The border-making process in Africa
Diplo Wisdom Circle, Revisit History of diplomacy BlogsThe 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.
News, newsworthiness and ‘truths’
Diplo Wisdom Circle, Revisit Media BlogsThe 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.
Two kinds of conversation: Dialectic and dialogic
Diplo Wisdom Circle, Revisit Diplomatic theory and practice, Negotiations BlogsThe 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.
Wreckers are as important as builders
Diplo Wisdom Circle, Revisit BlogsThe importance of those who dismantle the old system alongside builders is highlighted, citing examples like Gorbachev and De Gaulle. The message emphasizes that disruptors are crucial in history's transitions, often overlooked for heroes who bring in new eras. Recognizing both roles is essential for understanding the complexity of historical change.
#Revisit blog posts
Pages# Revisit blog posts. Make sure to go back and review your previous blog posts to refresh your memory and potentially find new inspiration or ideas for future content.
Of topoi and memes
Diplo Wisdom Circle, Revisit Social media BlogsThe text discusses the controversial figure Richard Dawkins, criticizing his once-popular theories like the "selfish gene" concept and the idea of memes. It delves into the historical origins of memes, known as topoi in Greek antiquity, and their role in shaping discourse. The text also touches on the maxim "know thyself," tracing its influence through various philosophical traditions. It concludes by highlighting the purpose of topoi in combining authority with change, emphasizing the importance of meditation in philosophical thought.
The abuse of analogies: Upon reading the article ‘Reading the CCP Clearly’
Diplo Wisdom Circle, Revisit Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsThe article 'Reading the CCP Clearly' discusses the inappropriate use of analogies in foreign policy decision-making, specifically referencing historical analogies related to Hitler and Mao. It explores China's unique economic and political development, emphasizing the dangers of oversimplified comparisons in international relations. The author warns against relying on outdated slogans and analogies and highlights the complexity of China's culture and history.
A tale of influencers
Diplo Wisdom Circle, Revisit Politics and governance BlogsInfluencers throughout history, from priests to modern-day marketers, have shaped societal beliefs through verbal, visual, and written communication. The messages conveyed by influencers, such as the 'American Dream' and 'America First', have evolved over time, reflecting changes in societal values and political climates. The 'American Dream' shifted from collective welfare to individual prosperity, while 'America First' has represented ethno-nationalism and systemic racism. Understanding the complex interplay between messages, meanings, and socioeconomic contexts is crucial to unraveling the impact of influencers on society and politics.
Third-party counterinsurgency: Evolution and challenges
RevisitHow has third-party counterinsurgency evolved over time, and what challenges persist? Aldo Matteucci examines the complexities.
What are vanity and interstitial states?
RevisitThe message explores the concepts of "vanity" and "interstitial" states, highlighting historical instances of arbitrary border changes and the complexities of border integrity. It discusses the origins of these terms and their impact on international relations, emphasizing the need to recognize and respect the complexity of historically formed borders for peaceful resolutions. Efforts to mitigate conflicts related to borders are essential, with a suggestion to consider letting interstitial states exist without interference as a potential way forward in resolving territorial disputes.
