In Southeast Asian countries (SEA), road transport accounts for the main energy consumption and CO2 emission. Air pollution is a major concern in densely populated cities such as Bangkok, Manila, and Kuala Lumpur. The main objective of this paper is to give insights on trends of transport development, car ownership, and CO2 emissions in Southeast Asia. This study also attempts to review the successful transportation policies around the globe and to introduce the possible instruments that can help reduce air pollution (...) in Southeast Asian countries. Economic instruments to estimate the benefits of a cleaner environment due to new policies are introduced as well. The results of this research could help policy makers consider approaches that could internalize external costs of transportation and maximize the societal welfare. (shrink)

Abstract: This article is dedicated to prevent the challenges that are occurring in the sphere of education. And also, some effective solutions are provided.

Alternative Solutions to a Failed Democratic System Due to Ignorant Voters and Black Propaganda Politics -/- Introduction -/- Democracy is often considered the best form of government because it allows people to choose their leaders and influence policies. However, democracy is only as strong as the knowledge and wisdom of its citizens. When voters are ignorant and easily manipulated by black propaganda, democracy fails to serve its true purpose. Corrupt politicians take advantage of misinformation, and elections become a contest (...) of deceit rather than competence. In such cases, it becomes necessary to explore alternative governance systems that align with the universal law of balance in nature, ensuring societal stability and progress. This essay explores five potential solutions: meritocratic democracy, hybrid governance, decentralized governance with AI oversight, temporary educational dictatorship, and whole-process democracy with reforms. -/- 1. Meritocratic Democracy: A Government of the Competent -/- One of the main weaknesses of democracy is that it allows uninformed individuals to vote, often leading to the election of incompetent or corrupt leaders. Meritocratic democracy solves this by introducing a system where voters and candidates must meet certain educational or competency requirements. -/- In this system: -/- Voters must pass a basic competency test on political, economic, and social issues before they can vote. -/- Candidates must demonstrate expertise in governance, ethics, and leadership before being allowed to run for office. -/- Decision-making is guided by knowledge and logic, rather than emotional manipulation or populism. -/- By ensuring that only informed citizens and competent leaders participate in the electoral process, a meritocratic democracy prevents the spread of ignorance and manipulation, making governance more stable and effective. -/- 2. Hybrid Governance Model: Balancing Democracy and Technocracy -/- A pure democratic system, when controlled by an uninformed majority, can lead to poor decision-making. A hybrid governance model combines democratic participation with expert-driven decision-making. -/- This system includes: -/- Direct democracy for issues that require public participation, ensuring people still have a voice. -/- Technocratic leadership for areas that require expertise, such as economic planning, environmental policies, and legal reforms. -/- AI-assisted decision-making, where policies are analyzed based on logic, data, and the universal law of balance in nature. -/- By integrating democracy with technocracy, this model ensures that governance is based on both public engagement and expert knowledge, reducing the influence of ignorance and propaganda. -/- 3. Decentralized Governance with AI Oversight -/- Corruption and manipulation thrive in centralized political systems where power is concentrated in a few individuals. A decentralized governance model distributes power across local communities while maintaining oversight through artificial general intelligence (AGI) programmed with the universal formula to ensure balance and ethical governance. -/- This system includes: -/- Local decision-making councils that handle community affairs, reducing dependence on central authorities. -/- AI oversight to prevent misinformation, corruption, and propaganda in governance. -/- Policy-making based on natural balance, ensuring that human actions align with long-term sustainability and fairness. -/- By decentralizing power and using AI to monitor governance, this system prevents political elites from manipulating the public while ensuring that all decisions follow rational and ethical principles. -/- 4. Temporary Educational Dictatorship: A Path to Enlightened Democracy -/- If a democratic system is completely destroyed by ignorance and propaganda, a temporary educational dictatorship may be necessary to restore order. This approach involves: -/- A temporary leadership regime that enforces strict educational reforms before returning power to a well-informed electorate. -/- A governance structure that prioritizes truth, logic, and natural laws in policymaking. -/- A mandatory educational system focusing on critical thinking, ethics, and scientific reasoning to eliminate ignorance from the voting population. -/- This dictatorship would not be based on oppression but on restoring the intellectual foundation necessary for democracy to function properly. Once society reaches a stable level of awareness, democratic processes can be reinstated. -/- 5. Whole-Process People’s Democracy with Reforms -/- China’s whole-process people’s democracy is a system that allows both public participation and centralized decision-making. However, for it to be truly effective, it must integrate the universal law of balance in nature and eliminate ideological biases. -/- To reform whole-process democracy: -/- Education and critical thinking must be central to governance, ensuring the population is not easily misled. -/- Leaders must be selected based on knowledge and competence, not political loyalty. -/- Policies must align with natural balance, ensuring long-term societal stability. -/- By modifying this system with scientific and ethical principles, it can serve as a stable alternative to failing democracies. -/- Conclusion -/- Democracy is valuable, but when ignorant voters and black propaganda politics take control, it leads to instability and poor governance. To correct this failure, alternative systems must be considered. Meritocratic democracy ensures only informed citizens and competent leaders participate in elections. Hybrid governance balances democratic participation with expert decision-making. Decentralized governance with AI oversight prevents corruption and misinformation. A temporary educational dictatorship restores knowledge before returning to democracy. Whole-process democracy, when modified with the universal law of balance, can also serve as a viable alternative. -/- The best solution depends on the specific problems of a country, but the core principle remains the same: governance must follow the universal law of balance in nature, ensuring stability, truth, and progress. Only through such reforms can society escape the cycle of ignorance and manipulation, creating a future where human decisions align with natural laws and rational thought. -/- . (shrink)

This research paper attempts to get pragmatic way to deal with few questions like, 'Will Indian Economic thoughts be able to give directions to crises-ridden global economic system?', 'Can India show solutions to the World's Present Socio-economical crises?'' and What are the Alternatives available before mankind to avoid economic crises?' The concept of economic exploitation or “exploitation” which has been the focal point of solemn philosophical debate is one of the favorite nouns in the glossary (...) of critics of the free market economy. The strongest version of the claim that the free market necessarily involves exploitation is that of Karl Marx. The aim of this research paper is to bring to the notice of economist, policy makers, research scholars, professors and students of economics as well as of philosophy and layman, that what kind of solution, a Philosopher from India, like Prof. Surendra S. Barlingay has to offer to the discipline of economics at large. (shrink)

The democratic boundary problem raises the question of who has democratic participation rights in a given polity and why. One possible solution to this problem is the all-affected principle, according to which a polity ought to enfranchise all persons whose interests are affected by the polity’s decisions in a morally significant way. While AAP offers a plausible principle of democratic enfranchisement, its supporters have so far not paid sufficient attention to economic participation rights. I argue that if one commits (...) oneself to AAP, one must also commit oneself to the view that political participation rights are not necessarily the only, and not necessarily the best, way to protect morally weighty interests. I also argue that economic participation rights raise important worries about democratic accountability, which is why their exercise must be constrained by a number of moral duties. (shrink)

In the context of Ukraine’s membership in the WTO, the functioning of a free trade area with the EU, the opportunity for agricultural producers to obtain a larger share of the value added is primarily linked to the intensification of trade in domestic livestock products and their processing products. However, their production is one of the high-risk areas and requires a set of measures aimed at ensuring proper quality. Without effective solution of the problem of quality of livestock products it (...) is impossible to ensure its competitiveness in the world market, to guarantee the rational nutrition of the population of the country, the availability of the necessary components for the vital activity of the human body. The aim of the research is to determine the socio-economic factors for ensuring the quality of livestock products in Ukraine. The scientific and specific research methods were used to solve the tasks set in the work: the historical method; abstraction method; method of comparative analysis; system-structural method. The main producer of livestock products in Ukraine are households. They do not have the capabilities to implement technologies of keeping, feeding, veterinary services, programs prerequisites for guaranteeing the safety of products, adherence to the HACCP principles. In Ukraine, real technical, economic and organizational-economic prerequisites for ensuring the safety and quality of livestock products are created only in the poultry meat sector. During 2015-2017, the trends in production of almost all types of livestock products except poultry and honey were identified. One of the reasons for this situation was, firstly, decreasing in capital investment in the livestock sector, and secondly, the low profitability of production of livestock products in the context of accelerated growth in prices for resources. It is proved that insignificant market (price) incentives should be supplemented with instruments of state assistance to improve the quality parameters of products on the basis of specialized enterprises. The necessity of state support for the production of livestock products based on small and medium-sized enterprises is substantiated. This will effectively combine the processes of increasing the production of livestock products with the environmental friendliness of production and steady improvement of quality. It is shown that the low quality of certain livestock products in Ukraine is caused by insufficient living standards of the population and low incomes of the majority of households, which cause them to consume low quality products. It is determined that the problem of guaranteeing the quality of livestock products in Ukraine has deep roots cause due to the influence of socio-economic factors. Therefore, a comprehensive approach is needed to solve it, which is not limited to improving the efficiency of the state control system and successfully harmonizing of the Ukrainian technical regulation system with the European one. The problem of low quality and the danger of livestock production requires a systematic approach for its solution, which is not limited, in particular, by measures to improve the system of state control and ensure approximation of the domestic technical regulation system to the European one. In Ukraine, major high-quality animal products are economically inaccessible to a large part of households. The projected increase in safety parameters and a certain improvement in the quality of livestock products as a result of the implementation of regulations adopted in 2014-2017, will necessarily lead to an increase in its value, and therefore may lead to a decrease in market demand and even greater inaccessibility of these products to people. All this can only aggravate the situation with guaranteeing the food security of the country, forming the prerequisites for increasing the intellectual capacity of the nation. (shrink)

Overpopulation, Continuous Economic Growth, and the Unfeasibility of Supply-Side Economics -/- The concepts of overpopulation, continuous economic growth, and supply-side economics have been at the forefront of societal and economic discussions for decades. While these ideas may seem appealing in the short term, their long-term sustainability is questionable and ultimately self-destructive. Overpopulation and continuous economic growth both strain natural resources, disrupt ecological balances, and create unsustainable pressures on society. Furthermore, the idea that supply-side economics—the notion that (...) reducing taxes and increasing production can stimulate the economy—succeeds in isolation fails to account for the systemic imbalance it perpetuates. In this essay, we will explore why overpopulation and continuous economic growth are not sustainable and how the supply-side model is essentially the slave of the total demand side. -/- Overpopulation: A Growing Strain on Resources -/- Overpopulation is one of the most pressing challenges the world faces today. As the global population continues to rise, it increases demand for food, water, energy, and land—resources that are finite. The Earth’s carrying capacity is not infinite, and the strain on natural ecosystems is accelerating at an alarming rate. Forests are cleared for agricultural expansion, oceans are overfished, and landfills overflow with waste. These actions not only degrade the environment but also threaten biodiversity, which is critical to the survival of ecosystems and, ultimately, humanity itself. -/- In a world of limited resources, an ever-growing population leads to resource depletion, escalating inequality, and environmental destruction. When the demand for resources surpasses the ability of the environment to regenerate, societies face increasing competition for these resources, which can lead to conflict, famine, and a breakdown of social order. Overpopulation, when paired with unsustainable consumption patterns, exacerbates the environmental footprint of humanity. Thus, overpopulation is not only unsustainable in terms of resource availability but also threatens the stability of global ecosystems, making the current trajectory unsustainable. -/- Continuous Economic Growth: A Flawed Paradigm -/- Continuous economic growth, often seen as a key indicator of societal success, is another concept that fails to consider long-term sustainability. Economic growth is typically measured through Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which focuses on output and production. However, GDP does not account for the depletion of natural resources, the degradation of ecosystems, or the social and environmental costs of growth. The relentless pursuit of economic expansion often leads to overexploitation of resources, pollution, and societal inequalities. -/- The idea that economic growth can continue indefinitely on a finite planet is fundamentally flawed. Economists often argue that technological advancements or innovations will offset the pressures of growth by creating more efficient systems. While this may be true to some extent, technology cannot fully replace the finite resources that are essential for production. Moreover, the increasing energy demands associated with growth contribute to environmental degradation, including climate change. A growing population with a growing economy leads to growing consumption, which in turn accelerates environmental degradation. Therefore, continuous economic growth is unsustainable because it disregards the ecological limits of the planet. -/- Supply-Side Economics: A Flawed Foundation -/- Supply-side economics posits that reducing taxes, particularly for corporations and the wealthy, will stimulate investment, boost production, and ultimately benefit the economy as a whole. This model, however, assumes that economic benefits will “trickle down” from the wealthy and businesses to the rest of society. In practice, supply-side economics has led to wealth concentration, growing income inequality, and little evidence that it creates widespread prosperity. -/- The underlying flaw of the supply-side model is its failure to recognize that the demand side of the economy is just as important as the supply side. In reality, economic growth is driven not only by the availability of goods and services but also by consumer demand. Without demand, there is no need for supply—businesses cannot sell products and services if people cannot afford them or are not incentivized to purchase them. Therefore, while supply-side policies may increase production in the short term, they do not address the root causes of inequality or the need for demand-driven growth. -/- Furthermore, supply-side economics often disregards the negative consequences of unfettered production, such as environmental degradation. By focusing solely on increasing supply and reducing government regulation, it exacerbates the ecological strain caused by continuous growth. As businesses prioritize profits, they are incentivized to exploit resources unsustainably, perpetuating the environmental crises associated with overpopulation and unchecked growth. -/- A Holistic Approach to Sustainability -/- To achieve sustainability, a shift away from the traditional paradigms of overpopulation, continuous economic growth, and supply-side economics is necessary. A more balanced approach, which emphasizes responsible consumption, equitable distribution of resources, and ecological preservation, is essential. The focus must shift from growth for the sake of growth to fostering a steady-state economy that works within the Earth’s ecological limits. -/- Education, innovation, and responsible governance will play key roles in transitioning toward a sustainable future. For example, adopting policies that focus on reducing inequality, investing in renewable energy, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices can help mitigate the adverse effects of overpopulation and growth. Similarly, instead of focusing solely on supply-side policies, governments should prioritize strategies that foster demand through wage growth, universal healthcare, and the reduction of poverty. Only by acknowledging the interconnectedness of economic, social, and environmental factors can we hope to create a sustainable future. -/- Conclusion -/- Overpopulation, continuous economic growth, and supply-side economics are unsustainable models in the long run. They fail to consider the limits of our natural resources and the social and environmental consequences of unchecked expansion. A shift toward sustainable practices, responsible consumption, and policies that address both the supply and demand sides of the economy is crucial. Without this shift, the world will continue to face growing challenges that threaten not only our environment but also the stability of society itself. The pursuit of sustainable solutions is not a luxury; it is an imperative for the survival and well-being of future generations. -/- . (shrink)

A Balanced Economic Model: The Feedback Loop Between Public and Private Sectors with MMT as a Stabilizing Mechanism -/- Introduction -/- Modern capitalism thrives on competition, profit motives, and consumer demand. However, the system is flawed because it allows extreme wealth inequality, market instability, and frequent economic crashes. Advertising, as an essential part of capitalism, manipulates consumer behavior to sustain profits. While this fuels economic growth, it also distorts the real needs of society. -/- A better alternative (...) Is a hybrid economic model where government-created jobs, social safety nets, and free public services coexist with a profit-driven private sector. The key to making this work is a feedback loop mechanism that keeps the two sectors balanced, ensuring economic stability while preventing extreme inequality and unnecessary market collapses. This essay explores how Modern Monetary Theory (MMT) can support this feedback loop economy to create a self-regulating system where both public and private sectors benefit from each other. -/- I. The Feedback Loop Between Private Companies and Government Economic Policies -/- A feedback loop mechanism is a self-regulating system where different components interact, adjust, and respond to maintain balance. In the economy, the public sector (government jobs, social safety nets, and public services) and the private sector (businesses, investments, and free markets) create a mutual dependency: -/- 1. Government Spending Creates Consumer Demand → Private Sector Growth -/- Government creates jobs with good salaries in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and technology. -/- This injects money into the economy, giving people the purchasing power to buy goods and services from private companies. -/- As demand increases, businesses grow, hire more workers, and expand operations. -/- 2. Private Sector Growth → Increases Government Revenue Without High Taxation -/- As private companies generate profits, they pay taxes and reinvest in expansion. -/- Strong consumer demand reduces the need for excessive taxation because economic growth itself funds public programs. -/- Businesses compete not only for profits but also for innovation and efficiency. -/- 3. Social Safety Nets Prevent Market Collapses -/- During recessions, government stabilizes the economy by expanding social programs (unemployment benefits, food assistance, healthcare). -/- This prevents demand from crashing, ensuring that businesses still have customers even in economic downturns. -/- As the economy recovers, government reduces spending, allowing the private sector to take the lead again. -/- This dynamic cycle ensures that economic booms and recessions are smoothed out, preventing extreme market crashes or mass unemployment. -/- II. The Role of MMT in Supporting the Feedback Loop -/- Modern Monetary Theory (MMT) provides the economic foundation for this model by proving that a sovereign government can spend money without being constrained by traditional budget rules. Unlike mainstream economic thinking, which suggests that governments must “balance the budget,” MMT argues that government spending should adjust based on economic conditions. -/- 1. Government-Backed Job Programs as an Economic Stabilizer -/- MMT allows governments to fund public jobs without relying solely on taxation. -/- If private companies cut jobs, the government can expand its workforce to absorb the unemployed. -/- When the economy stabilizes, people move back to higher-paying private jobs, reducing government spending. -/- 2. Preventing Inflation Through Resource Control -/- MMT acknowledges that inflation happens when there’s too much money chasing too few goods. -/- The government can remove excess money through targeted taxation and invest in productivity (e.g., infrastructure, education) to keep supply stable. -/- This prevents excessive inflation while keeping the economy growing. -/- 3. Continuous Money Circulation Without Debt Crises -/- Governments can print money to fund essential services, but they control inflation by investing in real production capacity (e.g., factories, renewable energy, technology). -/- This means public investment directly benefits private businesses, keeping both sectors in sync. -/- This MMT-backed feedback loop ensures that economic downturns do not lead to catastrophic business failures or mass unemployment. -/- III. The Role of Advertising in a Balanced Economic System -/- Advertising, while necessary for businesses, often manipulates consumer behavior in a way that creates artificial demand. In a feedback loop economy, advertising should be regulated to align with real consumer needs rather than exploiting psychological weaknesses. -/- 1. Ethical Advertising Policies -/- Companies should be incentivized to market based on quality and innovation rather than manipulation. -/- False advertising and monopolistic dominance should be regulated to prevent consumer exploitation. -/- 2. Consumer Education Programs -/- Public education should include critical thinking courses to help people make informed purchasing decisions. -/- This reduces the influence of manipulative advertising, ensuring that businesses compete fairly. -/- This ensures that the feedback loop remains healthy, preventing unnecessary overproduction and unsustainable consumer debt. -/- IV. Real-World Examples of a Balanced System -/- Some countries have successfully implemented elements of this feedback loop economic model: -/- Nordic Countries (Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland) -/- Have free healthcare, education, and social safety nets while maintaining a competitive private sector. -/- Use progressive taxation to prevent extreme inequality, ensuring that economic growth benefits everyone. -/- Germany -/- Uses government-backed vocational training programs to ensure a highly skilled workforce. -/- Strong public-private partnerships help both sectors support each other dynamically. -/- Japan -/- Government plays a major role in funding research, infrastructure, and innovation, allowing private businesses to thrive. -/- Uses state-owned enterprises strategically while ensuring a competitive private market. -/- These examples prove that a properly managed hybrid model is more resilient, fair, and stable than extreme capitalism or extreme socialism. -/- V. Conclusion: A Self-Regulating Economy for the Future -/- A feedback loop economic system provides the best of both worlds: ✔ Government ensures economic stability through public job creation and social safety nets. ✔ Private companies drive innovation and competitiveness with strong consumer demand. ✔ MMT allows government spending to adjust dynamically without unnecessary austerity measures. ✔ Advertising is reformed to encourage ethical business practices and informed consumer choices. ✔ Inflation is controlled through taxation, investment, and resource management. -/- By integrating these feedback loop mechanisms, we can create a self-regulating economic model where both public and private sectors reinforce each other, ensuring long-term stability, prosperity, and economic fairness. -/- Policy Framework for a Balanced Economic System: Global Best Practices -/- To fully integrate the feedback loop mechanism between the public and private sectors, specific policies must be implemented to ensure economic stability, innovation, and fairness. Below are real-world policy examples that demonstrate how different countries successfully manage their economies using a mix of government intervention and free market principles. -/- I. Public Job Creation as an Economic Stabilizer -/- One of the biggest issues in capitalism is economic recessions leading to mass layoffs, which then reduce consumer spending, creating a vicious cycle of economic decline. The solution is public sector job programs that absorb unemployed workers during downturns and allow them to transition back to private jobs when the economy improves. -/- Global Examples -/- ✔ United States (New Deal Programs – 1930s) -/- During the Great Depression, the U.S. government created millions of jobs in construction, public works, and conservation projects. -/- These projects boosted infrastructure while providing employment, helping to revive the economy. -/- ✔ Argentina’s Jefes de Hogar Program (2002-2006) -/- Aimed at mitigating mass unemployment during Argentina’s economic crisis. -/- The government hired unemployed citizens to work in community service, infrastructure, and public health projects. -/- Created social stability and demand for private goods, helping Argentina recover. -/- ✔ Germany’s Kurzarbeit Program (Ongoing) -/- In times of economic slowdown, the German government pays companies to keep workers employed at reduced hours rather than laying them off. -/- This prevents mass unemployment, ensuring that workers still have income and spending power. -/- Policy Recommendation: → Implement automatic public employment programs during recessions to keep demand stable and prevent economic crashes. -/- II. Social Safety Nets to Support Consumer Demand -/- A strong social safety net ensures that consumers have purchasing power even in economic downturns, keeping the private sector stable. -/- Global Examples -/- ✔ Nordic Model (Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland) -/- Provides free healthcare, education, and unemployment benefits, preventing extreme poverty. -/- Funded through progressive taxation, ensuring that the wealthy contribute fairly to society. -/- This creates a stable consumer base for private companies, benefiting the entire economy. -/- ✔ Universal Basic Income (UBI) Experiments (Finland, Canada, Kenya) -/- Finland tested a UBI program where unemployed citizens received a monthly payment regardless of employment status. -/- Results showed that recipients were more likely to start businesses and find better jobs, proving that social safety nets do not reduce work incentives. -/- ✔ Singapore’s Housing and Retirement System -/- The government helps citizens buy homes with public funds, ensuring stable housing. -/- A mandatory retirement savings system (Central Provident Fund) ensures that people have money after they retire. -/- These policies reduce financial anxiety, allowing people to focus on entrepreneurship and economic growth. -/- Policy Recommendation: → Implement universal healthcare, free education, and unemployment benefits to ensure that economic downturns do not collapse consumer spending. -/- III. Regulating Advertising to Align with Consumer Needs -/- Unregulated advertising manipulates consumer behavior, creating unnecessary demand and overconsumption, which destabilizes economies. Governments can regulate advertising to ensure ethical business practices. -/- Global Examples -/- ✔ European Union (Strict Advertising Laws) -/- The EU bans false advertising, ensuring that companies cannot make misleading claims about their products. -/- Certain junk food and alcohol ads are restricted to protect public health. -/- ✔ France’s Ban on Child-Targeted Advertising -/- Prevents unethical marketing towards children, reducing unnecessary consumerism. -/- ✔ Japan’s Culture of Product Quality Over Hype -/- Japanese companies emphasize product reliability and long-term value, reducing dependence on manipulative advertising. -/- Policy Recommendation: → Implement ethical advertising regulations to prevent false marketing, predatory ads targeting vulnerable consumers, and excessive consumer debt. -/- IV. Public-Private Partnerships for Innovation and Infrastructure -/- Rather than treating the government and private sector as separate entities, a well-balanced system interconnects them through public-private partnerships (PPPs) to drive innovation. -/- Global Examples -/- ✔ Germany’s Mittelstand Model (SME Support System) -/- The German government provides long-term financial support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are the backbone of the economy. -/- Ensures that private businesses have stable growth without excessive corporate monopolies. -/- ✔ China’s State-Led Economic Model (Strategic Government Investments) -/- The government invests heavily in infrastructure and technology, allowing private businesses to thrive with low-cost logistics and energy. -/- Balances capitalist competition with government support, ensuring stability. -/- ✔ United States (NASA & SpaceX Collaboration) -/- NASA funded SpaceX and other private space companies, leading to rapid innovation in space technology. -/- This proves that government funding can accelerate private sector breakthroughs. -/- Policy Recommendation: → Use government funding to support innovation and long-term infrastructure projects while allowing private businesses to benefit and expand. -/- V. MMT as a Tool for Economic Stability -/- Traditional economic models suggest that governments must “balance their budgets” like households, but this is a flawed concept. Modern Monetary Theory (MMT) argues that sovereign nations with their own currency (like the U.S., Japan, and the UK) can create money to fund essential services without relying on debt from private banks. -/- How MMT Works in Practice -/- ✔ Japan’s National Debt Strategy -/- Japan has one of the highest debt-to-GDP ratios in the world, yet it has no financial crisis because it borrows in its own currency. -/- Instead of austerity, Japan uses public investment to maintain economic stability. -/- ✔ U.S. Stimulus During COVID-19 -/- The U.S. government printed money to send direct payments to citizens, preventing a total economic collapse. -/- Inflation was controlled by adjusting taxation and investment in production capacity. -/- ✔ EU’s Post-COVID Recovery Fund -/- The European Union used public money to stabilize industries and workers, preventing extreme recessions. -/- Policy Recommendation: → Use MMT-based strategies to fund infrastructure, social programs, and innovation, ensuring economic stability without excessive reliance on private banking debt. -/- VI. Conclusion: Creating a Self-Regulating Economy -/- A feedback loop economy that integrates public job creation, private sector competition, social safety nets, and MMT-backed fiscal policies provides a self-regulating system that ensures: -/- ✔ Stable employment and consumer demand even during economic downturns. ✔ Innovation and competition in the private sector without excessive monopolies or market crashes. ✔ Government-funded infrastructure and social programs that benefit both workers and businesses. ✔ Ethical advertising that prevents consumer exploitation and unnecessary debt. ✔ Balanced inflation control through strategic taxation and investment. -/- By combining the best policies from different global models, we can build an economic system that minimizes business bankruptcies, prevents recessions, and maximizes innovation and economic fairness. -/- . (shrink)

The Exact Solution to the Free Will Problem: The Three Universal Laws of Nature -/- The problem of free will has persisted for thousands of years, captivating philosophers, scientists, theologians, and scholars across generations. The fundamental question has always been whether human beings truly have the freedom to make decisions or whether all actions are predetermined by external forces such as biology, environment, and societal influence. Traditional philosophical and scientific frameworks have struggled to provide a definitive answer. However, this long-standing (...) intellectual puzzle can now be conclusively solved through the application of Angelito Malicse’s universal formula, which consists of three fundamental laws of nature. These laws— the law of karma, the law of balance, and the law of systems integration—demonstrate how human decision-making follows natural, predictable patterns governed by universal principles. By understanding and applying these laws, we can definitively resolve the free will problem and transform the way we approach morality, justice, science, and societal development. -/- The Enduring Mystery of Free Will -/- The free will problem arises from the tension between two opposing perspectives: determinism and libertarian free will. Determinism argues that every human decision is the Inevita”le result of preceding causes, governed by the immutable laws of nature. In contrast, libertarian free will claims that individuals possess genuine autonomy in making choices. The lack of consensus between these positions has led to confusion in fields ranging from ethics to neuroscience. If this problem remains unsolved, humanity risks ethical uncertainty, legal inconsistency, scientific stagnation, and societal discord. -/- Without a clear understanding of free will, moral responsibility becomes ambiguous. If individuals are merely products of deterministic forces, how can we hold them accountable for their actions? Similarly, justice systems, predicated on the notion of personal responsibility, might face challenges in maintaining fairness and consistency. Scientifically, unresolved questions about free will could hinder progress in fields like psychology, neuroscience, and artificial intelligence. Socially, the absence of a solution might foster fatalism, diminishing people’s sense of agency and responsibility. -/- However, these concerns are no longer insurmountable. Angelito Malicse’s universal formula offers a clear, exact solution to the free will problem by demonstrating that human decisions follow natural, law-governed patterns. The three universal laws of nature provide the key to understanding decision-making as a systematic process rather than a metaphysical abstraction. -/- The First Law: The Law of Karma (Cause and Effect in Systems) -/- The first of the three universal laws is the law of karma, which extends beyond its traditional spiritual context to encompass the fundamental principle of cause and effect within any system. According to this law, all human decisions are outcomes of interconnected causes within biological, psychological, and social systems. Just as a machine functions only when its components work in accordance with mechanical principles, human decision-making follows natural patterns driven by internal and external causes. -/- For instance, when an individual decides to act with kindness, this decision does not emerge from an isolated act of free will. Instead, it results from accumulated experiences, moral teachings, biological predispositions, and environmental factors. The decision is part of a complex cause-and-effect chain that can be analyzed and understood within the framework of natural laws. -/- The law of karma demonstrates that human actions are neither random nor wholly autonomous. They are systematic responses to the internal and external stimuli interacting with the mind. Therefore, free will is not a supernatural or metaphysical phenomenon but a natural process governed by the principle of cause and effect. -/- The Second Law: The Universal Law of Balance -/- The second law in the universal formula is the law of balance, which states that all natural systems, including human consciousness, strive for equilibrium. This principle is observable in physical phenomena such as thermodynamics and ecological systems, but it also applies to human decision-making. Every decision seeks to restore or maintain a certain internal and external balance. -/- When individuals are exposed to misinformation, cognitive dissonance, or emotional disturbances, this balance is disrupted, leading to irrational or harmful decisions. For example, societal problems such as overpopulation, economic inequality, and environmental degradation often stem from decisions that violate the law of balance. Ignorance of this law results in societal imbalances that manifest as conflict, suffering, and systemic dysfunction. -/- In the context of free will, the law of balance reveals that decisions are influenced by the mind’s constant effort to restore equilibrium. When individuals are educated to understand this principle, they become more capable of making rational, well-informed decisions aligned with natural balance. The apparent freedom in decision-making is, therefore, a reflection of the mind’s adaptive response to external and internal conditions, not a mysterious, ungoverned phenomenon. -/- The Third Law: The Law of Systems Integration -/- The third universal law, the law of systems integration, explains that for any decision-making process to function correctly, the underlying system must be free of critical errors or distortions. Just as a computer cannot operate properly if its software is corrupted, human decisions become flawed when misinformation, irrational beliefs, or cognitive biases infiltrate the mental system. -/- Human decision-making does not occur in isolation; it is part of an integrated system involving sensory input, memory, reasoning, and external environmental feedback. If any component of this system is compromised, decisions will deviate from rational, balanced outcomes. For example, societies that rely heavily on dogma or misinformation struggle to make sound collective decisions, resulting in persistent social and economic problems. -/- By understanding the law of systems integration, we recognize that the integrity of decisions depends on the quality and accuracy of the information being processed. Free will, therefore, is not a matter of pure autonomy but a system-dependent phenomenon that requires reliable, unbiased inputs and well-functioning cognitive processes. -/- The Resolution of the Free Will Problem -/- The application of these three universal laws of nature provides the exact solution to the free will problem. Human decisions are neither random nor unbounded acts of personal freedom; they are outcomes of natural processes governed by cause and effect, the drive for balance, and the need for system integrity. Free will, as traditionally conceived, is an illusion rooted in a misunderstanding of these underlying natural laws. -/- By accepting the universal formula, society can move beyond the philosophical deadlock that has hindered intellectual and practical progress for centuries. This formula does not negate human responsibility; instead, it clarifies it by illustrating how decisions follow natural patterns that can be understood, predicted, and influenced through education, societal reforms, and scientific advancements. -/- Implications for Ethics, Justice, Science, and Society -/- The exact resolution of the free will problem through the universal formula has profound implications across multiple domains: -/- 1. Ethics and Moral Responsibility: Ethical frameworks must shift from abstract notions of free will to a system-based understanding of decision-making. Moral responsibility remains intact but is grounded in the recognition that actions result from natural causes. Education should focus on teaching individuals how to align their decisions with the law of balance, promoting rational, ethical behavior. -/- 2. Justice System Reform: Legal systems traditionally assume that individuals act with free will. The universal formula shows that actions stem from natural causes and systemic factors. Justice systems must, therefore, prioritize rehabilitation, education, and preventive measures rather than retribution. Understanding the natural laws of decision-making helps create more effective and fair legal practices. -/- 3. Scientific Advancement and AI Development: The universal formula offers a solid foundation for research in neuroscience, psychology, and artificial intelligence. By programming AGI (Artificial General Intelligence) to adhere to these natural laws, future AI systems can make more reliable, human-like decisions while avoiding cognitive distortions and biases. -/- 4. Educational Reforms: Education systems worldwide must integrate the universal formula to teach students about the natural laws governing human behavior. A holistic, science-based curriculum that emphasizes cause and effect, balance, and systems integration can combat misinformation, dogmatic thinking, and societal discord. -/- 5. Societal Progress and Global Harmony: Societies that understand and apply these universal laws can address complex challenges like overpopulation, environmental degradation, and social inequality. Decisions based on natural balance, rather than short-term economic or ideological gains, lead to sustainable, harmonious development. -/- Conclusion -/- The free will problem, once deemed an unsolvable philosophical puzzle, can be definitively resolved through Angelito Malicse’s three universal laws of nature. The law of karma reveals that decisions follow cause-and-effect relationships; the law of balance shows that choices aim to restore or maintain equilibrium; and the law of systems integration demonstrates the importance of accurate, unbiased information in decision-making. Together, these laws provide an exact, scientific explanation of human behavior, eliminating the need for metaphysical assumptions about free will. -/- By understanding and applying these natural laws, humanity can foster a more rational, ethical, and balanced society. This formula is not a theory—it is a complete, exact solution grounded in observable natural principles. The challenge now lies in implementing these insights within educational, legal, and societal frameworks to address the root causes of human suffering and societal dysfunction. The free will problem is solved; the task ahead is to ensure that this understanding becomes part of our collective knowledge and practice. -/- . (shrink)

Balance Theory: A Unified Solution to General Relativity and Quantum Mechanics -/- For over a century, physicists have struggled to reconcile General Relativity (GR) and Quantum Mechanics (QM) into a single unified framework. General Relativity explains the large-scale structure of the universe, governing stars, black holes, and the motion of galaxies. In contrast, Quantum Mechanics describes the microscopic world of particles and forces at the atomic and subatomic levels. These two pillars of modern physics work remarkably well in their respective (...) domains, but they fundamentally contradict each other. -/- A major challenge is that GR treats spacetime as a smooth and continuous fabric, while QM operates in a probabilistic, discrete world of quantum states and uncertainty. When scientists try to apply quantum rules to gravity, mathematical inconsistencies arise, leading to unsolvable infinities and singularities. The lack of a unified theory has prevented a deeper understanding of black holes, the early universe, and the fundamental nature of reality. -/- The Balance Theory Approach -/- Balance Theory proposes that the universe follows a fundamental principle of equilibrium, ensuring that physical laws remain consistent across all scales. Instead of treating gravity and quantum mechanics as separate forces, this approach suggests they emerge from a deeper law of balance that governs all interactions. -/- According to this perspective, nature constantly self-corrects to maintain balance. Just as biological systems regulate themselves to sustain life, and economic markets adjust supply and demand, the universe itself operates under a balancing principle that ensures coherence between the macroscopic and microscopic realms. -/- Gravity as a Balanced Phenomenon -/- In classical General Relativity, gravity is described as the warping of spacetime caused by massive objects. This model works extremely well in most cases, but it leads to paradoxes in extreme conditions, such as inside black holes or at the beginning of the universe. -/- Balance Theory suggests that gravity is not just a passive curvature of spacetime but an active force that maintains equilibrium between energy, space, and information. Instead of black holes collapsing into singularities—where density becomes infinite and physical laws break down—the balance principle predicts that an internal stabilizing force prevents such extremes. This would mean that inside a black hole, rather than a singularity, there exists a quantum core that maintains structural balance. -/- Quantum Mechanics as a Balancing Process -/- Quantum mechanics describes particles as existing in multiple states simultaneously until measured, a phenomenon known as superposition. When a measurement is made, the particle’s wavefunction “collapses” into a definite state, but the mechanism behind this collapse remains mysterious. -/- Balance Theory proposes that wavefunction collapse is not purely random, as conventional quantum mechanics suggests, but rather a natural balancing process. Instead of requiring an external observer to force a quantum system into one state, the system itself seeks equilibrium within its environment. This idea could help resolve long-standing questions in quantum physics, such as how and why measurement affects particles and whether reality exists independently of observation. -/- Bridging the Gap Between GR and QM -/- One of the key insights of Balance Theory is that gravity and quantum mechanics are not opposing forces but two expressions of the same universal balancing principle. In this view: -/- Gravity emerges as a large-scale balancing mechanism that prevents the universe from collapsing into chaos. -/- Quantum mechanics represents a small-scale balancing process that ensures fundamental particles interact in predictable ways. -/- If this principle is correct, then the unification of physics does not require exotic new dimensions (as in String Theory) or the quantization of spacetime itself (as in Loop Quantum Gravity). Instead, it requires a shift in perspective: understanding the universe as a dynamic, self-regulating system where balance is the fundamental law. -/- Predictions and Experimental Tests -/- Any scientific theory must make testable predictions that can be verified through observation or experiment. Balance Theory suggests several novel predictions: -/- 1. Black Holes Should Not Contain Singularities -/- If balance prevents infinite density, black holes should have a stable core rather than a singularity. -/- Future observations of black hole interiors, such as through gravitational wave patterns or high-resolution imaging, could provide evidence of this balance mechanism. -/- 2. Wavefunction Collapse Should Follow a Pattern -/- Instead of being purely random, wavefunction collapse should exhibit a hidden balance law. -/- Experiments in quantum optics, such as delayed-choice quantum erasers, could test whether collapse is guided by equilibrium rather than chance. -/- 3. Gravity Should Show Small Deviations at Extreme Scales -/- In extreme conditions, such as during black hole mergers, slight deviations from Einstein’s equations should appear due to quantum balance effects. -/- High-precision gravitational wave detectors could measure these deviations. -/- 4. There Should Be a Minimum Length Scale -/- If balance governs all forces, there should be a smallest possible length scale that prevents spacetime from dividing infinitely. -/- High-energy experiments, such as those at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), might reveal unexpected effects at ultra-small distances. -/- Implications for the Nature of Reality -/- If Balance Theory is correct, it would mean that the universe is not fundamentally random or chaotic but governed by an underlying principle of stability. This would challenge the traditional view that quantum mechanics is based solely on probability and uncertainty, suggesting instead that quantum behavior follows a deeper logic rooted in equilibrium. -/- It would also Imply that spacetime is not a fixed, unchanging backdrop but a dynamic entity that adapts to maintain balance. This could explain long-standing mysteries, such as why the expansion of the universe is accelerating or how information is preserved in black holes. -/- Conclusion -/- The search for a unified theory of physics has remained elusive for over a century, but Balance Theory offers a new perspective—one based on the idea that the universe maintains equilibrium at all levels, from the smallest quantum particles to the vast structure of spacetime itself. By treating gravity and quantum mechanics as different manifestations of the same balancing force, this approach provides a potential pathway toward unification. -/- If validated through experiment, Balance Theory could reshape our understanding of physics, resolving paradoxes and unlocking new insights into the nature of reality itself. The next steps involve rigorous testing, mathematical refinement, and collaboration with physicists across disciplines to explore whether this fundamental principle of balance can finally bridge the gap between Einstein’s relativity and the quantum world. -/- . (shrink)

The Sustainable Economic Model Based on the Universal Law of Balance -/- By Angelito Malicse -/- This model builds on the Universal Law of Balance, integrating sustainable population management, economic stability, technological progress, and environmental harmony. It presents a framework for a balanced civilization, where society no longer depends on endless population growth to sustain economic systems. Instead, human progress is guided by equilibrium between resources, technology, and well-being. -/- I. THE UNIVERSAL LAW OF BALANCE AS A (...) FOUNDATION -/- The Universal Law of Balance states that all systems, including the human mind, societies, economies, and ecosystems, operate within a natural equilibrium. Any imbalance—whether it be population excess, economic exploitation, or environmental destruction—leads to instability and collapse. -/- To ensure long-term stability, human decision-making must follow the universal principle of balance, where every system maintains harmony with its external and internal conditions. -/- II. A BALANCED ECONOMY WITHOUT OVERPOPULATION -/- 1. Population Stability: Aligning Growth with Resources -/- Instead of uncontrolled population growth, society must: -/- Determine an optimal population size based on available natural resources, infrastructure, and economic capacity. -/- Educate people about sustainable birth rates, using incentives to encourage population stability rather than forced expansion. -/- Balance age distribution to prevent economic collapse due to an aging society. -/- Integrate automation and AI to replace traditional labor needs, reducing dependence on a large workforce. -/- This replaces the flawed system where economies depend on more births to maintain economic expansion. -/- 2. Economic Productivity Without Population Growth -/- A sustainable economy should be driven by innovation and efficiency, not just population expansion. Key strategies include: -/- A. Shift to a Knowledge and Automation-Based Economy -/- Develop high-productivity sectors, such as AI, robotics, biotechnology, and clean energy. -/- Reduce reliance on labor-intensive industries by using automated systems for repetitive work. -/- Prioritize creativity, innovation, and strategic thinking, where humans contribute beyond manual labor. -/- B. Ending the “Growth at All Costs” Mentality -/- GDP-based economic growth is an outdated metric that promotes overproduction and waste. -/- Instead, measure economic success by sustainability, well-being, and resource efficiency. -/- Implement circular economies, where waste is minimized, and materials are continuously recycled. -/- 3. Universal Basic Income (UBI) and Economic Security -/- As automation takes over traditional jobs, society must shift towards economic security without forced labor growth. -/- A. Funding a Sustainable UBI -/- UBI should be funded by: -/- Taxing automation and AI-driven industries (ensuring technological wealth benefits society). -/- Regulating natural resource extraction (charging industries for environmental costs). -/- Eliminating extreme wealth hoarding, redistributing wealth for economic balance. -/- B. UBI as a Means to Reduce Inequality -/- UBI will allow people to focus on education, entrepreneurship, and innovation, rather than struggling in low-paying jobs. -/- It removes the need for a growing labor force, ensuring economic security even with a smaller population. -/- 4. Resource-Based Economy: Efficiency Over Consumption -/- Instead of economies based on infinite consumption, the resource-based economy aligns production with environmental limits. -/- A. Smart Resource Allocation -/- Use AI-driven economic planning to balance supply and demand efficiently. -/- Implement energy-efficient, waste-reducing production methods to preserve natural resources. -/- Shift to clean, renewable energy and eliminate reliance on finite fossil fuels. -/- B. Ending the Disposable Economy -/- Products should be designed to last, reducing overproduction. -/- Industries should be regulated to prevent unnecessary waste and environmental damage. -/- Governments should support recycling, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture as the new standard. -/- 5. Lifelong Learning & Human Development -/- Instead of linking education to job creation, learning should be a lifelong process focused on balance, ethics, and sustainability. -/- A. Education for Balance and Critical Thinking -/- Integrate the Universal Law of Balance into all educational systems. -/- Shift focus from traditional jobs to systems thinking, problem-solving, and ethical decision-making. -/- Encourage scientific research into sustainability, AI ethics, and post-scarcity solutions. -/- B. Automation as a Tool for Human Growth -/- With fewer labor demands, people should focus on creativity, philosophy, and technological advancements. -/- The economy must be structured to allow individuals to pursue innovation without financial survival pressure. -/- III. HOW THIS MODEL SOLVES HUMANITY’S CRISIS -/- 1. Eliminating Economic Dependence on Overpopulation -/- Current Model: More people = More jobs = More demand = More economic activity (unsustainable). -/- Balanced Model: Stable population + AI-driven productivity + UBI + resource efficiency (sustainable). -/- 2. Ending the Cycle of Wealth Inequality -/- Current Model: Wealth is concentrated in a few, creating social imbalance. -/- Balanced Model: Technological wealth is shared through UBI and economic planning. -/- 3. Environmental Sustainability & Resource Conservation -/- Current Model: Resources are exploited for short-term profit, leading to climate collapse. -/- Balanced Model: AI-driven resource management aligns consumption with environmental limits. -/- 4. Human Progress Without Labor Exploitation -/- Current Model: People are forced to work for survival, even in degrading conditions. -/- Balanced Model: AI and automation provide economic security, allowing people to focus on meaningful pursuits. -/- IV. THE FUTURE OF HUMANITY UNDER THIS MODEL -/- By following the Universal Law of Balance, this model ensures that humanity reaches a state of equilibrium between economy, technology, and environment. -/- 1. Stable Population – No need for forced growth, ensuring quality of life. -/- 2. Resource Efficiency – No excessive waste, preserving the planet. -/- 3. Economic Security – AI-driven economies provide prosperity without exploitation. -/- 4. Sustainable Innovation – Science and technology focus on long-term human progress, not just profit. -/- Final Thought -/- This model breaks the outdated cycle of using overpopulation as an economic tool. Instead, it creates a civilization where human intelligence, automation, and resource management align in perfect balance, ensuring a future where progress is driven by wisdom, not unsustainable growth. -/- . (shrink)

The paper analyses economic evaluations by distinguishing evaluative statements from actual value judgments. From this basis, it compares four solutions to the value neutrality problem in economics. After rebutting the strong theses about neutrality (normative economics is illegitimate) and non-neutrality (the social sciences are value-impregnated), the paper settles the case between the weak neutrality thesis (common in welfare economics) and a novel, weak non-neutrality thesis that extends the realm of normative economics more widely than the other weak thesis (...) does. (shrink)

Traditionally, species have been treated as classes. In fact they may be considered individuals. The logical term “individual” has been confused with a biological synonym for “organism.” If species are individuals, then: 1) their names are proper, 2) there cannot be instances of them, 3) they do not have defining properties, 4) their constituent organisms are parts, not members. “ Species " may be defined as the most extensive units in the natural economy such that reproductive competition occurs among their (...) parts. Species are to evolutionary theory as firms are to economic theory: this analogy resolves many issues, such as the problems of “reality” and the ontological status of nomenclatorial types. (shrink)

Amazon Book Review Series of “Better Economics for the Earth: A Lesson from Quantum and Information Theories”.

Despite concerted efforts to nurture SMMEs through a number of methods, including LED initiatives, a high failure rate persists in South Africa. As the quest for a sustainable solution continues, this paper investigates the challenges that SMMEs face in the context of the Bushbuckridge Local Municipality (BLM). The quantitative approach was adopted for data collection. Through the use of a survey questionnaire, data were collected from a sample of fifty owners/managers who were reached through the stratified sampling technique. The study (...) singled out lack of financial assistance, managerial skills, inaccessible global markets as the most dominant challenges to the development of SMMEs apart from the high crime rate and the fear of xenophobia. Lack of technology and insufficient government support received far lesser approval from participants as these were perceived to have less impact on SMMEs growth. This paper draws attention to the ineffectiveness of LED programmes at the grassroots level with specific reference to rural municipalities. (shrink)

Economists use various models to explain why it is that firms are capable of pricing above marginal cost. In this paper, we will examine two of them: the Cournot and Bertrand duopoly models. Economists generally accept both models as good explanations of the phenomenon, but the two models contradict each other in various important ways. The puzzle is that two inconsistent explanations are both regarded as good explanations for the same phenomenon. This becomes especially worrisome when the two models are (...) offering divergent policy recommendations. This report presents that puzzle by laying out how the two models contradict each other in a myriad of ways and then offers five possible solutions to that puzzle from various economists, philosophers of science, and philosophers of economics. (shrink)

John Broome claims that there is a sacrifice-free solution to climate change. He says this is a consequence of elementary economics. After explaining the economic argument in somewhat more detail than Broome, I show that the argument is unsound. A main problem with it stems from Derek Parfit's ‘nonidentity effect.’ But there is hope, since the nonidentity effect underwrites a more philosophical yet more plausible route to a sacrifice-free solution. So in the end I join Broome in asking economists (...) and policymakers to help make this a reality. (shrink)

We examine the most famous controversy between economists as a means of shedding fresh light on the current debate about economic methodology. By focusing on the controversy as the primary unit of analysis, we show how methodological considerations are but one of a whole set of stratagems strategically employed by each opponent. We argue that each opponent's preference for a particular kind of stratagems expresses his own specific scientific style (within the general scientific and cultural style of an age). (...) We also describe a dynamic dimension of the controversy, independent of the participants' intentions. Such a dimension is analysed in a "cycle" of the controversy, which begins with a well-defined issue and expands to additional topics, without reaching a "solution" to the initial issue. The definition and re-definition of the issue(s) at stake and of the difference between both participants is an essential and recurrent feature of such cycles; the conclusion of a cycle does not imply a real "closure" of the controversy, but only that each opponent has reached a satisfying degree of self-clarification. The controversy, thus, does not yield persuasion -- its ostensible aim. Rather, its "benefit" seems to lie in an unintended result -- clarification and deepening of contrasting approaches to the discipline -- due to its peculiar dynamics. In so far as the history of a discipline requires a reconstruction of such contrasts, it is indispensable for it to take into account the controversies where they emerge, and to view both the positive doctrines and the methodological posture of the contenders as parts of a wider framework, that is a scientific style. (shrink)

Rawls’s consideration not to include the choice of economic systems as part of a theory of justice is inconsistent with his comments on redistribution and the political effects of economic inequality. When Rawls’s discussion of economic systems and his discussion of economic inequalities is examined, it is apparent that the selection of economic systems is a pertinent topic for a theory of justice. The propensity for the primary social good of self-respect to be satisfied can (...) be affected by the selection of economic systems. Rawls has incorrectly determined the selection of economic systems to be unimportant if different economic systems can be more advantageous to the satisfaction of self-respect than others. When socialism and Rawls’s version of regulated capitalism are compared, socialism is a maximin solution, and accordingly will be selected by people within the original position under the veil of ignorance. (shrink)

Amazon Book Review Series of “Better Economics for the Earth: A Lesson from Quantum and Information Theories”.

This paper evaluates the economic effects of a politically communitarian model of family ties towards the pension crisis in developing countries. The use of a Canadian - an individualist-oriented political economic pension system - is compared to a religiously and culturally communitarian form of family care in Bangladesh, a country slowly feeling the effects of the pension crisis. The analysis concludes, based on theoretical and economic evidence, that it is not in the social or economic interest (...) of Bangladesh or similar countries to use the same policies currently being deployed by Canada and most other OECD countries. This paper is the first of its kind to apply socioeconomic costs and benefits of developed countries’ policies and apply them to the context of a developing country—keeping in mind the cultural aspect and its implications. It aims at bringing back original ethical and moral values with a social orientation that should inspire all stakeholders to ensure family self-regulation that converge toward a solid foundation of communitarian principles. (shrink)

National parks are considered as the most important instrument for the conservation and protection of biodiversity, particularly for rehabilitation of critically endangered species in Ethiopia. However, the management of most of the national parks is threatened by complex socioeconomic and political factors. This paper, was thus designed to assess the socio-economic and political factors that threaten the management of Nech Sar National Park. Document analysis, previously conducted empirical research and reports were utilized as the main sources of data. In (...) addition, interviews and personal observations were applied as tool to generate supplementary data. The analysis indicates that there are enormous socioeconomic and political factors that limit and challenge the management and sustainable use of the park for example, using the park as a primary source of livelihood and as grazing land, the expansion of agriculture, the establishment of settlements, and investment centers, are the most important factors that are threatening and challenging the management of the park. There are also conflicts of interests, lack of political commitment, lack of clear demarcations, and capacity problems which are additional factors that constrain the sustainability of the park. Therefore, in order to use the park for its primary management objectives, and hopefully overcome the chronic threats of the poor management, and reap the benefits in a sustainable way, all stakeholders should work hand in hand rather than be striving to meet their individual interests at the expense of the park and its conservation objectives. (shrink)

Amazon Book Review Series of “Better Economics for the Earth: A Lesson from Quantum and Information Theories”.

In the face of escalating environmental crises, the role of economics in shaping sustainable solutions has come under increasing scrutiny. Traditional economic paradigms, often grounded in the pursuit of growth and efficiency, have been criticized for neglecting the environmental costs of human activities. This disconnect between economic theory and ecological reality has prompted calls for a profound transformation in how economics is studied, taught, and applied. -/- Books on economics, as key instruments for disseminating knowledge and shaping (...) thought, hold a pivotal role in this transformation. By integrating interdisciplinary insights, challenging foundational assumptions, and prioritizing environmental sustainability, these texts can equip future economists and the broader public with the tools needed to tackle the planet’s most urgent challenges. But how can economics books effectively foster a sustainable future? How should their content, structure, and approach be to make them effective catalysts for ecological stewardship? -/- This study represents one of the first attempts to address these questions through a quantitative approach. Specifically, it analyzes Amazon’s book reviews of Better Economics for the Earth: A Lesson from Quantum and Information Theories to identify factors that stimulate and influence readers’ perceptions of economics and the environment. (shrink)

The Dangers of Living in an Unsafe Community: Causes, Effects, and Comprehensive Government Solutions -/- The environment in which a person lives significantly impacts their well-being, security, and future opportunities. Staying in a community with dangerous individuals—such as criminals, violent gangs, or those engaging in unethical behavior—poses serious risks. While some people may have no choice due to financial or personal circumstances, it is always advisable to seek a safer environment whenever possible. This essay explores the causes of unsafe (...) communities, their negative effects, and a comprehensive government-led approach to solving these issues, including the importance of urban planning, housing development in slum areas, and family planning programs to prevent overcrowding. -/- Causes of Unsafe Communities -/- Several factors contribute to the existence of dangerous communities. These include economic instability, lack of education, weak law enforcement, poor urban planning, social inequality, and overpopulation. -/- 1. Poverty and Unemployment -/- One of the main causes of crime in a community is poverty. When individuals lack access to stable jobs, they may resort to illegal activities such as theft, drug dealing, or organized crime to survive. -/- For example, in Venezuela, the economic crisis has forced many people into criminal activities as a means of survival. In cities like Caracas, robbery, kidnapping, and gang-related violence have increased due to extreme poverty and lack of job opportunities. -/- 2. Lack of Education -/- Poor education systems can contribute to crime by limiting opportunities for young people. Without access to quality education, individuals may struggle to find legal employment and turn to crime as an alternative. -/- In Nigeria, for instance, many youths in underdeveloped regions receive little to no formal education, increasing the likelihood of recruitment into terrorist groups like Boko Haram, which exploits uneducated and unemployed individuals for violent activities. -/- 3. Weak Law Enforcement -/- In many high-crime areas, law enforcement is either ineffective, corrupt, or underfunded. When police presence is weak, criminals feel emboldened to continue illegal activities without fear of consequences. -/- A notable example is Mexico, where drug cartels control entire towns due to weak law enforcement. In places like Guerrero and Sinaloa, police officers are often either bribed or threatened into ignoring cartel activities, allowing crime to thrive. -/- 4. Poor Urban Planning and Slums -/- Lack of proper urban planning leads to the growth of slums—densely populated, unregulated settlements where living conditions are poor. These areas often lack basic infrastructure such as clean water, sanitation, and proper roads, creating an environment where crime can flourish. -/- For example, in Mumbai, India, slum areas like Dharavi are overcrowded, with families living in small, poorly constructed homes. The lack of proper planning has led to high crime rates, including illegal drug trade and violence. -/- In Kenya, the Kibera slum in Nairobi is one of Africa’s largest slums. Due to limited government intervention, residents struggle with extreme poverty, making them vulnerable to criminal organizations and illegal activities. -/- 5. Overpopulation and Lack of Family Planning -/- Uncontrolled population growth, especially in urban areas, leads to overcrowding, resource depletion, and increased poverty. Without proper family planning programs, families may have more children than they can support, worsening economic struggles and increasing crime rates. -/- For example, in Metro Manila, Philippines, rapid population growth has led to extreme congestion, lack of affordable housing, and growing informal settlements. Overcrowding puts pressure on public services, making it difficult to provide jobs, healthcare, and education to all residents. -/- Effects of Living in an Unsafe Community -/- 1. Physical Safety Risks -/- One of the most immediate dangers of living in a high-risk community is the threat to personal safety. -/- For example, in Chicago, USA, gang-related violence has made it dangerous for residents to walk outside even in broad daylight. -/- 2. Mental and Emotional Stress -/- Living in an unsafe environment can cause severe mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). -/- A st’dy in Detroit, USA, found that children growing up in high-crime areas often experience PTSD similar to that seen in war veterans. -/- 3. Limited Opportunities for Growth -/- Dangerous communities often struggle with economic and social instability. -/- For example, in Detroit, the decline of industry and rise in crime rates have left many neighborhoods economically devastated. -/- Comprehensive Government Solutions -/- To solve the problem of unsafe communities, governments must implement a multifaceted approach that addresses the root causes of crime while ensuring long-term stability. This requires economic investment, improved education, stronger law enforcement, urban planning, family planning programs, social welfare programs, and community engagement. -/- 1. Urban Planning and Housing for Slum Areas -/- Slum Upgrading Programs -/- Example: In Thailand, the Baan Mankong Housing Program provides slum residents with legal housing rights and funds to upgrade their homes. -/- Affordable Housing Projects -/- Example: Singapore’s Housing Development Board (HDB) successfully provided affordable homes for its citizens, reducing crime and homelessness. -/- Access to Basic Services -/- Example: In Brazil’s favelas, government intervention in providing sanitation and electricity has helped lower crime rates. -/- 2. Family Planning and Population Control -/- Governments must implement family planning programs to control rapid population growth in urban areas. Overpopulation leads to overcrowding, poverty, and strain on public services, which in turn contributes to crime. -/- Government-Sponsored Family Planning Programs -/- Governments should offer free access to contraceptives and family planning education to reduce unplanned pregnancies. -/- Example: Bangladesh’s national family planning program successfully reduced birth rates, easing pressure on urban centers and public services. -/- Sex Education in Schools -/- Educating young people about reproductive health and responsible parenthood helps prevent overpopulation. -/- Example: The Netherlands has one of the lowest teen pregnancy rates due to comprehensive sex education. -/- Economic Incentives for Smaller Families -/- Providing financial benefits to families that have fewer children can encourage responsible parenthood. -/- Example: China’s former one-child policy (although controversial) successfully slowed population growth in urban areas. -/- 3. Economic Development and Job Creation -/- Investment in local businesses -/- Example: In Medellín, Colombia, economic programs and infrastructure investment helped transform the city from one of the most dangerous in the world into a thriving urban center. -/- Vocational training programs -/- Example: Germany’s apprenticeship programs help integrate youth into the workforce, reducing unemployment and crime. -/- 4. Strengthening Law Enforcement and Justice Systems -/- Community policing: -/- Example: Japan’s Koban system (small police stations in neighborhoods) has contributed to its low crime rate. -/- Criminal justice reform: -/- Example: Norway’s prison system, which prioritizes rehabilitation, has one of the lowest recidivism rates in the world. -/- 5. Community Engagement and Grassroots Initiatives -/- Neighborhood watch programs: -/- Example: In London, community-led safety initiatives have helped reduce crime in certain districts. -/- Support for at-risk youth: -/- Example: In Brazil, the government funds Capoeira programs to engage youth in a positive cultural activity instead of gangs. -/- Conclusion -/- Unsafe communities are the result of complex social, economic, and political factors. Poor urban planning, poverty, overpopulation, lack of education, weak law enforcement, and social inequality all contribute to high crime rates. However, governments have the power to create lasting change through a combination of urban planning, family planning, economic investment, educational reform, improved law enforcement, social welfare, and community engagement. -/- By taking a holistic approach, governments can transform unsafe neighborhoods into thriving, secure communities, ensuring a brighter future for all citizens. -/- . 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Achieving Sustainable Population Management Through Economic Growth and Replacement Fertility -/- Introduction -/- Population management is a crucial challenge in today’s world. Some countries face overpopulation, which strains resources, infrastructure, and economic growth. Others experience depopulation, leading to labor shortages, economic decline, and social instability. The correct approach depends on a country’s current demographic and economic status. -/- Overpopulated countries must first decrease their population to a sustainable level while achieving high GDP per capita before considering (...) replacement fertility. -/- Depopulating countries must stabilize their population at a sustainable level before transitioning to replacement fertility to prevent economic collapse. -/- This essay examines the causes and consequences of overpopulation and depopulation, providing case studies and solutions to achieve sustainable population levels. -/- The Challenges of Overpopulation -/- Overpopulation occurs when a country’s population exceeds the available resources, infrastructure, and economic capacity, leading to several issues: -/- 1. Resource Depletion – High demand for food, water, land, and energy causes shortages and environmental destruction. -/- 2. Economic Struggles – When job creation and infrastructure growth fail to match population increase, unemployment and poverty rise. -/- 3. Environmental Degradation – Overpopulation accelerates climate change, deforestation, and pollution. -/- 4. Overburdened Public Services – Governments struggle to provide adequate healthcare, education, and housing. -/- 5. Social Instability – Overcrowded cities and high competition for resources lead to crime, protests, and political unrest. -/- Case Studies: Overpopulated Countries -/- India (1.4 billion, fertility rate ~2.0) – Struggles with water shortages, traffic congestion, and high unemployment. -/- Bangladesh (170 million, fertility rate ~2.1) – One of the most densely populated countries, facing flooding, land shortages, and slums. -/- Nigeria (223 million, fertility rate ~5.3) – Rapid growth threatens food security, job opportunities, and deforestation. -/- Philippines (114 million, fertility rate ~1.9) – Faces urban congestion, limited land space, and housing crises. -/- Pakistan (240 million, fertility rate ~3.5) – Struggles with energy shortages, poor healthcare, and rising poverty. -/- The Correct Approach for Overpopulated Countries -/- Overpopulated nations must not immediately adopt replacement fertility (2.1 children per woman) because their population is already too large. Instead, they should: -/- 1. Reduce Population to a Manageable Level -/- Implement family planning programs and education initiatives to encourage lower birth rates. -/- Set fertility targets below 2.1 (e.g., 1.5 to 1.8) to gradually reduce population size. -/- Offer economic incentives for smaller families, such as tax benefits and free contraceptives. -/- 2. Strengthen Economic Growth and Increase GDP Per Capita -/- Invest in technology, high-value industries, and education to improve productivity. -/- Develop smart urban planning to reduce congestion and improve living conditions. -/- Ensure fair wages and social safety nets to prevent extreme poverty. -/- 3. Stabilize at Replacement Fertility After Achieving Balance -/- Once population levels become sustainable, shift to replacement fertility (2.1 children per woman) to prevent economic decline. -/- Encourage sustainable urbanization and green technologies to manage resources efficiently. -/- Without these measures, overpopulated countries will continue to struggle with worsening poverty, environmental destruction, and declining quality of life. -/- The Risks of Depopulation -/- While overpopulation creates challenges, depopulation also presents significant risks: -/- 1. Economic Decline – Fewer workers result in lower productivity, labor shortages, and reduced economic growth. -/- 2. Aging Populations – Fewer young people mean fewer taxpayers to support healthcare and pensions. -/- 3. Urban and Rural Decay – Population decline leads to abandoned homes, closed schools, and stagnation. -/- 4. Loss of Global Influence – Countries with shrinking populations lose economic and political power. -/- Case Studies: Depopulating Countries -/- Japan (125 million, fertility rate ~1.3) – The world’s most rapidly aging nation, relying on robotics and automation. -/- South Korea (51 million, fertility rate ~0.78) – Facing a severe birth rate crisis, threatening long-term economic stability. -/- Italy (59 million, fertility rate ~1.2) – Experiencing rural depopulation, with entire villages abandoned. -/- Germany (84 million, fertility rate ~1.4) – Uses immigration to sustain its economy but still faces a shrinking workforce. -/- China (1.4 billion, fertility rate ~1.2) – After the one-child policy, it now struggles with a declining labor force. -/- Are Depopulating Countries on the Right Path? -/- Some depopulating countries have adapted well, while others face long-term crises. -/- Countries Handling Depopulation Effectively -/- Germany – Uses skilled immigration and robotics to compensate for labor shortages. -/- Japan – Invests in automation and AI to maintain productivity despite an aging population. -/- Canada – Encourages high-skilled immigration to offset declining birth rates. -/- Countries Struggling with Depopulation -/- South Korea – Despite incentives like cash rewards and tax breaks for families, birth rates remain low. -/- Italy – Rural areas are becoming ghost towns, with little government intervention. -/- China – Ending the one-child policy has not significantly increased birth rates. -/- These countries must stabilize their population before adopting replacement fertility (2.1 children per woman) to avoid economic collapse. -/- The Correct Approach for Depopulating Countries -/- Depopulating nations should not immediately aim for replacement fertility. Instead, they must: -/- 1. First Reach a Sustainable Population Level -/- If a country’s population is declining too quickly, stabilizing at 2.1 fertility too soon will not fix the economy. -/- Governments should aim for fertility rates between 1.6 and 1.9 before transitioning to 2.1. -/- 2. Encourage Higher Fertility Gradually -/- Offer childcare subsidies, free education, and paid parental leave to make parenting more affordable. -/- Promote work-life balance so families can afford more children. -/- 3. Use Immigration to Stabilize Workforce Levels -/- Countries like Germany and Canada use skilled immigration to maintain their economies. -/- Immigration policies should attract workers in high-demand industries. -/- 4. Invest in Automation and AI -/- Japan and South Korea are leading in robotics to replace human labor shortages. -/- Automation ensures productivity remains stable, even with fewer workers. -/- By following these steps, depopulating nations can create a balanced, self-sustaining economy before adopting replacement fertility. -/- Conclusion: Achieving Population Balance for Long-Term Sustainability -/- The correct population strategy depends on a country’s demographic situation: -/- Overpopulated countries must first reduce their population and achieve high GDP per capita before stabilizing at replacement fertility. -/- Depopulating countries must first stabilize their population before transitioning to replacement fertility. -/- This approach aligns with the universal law of balance, ensuring that societies do not suffer from excessive resource depletion or economic collapse. Overpopulation and depopulation are both extreme imbalances—countries must find the middle ground for long-term prosperity. -/- By implementing these strategies, nations can build a future where economic growth, resource management, and population levels are harmonized for sustainable development. -/- . (shrink)

The Role of Power Transitions in Government Collapse: Historical Lessons and Solutions -/- Throughout history, the transition of power has been a defining factor in the stability or collapse of governments. When power is transferred smoothly, institutions remain strong, and societies continue to function. However, when transitions are mismanaged, contested, or poorly structured, they often lead to political instability, civil wars, or the complete breakdown of government structures. This essay explores the importance of power transitions in maintaining political stability (...) by examining historical examples where such transitions led to the collapse of governments. Additionally, it proposes solutions to prevent such collapses in the future. -/- The Critical Nature of Power Transitions -/- The process of transferring power is one of the most vulnerable moments for any political system. Several factors determine whether a transition is successful or leads to instability: -/- 1. Legitimacy of Succession – If the public and political elites accept the process of succession, transitions occur peacefully. However, when legitimacy is questioned, power struggles emerge. -/- 2. Institutional Strength – Strong political institutions ensure smooth power transitions, while weak institutions make governments dependent on individual rulers. -/- 3. Elite Consensus – When ruling elites agree on a transition, it is more likely to be peaceful. Divisions among elites can result in coups or civil wars. -/- 4. Public Support and Social Stability – If the population supports the transition, the government remains stable. Mass protests or revolts can destabilize regimes. -/- 5. Military and Security Forces’ Role – A neutral or loyal military ensures a peaceful transition, but if the military intervenes, coups or armed conflicts may occur. -/- 6. Economic Conditions – Economic crises can accelerate government collapse during power transitions by weakening public trust. -/- 7. External Influences – Foreign intervention, diplomatic pressure, or economic sanctions can shape whether a transition succeeds or leads to chaos. -/- Historical Examples of Power Transitions Leading to Collapse -/- 1. The Fall of the Roman Republic (1st Century BCE) -/- The assassination of Julius Caesar in 44 BCE triggered a power vacuum and civil war. The Republic collapsed as Augustus (Octavian) seized power and established the Roman Empire. The failure to create a smooth transition from the Republic to an alternative stable government structure led to one-man rule. -/- 2. The French Revolution (1789-1799) -/- The monarchy collapsed due to economic crises and public discontent. The power vacuum led to the Reign of Terror and multiple regime changes before Napoleon took control. The lack of a stable transition plan from monarchy to democracy resulted in violent political struggles. -/- 3. The Russian Revolution (1917) -/- Czar Nicholas II abdicated amid economic and military crises. The weak Provisional Government was overthrown by the Bolsheviks, leading to decades of political purges. The failure to establish a strong democratic system allowed radical elements to seize power. -/- 4. The Weimar Republic and Hitler’s Rise (1933) -/- Germany’s economic crisis and political instability enabled Adolf Hitler to rise to power legally, leading to the collapse of democracy and the Nazi dictatorship. The failure of democratic institutions to resist authoritarian takeovers contributed to this transition failure. -/- 5. The Iranian Revolution (1979) -/- The Shah of Iran lost legitimacy due to repression and economic struggles. His departure created a power vacuum, allowing the Islamic Revolution to establish a theocratic regime. The lack of a democratic transition framework led to a total political shift. -/- 6. The Collapse of the Soviet Union (1991) -/- Mikhail Gorbachev’s reforms weakened the centralized government, leading to nationalist movements and economic collapse, resulting in the dissolution of the USSR. The sudden transition from communism to multiple independent states was mismanaged, leading to political chaos. -/- 7. The Arab Spring (2010-2012) -/- Mass protests led to the overthrow of governments in Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, and Yemen. However, weak institutions and power vacuums resulted in ongoing instability and civil wars. The absence of structured political succession made these transitions chaotic. -/- 8. The Fall of the Afghan Government (2021) -/- The withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan in 2021 led to the rapid collapse of the Afghan government, allowing the Taliban to take power without resistance. The lack of a well-planned transition left a power vacuum that extremist groups exploited. -/- Solutions for Preventing Government Collapse During Power Transitions -/- 1. Establishing Strong Political Institutions -/- Governments should build independent institutions that can function regardless of leadership changes. -/- A clear legal framework for succession should be established, ensuring stability. -/- Example: United States Presidential Transition – Despite political disagreements, strong institutions ensure smooth transitions of power every four years. -/- 2. Promoting a Culture of Democratic Succession -/- Political education should emphasize peaceful transitions of power. -/- Leaders should prepare successors and ensure a stable transition process. -/- Example: South Africa’s Transition from Apartheid (1994) – Nelson Mandela ensured a peaceful transfer of power through negotiations, preventing civil war. -/- 3. Ensuring Economic Stability -/- Economic policies should focus on long-term growth and stability to prevent crises that weaken governments. -/- Governments should maintain financial reserves to manage economic downturns during transitions. -/- Example: China’s Economic Reforms (1978-Present) – Transition from Maoist policies to a market economy was gradual, preventing instability. -/- 4. Strengthening Public Trust in Government -/- Transparency and accountability should be prioritized to gain public confidence. -/- Civic engagement and public participation in governance should be encouraged. -/- Example: Post-World War II Japan – Japan rebuilt trust in democratic institutions, leading to long-term political stability. -/- 5. Avoiding Military Interventions in Politics -/- The military should remain neutral in political transitions and serve as a stabilizing force, not a political actor. -/- Civilian oversight of the military should be strengthened to prevent coups. -/- Example: Turkey’s Democratic Reforms – Despite past military coups, recent reforms have reduced military interference in politics. -/- 6. International Mediation and Support -/- International organizations (e.g., the UN) should assist in ensuring peaceful transitions in unstable regions. -/- Diplomatic pressure can prevent violent takeovers and encourage legitimate transitions. -/- Example: East Timor’s Independence (2002) – The UN helped facilitate a peaceful transition to democracy after Indonesian rule. -/- 7. Managing Internal and External Political Conflicts -/- Governments should ensure national unity by addressing ethnic and political divisions. -/- Foreign influence should be managed to prevent external powers from exploiting transitions. -/- Example: Rwanda’s Post-Genocide Rebuilding – After the 1994 genocide, Rwanda implemented reconciliation policies to prevent future power struggles. -/- Conclusion -/- The transition of power is one of the most critical and dangerous moments for any government. If managed well, it can lead to stable governance and progress. However, when transitions are mismanaged, contested, or forced, they can result in political collapse, violence, and societal breakdown. -/- The historical examples discussed demonstrate the importance of legitimacy, institutional strength, elite consensus, public support, and military neutrality in ensuring successful power transitions. By implementing solutions such as strong institutions, economic stability, democratic culture, and international mediation, governments can prevent collapse and ensure smooth transitions of power. -/- The fate of nations often depends not only on who rules, but on how power is transferred from one leader or system to the next. Learning from history and implementing practical solutions can help safeguard governments from the chaos of failed transitions. -/- . (shrink)

The Indifference to Extreme Poverty and Homelessness: Causes, Solutions, and Society’s Role -/- Introduction -/- Despite global economic advancements, extreme poverty and homelessness remain widespread issues. While the ultra-rich often appear indifferent to these struggles, indifference is not exclusive to them—many middle-class and working-class individuals also overlook poverty. To fully understand this issue, it is crucial to examine the root causes of poverty and homelessness and explore the role of governments in providing solutions. This essay delves into (...) the psychological and systemic reasons for widespread indifference, the true causes of poverty and homelessness, and what governments can do to create lasting solutions. -/- The Root Causes of Poverty and Homelessness -/- 1. Lack of Affordable Housing -/- One of the leading causes of homelessness is the high cost of housing. In many cities, housing prices have skyrocketed while wages have stagnated. Gentrification and real estate speculation have also pushed low-income individuals out of their homes. -/- For example, in cities like San Francisco and New York, rent prices are so high that even full-time workers struggle to afford housing. Many people live paycheck to paycheck, and one financial setback—such as a medical emergency—can leave them homeless. -/- 2. Unemployment and Underemployment -/- A stable job is the foundation of financial security. However, many people either struggle to find work or are employed in low-wage jobs that do not cover basic living expenses. Automation, outsourcing, and economic downturns have made job security increasingly fragile. -/- For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, millions lost their jobs. Without sufficient savings or government support, many were forced onto the streets. -/- 3. Mental Illness and Lack of Healthcare -/- Mental health disorders are a significant factor in homelessness. Many individuals with untreated conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression find it difficult to maintain employment and stable housing. -/- In countries without universal healthcare, accessing mental health services is expensive, leaving many without the treatment they need. For example, in the United States, an estimated 25% of homeless individuals suffer from severe mental illnesses, yet few have access to adequate medical care. -/- 4. Substance Abuse and Addiction -/- While substance abuse is often seen as a cause of homelessness, it is more accurately a symptom of deeper issues, such as trauma, mental illness, or economic hardship. Addiction can make it difficult for individuals to maintain employment and housing. -/- Governments that criminalize addiction rather than treat it as a health issue contribute to the cycle of poverty and homelessness. Countries like Portugal, which have focused on rehabilitation rather than punishment, have seen declines in homelessness and drug-related deaths. -/- 5. Systemic Racism and Discrimination -/- Racial and ethnic minorities often face structural barriers that increase their risk of poverty and homelessness. Discriminatory hiring practices, unequal access to education, and historical injustices have created persistent economic disparities. -/- For example, in the U.S., Black Americans make up 40% of the homeless population, despite being only 13% of the total population. Similar disparities exist in other countries due to centuries of racial and economic oppression. -/- 6. Domestic Violence and Family Breakdown -/- For many women and children, homelessness is a direct result of escaping domestic abuse. When victims flee abusive relationships, they often have nowhere to go, leading them to seek shelter in unsafe environments or on the streets. -/- Governments with insufficient support systems for domestic violence victims contribute to this crisis. Shelters are often underfunded, and housing assistance is difficult to access. -/- 7. Insufficient Social Safety Nets -/- Many governments lack adequate social safety nets, such as affordable housing programs, unemployment benefits, and accessible healthcare. Without these support systems, individuals experiencing financial crises quickly fall into homelessness. -/- Countries with strong welfare states, such as Finland, have significantly lower homelessness rates than those with weak social support systems. Finland’s “Housing First” policy, which provides permanent housing to the homeless without preconditions, has nearly eliminated chronic homelessness. -/- Why Governments Must Take Action -/- While individual charity is helpful, long-term solutions to poverty and homelessness require government intervention. Here are the most effective policies governments can implement to combat these issues: -/- 1. Implement Affordable Housing Programs -/- Governments should increase investments in affordable housing by: -/- Expanding public housing projects -/- Regulating rent increases to prevent exploitation -/- Providing tax incentives for developers who build low-income housing -/- Example: Singapore’s government heavily invests in public housing, with over 80% of its citizens living in government-subsidized apartments, reducing homelessness rates to near zero. -/- 2. Raise Minimum Wages and Ensure Job Security -/- Governments must ensure that working individuals can afford basic living expenses by: -/- Raising the minimum wage to match the cost of living -/- Encouraging businesses to provide full-time, stable employment -/- Offering job training and re-skilling programs for unemployed workers -/- Example: Denmark has high minimum wages and strong labor protections, resulting in lower poverty rates despite high living costs. -/- 3. Provide Universal Healthcare, Including Mental Health Services -/- Healthcare access is essential in preventing homelessness. Governments should: -/- Offer free or affordable healthcare, especially for mental illness treatment -/- Increase funding for mental health facilities -/- Decriminalize drug addiction and invest in rehabilitation centers -/- Example: Portugal’s drug decriminalization program has led to a significant decrease in homelessness and addiction-related deaths. -/- 4. Expand Social Safety Nets -/- Countries with stronger social programs experience lower homelessness rates. Governments should: -/- Provide emergency financial assistance to prevent evictions -/- Offer “Housing First” programs that provide permanent housing before requiring treatment or employment -/- Increase funding for domestic violence shelters and support services -/- Example: Finland’s Housing First policy has been so successful that it has nearly eliminated chronic homelessness, proving that stable housing is the foundation for solving poverty. -/- 5. Address Racial and Economic Discrimination -/- To reduce systemic inequality, governments must: -/- Enforce anti-discrimination laws in employment and housing -/- Improve education and job opportunities for marginalized communities -/- Ensure that public resources are distributed equitably -/- Example: Canada’s Indigenous housing programs aim to address the historical marginalization of Indigenous populations by investing in culturally appropriate housing and social services. -/- 6. Invest in Education and Job Training -/- Breaking the cycle of poverty starts with education. Governments should: -/- Provide free or low-cost higher education and vocational training -/- Offer financial assistance to low-income students -/- Ensure equal access to quality education for all socioeconomic groups -/- Example: Germany provides tuition-free university education, making higher education accessible to all citizens, reducing long-term poverty. -/- Conclusion -/- While billionaires and corporations often receive criticism for their indifference to extreme poverty, the reality is that indifference exists at all levels of society. Many middle-class and working-class individuals also overlook poverty due to psychological distancing, economic fears, and societal conditioning. However, the real root causes of homelessness and poverty—such as a lack of affordable housing, inadequate wages, poor healthcare, and systemic discrimination—are problems that only government policies can effectively solve. -/- Countries that have successfully reduced homelessness, such as Finland, Portugal, and Singapore, have done so through comprehensive government interventions rather than relying on charity alone. If more governments worldwide adopt similar policies, we can move toward a future where poverty and homelessness are not inevitable but preventable. -/- Ultimately, solving poverty is not just about redistributing wealth but about redesigning systems to ensure economic fairness, social justice, and dignity for all. -/- . (shrink)

Science is the basis for managing the affairs of life and human activities, and living without knowledge is a form of wandering and a kind of loss. Using scientific methods helps us understand the foundations of choice, decision-making, and adopting the right solutions when solutions abound and options are numerous. Operational research is considered the best that scientific development has provided because its methods depend on the application of scientific methods in solving complex issues and the optimal use (...) of available resources in various fields, private and governmental work in peace and war, in politics and economics, in planning and implementation, and in various aspects of life. Its basic essence is to use the data provided for the issue under study to build a mathematical model that is the optimal solution. It is the basis on which decision makers rely in managing institutions and companies, and when operations research methods meet with the neutrosophic teacher, we get ideal solutions that take into account all the circumstances and fluctuations that may occur in the work environment over time. One of the most important operations research methods is the linear programming method. Which prompted us to reformulate the linear models, the graphical method, and the simplex method, which are used to obtain the optimal solution for linear models using the concepts of neutrosophic science. In this research, and as a continuation of what we presented previously, we will reformulate the modified simplex algorithm that was presented to address the difficulty that we were facing when applying the direct simplex algorithm. It is the large number of calculations required to be performed in each step of the solution, which requires a lot of time and effort. (shrink)

We review the recently proposed universal concept of dynamic complexity and its new mathematics based on the unreduced interaction problem solution. We then consider its progress-bringing applications at various levels of complex world dynamics, including complex-dynamical nanometal physics and living condensed matter, unreduced nanobiosystem dynamics and the integral medicine concept, causally complete management of complex economical and social dynamics, and the ensuing concept of truly sustainable world governance.

Regenerative agriculture is gaining recognition as a transformative approach to farming, offering solutions to urgent global challenges such as climate change, soil degradation, biodiversity loss, and food insecurity. Unlike conventional agriculture, which often prioritizes short-term yields through chemical inputs and intensive practices, regenerative agriculture seeks to restore and enhance natural ecosystem functions. This approach promotes soil health, water retention, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity, ultimately creating more resilient and sustainable food systems.

Amazon Book Review Series of “Better Economics for the Earth: A Lesson from Quantum and Information Theories”.

As global temperatures rise and extreme weather events become more frequent, the focus on urban trees is intensifying. Research highlights their crucial role in mitigating climate change, improving public health, and providing significant economic benefits.

It is a matter of fact that Europe is facing more and more crucial challenges regarding health and social care due to the demographic change and the current economic context. The recent COVID-19 pandemic has stressed this situation even further, thus highlighting the need for taking action. Active and Assisted Living technologies come as a viable approach to help facing these challenges, thanks to the high potential they have in enabling remote care and support. Broadly speaking, AAL can be (...) referred to as the use of innovative and advanced Information and Communication Technologies to create supportive, inclusive and empowering applications and environments that enable older, impaired or frail people to live independently and stay active longer in society. AAL capitalizes on the growing pervasiveness and effectiveness of sensing and computing facilities to supply the persons in need with smart assistance, by responding to their necessities of autonomy, independence, comfort, security and safety. The application scenarios addressed by AAL are complex, due to the inherent heterogeneity of the end-user population, their living arrangements, and their physical conditions or impairment. Despite aiming at diverse goals, AAL systems should share some common characteristics. They are designed to provide support in daily life in an invisible, unobtrusive and user-friendly manner. Moreover, they are conceived to be intelligent, to be able to learn and adapt to the requirements and requests of the assisted people, and to synchronise with their specific needs. Nevertheless, to ensure the uptake of AAL in society, potential users must be willing to use AAL applications and to integrate them in their daily environments and lives. In this respect, video- and audio-based AAL applications have several advantages, in terms of unobtrusiveness and information richness. Indeed, cameras and microphones are far less obtrusive with respect to the hindrance other wearable sensors may cause to one’s activities. In addition, a single camera placed in a room can record most of the activities performed in the room, thus replacing many other non-visual sensors. Currently, video-based applications are effective in recognising and monitoring the activities, the movements, and the overall conditions of the assisted individuals as well as to assess their vital parameters. Similarly, audio sensors have the potential to become one of the most important modalities for interaction with AAL systems, as they can have a large range of sensing, do not require physical presence at a particular location and are physically intangible. Moreover, relevant information about individuals’ activities and health status can derive from processing audio signals. Nevertheless, as the other side of the coin, cameras and microphones are often perceived as the most intrusive technologies from the viewpoint of the privacy of the monitored individuals. This is due to the richness of the information these technologies convey and the intimate setting where they may be deployed. Solutions able to ensure privacy preservation by context and by design, as well as to ensure high legal and ethical standards are in high demand. After the review of the current state of play and the discussion in GoodBrother, we may claim that the first solutions in this direction are starting to appear in the literature. A multidisciplinary debate among experts and stakeholders is paving the way towards AAL ensuring ergonomics, usability, acceptance and privacy preservation. The DIANA, PAAL, and VisuAAL projects are examples of this fresh approach. This report provides the reader with a review of the most recent advances in audio- and video-based monitoring technologies for AAL. It has been drafted as a collective effort of WG3 to supply an introduction to AAL, its evolution over time and its main functional and technological underpinnings. In this respect, the report contributes to the field with the outline of a new generation of ethical-aware AAL technologies and a proposal for a novel comprehensive taxonomy of AAL systems and applications. Moreover, the report allows non-technical readers to gather an overview of the main components of an AAL system and how these function and interact with the end-users. The report illustrates the state of the art of the most successful AAL applications and functions based on audio and video data, namely lifelogging and self-monitoring, remote monitoring of vital signs, emotional state recognition, food intake monitoring, activity and behaviour recognition, activity and personal assistance, gesture recognition, fall detection and prevention, mobility assessment and frailty recognition, and cognitive and motor rehabilitation. For these application scenarios, the report illustrates the state of play in terms of scientific advances, available products and research project. The open challenges are also highlighted. The report ends with an overview of the challenges, the hindrances and the opportunities posed by the uptake in real world settings of AAL technologies. In this respect, the report illustrates the current procedural and technological approaches to cope with acceptability, usability and trust in the AAL technology, by surveying strategies and approaches to co-design, to privacy preservation in video and audio data, to transparency and explainability in data processing, and to data transmission and communication. User acceptance and ethical considerations are also debated. Finally, the potentials coming from the silver economy are overviewed. (shrink)

This article seeks to establish the development of rural communities, with up to 500 inhabitants, with the creation of a Rural Tourism Development Forum and a Tourism Development Program with local identity. It is proposed to capitalize on cultural assets and local knowledge, to strengthen the profile and tourist circuits, local services and enterprises, agro-tourism and other related economic and social activities. The objective is to contribute to territorial tourism development from an innovative perspective, which, based on the efficient (...) use of local resources, generates employment and improves the quality of life of its inhabitants, capitalizing on the advantages of tourist activity. The methodology used consisted in analyzing the problems of local development, identifying the obstacles and conceiving tourism as a solution and sustenance that allowed the elaboration of the model. (shrink)

This paper argues that challenges that are grand in scope such as "lifelong health and wellbeing", "climate action", or "food security" cannot be addressed through scientific research only. Indeed scientific research could inhibit addressing such challenges if scientific analysis constrains the multiple possible understandings of these challenges into already available scientific categories and concepts without translating between these and everyday concerns. This argument builds on work in philosophy of science and race to postulate a process through which non-scientific notions become (...) part of science. My aim is to make this process available to scrutiny: what I call founding everyday ideas in science is both culturally and epistemologically conditioned. Founding transforms a common idea into one or more scientifically relevant ones, which can be articulated into descriptively thicker and evaluatively deflated terms and enable operationalisation and measurement. The risk of founding however is that it can invisibilise or exclude from realms of scientific scrutiny interpretations that are deemed irrelevant, uninteresting or nonsensical in the domain in question-but which may remain salient for addressing grand-in-scope challenges. The paper considers concepts of "wellbeing" in development economics versus in gerontology to illustrate this process. (shrink)

The internet has made the world more linked than ever before. While taking advantage of this online transition, cybercriminals target flaws in online systems, networks, and infrastructure. Businesses, government organizations, people, and communities all across the world, particularly in African countries, are all severely impacted on an economic and social level. Many African countries focused more on developing secure electricity and internet networks; yet, cybersecurity usually receives less attention than it should. One of Africa's major issues is the lack (...) of adequate digital security infrastructure, which has harmed businesses, governmental institutions, and individual communities more than it has helped. The majority of African countries operate without cybersecurity measures in place to combat cyberattacks. Only a few examples of today's cyber risks include digital extortion, business email intrusion, data breaches, online fraud, ransomware, and phishing, and new types of cybercrime are always developing. Due to the advent of new technology, cybercriminals have become more organized and quicker in their attacks and alliance creation. To maintain a secure digital environment for all internet users, this study focused on the challenges, solutions, and need for African countries to improve their online safety by tackling cybercrime, online fraud, and cybersecurity concerns. The objective of this study is to offer practical and long-term answers to the problems posed by cybercrime, with a continuing emphasis on enhancing online safety. It will assess the effectiveness of cutting-edge cybersecurity measures, legislative frameworks, and cross-border cooperative efforts, as well as potential areas for improvement. Additionally, the study will examine cutting-edge methods like blockchain technology, machine learning, and other cutting-edge methods that could improve our using digital defences to stop cybercrime. (shrink)

In this paper I argue that Marxist Buddhism may provide a novel approach to envy in society. It has been argued that envy arises in response to socio-political inequality, which is considered a problem given the social and moral harms associated with envy. Thus, achieving equality is expected to solve the problem of envy. However, anecdotal and empirical evidence suggests that is not the case, and that, in particular, societies inspired by Marxist ideals are not envy-free—if anything, the opposite seems (...) true. Buddhism has traditionally condemned envy. It shares with Marxism the idea that individual wellbeing can be obtained, paradoxically, only through lessening emphasis on individuality—Marxism by means of economic collectivism, Buddhism by means of a spiritual transformation. Both aim at shrinking the self and are keenly aware of how quickly an emphasis on one’s own desires leads to greed and exploitation of others. However, Marxist ideals have failed to yield successful large-scale flourishing communities, while Buddhism is a religion practiced by millions of people but has not advanced a politically progressive agenda in particular. Marxist Buddhism—argue—may perhaps bring together the best of the respective traditions to solve the problem of envy. However, I end by cautioning against such a radical reshaping of our psychological makeup, especially given the evidence that shows that there are morally and prudentially good types of envy, and sketch the profile of a Buddhist-friendly type of envy as an alternative to total eradication. (shrink)

In “Regulating social media as a public good: Limiting epistemic segregation” (2022), Toby Handfield tackles a well-known problematic aspect of widespread social media use: the formation of ideologically monotone and insulated social networks. Handfield argues that we can take some cues from economics to reduce the extent to which echo chambers grow up around individual users. Specifically, he argues that tax incentives to encourage network heterophily may be levied at any of three different groups: individual social media users, social media (...) sites/companies, or advertisers who use social media to promote their products and material. In this response, I examine the plausibility of using such incentives on each of the these groups. I argue, first, that using tax incentives on either (1) social media companies or (2) advertisers would be ineffective as these incentives could not feasibly be made strong enough to override the enormous financial gain of the standard social media algorithms. Next, I argue that levying the incentives/penalties on individual users would be a hazard, due to the risk of what is called the epistemic “backfire effect”. Finally, I argue that the problem lies in relying on incentives and disincentives—rather than direct regulation—to increase network heterophily. (shrink)

Controversially, psychologist and public intellectual Jordan Peterson advises “enforced monogamy” for societies with high percentages of “incels.” As Peterson’s proposal resonates in manosphere circles, this chapter reconstructs and briefly evaluates the argument for it. Premised on the moral importance of civilizational sustainability, advocates argue that both polygamous and socially monogamous but sexually liberal mating patterns result in unsustainable proportions of unattached young men. Given the premises, monogamous societies are probably justified in maintaining their anti-polygamist social and legal norms. The case (...) for imposing stricter sexual norms on socially monogamous but sexually liberal societies is weaker, however, as male involuntary celibacy in those places isn’t as directly caused by male intrasexual competition, and since less intrusive social interventions are more likely to ameliorate “the incel problem.”. (shrink)

Nowadays, the economic and social nature of contemporary business organizations chiefly banks binds them to face with the sheer volume of data and information and the key to commercial success in this area is the proper use of data for making better, faster and flawless decisions. To achieve this goal organizations requires strong and effective tools to enable them in automating task analysis, decision-making, strategy formulation and risk prediction to prevent bankruptcy and fraud .Business Intelligence is a set of (...) skills, technologies and application systems used to collect, store, analyze and create effective access to the task to help organizations better understand the business context and make accurate decision timely and respond quickly toward inflation, rate fluctuations and the market price. In this paper we review recent literature in the search for trends in business intelligence applications for the banking industry and its challenges and finally some articles that comprise this special issue are introduced and characterized in terms of business intelligence research framework. (shrink)

Given the robust reputation of Nigeria in Africa, as a continental giant, and the need to harness the potentials of the nation to strategically reposition her economy on the global map in the 21st century, the nation is in dire need of speedy development. With a population of over 160 million, the country is blessed with both human and natural resources. Like other African countries, Nigeria has had her fair share of colonial experience which ended on October 1st, 1960 when (...) the nation was granted independence by the British government. Nigeria’s independence is undoubtedly a political phenomenon as the nation still largely depends economically and socially on foreign nations especially developed countries like Britain, America and China. (shrink)

It is my contention that the table of intentionality (rationality, mind, thought, language, personality etc.) that features prominently here describes more or less accurately, or at least serves as an heuristic for, how we think and behave, and so it encompasses not merely philosophy and psychology, but everything else (history, literature, mathematics, politics etc.). Note especially that intentionality and rationality as I (along with Searle, Wittgenstein and others) view it, includes both conscious deliberative linguistic System 2 and unconscious automated prelinguistic (...) System 1 actions or reflexes. -/- I provide a critical survey of some of the major findings of two of the most eminent students of behavior of modern times, Ludwig Wittgenstein and John Searle, on the logical structure of intentionality (mind, language, behavior), taking as my starting point Wittgenstein’s fundamental discovery –that all truly ‘philosophical’ problems are the same—confusions about how to use language in a particular context, and so all solutions are the same—looking at how language can be used in the context at issue so that its truth conditions (Conditions of Satisfaction or COS) are clear. The basic problem is that one can say anything, but one cannot mean (state clear COS for) any arbitrary utterance and meaning is only possible in a very specific context. I analyze various writings by and about them from the modern perspective of the two systems of thought (popularized as ‘thinking fast, thinking slow’), employing a new table of intentionality and new dual systems nomenclature. I show that this is a powerful heuristic for describing behavior. -/- Thus, all behavior is intimately connected if one takes the correct viewpoint. The Phenomenological Illusion (oblivion to our automated System 1) is universal and extends not merely throughout philosophy but throughout life. I am sure that Chomsky, Obama, Zuckerberg and the Pope would be incredulous if told that they suffer from the same problem as Hegel, Husserl and Heidegger, (or that that they differ only in degree from drug and sex addicts in being motivated by stimulation of their frontal cortices by the delivery of dopamine (and over 100 other chemicals) via the ventral tegmentum and the nucleus accumbens), but it’s clearly true. While the phenomenologists only wasted a lot of people’s time, they are wasting the earth and their descendant’s future. -/- . (shrink)

Economics has evolved over time, and it helps to explain and shape the actors’ economic activities. Although economics is useful to humans’ lives, it is either failed or insufficient to justify many real-world cases, ranging from humans’ rapid and/or unpredictable progress in the information age to decision making-selecting mechanisms, optimization, gross domestic product (GDP) matter, and so on, raising concerns about contemporary economics’ significant limitations, inspiring us to rethink, redefine and reform it in new contexts. Fortunately, the mindsponge theory (...) and many disciplines have been formed recently, allowing me to develop a new branch of applied economics known as “mindspongeconomics – mindspongecon”. Mindspongecon refers to both rational and irrational thinking mechanism that employs the serendipity-mindsponge-3D knowledge management system (a special information processing system) based on dynamic core values to find high-value solutions/choices that can address many economics' shortcomings. From my perspective, it is time to update, learn, and apply this “new economics” to deal with global issues (e.g., inequality, climate change) and/or to achieve humankind’s long-term development goals. (shrink)

At the root of the corruption problem is its moral and economic nature. The economic problem is a moral problem. Modern theories of corruption are usually empirical in nature. However, they are not without their ideological dimensions though in the modern scheme of things, a normative framework is usually not rationally entertained. Empiricism combined with materialism takes on the reins of economies; however, disregard of the spiritual will not bring any lasting solution. A vision of the absolute is (...) needed. There are various ideologies and religions that provide some kind of a vision or the other. The biblical vision is both historical and prophetic as well. And, the Church is called to be the model of that vision in this pervert and corrupt world. (shrink)

In the face of the climate crisis, countries around the globe have committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and achieving carbon neutrality. While the effects of such commitments remain ambiguous, some risks and obstacles could potentially hinder nations, even leading to failure in fulfilling their climate commitments. The paper presents four major challenges that can impede the global progress towards emission reduction targets as pledged: 1) energy security and global socio-economic development demands, 2) political conflicts, geopolitical instability, and (...) warfare, 3) challenges in developing and scaling emission reduction technologies, and 4) public perceptions toward climate change. Without addressing these challenges, humanity and the Earth's ecosystems will face the dangers of venturing into “uncharted waters” full of uncertainties and disorder. A potential solution to these issues is for the world to transition from an eco-deficit culture to an eco-surplus culture, where the lasting values of Earth's ecosystems are recognized as the conscience of our time. (shrink)

Like American politics, the academic debate over justice is polarized, with almost all theories of justice falling within one of two traditions: egalitarianism and libertarianism. This book provides an alternative to the partisan standoff by focusing not on equality or liberty, but on the idea that we should give people the things that they deserve. Mulligan argues that a just society is a meritocracy, in which equal opportunity prevails and social goods are distributed strictly on the basis of merit. That (...) gives citizens their just deserts. In addition to its novel conceptual approach, meritocracy is distinctive from existing work in two ways. First, it is grounded in research on how people actually think about justice. Empirical research reveals that people don't think that social goods should be distributed equally. Nor do they dismiss the idea of social justice. Across ideological and cultural lines, people want rewards to reflect merit. Second, the book discusses hot-button political issues and makes concrete policy recommendations. These issues include anti-meritocratic bias against women and racial minorities and the United States’ widening economic inequality. Justice and the Meritocratic State offers a new theory of justice and provides solutions to our most vexing social and economic problems. It will be of keen interest to philosophers, economists, and political theorists. (shrink)

In our attempt to explore possible solutions for the world’s grave environmental problems, our book titled Better economics for the Earth proposes a new approach to understanding and redefining value. A good explanation is provided in Tran (2025), which informs us that the current approach to understanding value has been criticized for trying to “put a price tag on nature” without fundamentally challenging the underlying economic paradigm. To further support the process of change, concerning our understanding value, we (...) now introduce a new paper bearing in mind that “the devil’s in the details”. (shrink)

I argue that much current thinking on externalities—at least among “lay political economists” (but even, on occasion, among professional economists)—is saddled with two analytical errors. The first is what I call coextensivism: the conflation of public goods and externalities. The second error is what I call externality profligacy: the conflation of economic and “social” externalities. The principal dangers presented by these two “dogmas on externalities” are that, while in their grips, we are under-disposed to seek negotiated, market-based solutions (...) (of a broadly Coasean nature) to challenges posed by economic externalities, and over-disposed to seek coercive, state-based solutions (of a broadly Pigouvian nature) to challenges posed by social externalities. (shrink)