DiploFoundationThe 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.
Why might AI cause more ‘lost in translation’ worldwide?
AI & linguistics, humAInism Artificial Intelligence BlogsThis dilemma could be paradoxical as AI has been reducing 'lost in translation' via platforms such as Google Translate and Deep-L. We can read text or watch videos in foreign languages. AI translation platforms are becoming part of our daily routines.Â
But, on a deeper level, AI may increase 'lost in translation' as it may ignore cultural differences and nuances in intercultural communication.
DiploFoundationHumanising immigration: Taking the discussion further
Diplo Wisdom Circle Communication, Diplomatic theory and practice, Language (and) diplomacy, Migration BlogsThe 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.
Governments vs ChatGPT: Investigations around the world
Artificial Intelligence, Child safety online, Consumer protection, Content policy, Data governance, Internet governance and digital policy, Liability of intermediaries, Privacy and data protection BlogsChatGPT has taken the world by storm. Now, governments around the world are starting to take notice of these tools, and have launched investigations into OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Here are the countries that are probing OpenAI.
Governments vs ChatGPT: Regulation around the world
Artificial Intelligence, Consumer protection, Content policy, Internet governance and digital policy, Privacy and data protection BlogsChatGPT has taken the world by storm. Now, governments around the world are starting to take notice of these tools, and have launched investigations into OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Here are the countries that are probing OpenAI.
DiploFoundationNews, 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.
DiploFoundationConnected objects: Is there need for greater scrutiny?
Diplo Wisdom Circle Internet of things BlogsThe 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.
DiploFoundationLanguage during COVID-19: UK case study
Diplo Wisdom Circle COVID-19 diplomacy, Diplomatic theory and practice, Language (and) diplomacy, Rhetoric BlogsLanguage 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.
DiploFoundationTwo 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.
DiploFoundationCan blockchain go green?
Updates Blockchain, Blockchain diplomacy, Crypto diplomacy, Cryptocurrencies, E-commerce and trade, E-waste, Future of work, Inclusive finance BlogsThe text discusses Ethereum's transition to Proof of Stake (PoS) algorithm, highlighting its energy efficiency benefits and the broader implications for the crypto industry's environmental impact. It also touches on regulatory changes following the transition, emphasizing the shift towards a more centralized governance model. The message explores the ongoing debate between PoW and PoS proponents, underscoring the significance of blockchain technology's evolution towards sustainability and responsible development in a changing regulatory landscape.
