation of tribal identities, and the subsequent inequalities perpetuated by colonial powers. It emphasizes the negative consequences of imposed borders and suggests rethinking the concept of borders in today's globalized world. The author reflects on the role of diplomats in a global village, hinting at further exploration in future blog entries.

Humanising immigration: Taking the discussion further

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The blog post discusses the importance of humanizing immigration by focusing on the human aspect often overlooked in discussions, the impact of terminology used, the role of diplomacy, and the potential for attitude shifts. It addresses questions on the need for humanizing immigration, the differences between migration and immigration, the influence of diplomacy, the resistance to immigration, and the possibility of changing attitudes. The post emphasizes the importance of recognizing individual experiences, promoting compassion, and challenging dominant narratives to ensure a more human-centric approach to immigration.

News, newsworthiness and ‘truths’

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The text discusses the concept of news, truths, and newsworthiness. It delves into the subjective nature of news, the role of the audience in choosing information, and the challenges of navigating a world filled with information overload. The author highlights the difficulties in attaining truth and stepping outside one's cultural framework, emphasizing the distortions that can occur in communication. The piece also touches on historical examples like the Comanche Empire and intellectual exercises involving different perspectives.

Connected objects: Is there need for greater scrutiny?

The text discusses the proliferation and potential risks of connected objects, emphasizing the data collection capabilities and privacy concerns associated with these devices. It highlights the need for greater scrutiny in regulating IoT, protecting privacy, and balancing commercial benefits with consumer rights. The post also touches on the challenges posed by the rapid pace of technological innovation and the monetization of personal data. Ultimately, it warns of the potential consequences of unchecked use of connected objects and the importance of understanding the implications of their widespread adoption.

Language during COVID-19: UK case study

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Language has rapidly evolved during the COVID-19 crisis in the UK, evident in the creation of new terms, redefinition of existing words, and the use of metaphors. Tricolons are employed for rhetorical impact, emphasizing messages like 'Stay at home. Protect the . Save lives.' Framing through metonymy is used to mobilize the population positively, focusing on protecting the National Health Service, and preventing deaths. While this linguistic shift may be seen as a form of positive spinning, it also serves as a distraction from the harsh realities of the pandemic, encouraging constructive actions and support.

Two kinds of conversation: Dialectic and dialogic

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The text discusses two kinds of conversation: dialectic, aiming for a synthesis through common ground, and dialogic, seeking reciprocal understanding without resolution. It critiques the Western fixation on 'truth' in conversations as leading to conformity. The text advocates for a diverse acceptance of multiple truths and emphasizes the importance of conversation for societal coexistence. It warns against the reductive nature of verbal jousts and the elitism it fosters. Finally, the text suggests that while dialectic conversation is the ideal, dialogic conversation is more common due to the complexities of truth and human understanding.

Who is selling data about researchers and why?

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Major academic publishers have transitioned to data analytics and brokering, tracking researchers' personal and behavioral data without their full knowledge. Tracking tools range from JavaScript code to browser fingerprinting, with platforms like Elsevier even installing spyware on university networks. The collected data is used for profit and potentially shared with advertisers, security organizations, and law enforcement. Researchers' decisions and reputations could be influenced by data obtained without proper consent. Advocates advise researchers to stay informed, request information, file complaints, and seek legal remedies to protect their data privacy. Concerns about data tracking in academia violating privacy rights and academic freedom are highlighted, urging for action to prevent further infringement.

Science diplomacy in practice: Interview with Amb. Bhaskar Balakrishnan

Amb. Bhaskar Balakrishnan, an expert in science diplomacy, shares insights on how India and the Global South engage in this practice. India focuses on capacity building, technology acquisition, and sustainable development through science and technology policies. Balakrishnan emphasizes the need for diplomats to understand major scientific developments and engage with science stakeholders. He highlights the importance of South-South cooperation and advises practitioners, whether diplomats or scientists, to enhance their knowledge of international cooperation mechanisms for successful science diplomacy endeavors.

Intercultural communication and logical fallacies

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The text discusses intercultural communication through the lens of logical fallacies, particularly focusing on hasty generalizations and stereotypes. It questions the impact of generalizations in intercultural communication and debates whether hasty generalizations can be useful. The text also explores the ethics associated with logical fallacies, such as whether the ends justify the means, and highlights the complexities of multiculturalism and diversity management in society. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of recognizing and understanding logical fallacies in shaping beliefs about divisive topics in today's society.