This paper delves into the contrasting educational philosophies of Booker T. Washington and W. E. B. Du Bois, two prominent figures who grappled with the question of Black progress in a society scarred by racial inequality. Washington, advocating for vocational training, championed economic self-sufficiency as the key to navigating a system rigged against Black success. Du Bois, conversely, championed a liberal arts education, emphasizing critical thinking and social critique as necessary tools for dismantling systemic barriers. This paper argues that (...) while Washington’s pragmatism held a certain appeal, its inherent acceptance of the existing social order risked perpetuating the very systems it aimed to overcome. Du Bois, through his more radical vision, recognized that true liberation necessitated not only economic agency but also the intellectual capacity to challenge and dismantle oppressive structures. By analyzing the nuances and complexities of their arguments, this paper highlights the enduring relevance of this historical debate for contemporary discussions on educational equity. It underscores the need for a multifaceted approach to education, one that recognizes the interconnectedness of economic opportunity, intellectual development, and social justice, ultimately advocating for an educational landscape that empowers all individuals to reach their full potential and contribute to a more just and equitable society. Through embracing the strengths and acknowledging the limitations of both perspectives, we can create an educational system that empowers individuals to navigate societal barriers while also equipping them with the critical thinking skills necessary to challenge and dismantle oppressive structures, fostering a more just and equitable society. (shrink)

Traditional ethical frameworks have failed to address the complexities of a globalized world. This paper proposes a new approach by combining utopian normativism with the concept of the Normative Foundation. Utopian normativism challenges the notion of universal ethical principles, arguing they are shaped by societal and environmental context. The Normative Foundation, posits a foundational framework of shared ideas and values, influencing societies worldwide. This paper argues that the Normative Foundation shapes ethical norms, and utopian normativism offers a framework for critically (...) evaluating and potentially transforming it towards a more just and equitable world. (shrink)

Jason Springs’s Healthy Conflict in Contemporary American Society is a masterful attempt to practice productive conflict and democratic dialogue in the face of static antagonisms and deep‐seated divisions. In my response, I underscore Springs’s insistence on mediating between the moral imagination of Richard Rorty and the prophetic critique of Cornel West. For the author of Healthy Conflict, any hope in the survival of democracy relies on balancing critique of domination with constructive proposals for a more just and (...) class='Hi'>equitable world. On the one hand, Springs rejects any strong distinction between moral imagination and socio‐political critique; in fact, he argues for their intertwinement, especially in the work of West. At the same time, there are moments when he suggests an opposition between expanding the moral imagination and engaging in the critical enterprise, especially as he identifies the limits in Foucault regarding normativity and democratic struggle. I respond to this slippage by arguing that Foucault, and critical theory more broadly, open up possibilities for rethinking ethics, politics, and our relationship to the violence that sustains the order of things. (shrink)

-/- The Future of Economic Systems: A Balance Between Capitalism, Socialism, and Sustainable Growth -/- Economic systems have evolved over centuries to meet the needs of societies. The invention of monetary value, a social construct, allowed for the exchange of goods and services, making economies function at a large scale. However, while this system has undoubtedly brought prosperity to many, it has also led to inequalities and environmental challenges. In order to address these issues and ensure a sustainable future, a (...) more holistic approach to economic systems is necessary—one that blends the best of capitalism, socialism, and modern economic theories such as Modern Monetary Theory (MMT). This approach, coupled with excellent government leadership and regulated population growth, could create an economic system that maximizes productivity, balances wealth distribution, and ensures sustainability for future generations. -/- The Combination of Capitalism and Socialism -/- Capitalism has proven effective at driving innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth. It is based on the principle that individuals and companies can freely engage in trade, and that competition leads to more efficient and diverse products and services. However, capitalism, when left unchecked, has often resulted in income inequality, environmental degradation, and social unrest. To address these issues, elements of socialism are necessary. Socialism focuses on wealth redistribution and providing a safety net for the most vulnerable members of society. It ensures that basic needs, such as healthcare, education, and housing, are met for all citizens, regardless of their income level. -/- By combining capitalism with socialism, societies can harness the strengths of both systems. The competitive nature of capitalism fosters innovation and growth, while socialism ensures that wealth is more evenly distributed and that the welfare of society as a whole is prioritized. This balance can lead to a more equitable society, where both individuals and communities can thrive. -/- The Role of Modern Monetary Theory (MMT) as a Feedback Mechanism -/- Modern Monetary Theory (MMT) proposes that governments can issue currency without the risk of running out of money, provided they manage inflation and the economy’s productive capacity responsibly. MMT offers a fresh perspective on monetary policy, advocating for increased government spending on public goods and services, such as infrastructure, healthcare, and education, without the immediate need for taxation or borrowing. -/- In this proposed economic system, MMT functions as a feedback mechanism, helping to regulate the money supply in a way that is responsive to economic conditions. By aligning the money supply with real productivity, MMT can ensure that inflation remains under control while supporting full employment and social welfare. This mechanism helps prevent the economic imbalances that have sometimes occurred in both purely capitalist and socialist systems, creating a stable environment in which society can flourish. -/- The Importance of Excellent Government Leadership and Sustainable Population Growth -/- An effective government system is essential in implementing these economic policies. Strong leadership ensures that policies are not only well-crafted but also implemented efficiently. Leaders must focus on long-term stability, fairness, and sustainability, and be willing to make decisions that prioritize the common good over short-term political gain. In this system, transparency, accountability, and a commitment to improving quality of life for all citizens should guide decision-making. -/- Another critical factor in ensuring the success of this economic system is sustainable population growth. Overpopulation can strain resources, harm the environment, and lead to economic instability. Regulated population growth ensures that society’s resources—such as food, water, energy, and housing—are not overburdened. Through education, family planning, and policies that promote sustainable living, governments can ensure that the population grows at a rate that is manageable and supportive of long-term prosperity. -/- Balancing Money Supply, Productivity, and Inequality -/- At the heart of this system is a formula that balances key economic indicators: money supply, sustainable population growth, productivity output, income inequality (Gini coefficient), and GDP per capita. The money supply must be aligned with the production of goods and services, ensuring that inflation is controlled. Sustainable population growth must match the resources available, avoiding the negative effects of overpopulation. Productivity output should be maximized without exploiting the environment or workers, and the Gini coefficient must be kept at a level that minimizes income inequality, ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are shared by all members of society. Finally, GDP per capita, which measures the standard of living, should reflect the prosperity and well-being of all individuals, not just a wealthy few. -/- A Global Vision for Economic Balance -/- While the principles discussed above could create a more equitable and sustainable economic system, their global adoption would require cooperation across nations. Economic policies would need to be tailored to each country’s specific context, but the broader framework could be shared as a global standard. It is likely that the adoption of such a system would need to begin with a few countries as examples, demonstrating the benefits of a balanced approach before it is implemented more widely. -/- Global institutions like the United Nations, World Bank, and international trade organizations could play a role in guiding and supporting countries through this transition. It would require collaboration between governments, businesses, and civil society to ensure that policies are implemented fairly and effectively. Through education, advocacy, and international cooperation, the principles of balance, fairness, and sustainability can be spread across the globe, leading to a more prosperous and just world. -/- Conclusion -/- In conclusion, the future of economic systems lies in finding the right balance between capitalism and socialism, guided by the principles of Modern Monetary Theory, strong government leadership, and regulated population growth. By aligning these elements with a formula that balances money supply, productivity, inequality, and GDP per capita, we can create a system that is not only efficient but also sustainable. The invention of monetary value has already shown its power to organize societies, but the next step is to refine the system so that it works for the benefit of all, ensuring a prosperous future for generations to come. -/- . (shrink)

-/- The Present Defects of Humanity and the World: A Call for Balance and Understanding -/- Humanity stands at a critical juncture in history. While we have made remarkable advances in science, technology, and society, we are also facing unprecedented challenges that threaten both our survival and the well-being of the planet. These challenges are not merely the result of external forces but are deeply rooted in the defects of our systems, behaviors, and understanding of the natural world. To (...) navigate these challenges, we must address the underlying defects that persist in our world today. These defects, ranging from environmental degradation to social inequality, are manifestations of a larger imbalance in the way humanity interacts with the world and with itself. -/- 1. Disregard for the Natural Environment -/- One of the most glaring defects of humanity today is our continued disregard for the natural environment. Industrialization, urbanization, and the pursuit of short-term profits have led to the exploitation of natural resources at an unsustainable rate. Forests are being cleared, oceans are polluted, and species are being driven to extinction. The Earth’s ecosystems, which provide the foundation for life, are under threat, and the consequences of this damage are becoming more apparent each day. Climate change, rising sea levels, and extreme weather events are just a few of the symptoms of the imbalance humanity has created. This environmental degradation is not just a result of ignorance; it is a product of a deeper disconnection from the natural world and an inability to recognize the interconnectedness of all life. -/- To rectify this defect, humanity must recognize that the natural environment is not a limitless resource to be exploited, but a delicate system that requires respect and care. Sustainable practices must be prioritized, and a shift toward renewable energy, conservation, and responsible consumption is imperative. Furthermore, a new understanding of our place in the natural world must be cultivated, one that acknowledges the interdependence of all living things. -/- 2. Inequality and Social Injustice -/- Another significant defect plaguing humanity is the persistent inequality and social injustice that exists within and between societies. Across the globe, millions of people suffer from poverty, lack of access to education, inadequate healthcare, and social discrimination. Despite progress in certain areas, the gap between the rich and the poor continues to widen, and the systems in place often perpetuate this divide rather than address it. Economic, racial, gender, and social inequalities are deeply entrenched in many societies, creating barriers that prevent individuals from reaching their full potential. -/- This inequality is not only a moral failing but also a practical one. When large portions of the population are marginalized, society as a whole suffers. Unequal access to resources and opportunities stifles innovation, fosters resentment, and creates social unrest. To address this defect, a more equitable distribution of resources and opportunities must be prioritized. Education, healthcare, and economic opportunities should be made accessible to all, ensuring that every individual has the chance to contribute to the collective well-being of society. -/- 3. Ignorance and Misinformation -/- The rapid spread of misinformation and the general lack of critical thinking have become pervasive defects in modern society. In the age of information, people are exposed to vast amounts of data, yet many lack the tools to discern truth from falsehood. Misinformation, fueled by social media, political agendas, and sensationalism, distorts public perception and impedes rational decision-making. This creates confusion, division, and a general distrust in institutions and facts. -/- This ignorance is not limited to the consumption of information but also extends to an overall lack of understanding about the natural laws that govern life and society. The universal law of balance, for example, is often overlooked, leading to decisions that create imbalances in both individual lives and societal structures. To address this defect, education must be restructured to emphasize critical thinking, media literacy, and an understanding of the interconnectedness of all things. By fostering a society that values knowledge and wisdom, we can create an informed citizenry capable of making better decisions for the future. -/- 4. Disconnection from the Universal Laws -/- A deeper, more fundamental defect in humanity is our disconnection from the universal laws that govern the world. These laws, such as the law of balance, cause and effect, and interconnectedness, are the principles that regulate both the natural and social worlds. However, many individuals and societies are unaware of these laws or fail to understand their importance. As a result, decisions are made that violate these natural principles, leading to imbalances in both personal and collective realities. -/- For example, the law of balance suggests that every action has an equal and opposite reaction. When humanity acts in ways that harm the environment or exploit others, there will inevitably be consequences, such as climate change or social unrest. By understanding and respecting these natural laws, humanity can create a more harmonious relationship with the world. Education systems must be restructured to emphasize the importance of natural laws, as well as their practical applications in daily life. -/- 5. Uncontrolled Growth -/- The final major defect of humanity is the unchecked pursuit of growth, both economically and in terms of population. Economic systems around the world are based on the assumption that growth is perpetual, yet this is fundamentally unsustainable. As resources are depleted and ecosystems collapse, the notion of infinite growth becomes increasingly problematic. Similarly, population growth continues to strain the planet’s resources, creating pressure on food, water, and energy supplies. -/- This defect is compounded by a failure to address the long-term consequences of overpopulation and overconsumption. To mitigate this issue, a sustainable approach to growth must be adopted. This includes regulating economic growth to ensure it aligns with the planet’s ecological limits and encouraging sustainable practices in all areas of life. Population control measures, alongside better resource management, are essential for maintaining balance. -/- Conclusion: The Path to a Balanced Future -/- The defects of humanity and the world are deeply interconnected and rooted in our collective choices. However, these defects are not insurmountable. By recognizing the need for balance—whether in our relationship with the environment, with each other, or with the natural laws that govern life—we can begin to correct these imbalances and create a more sustainable, just, and harmonious world. This requires a fundamental shift in our thinking and our approach to education, governance, and society at large. By fostering a deeper understanding of the natural laws and integrating them into our systems, we can lay the foundation for a brighter future for humanity and the planet. -/- . 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Reforming All Countries Through the Universal Law of Balance: A Path to Global Stability and Progress -/- By Angelito Enriquez Malicse -/- Introduction -/- Throughout history, human societies have struggled with instability, conflict, economic inequality, environmental degradation, and governance failures. Despite technological advancements, many nations still face deep-rooted problems caused by imbalanced decision-making at both individual and collective levels. My universal formula, grounded in the universal law of balance in nature, offers a transformative solution to reform all countries and create (...) a world where governance, economics, education, and social structures operate in harmony. -/- By integrating this fundamental law of balance into global education systems, policy-making, and leadership training, societies can achieve sustainability, fairness, and progress. This essay explores how this universal formula can reform all countries and the positive effects it will bring to the entire world. -/- The Universal Law of Balance: A Foundation for Reform -/- The universal law of balance in nature states that all systems—biological, social, economic, and political—function optimally when they maintain equilibrium. Imbalance leads to corruption, inequality, overpopulation, environmental destruction, and human suffering. To achieve long-term global stability, this principle must be embedded in education, leadership, and governance. -/- 1. Reforming Education to Instill the Universal Law of Balance -/- Education is the foundation of societal change. Implementing the universal formula in education will: -/- Teach individuals how natural balance governs decision-making. Students will learn to evaluate choices scientifically rather than through emotional bias, misinformation, or outdated beliefs. -/- Encourage critical thinking and holistic problem-solving. Future generations will be trained to apply balanced solutions to complex global issues, such as economic inequality and climate change. -/- Bridge the gap between science and religion. Since religious dogma often influences social structures, the universal law of balance can provide a neutral, scientific approach that respects faith while promoting rational decision-making. -/- Train future leaders. Policymakers, economists, and scientists will be educated with a deep understanding of natural balance, preventing governance failures caused by greed, short-term thinking, and political manipulation. -/- 2. Reforming Leadership and Governance -/- Governments worldwide struggle with corruption, inefficiency, and poor decision-making due to imbalanced priorities. Applying the universal law of balance in governance will: -/- Create leaders who prioritize national and global stability. Balanced governance ensures that decisions benefit both the present and future generations. -/- Eliminate extreme capitalism and unregulated economic growth. Governments will regulate economies based on resource sustainability rather than limitless expansion, reducing wealth inequality and environmental destruction. -/- Prevent overpopulation and resource depletion. Balanced policies will control population growth to match available resources, ensuring sustainable development. -/- Ensure fair justice systems. Laws and policies will be structured to balance individual rights with collective responsibility, preventing both authoritarian rule and chaotic anarchy. -/- 3. Reforming Economic Systems for Global Sustainability -/- The modern economic system prioritizes profit over sustainability, leading to financial crises, worker exploitation, and environmental collapse. By implementing the universal formula, economies will: -/- Shift from profit-driven models to sustainability-driven economies. Instead of uncontrolled consumption, economic policies will ensure equitable wealth distribution and environmental responsibility. -/- Balance technological progress with ethical considerations. AI, automation, and scientific advancements will be aligned with human well-being rather than purely corporate interests. -/- Prevent extreme wealth accumulation. Tax structures and wealth redistribution mechanisms will balance economic power, preventing the concentration of resources in the hands of a few. -/- 4. Using AI and Technology to Implement the Universal Formula -/- Artificial intelligence and automation are shaping the future of governance, education, and economic management. If AGI (Artificial General Intelligence) is programmed according to the universal law of balance, it can: -/- Provide unbiased decision-making for governments and organizations. AI can analyze global trends and propose balanced policies that prevent economic crashes, food shortages, and political instability. -/- Ensure balanced media and information dissemination. AI can counteract misinformation and propaganda, ensuring that people receive accurate, scientifically-backed information. -/- Optimize resource management. Smart systems can ensure that natural resources are used efficiently, preventing over-extraction and environmental collapse. -/- Positive Effects of the Universal Formula on All Countries and the World -/- 1. Global Peace and Conflict Resolution -/- Many wars and conflicts arise from imbalanced decision-making, whether in the form of territorial disputes, economic competition, or ideological clashes. If all countries implement the universal law of balance: -/- Diplomacy will replace war. Nations will resolve conflicts through mutual benefit and balance rather than through force or economic domination. -/- Religious and cultural tensions will decrease. Education based on balance will prevent extremist ideologies and promote global cooperation. -/- Geopolitical stability will be achieved. Superpowers will shift from military competition to balanced global governance, ensuring world peace. -/- 2. Economic Stability and Sustainable Development -/- Instead of pursuing endless economic growth, nations will adopt policies that balance wealth distribution, technological advancement, and resource sustainability. This will result in: -/- Elimination of poverty and extreme inequality. Wealth will be distributed according to natural balance, ensuring that no country suffers from extreme poverty while others hoard wealth. -/- Protection of natural ecosystems. Economic activity will be regulated to align with environmental sustainability, reversing climate change and preventing resource depletion. -/- Harmonized global trade. Countries will trade based on mutual benefit, reducing exploitative economic relationships and dependency on harmful industries. -/- 3. A More Conscious and Responsible Humanity -/- By implementing the universal law of balance in all human activities, societies will: -/- Develop a collective consciousness of responsibility. People will prioritize balanced decision-making, preventing greed, ignorance, and reckless behavior. -/- Reduce crime and corruption. Societies where balance is understood and practiced will no longer tolerate corruption, exploitation, and unethical leadership. -/- Achieve spiritual and intellectual enlightenment. Individuals will no longer be manipulated by false ideologies but will instead align their lives with natural balance, achieving greater peace and fulfillment. -/- Conclusion: A Call for Global Implementation -/- The universal law of balance is the missing foundation needed to reform all countries and create a stable, just, and progressive world. By integrating this principle into education, governance, economics, and technology, we can eliminate poverty, war, corruption, and environmental destruction, ensuring a sustainable future for all. -/- The challenge is global cooperation and willingness to change. If leaders, educators, and scientists recognize the scientific necessity of balance, the world can shift from chaos to harmony. This is not a utopian vision—it is the natural evolution of human civilization once it aligns with the fundamental laws of nature. -/- Now is the time to act. The future of humanity depends on our ability to embrace balance, reform our societies, and secure a future where all nations thrive in equilibrium. -/- . (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)

The Importance of Socialist Principles in Balancing the Increasing Efficiency of Capitalism -/- Capitalism, as an economic system, thrives on innovation, competition, and efficiency. Over the centuries, it has fueled unprecedented advancements in technology, productivity, and global economic growth. However, capitalism’s focus on profit maximization and market efficiency often comes at the expense of social equity, environmental sustainability, and human well-being. This imbalance creates systemic issues such as income inequality, labor exploitation, and resource depletion. In this context, the integration of (...) socialist principles is essential to balance the increasing efficiency of capitalism and address its inherent shortcomings. -/- Mitigating Income Inequality -/- One of the most pressing consequences of capitalism’s efficiency is the widening gap between the wealthy elite and the working majority. As technological advancements increase productivity and profitability, the benefits often accumulate disproportionately to capital owners rather than laborers. Socialist principles, such as progressive taxation, wealth redistribution, and Universal Basic Income (UBI), can ensure that the gains of economic growth are shared more equitably across society. UBI, which involves providing all citizens with a guaranteed, unconditional income, offers a safety net for those displaced by automation and economic disruptions. Countries like Finland and Canada have piloted UBI programs, demonstrating its potential to reduce poverty, improve mental health, and foster economic stability by giving individuals the means to participate in the economy without fear of financial insecurity. -/- Protecting Workers’ Rights -/- Capitalism’s relentless pursuit of efficiency frequently leads to labor exploitation, such as low wages, poor working conditions, and job insecurity. Automation and artificial intelligence, while enhancing productivity, also threaten to displace millions of workers. Socialist principles emphasize the protection of workers’ rights through fair wages, safe workplaces, and collective bargaining. In Germany, for instance, co-determination policies ensure that workers have representation on corporate boards. Coupled with concepts like UBI, workers can face technological disruptions with greater resilience, as basic income offers a cushion against job displacement while they retrain or transition to new opportunities. -/- Promoting Environmental Sustainability -/- Capitalism’s focus on short-term profits often overlooks long-term environmental consequences. The pursuit of economic growth has led to overconsumption, pollution, and climate change, threatening the planet’s ecosystems and future generations. Socialist principles prioritize the common good over individual profit and advocate for sustainable development. Denmark has demonstrated this balance by integrating socialist-inspired environmental policies within its mixed economy. The country invests heavily in renewable energy and enforces strict environmental regulations. Additionally, concepts from Modern Monetary Theory (MMT) could play a crucial role in funding sustainability initiatives. MMT posits that governments with sovereign currencies can issue money to finance large-scale public projects without being constrained by budget deficits, as long as inflation remains under control. This framework could help finance green energy transitions and other critical investments needed to address climate change. -/- Ensuring Social Cohesion -/- Unbridled capitalism fosters competition and individualism, which can erode social cohesion and create divisions within society. Socialist principles, by contrast, emphasize solidarity, cooperation, and community well-being. A balanced approach to capitalism involves fostering a sense of shared responsibility for societal progress. Universal Basic Income is a key tool for enhancing social cohesion, as it guarantees a minimum standard of living for everyone, reducing inequality and poverty. For example, in Canada, the pilot UBI program in Ontario demonstrated how such initiatives could strengthen the social fabric by reducing financial stress, encouraging education, and improving health outcomes. When coupled with policies like free access to healthcare and education, socialist principles create a society where all members feel valued and supported. -/- Encouraging Ethical Capitalism with Modern Monetary Theory -/- Modern Monetary Theory provides a vital framework for ethical capitalism by allowing governments to prioritize public well-being over austerity measures. By rethinking budgetary constraints, MMT enables the funding of universal programs such as healthcare, education, and UBI. For example, New Zealand has embraced well-being-focused budgeting, prioritizing resources for mental health, child poverty reduction, and environmental protection. This approach aligns with socialist principles, ensuring that economic policies serve broader societal goals rather than simply maximizing GDP growth. MMT challenges the traditional capitalist notion that government spending must always be offset by tax revenues, opening the door for innovative social programs that benefit all. -/- Conclusion -/- While capitalism has proven to be a powerful engine for innovation and economic growth, its increasing efficiency can exacerbate systemic issues such as inequality, exploitation, and environmental degradation. Socialist principles provide a vital counterbalance, emphasizing fairness, equity, and collective responsibility. Tools like Modern Monetary Theory and Universal Basic Income further enhance the potential of socialist principles to address these challenges. Countries such as Finland, Germany, Denmark, Canada, and New Zealand exemplify how mixed economic systems can combine the strengths of capitalism with the equity of socialism. By adopting these principles, societies can create a sustainable and inclusive economic system that harnesses the strengths of capitalism while mitigating its weaknesses. In an era of rapid technological advancement and global interconnectivity, this balance is more important than ever for building a just and resilient future. -/- . (shrink)

The World Today If the Problem of Free Will Had Been Solved Long Ago -/- The problem of free will has perplexed philosophers, scientists, and thinkers for centuries. If this fundamental issue had been resolved earlier—specifically through the understanding that human decision-making follows natural laws—our world might look drastically different today. The principles of cause and effect, balance, and interconnected systems would have guided societal, economic, and environmental decisions, potentially creating a more harmonious, sustainable, and enlightened global civilization. This essay (...) explores what the world might have become had the problem of free will been solved long ago and the universal laws of decision-making applied across generations. -/- 1. Balanced Societies and Sustainable Growth -/- If the universal formula for free will, grounded in natural laws such as the law of balance, had been integrated into human society from the beginning, our world would likely enjoy a more balanced relationship with nature. Unchecked population growth, environmental degradation, and the relentless pursuit of economic expansion could have been mitigated. Societies might have adopted policies that respected the natural limits of their environments, ensuring that growth was sustainable rather than driven by short-term gains. For instance, countries might have collaborated early on to protect natural resources, resulting in cleaner air, abundant biodiversity, and stable ecosystems. -/- Economic systems would also have been more balanced. The understanding that continuous growth without regard for natural limits leads to societal imbalance might have prevented excessive consumerism and unsustainable industrial practices. Global economies might have prioritized long-term well-being over immediate profit, ensuring that wealth was distributed more equitably and that social stability was preserved. -/- 2. Education Rooted in Natural Laws -/- An early solution to the free will problem would have revolutionized educational systems worldwide. Education would not have been limited to memorizing facts or passing exams; instead, it would have focused on understanding the natural laws governing human behavior and societal systems. Concepts like cause and effect, feedback mechanisms, and balance in nature would have been taught from a young age, fostering critical thinking and rational decision-making across generations. -/- Such an educational approach might have minimized the spread of misinformation, dogma, and false beliefs. Students would have learned to question assumptions, seek evidence, and understand the consequences of their actions. The development of a more scientifically literate, critically minded population could have led to societies better equipped to handle complex challenges, such as global health crises, economic instability, and environmental change. -/- 3. Reduced Conflict and Greater Unity -/- The misunderstanding of free will has often fueled ideological, religious, and political conflicts. If the natural laws governing human decision-making had been understood earlier, societies might have been more tolerant and cooperative. Recognizing that all human behavior follows the same universal principles could have fostered greater empathy and reduced the perceived differences between cultures, religions, and ideologies. -/- With a shared understanding of the principles guiding human decision-making, global cooperation might have replaced competition and conflict. Nations could have worked together to solve collective challenges rather than pursuing dominance and control. Wars motivated by ideological or political misunderstandings might have been minimized, replaced by diplomatic efforts grounded in the recognition of shared human tendencies and needs. -/- 4. Ethical and Responsible Leadership -/- Leadership, when uninformed by natural laws, often falls prey to short-term interests, corruption, and ideological biases. If the principles of free will had been solved and implemented in governance structures long ago, leaders might have been more responsible, rational, and ethical in their decision-making. The universal law of balance would have served as a guiding principle, reminding leaders that any imbalance—whether through unjust policies, social inequality, or environmental neglect—would ultimately result in societal dysfunction. -/- Policies and laws would have been crafted with long-term societal balance in mind. Corruption, misinformation, and manipulation would have been less effective in influencing public opinion, as a well-educated population would have recognized and rejected such tactics. As a result, governance might have been more transparent, just, and aligned with the common good. -/- 5. Ethical Technological Advancement -/- The advancement of science and technology would also have followed a more ethical trajectory. If societies had understood the natural laws behind decision-making, innovations would have been developed with greater consideration for their long-term impact. Technologies such as artificial intelligence, automation, and biotechnology would likely have been designed and implemented with a focus on societal well-being rather than profit alone. -/- For instance, environmental considerations might have been prioritized in industrial development, preventing the large-scale pollution seen during the Industrial Revolution. Similarly, AI systems might have been developed from the outset with safeguards to ensure they served humanity’s best interests, minimizing the ethical concerns that exist today. -/- 6. A World with Less Human Suffering -/- Perhaps the most profound impact of solving the free will problem earlier would have been a significant reduction in human suffering. Poverty, inequality, crime, and social unrest often stem from decisions made without an understanding of natural laws. If societies had recognized the importance of balance, fairness, and cause-and-effect relationships in human interactions, many of these societal problems might have been prevented. -/- Healthcare systems, for example, might have prioritized preventive care based on the understanding of physical and mental health as interconnected systems. Economic policies could have focused on equitable wealth distribution, reducing poverty and enhancing social cohesion. Social programs might have been more effective, addressing the root causes of issues rather than merely managing symptoms. -/- 7. A Global Collaborative Civilization -/- Finally, solving the free will problem early on could have fostered a more unified and collaborative global civilization. The realization that human decision-making is governed by universal laws would have underscored the interconnectedness of all people, regardless of nationality, culture, or belief system. This understanding might have led to earlier efforts to establish international institutions for global cooperation, ensuring that resources, knowledge, and innovations were shared equitably. -/- Global challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and resource scarcity could have been addressed through collective action rather than individualistic or nationalistic approaches. Humanity might have recognized sooner that its survival and prosperity depend on cooperation and adherence to the same natural laws that govern decision-making. -/- Conclusion -/- If the problem of free will had been solved and its universal formula applied long ago, the world today might have been a more balanced, peaceful, and sustainable place. Societies would have understood the natural laws governing human behavior, leading to better education, more ethical leadership, responsible technological development, and less human suffering. While the world missed this opportunity in the past, the knowledge and application of these principles still offer a path forward. Through a holistic educational approach and global cooperation, it remains possible to build a future aligned with the universal laws of nature and human decision-making. -/- . (shrink)

The Profit Motive: A Reality or an Illusion of Capitalism? -/- Introduction -/- The profit motive has long been considered a fundamental driver of economic activity, particularly in capitalist societies. It is the principle that businesses, individuals, and economies are primarily motivated by financial gain. However, when examined through the lens of capitalism and fiat currency, an important question arises: Is the profit motive a genuine economic force, or is it an illusion created by the artificial value of money? This (...) essay explores the nature of the profit motive, its connection to capitalism, and the potential illusory aspects of wealth accumulation within a fiat currency system. -/- The Role of the Profit Motive in Capitalism -/- Capitalism institutionalizes the profit motive by making financial success the key measure of progress. In a capitalist system, individuals and businesses seek to maximize their earnings through innovation, efficiency, and strategic decision-making. The promise of financial gain incentivizes entrepreneurs to take risks, develop new products, and improve services. -/- Supporters of capitalism argue that the profit motive leads to economic growth, job creation, and technological advancements. Competition in the marketplace forces companies to innovate and provide better goods and services at lower costs. Additionally, businesses that generate profits attract investments, which allows them to expand and create more economic opportunities. Thus, the profit motive serves as a crucial mechanism in capitalist economies. -/- However, the pursuit of profit can also lead to negative consequences, such as wealth inequality and environmental degradation. Those who control financial and industrial resources often accumulate disproportionate amounts of wealth, while lower-income individuals may struggle to compete. This raises ethical questions about whether the profit motive truly benefits society or if it primarily serves the interests of the elite. -/- Fiat Currency and the Illusion of Wealth -/- The concept of fiat currency further complicates the understanding of the profit motive. Unlike commodity-backed money (such as gold or silver), fiat currency derives its value from government regulation and public trust rather than intrinsic worth. Since money in modern economies is created through banking systems and debt, its value is largely based on collective belief rather than tangible assets. -/- This raises concerns about whether financial profits are an illusion rather than a reflection of real wealth. If money itself has no intrinsic value, then the pursuit of profit—measured in fiat currency—could be seen as chasing a fabricated metric rather than achieving real economic progress. Inflation, economic crises, and financial bubbles reveal the vulnerabilities of a system that relies on fiat currency, making profits unstable and sometimes illusory. -/- Furthermore, the constant need for economic growth in a fiat-based system pressures businesses and individuals to continuously accumulate more wealth, regardless of actual resource availability. This dynamic fosters consumerism, financial speculation, and debt-driven economies, which can lead to economic instability and artificial booms and busts. -/- Is the Profit Motive an Illusion? -/- The debate over whether the profit motive is an illusion depends on perspective. From a practical standpoint, profit is necessary for businesses to survive and grow. It determines purchasing power, access to resources, and overall economic influence. In this sense, profit is not an illusion but a real force shaping human behavior and societal structures. -/- However, from a philosophical and systemic perspective, the profit motive can be seen as a social construct rather than an absolute reality. The value of money is dictated by economic policies and collective agreements, meaning that financial wealth is only meaningful as long as society recognizes it. If fiat currency were to collapse, the illusionary nature of profit would become evident, as material goods and essential resources would become the true determinants of wealth. -/- Alternative Perspectives on Success -/- While capitalism promotes profit as the primary measure of success, alternative economic models suggest different ways of defining progress. Some propose prioritizing sustainability, resource-based economies, or social well-being rather than monetary accumulation. Economic models like cooperative businesses, universal basic income, and post-scarcity societies challenge the traditional view that profit is the ultimate goal. -/- In such systems, success is defined not by financial gain but by factors such as quality of life, environmental balance, and social equity. This perspective aligns with the idea that the profit motive may not be the only—or even the best—way to drive human progress. -/- Conclusion -/- The profit motive is both a reality and a construct shaped by the economic system in which it operates. In capitalism, it serves as a driving force for innovation, competition, and economic growth. However, its dependence on fiat currency introduces elements of illusion, as financial wealth is largely based on societal belief rather than intrinsic value. While profit remains a central force in modern economies, reconsidering its role in defining success may open pathways to more sustainable and equitable economic models. Ultimately, the question is not just whether profit is an illusion, but whether society should continue prioritizing it as the primary measure of success. -/- . (shrink)

Background and Objectives: In this research article, the researcher addresses the issue of creating public understanding in a democratic society about the progress of science, with an emphasis on pluralism from philosophers of science. The idea that there is only one truth and that there are just natural laws awaiting discovery by scientists has historically made it difficult to explain scientific progress. This belief motivates science to develop theories that explain the unity of science, and it is thought (...) that diversity in the way different ideas presented by scientists is a problem that results in time being wasted in search of the most accurate theory. Some scientists perceive a benefit in having a range of scientific hypotheses, though. One benefit that is frequently cited is that scientific diversity as a whole contributes to the development of a democratic society that permits the expression of a range of viewpoints. The road to accountable scientific pluralism is fraught with difficulties, though. Therefore, it is crucial to take into account both pluralism's advantages and disadvantages. This research aims at: 1. analyzing in an epistemological way the interpretation of scientific theories and the progress of science from the perspectives of scientific pluralists; 2. analyzing the relationship between science and democracy in explaining scientific significance and progress; and 3. synthesizing new knowledge on epistemic dependentism and to argue that it plays a significant role in evaluating research issues related to scientific pluralism. Methodology: The research methodology involves the application of documentary investigation along with philosophical discourse. The method of philosophical argumentation involves analyzing the lines of arguments found in relevant academic publications in order to assess their validity and soundness. Main Results: One key argument of the pluralists is the use of the concept of theoretical pluralism, which suggests that scientific knowledge is created from a variety of perspectives according to the social and cultural context of knowledge creation. It is found that part of Longino's argument is based on the negation of rational/social dichotomy. Moreover, her theory is a departure from philosopher of science Philip Kitcher, who advocates the creation of scientific knowledge and the evaluation of scientific progress through the means of democratic society. He explains that these procedures will lead to "well-ordered science" in democratic society. Discussions: The researcher examines the underlying ideas accepted by these two philosophers of science and finds that although their opinions differ, they have common ground in the acceptance of consensus. However, the views of both philosophers still lack weight in explaining the knowledge itself. The researcher argues that the acceptance of pluralism as a way of understanding scientific progress necessarily lends itself to dependentism, which points to interdependence in comparisons of superiority/inferiority between scientific theories. It is undeniable that the situation has emerged all the time, even though the success of the scientific theories being compared to each other comes from different social and cultural grounds of thought. Conclusions: Some popular models of scientific pluralism in the philosophy of science still lack a compelling justification, particularly on the epistemic grounds. By elucidating the epistemic significance of the interdependence of these things, scientific pluralism can be strengthened by incorporating the notion of epistemic dependentism into the analysis of scientific progress. (shrink)

I suggest that the social justice issues raised by Internet regulation can be exposed and examined by using a methodology adapted from that described by John Rawls in 'A Theory of Justice'. Rawls' theory uses the hypothetical scenario of people deliberating about the justice of social institutions from the 'original position' as a method of removing bias in decision-making about justice. The original position imposes a 'veil of ignorance' that hides the particular circumstances of individuals from them so that they (...) will not be influenced by self-interest. I adapt Rawls' methodology by introducing an abstract description of information technology to those deliberating about justice from within the original position. This abstract description focuses on computing devices that users can use to access information and information networks that information devices use to communicate. The abstractness of this description prevents the particular characteristics of the Internet and the computing devices in use from influencing the decisions about the just use and regulation of information technology and networks. From this abstract position, the principles of justice that the participants accept for the rest of society will also apply to the computing devices people use to communicate, and to Internet regulation. (shrink)

This chapter examines first two broadly Hegelian variations of the freedom-justice connection by Axel Honneth and Rainer Forst, and then critically contrasts them with Hegel’s own concept of “concrete freedom” as the immanent ideal of social life and Hegel’s state as its “actuality.” I argue that this concept is capacious enough to do justice both to the human capacity in principle for context-transcending reflection on the justness of the social order central for Forst and to the limitations in practice of (...) individuals and groups for transcending the embeddedness and particularity of their perspectives emphasized by Honneth. The question of what makes a theory of a good society also a theory of justice is raised at the beginning with regard to Honneth’s account, and a reason stemming from the ontology of objective spirit is suggested at the end with regard to Hegel’s. (shrink)

This essay advances the following set of arguments: First, that we must take seriously Hobbes's claim in Behemoth that "the science of just & unjust" is a demonstrable science, accessible to those of even the meanest capacity. Second, that Leviathan is the work in which this science, intended as a serious project in civic education, is set out. Third, that Hobbes is prepared to accept, like Plato & Aristotle, "giving to each his own," as a preliminary definition of justice, (...) from which however, he draws some very un-Aristotelian conclusions. Fourth, that though in Hobbes's theory "just & unjust" are equivalent of "lawful & unlawful," this is far from being a simple statement of legal positivism, but rather the conclusion of a practical syllogism. Fifth, that the impediments to this demonstrable science of justice being universally accepted, on Hobbes's account, are twofold, explained in terms of religion & the role of preachers & educators produced by the universities, on the one hand, & by the activity of "democratical gentlemen" & classical republicans dominating parliament, on the other. Sixth, that Hobbes's account of the transition from jus to lex, specified in terms of a transition from the state of nature to that of civil society, although Epicurean in origin, is much closer to a conventional civil law position. Adapted from the source document. (shrink)

"Crooked people deceive themselves in order to deceive others; in this way the world comes to ruin." This quote from a medieval Confucianist expresses the ethical danger of self-deception. My paper examines the psychological proclivity for self-deception and argues that it lies behind much social and interpersonal injustice. I review Hitler's Mein Kampf, as a premiere example of such cognitive duplicity, and Socratic dialectic, as an example of the cognitive hygiene necessary to combat it. I conclude that a robust educational (...) program of Socratic-style critical thinking is crucial to the furtherance of a just society. (shrink)

The proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies presents a promising avenue for fostering inclusive societies through community development and education initiatives. This paper explores the potential of leveraging IoT to address societal inequalities and empower marginalized communities. Through a multidisciplinary lens, the paper examines the intersection of IoT, community development, and education, elucidating how IoT-enabled solutions can contribute to building more resilient, connected, and equitable societies. By harnessing IoT devices, sensor networks, and data analytics, community development efforts can (...) be augmented, enabling better resource allocation, infrastructure management, and service delivery. Additionally, IoT-enabled educational interventions offer opportunities to enhance learning experiences, improve access to educational resources, and promote lifelong learning for individuals of all backgrounds. However, alongside the promise of IoT, ethical considerations surrounding data privacy, security, and digital divide must be addressed to ensure equitable access and participation. Through case studies and best practices, the study highlights successful examples of IoT implementations in community development and education, while also identifying key challenges and opportunities for future research and practice. Finally, the study advocates for a collaborative and inclusive approach to leveraging IoT for community development and education, emphasizing the importance of empowering individuals and communities to participate actively in shaping their futures. Keywords: Internet of Things, Community development, Education, Inclusive societies, Sensor. (shrink)

I distinguish between three different ideas that have been recently discussed under the heading of 'the intrinsic goods of childhood': that childhood is itself intrinsically valuable, that certain goods are valuable only for children, and that children are being owed other goods than adults. I then briefly defend the claim the childhood is intrinsically good. Most of the chapter is dedicated to the analysis, and rejection, of the claim that certain goods are valuable only for children. This has implications about (...) how a good society should trade off economic productivity on the one hand and goods such as play and unstructured time on the other hand. (shrink)

In an article titled ‘The end of ubuntu’ recently published in this journal, Bernard Matolino and Wenceslaus Kwindingwi argue that contemporary conditions in (South) Africa are such that there is no justification for appealing to an ethic associated with talk of ‘ubuntu’. They argue that political elites who invoke ubuntu do so in ways that serve nefarious functions, such as unreasonably narrowing discourse about how best to live, while the moral ideals of ubuntu are appropriate only for a bygone, pre-modern (...) age. Since there is nothing ethically promising about ubuntu for today’s society, and since elite appeals to it serve undesirable purposes there, the authors conclude that ubuntu in academic and political circles ‘has reached its end’. In this article, I respond to Matolino and Kwindingwi, contending that, in fact, we should view scholarly enquiry into, and the political application of, ubuntu as projects that are only now properly getting started. (shrink)

All that philosophical “theories” of truth do is to demonstrate what is entailed by assuming our common uses and common understandings of the concept of truth. But our common understanding of what truth is is only a part of how truth functions. If we only look at that, we are missing the rest of the picture, namely how truth functions as the foundation for all human communication. I propose that truth functions a lot like morality, in the sense that both (...) truth and morality are normative systems that regulate human behaviour. To best understand this we need to imagine why truth was needed in the first place, and what role it plays in human communication as a whole. Here the philosophical approach of defining the “State of Nature” comes into play, and we obtain an account starting with drawing the relevant distinction between humans and non-human animals, and then showing how a crisis could have arisen from the initial development of language and how collective acknowledgement of truth as a default notion could have solved it, in the same way that collective acknowledgement of a moral system solved the problem of cheats and free riders. To do this, I utilize the idea of common pool resource management, as outlined in the work of the Institutional Economist Elinor Ostrom. (shrink)

Analysing the demands of global justice for the distribution of resources is a complex task and requires consideration of a broad range of issues. Of particular relevance is the effect that different distributions will have on global population growth and individual welfare. Since changes in the consumption and distribution of resources can have major effects on the welfare of the global population, and the rate at which it increases, it is important to establish meaningful principles to ensure a just (...) distribution of resources. In order to establish such principles we must consider the scope of any reproductive rights, and rights to other goods, such as food and health care, as well as examine the extent of duties correlating to those rights. In addition to the impact that distributions of global goods have on the welfare of current generations, it is also important to consider what duties we have, if any, to future generations. -/- The final version of this paper is available to download here: http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/9780470015902.a0024140. (shrink)

Sport poses a number of important and no less significant questions, which, on the face of it, may not necessarily seem very important or significant to begin with – a peculiarity that we believe to be integral to sport itself. This article introduces, explores and outlines the psychoanalytic significance of this peculiarity. It explores how the emotions stirred by sport are intertwined with a realm of fiction and fantasy. Despite its lack of practical utility, sport carries an undeniable gravity, encapsulating (...) the aspirations of communities, nations and continents. As a result, psychoanalysis can be used to critically reflect on the purpose and meaning of sport: that is, why do we need sport, and why, for large sections of the world’s population, do we rely on it? Ultimately, while psychoanalysis maintains a unique relation to a variety of unexpected fields of study – including art, culture and neuroscience – we seek to add to this expanding list of inquiry by including sport in this critical domain. By utilising sport as a platform to elucidate psychoanalytic concepts, it is recognised that sport can also prompt questions for psychoanalysis. In so doing, theoretical discussions on the social, cultural and political dimensions of sport through psychoanalytic theory are introduced and applied. (shrink)

Many have begun to despair that climate justice will prevail even in a minimal form. The affective dimensions of such despair, we suggest, threaten to make climate action appear too demanding. Thus, despair constitutes a moral challenge to individual climate action that has not yet received adequate attention. In response, we defend a duty to act in hope for a more just (climate) future. However, as we see it, this duty falls differentially upon the shoulders of more and less (...) advantaged agents in society. From arguments by Black thinkers like Derrick Bell, we draw a set of distinctions between two types of hope: one for ideal justice, and one for more modest change; and between two types of hopeful actions, those undertaken through formal political channels and those we call 'extra-political' actions; and between two sites of differential moral burdens, those of the privileged and those of the oppressed. Ours is a case for facing even bleak realities, demanding otherwise, and acting in hope to achieve a better future. (shrink)

This research is motivated by the need to unravel the progression of learning models, which have been adapting to meet the demands of society in its constant dynamics of fluctuation and transformation. The aim of this work is to systematically examine the evolution of learning models, highlighting the paradigmatic changes that have favored the transition from traditional learning approaches to more innovative and transdisciplinary proposals. To achieve this, a bibliographic analysis is carried out, supported by the hermeneutic method for (...) the contextual interpretation of literature and discourses, in order to unravel the complexities inherent in the evolution of learning models. The results highlight the limiting influence of the simplicity paradigm in traditional educational formation and the need for a shift towards dialogicity and disciplinary collaboration and integration to advance towards complexity. It concludes by arguing in favor of adopting the complexity paradigm, advocating for a transdisciplinary epistemology and an interstructuring approach to learning, which allow for integral human development. Recognizing human complexity in teaching and learning demands a radical transformation of education towards more holistic and transformative practices, essential for building an equitable and just society. (shrink)

The Illusion of Success: How Glamorizing Extreme Wealth Distorts Reality -/- Introduction -/- In today’s world, extreme wealth accumulation is often portrayed as the ultimate symbol of success. Social media, Hollywood, and business magazines frequently celebrate billionaires, luxury lifestyles, and financial empires, creating an illusion that success is solely defined by material wealth. However, this obsession with extreme riches distorts the true meaning of achievement and fulfillment. While financial stability is important, an overemphasis on wealth as the pinnacle of success (...) ignores ethical concerns, promotes unrealistic standards, and contributes to social inequality. This essay explores why glamorizing extreme wealth creates an illusion of success, provides real-world examples, and suggests solutions to redefine success in a more balanced and meaningful way. -/- The Problems with Glamorizing Extreme Wealth -/- 1. Shallow Definition of Success -/- Success is often equated with material wealth, leading people to believe that financial riches alone define a fulfilling life. This perspective overlooks other essential aspects such as personal growth, happiness, strong relationships, and contributions to society. -/- Example: Many billionaires, despite their immense wealth, express dissatisfaction or regret later in life. Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple, famously reflected on his deathbed that despite his financial achievements, what mattered most was family and love, not wealth. -/- Solution: Society should broaden its definition of success to include well-being, emotional intelligence, social impact, and personal growth. Schools and media should highlight stories of people who achieve success through creativity, innovation, or service rather than just financial gain. -/- 2. Overlooks Ethical Concerns -/- Many individuals accumulate extreme wealth through exploitative means, monopolization, or environmental harm. When wealth is glorified without considering its origins, society sends the wrong message that “winning at any cost” is acceptable. -/- Example: The fast-fashion industry, led by billion-dollar companies like Shein and Zara, thrives on cheap labor and poor working conditions in developing countries. Yet, these brands are celebrated for their financial success while their ethical violations are ignored. -/- Solution: Consumers should be educated about ethical consumption, and governments should enforce fair labor laws and environmental regulations to ensure wealth accumulation does not come at the cost of exploitation. -/- 3. Creates Unattainable Standards -/- The media often showcases the extravagant lifestyles of billionaires—private jets, mega-mansions, and designer brands—as if they are attainable for the average person. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and unrealistic aspirations, causing individuals to chase unattainable financial goals instead of meaningful personal development. -/- Example: Social media influencers often portray luxury lifestyles, leading young people to believe that financial success is the only path to happiness. This illusion pressures individuals into unhealthy financial habits, such as overspending or taking on debt to maintain a lavish lifestyle. -/- Solution: Media platforms should promote financial literacy and realistic wealth-building strategies, emphasizing the importance of saving, investing wisely, and achieving a balanced lifestyle rather than promoting excessive consumerism. -/- 4. Ignores Wealth Inequality -/- By excessively focusing on the ultra-rich, society often ignores the struggles of the majority. Many people face financial hardship, lack access to quality education, and struggle with healthcare costs, yet their stories are overshadowed by the glorification of extreme wealth. -/- Example: In the United States, the wealth gap has widened significantly, with the richest 1% owning more wealth than the bottom 90% combined. Despite this, media coverage often focuses on billionaires like Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos rather than addressing systemic issues like wage stagnation or the rising cost of living. -/- Solution: Governments should implement progressive taxation, better wages, and social programs that ensure economic growth benefits all, not just the wealthy elite. Policies that support entrepreneurship and small businesses can also help create a more balanced economy. -/- 5. False Promise of Happiness -/- Many assume that accumulating vast amounts of money guarantees happiness. However, psychological research shows that after a certain financial threshold (around $75,000 per year, according to studies), more money does not significantly increase happiness. Instead, purpose, meaningful relationships, and well-being play a much larger role in long-term satisfaction. -/- Example: Celebrities like Jim Carrey and MacKenzie Scott (ex-wife of Jeff Bezos) have spoken about how money does not guarantee happiness. MacKenzie Scott has donated billions to charity, stating that fulfillment comes from giving, not accumulating. -/- Solution: People should be encouraged to seek purpose beyond wealth—through meaningful careers, personal development, and contributing to their communities. Schools should teach emotional intelligence and the value of non-material success. -/- 6. Distorts Economic Priorities -/- When extreme wealth is idolized, economic policies often favor the rich over the majority. This leads to tax breaks for corporations, reduced funding for social services, and policies that widen the wealth gap rather than support fair economic growth. -/- Example: In some countries, tax laws favor large corporations while small businesses struggle to survive. Meanwhile, billionaires use loopholes to pay little or no taxes, despite their enormous wealth. -/- Solution: Governments should enforce fair taxation policies and reinvest wealth into public services like education, healthcare, and infrastructure. This ensures economic benefits are distributed more equitably. -/- 7. Encourages Short-Term Thinking -/- The obsession with wealth accumulation often promotes risky financial behavior, gambling mindsets, and a disregard for long-term sustainability. When people chase quick financial success, they may ignore ethical business practices or long-term financial planning. -/- Example: The rise of speculative investments like cryptocurrency and meme stocks has led many individuals to risk their life savings in hopes of instant wealth, often resulting in financial ruin. -/- Solution: Financial education should focus on responsible investment strategies and long-term financial security rather than chasing get-rich-quick schemes. Governments should regulate speculative markets to prevent economic instability. -/- Conclusion: Redefining Success for a Better Society -/- Glamorizing extreme wealth accumulation distorts the true meaning of success, leading to unrealistic expectations, ethical compromises, and social inequality. While financial stability is essential, true success should be measured by a holistic balance—well-being, personal fulfillment, contribution to society, and ethical integrity. -/- To counteract the illusion of success tied solely to wealth, society must shift its focus to values that promote sustainable prosperity. This includes: -/- Redefining success to include social impact, happiness, and personal growth. -/- Promoting ethical business practices that prioritize fair wages and environmental responsibility. -/- Implementing fair economic policies that support small businesses and the working class. -/- Teaching financial literacy to help individuals make informed financial decisions. -/- Encouraging a culture of giving and sustainability rather than excessive consumption. -/- By fostering a more balanced view of success, we can create a society where wealth is not just about accumulation but about shared prosperity, ethical responsibility, and long-term well-being. -/- . (shrink)

Today, in any mature information society, we live neither online nor offline but on life, that is, we increasingly live in that special space that is both analogue and digital, both online and offline. Imagine someone asking whether the water is fresh or salty in the estuary where the river meets the sea. That someone has not understood the special nature of the place. Our information society is that place. And our technologies are perfectly evolved to take advantage (...) of it, like mangroves growing in brackish water. In the mangrove society, machine-readable data, new forms of agency and interactions are constantly evolving. The consequences of such a radical transformation are many, but one is particularly significant and rich in consequences: how should we design the mangrove society, when it comes to the relationship between the natural and the digital? In this text, I argue that the digital blue is a great ally of the environmental green. The two work best in tandem. And if the world will enjoy a sustainable development for the environment that is also socially preferable for humanity, it will be because the green and the blue will have created a virtuous circle of nature and technology. It can be done. There is just no time to waste. (shrink)

Why Does Poverty Still Exist in Many Countries? -/- Despite advances in technology, economic growth, and globalization, poverty remains a significant issue in many countries. While some nations have successfully reduced poverty levels, millions of people still struggle with hunger, lack of education, and inadequate living conditions. The persistence of poverty is not simply due to a lack of resources; rather, it is the result of complex systemic, economic, political, and social factors that continue to hinder progress. Understanding these factors (...) is crucial to developing effective solutions for a more equitable world. -/- Economic Inequality and Wealth Concentration -/- One of the primary reasons poverty remains widespread is economic inequality. In many countries, wealth is concentrated in the hands of a few, leaving a large portion of the population with little access to resources and opportunities. Many economies prioritize profit and market growth over ensuring basic needs for all, resulting in low wages, high living costs, and limited social mobility. As the rich get richer, the poor struggle to survive, creating a cycle that is difficult to break. Without policies that promote fair wealth distribution, poverty will continue to persist. -/- Corruption and Poor Governance -/- Corruption is a major barrier to poverty reduction. In many nations, public funds that should be used for education, healthcare, and social services are instead diverted by corrupt officials. Weak governance leads to mismanagement of resources, ineffective policies, and a lack of accountability. When governments fail to prioritize poverty reduction, citizens are left without essential services and economic opportunities. Fighting corruption and ensuring transparent governance is essential in addressing poverty. -/- Flawed Economic Systems -/- Many economic systems rely on exploitative labor practices, where wages are too low to lift workers out of poverty. Global trade structures also favor wealthier nations, keeping poorer countries dependent on foreign aid and limited economic opportunities. In some regions, industries are controlled by multinational corporations that extract resources without fairly compensating local workers or investing in community development. To reduce poverty, economies must shift towards fair wages, job creation, and sustainable development. -/- Lack of Access to Quality Education -/- Education is one of the most powerful tools for escaping poverty. However, in many countries, access to quality education is limited due to underfunded schools, lack of qualified teachers, and high costs of schooling. Without proper education, people struggle to secure stable employment and improve their living conditions. Investing in education, particularly for marginalized communities, is crucial for breaking the cycle of poverty and creating a more skilled and self-sufficient workforce. -/- Overpopulation and Resource Strain -/- Rapid population growth can strain a country’s resources, making it difficult for governments to provide adequate jobs, housing, and social services. In many developing nations, population growth outpaces economic opportunities, leading to high unemployment rates and increased poverty. Effective family planning, education on sustainable living, and policies that promote economic development alongside population growth can help address this issue. -/- Political and Social Instability -/- Wars, conflicts, and political unrest disrupt economies and displace millions of people, making poverty worse. When a country is in crisis, resources are diverted toward military spending rather than social welfare, and businesses collapse, leaving many unemployed. Additionally, social discrimination based on class, race, or gender often limits access to education, jobs, and healthcare, keeping certain groups in poverty. Peace, stability, and equal opportunities for all citizens are necessary to create an environment where people can thrive. -/- Environmental and Climate Factors -/- Climate change and natural disasters disproportionately affect poorer communities. Droughts, floods, and hurricanes destroy homes, disrupt food supplies, and push already vulnerable populations deeper into poverty. Many developing nations lack the resources to recover from these environmental crises. Implementing sustainable agricultural practices, investing in disaster preparedness, and providing financial assistance to affected communities can help reduce the impact of climate-related poverty. -/- Debt and Economic Dependence -/- Many developing countries are trapped in a cycle of debt, owing large sums to wealthier nations and international financial institutions. High-interest payments on these debts limit the ability of governments to invest in poverty reduction programs, infrastructure, and social services. Additionally, foreign aid often comes with conditions that do not always align with the needs of the poorest populations. Reducing debt burdens and restructuring international financial systems can help countries allocate more resources toward development and poverty alleviation. -/- Inadequate Social Safety Nets -/- In many countries, there are few protections for people who lose their jobs, face medical emergencies, or experience financial hardships. Without social safety nets such as universal healthcare, housing support, and unemployment benefits, people remain vulnerable to economic shocks. Stronger social welfare systems can help lift people out of poverty and prevent them from falling back into it. -/- Cultural and Structural Barriers -/- Traditional power structures and cultural beliefs can also contribute to poverty. In some societies, reforms such as land redistribution or labor rights improvements are resisted by those in power. Additionally, discrimination and systemic inequalities prevent marginalized groups from accessing economic and social opportunities. Changing these deeply rooted structures requires education, advocacy, and policy changes that promote fairness and inclusion. -/- Can Poverty Be Solved? -/- Poverty is not an unsolvable problem, but addressing it requires systemic change. Strong governance, fair economic policies, and investment in education, healthcare, and social services are essential. Global cooperation is also necessary to reduce unfair trade practices, restructure debt, and ensure that developing countries have the resources they need to grow sustainably. If governments, businesses, and individuals work together to prioritize social and economic equity, poverty can be significantly reduced, creating a better future for all. -/- Conclusion -/- The persistence of poverty is not due to a lack of resources but rather the result of economic inequality, corruption, poor governance, flawed economic systems, and structural barriers. While many organizations and governments work toward poverty reduction, true progress requires systemic reforms and global cooperation. By addressing these root causes and ensuring fair opportunities for all, the world can move closer to eradicating poverty and building a more just society. -/- . (shrink)

-/- The Paradox of Internet Innovation: Driven by Advertising Profits -/- The internet was originally designed as a tool for sharing information and enhancing communication. However, in the modern era, the driving force behind its rapid technological innovation is not purely knowledge sharing or connectivity—it is profit from digital advertising. The world’s largest internet companies, including Google, Meta (Facebook), and TikTok, generate the majority of their revenue from advertisements. This has created a paradox: technological advancements in AI, search engines, cloud (...) computing, and social media are often dictated not by the most beneficial innovations for users but by what maximizes advertising revenue. -/- This reality is puzzling. The internet, which many see as a global platform for education, communication, and empowerment, is largely shaped by the need to capture user attention for ad revenue. This essay explores how advertising fuels internet innovation, the unintended consequences of this model, and potential alternatives for sustaining technological progress. -/- How Advertising Fuels Internet Innovation -/- Advertising has become the financial backbone of the internet, funding platforms and services that billions of people use daily. Companies continuously invest in technology to enhance ad targeting, user engagement, and content delivery. Some of the most significant areas of innovation driven by advertising include: -/- 1. Data Collection and Artificial Intelligence (AI) -/- To optimize advertisements, companies use advanced AI and machine learning algorithms to analyze user behavior. These systems refine targeted advertising, making ads more relevant to individuals. This has led to breakthroughs in AI capabilities, from natural language processing to image recognition. AI, originally developed to improve user experience, is now primarily focused on predicting what ads users will click on. -/- 2. User Engagement and Experience -/- Social media platforms, search engines, and entertainment services are designed to maximize user time spent online. Algorithms are constantly improved to recommend content that keeps users engaged. While this enhances user experience, it also raises concerns about addiction, echo chambers, and the spread of misinformation. Many companies optimize their platforms for engagement rather than truth, as more time spent online means more ad exposure. -/- 3. Infrastructure and Speed -/- The need for efficient ad delivery has led to innovations in cloud computing, high-speed networks, and data centers. Companies like Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Google Cloud have built vast infrastructures, initially to support ad-driven businesses, but later benefiting other industries, including healthcare, finance, and education. Without advertising revenue, many of these advancements might not have been possible, but it also means that technological priorities are shaped by commercial interests rather than societal needs. -/- 4. New Business Models and the Digital Economy -/- The advertising-driven internet has given rise to influencer marketing, programmatic ad buying, and personalized promotions. These innovations have reshaped how businesses reach consumers, making the internet a major economic force. However, this also means that content creators, journalists, and even educational platforms are pressured to produce material that attracts views rather than informs or educates. -/- The Paradox: Is Innovation Being Misguided? -/- While advertising has undeniably fueled technological progress, it has also created a paradox. The internet’s evolution is largely dictated by what generates the most revenue for advertisers rather than what is most beneficial for society. This raises several key concerns: -/- Prioritizing Engagement Over Truth: Social media algorithms are optimized to keep users engaged, sometimes at the cost of promoting sensational or misleading content. Viral misinformation can spread rapidly because controversy attracts more clicks. -/- Privacy and Surveillance Issues: To refine ad targeting, companies collect vast amounts of personal data, raising ethical concerns about surveillance and data misuse. Many users are unaware of how much data is being collected and monetized. -/- Monopolization of the Internet: A few major corporations control most digital ad revenue, leading to concerns about market competition, censorship, and corporate influence over information. Smaller platforms struggle to compete with advertising giants like Google and Meta. -/- Without the overwhelming influence of advertising, would the internet have evolved differently? If revenue came primarily from subscriptions, public funding, or decentralized models, innovation might have been more focused on user privacy, open knowledge, and ethical technology development. -/- Can Advertising Sustain Long-Term Innovation? -/- Advertising has certainly accelerated technological progress, but its sustainability as the primary driver of innovation is questionable. The over-reliance on ad revenue has led to problems such as ad fatigue, declining user trust, and regulatory crackdowns on data privacy. As awareness of these issues grows, companies are being pressured to rethink their business models. -/- Potential alternatives to the advertising-driven internet include: -/- Subscription-Based Models: Platforms like Netflix, Patreon, and paid versions of YouTube show that users are willing to pay for ad-free, high-quality content. This model could reduce reliance on surveillance-driven advertising. -/- Publicly Funded Internet Initiatives: Governments or non-profits could fund essential digital services, reducing dependence on commercial advertising. A state-funded search engine or social media network could prioritize unbiased information over engagement metrics. -/- Decentralized and Open-Source Systems: Blockchain technology and decentralized platforms could allow users to control their own data and revenue generation. These technologies could create a more equitable internet economy. -/- However, these alternatives come with their own challenges. Subscription models may create inequality, where only those who can afford to pay get the best experience. Public funding could lead to government control and censorship. Decentralization, while promising, requires mass adoption and significant changes in internet infrastructure. -/- Conclusion -/- The internet’s rapid innovation, largely fueled by advertising profits, has created both opportunities and challenges. While advertising has driven advancements in AI, cloud computing, and user engagement, it has also led to privacy concerns, monopolization, and the prioritization of engagement over truth. This paradox raises the question of whether internet innovation is being guided in the right direction. -/- Ultimately, the future of internet innovation may depend on whether society can balance profit incentives with the broader interests of humanity. If advertising continues to dominate, innovation will likely remain focused on engagement and consumerism. But if alternative funding models gain traction, the internet could evolve in a way that prioritizes user well-being, ethical technology, and the pursuit of knowledge. -/- The internet is a reflection of the incentives that shape it. If we want an internet that serves humanity rather than just advertisers, we must rethink how it is funded and who controls its future. -/- . (shrink)

Following John Rawls, nonideal theory is typically divided into: (1) “partial-compliance theory” and (2) “transitional theory." The former is concerned with those circumstances in which individuals and political regimes do not fully comply with the requirements of justice, such as when people break the law or some individuals do not do their fair share within a distributive scheme. The latter is concerned with circumstances in which background institutions may be unjust or may not exist at all. This paper focuses on (...) issues arising in transitional theory. In particular, I am concerned with what Rawls’ has called “burdened societies," that is, those societies that find themselves in unfavorable conditions, such that their historical, social or economic circumstances make it difficult to establish just institutions. The paper investigates exactly how such burdened societies should proceed towards a more just condition in an acceptable fashion. Rawls himself tells us very little, except to suggest that societies in this condition should look for policies and courses of action that are morally permissible, politically possible and likely to be effective. In this paper I first try to anticipate what a Rawlsian might say about the best way for burdened societies to handle transitional problems and so move towards the ideal of justice. Next, I construct a model of transitional justice for burdened societies. Ultimately, I argue for a model of transitional justice that makes use of a nonideal version of Rawls’ notion of the worst-off representative person. (shrink)

Political theorists study the attributes of desirable social-moral states of affairs. Schaefer (forthcoming) aims to show that "static political theory" of this kind rests on shaky foundations. His argument revolves around an application of an abstruse mathematical theorem -- Kakutani's fixed point theorem -- to the social-moral domain. We show that Schaefer has misunderstood the implications of this theorem for political theory. Theorists who wish to study the attributes of social-moral states of affairs should carry on, safe in the knowledge (...) that Kakutani's theorem poses no threat to this enterprise. (shrink)

This article critically analyzes Rawls’s attitude toward envy. In A Theory of Justice, Rawls is predominantly concerned with the threat that class envy poses to political stability. Yet he also briefly discusses the kind of envy that individuals experience toward their social peers, which he calls particular envy, and which I refer to as peer envy. He quickly concludes, however, that particular envy would not present a serious risk to the stability of his just society. In this article, (...) I contest this claim by arguing that the principles that structure Rawls’s ideal society are likely to exacerbate particular envy to a politically risky extent. Section 1 reconstructs his account of envy, giving special attention to his belief that competition kindles envy between peers. Section 2 then examines the way in which Rawls often endorses rivalry within the body politic. I argue that the society governed by justice as fairness is, on account of this rivalry, likely to generate a politically problematic degree of particular envy. In Section 3, I invoke ancient Greece as an example of a society that was, as a result of its intense competitiveness, often imperiled by dangerously elevated levels of peer envy. I then survey the key institutional mechanisms by which the ancient Greeks sought to manage this hazardous emotion. It turns out, however, that most of these mechanisms would be unavailable to Rawls insofar as they starkly contravene his principles of justice. I conclude that if Rawlsians wish to establish a society that fosters rivalry, they would do well to reflect on the means by which peer envy can be effectively harnessed. (shrink)

War as intense armed conflict between states, governments, societies, or para groups, such as mercenaries, insurgents, etc is not old fashion but continues to be the vibrant and violet of society (ies). Many literatures relating to the war, Just war and just war theories pay attention mainly at the conflicts as a main cause of war but pass by about the cause of conflicts leading to the war. The objective of this paper is thus, to assess sources (...) of conflicts leading to the war, and come up with recommendation to narrow situations provoking conflicts leading to the war. Research approach employed was qualitative to qualify ideas and opinions of scholars, who conducted researches on war, just war and just war theories; books, journals and internet sources dedicated to the cause and consequences of war and sources concerned with the Jus Ad Bellum, Jus in Bello and Jus post Bellum have been reviewed. It was found that ambitions of humans to realize their unlimited natural rights, such as economic rights, political rights and extreme desire to un equitable utilization of such rights cause a war of “all against all”. The study recommends that authority better to avoid or reduce extent of conflict among humans, and humans to learn limit their unlimited natural rights for the sake of peace and security of the business. Key words: war, Just war theories, Jus Ad Bellum, Jus in Bello, Jus post bellum. -/- . (shrink)

Ideally, should liberals in a pluralistic society be able to agree to abide by a common legal system such that all their disputes are resolved without resort to illegal force? Rawls believes the answer is “yes.” I explain and defend his answer, but I also conclude, focusing on the example of abortion, that the truth is “not necessarily, not always.” Rawls’s conceptions of reasonable citizens and public reason help explain why there is a strong prima facie duty to forswear (...) illegal force. It is based on the duty to respect others, which requires that one be able to justify one's actions to them insofar as they are reasonable and matters of basic justice are at issue. One cannot justify using illegal force to those who reasonably think a law is just; to them it is a form of disrespect. Nonetheless, if one reasonably thinks that a fundamental injustice is tolerated or even established by the law, then one may be no less reasonable than one has reason to be if one uses illegal force, sacrificing this form of respect to right a greater wrong. (shrink)

The rapid expansion of the public discussion and research on just transition implies the risk of watering down either justice or the (eco-)socio-technical transition itself. We create a theoretical notion of just transition boundaries and propose it to help consider non-negotiable limits to just transition discourse and make sense of negotiations within such limits. Just transition boundaries are comprised of ecological and social boundaries. They determine that just transition-processes must bring societies effectively within the safety (...) thresholds of the two most critical planetary boundaries, climate change and biodiversity loss, and must do that by means and supportive measures that protect vulnerable groups from falling or getting stuck below social minimums in those processes. Boundaries leave room for plural values and visions for realizing transitions and remaining within safe thresholds in community-specific conditions. Context-specific additions to what just transition should cover are possible insofar as they do not contradict or risk just transition boundaries. In addition to justifying and conceptualizing just transition boundaries, we reflect on its implications for policymaking and research. (shrink)

Is Marriage and Having a Family Compulsory in Society? -/- Marriage and family have historically been viewed as essential institutions in many societies, shaping social structures, traditions, and even economies. However, as societies evolve, perspectives on marriage and family have changed. While some still regard them as fundamental aspects of life, others see them as personal choices rather than obligations. The question remains: Is marriage and having a family compulsory in a society? The answer is no, as Individuals (...) today have the freedom to choose their paths based on personal aspirations, financial stability, and societal factors. However, despite this freedom, many young people still face immense pressure to marry, even when they are not yet emotionally or financially prepared. -/- The Traditional View of Marriage and Family -/- In many cultures, marriage has been considered a necessary milestone in life. Historically, it served as a means of ensuring financial security, strengthening social ties, and continuing family lineage. For example, in ancient China, marriage was arranged by families based on social status and economic advantage rather than personal choice. Similarly, in medieval Europe, noble families often arranged marriages to secure alliances and wealth. -/- Even in modern times, some societies still pressure individuals to marry. In India, for example, arranged marriages are still common, with families playing a significant role in selecting a spouse. In some Middle Eastern countries, societal norms strongly encourage marriage, and in some cases, unmarried individuals—especially women—may face social stigma. These cultural perspectives emphasize the importance of marriage not just for personal companionship but as a duty to family and society. -/- Having children is also seen as an obligation in some cultures. In Japan, the declining birth rate has become a concern, leading the government to introduce policies that encourage marriage and childbearing, such as financial incentives and extended parental leave. However, despite these efforts, many young Japanese people choose to remain single or delay marriage due to financial pressures and career aspirations. -/- Pressures That Force Young People into Marriage -/- Despite the increasing acceptance of personal choice in marriage, many young people still feel pressured to marry due to various societal, cultural, and familial factors. -/- 1. Family Expectations and Cultural Norms In many societies, parents and extended family members expect young adults to marry by a certain age. For example, in the Philippines, it is common for relatives to ask young people, “Kailan ka magpapakasal?” (“When will you get married?”) during family gatherings. This social pressure can make individuals feel obligated to marry, even if they are not ready. -/- 2. Religious Beliefs Many religious traditions emphasize marriage as a sacred duty. In some Christian, Muslim, and Hindu communities, staying single for too long may be viewed as undesirable or even sinful. Some religious teachings also discourage premarital relationships, making marriage seem like the only acceptable way to experience companionship and intimacy. -/- 3. Fear of Social Judgment In some cultures, being single for too long is often associated with negative stereotypes. Women, in particular, may be labeled as “old maids” or “leftovers” if they remain unmarried past a certain age. In China, the term “Sheng Nu” (leftover women) is used to describe women over 27 who are still single, putting immense pressure on them to find a husband. Similarly, men who are not married by their 30s may be seen as irresponsible or immature. -/- 4. Economic and Financial Pressures In some societies, marriage is seen as a way to achieve financial security. Young people from economically disadvantaged backgrounds may feel pressured to marry someone who can provide financial stability, even if they are not emotionally prepared for marriage. For example, in some rural parts of Africa and South Asia, early marriages are arranged to provide financial relief to the bride’s family. -/- 5. Peer Pressure Seeing friends and classmates getting married can create a sense of urgency, making individuals feel as though they are “falling behind” in life. In social media-driven cultures, where people frequently post wedding and engagement photos, young adults may feel pressure to conform to the trend, even if they are not ready for marriage. -/- 6. Unplanned Pregnancy In conservative societies, an unplanned pregnancy often leads to marriage due to social expectations and family pressure. In the Philippines, for example, “shotgun weddings” (forced marriages due to pregnancy) are still common, especially among young couples. While this may seem like a solution to social stigma, it often results in marriages that are unstable due to emotional immaturity and financial struggles. -/- Changing Perspectives in Modern Society -/- In contemporary society, marriage and family are increasingly viewed as personal choices rather than obligations. Many individuals prioritize career advancement, personal development, or other life goals. For instance, in Western countries like the United States and Canada, there has been a significant rise in the number of single people who choose to remain unmarried or cohabit without legally formalizing their relationships. Celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, who has remained unmarried despite a long-term relationship, exemplify this shift in societal norms. -/- Additionally, financial stability plays a crucial role in decisions about marriage and children. In urban areas, the rising cost of living, housing, and childcare often discourages young couples from starting a family. For example, in South Korea, the term “Sampo Generation” (meaning “Three-Give-Up Generation”) describes young people who forgo marriage, children, and homeownership due to economic hardships. This phenomenon highlights how financial factors influence personal decisions in modern society. -/- Alternatives to Traditional Family Structures -/- As societies become more accepting of diverse lifestyles, alternative family structures have emerged. Single-parent families, same-sex couples raising children, and individuals choosing to remain child-free are increasingly recognized. For example, in Scandinavian countries like Sweden and Denmark, cohabitation without marriage is common, and legal protections are provided for unmarried couples. -/- Another example is the concept of “chosen families,” where people form deep, supportive relationships outside of biological ties. In LGBTQ+ communities, for instance, individuals often build close family-like relationships with friends who provide emotional and financial support. This demonstrates that love, care, and support do not necessarily require legal marriage or biological parenthood. -/- Conclusion -/- Marriage and family remain significant in many cultures, but they are not compulsory in modern society. While traditional expectations still influence many people’s decisions, growing individual freedom allows people to shape their lives based on personal values, financial realities, and career aspirations. However, young people still experience immense pressure to marry due to family expectations, religious beliefs, social stigma, and economic factors. These pressures often lead individuals into marriage before they are truly ready, sometimes resulting in unhappy or unstable relationships. -/- As society continues to evolve, the acceptance of diverse family structures further highlights that fulfillment and happiness are not dependent on marriage or having children. Instead, individuals should have the right to choose whether to marry or remain single without fear of judgment or pressure. Ultimately, personal happiness and well-being should be prioritized over societal expectations. -/- . (shrink)

The Human System and the Universal Law of Balance: A Foundation for a Stable Society -/- By Angelito Malicse -/- Introduction -/- Every human being is a complete system, constantly interacting with other complete systems. This interconnected nature of human existence suggests that personal experience, decision-making, and societal structures are not random but governed by natural laws—specifically, the universal law of balance. By understanding this, we can address major societal problems by ensuring that individual and collective actions maintain equilibrium (...) rather than create instability. This essay explores how recognizing humans as complete systems interacting within a larger framework can provide solutions for governance, education, and societal harmony. -/- Humans as Self-Regulating Systems -/- Each human functions as an autonomous yet interdependent system. Like biological homeostasis, where the body maintains internal stability despite external changes, individuals regulate their thoughts, emotions, and actions in response to their environment. However, this regulation is not isolated—every person’s decisions and behaviors influence others, creating a dynamic feedback loop of cause and effect. -/- In this framework, free will is not absolute but operates within constraints set by the universal law of balance. People make choices based on personal needs, external conditions, and social influences. When decisions align with nature’s balance, they contribute to stability. When they violate this balance—due to ignorance, misinformation, or unchecked desires—problems arise, both individually and collectively. -/- Interconnectedness and Societal Stability -/- Since every person is a complete system interacting with others, society itself functions as a larger system composed of these individual systems. Social structures—such as governments, economies, and cultures—emerge from these interactions and must also maintain balance. When individuals or groups act against this equilibrium, social problems arise. -/- For example, economic inequality can be seen as an imbalance where resources are distributed in a way that destabilizes the system. Environmental destruction results from ignoring the balance between human consumption and nature’s regenerative capacity. Political conflicts emerge when leadership decisions disrupt the natural equilibrium of power and governance. These problems do not exist in isolation; they are symptoms of an underlying imbalance in the human system. -/- Recognizing this interconnectedness is crucial for solving these issues. Instead of treating problems as separate crises, we must address the root cause—misalignment with the universal law of balance. This requires a shift in how we approach governance, education, and decision-making. -/- Education as a Tool for Systemic Balance -/- To create a stable society, individuals must be taught how their decisions contribute to or disrupt the balance of the system. Education should not merely focus on acquiring knowledge but on understanding how personal and collective choices influence the world. A holistic educational system should integrate: -/- 1. Critical Thinking – Teaching individuals to analyze and assess the consequences of their actions within the broader system. -/- 2. Ethical Decision-Making – Emphasizing responsibility in maintaining balance in personal and societal interactions. -/- 3. Systems Thinking – Understanding how different aspects of life—economy, environment, politics—are interconnected. -/- 4. Scientific and Philosophical Awareness – Bridging material and conceptual knowledge to provide a balanced understanding of reality. -/- By educating individuals in this way, we empower them to act in harmony with the universal law of balance, reducing societal instability. -/- Leadership and Governance Based on Balance -/- Leaders and policymakers must also recognize that they are part of this interconnected system. Decisions made at the highest levels influence the equilibrium of the entire society. Policies that prioritize short-term gains over long-term balance create instability, while those that align with natural equilibrium foster sustainability and justice. -/- A governance model based on balance would: -/- Ensure fair distribution of resources to prevent extreme economic disparities. -/- Implement environmental policies that respect the balance between human needs and nature’s limits. -/- Foster international relations based on mutual cooperation rather than conflict and competition. -/- Promote education and leadership training centered on maintaining societal equilibrium. -/- By integrating the principle of balance into leadership, we can create policies that address the root causes of instability rather than merely reacting to crises. -/- Conclusion -/- Humans are not isolated beings but complete systems interacting within a larger network. Recognizing this interconnectedness is key to solving major societal problems. When individuals and leaders understand that their decisions must align with the universal law of balance, they can contribute to stability rather than disruption. -/- By applying this understanding to education, governance, and daily decision-making, we can create a society that is more just, sustainable, and resilient. The key to a better world is not in isolated solutions but in a fundamental shift in perspective—one that sees all human actions as part of a larger, self-regulating system governed by the principles of balance. -/- . (shrink)

Can political sovereignty still be theoretically and practically useful in tackling climate change in a socially fair way? The global nature of climate change unequivocally demands a high degree of international coordination. Traditionally viewed as an impediment to effective climate action, sovereignty has been criticised for fostering nationalistic and isolationist tendencies that obstruct global environmental cooperation. This paper challenges the prevailing “sovereignty-as-enemy” thesis and argues for a nuanced reappraisal of sovereignty as a potentially valuable asset in addressing the climate crisis. (...) This paper posits that sovereignty can be a critical tool for promoting decisive and equitable climate policies by examining its historical and theoretical underpinnings and complex relationship with neoliberal globalisation. The argument is rooted in a multidisciplinary literature comprising critiques of the neoliberal economy and globalisation model, the erosion of states’ sovereign prerogatives, critiques of neoliberal environmentalism, the interaction between trade and climate regimes, and the intellectual history of sovereignty. The public-private dichotomy is identified as a significant feature of sovereignty in times of climate change. Keywords:sovereignty, climate politics, neoliberal globalisation, public-private divide. (shrink)

When confronted with especially complex ecological and social problems such as climate change, how are we to think about responsibility for collective inaction? Social and political philosophers have begun to consider the complexities of acting collectively with a view to creating more just and sustainable societies. Some have recently turned their attention to the question of whether more or less formally organized groups can ever be held morally responsible for not acting collectively, or else for not organizing themselves into (...) groups capable of so doing. In this paper I argue that several questionable assumptions have shaped the character and scope of inquiry to this point, precluding us from grappling with a range of important questions concerning the epistemic dimensions of collective inaction. I offer an overview of recent conversation concerning collective inaction, advance a critique of the picture of responsibility that has emerged from this conversation, and propose an alternative approach to th... (shrink)

While there is a steadily growing literature on epistemic injustice in healthcare, there are few discussions of the role that biomedical technologies play in harming patients in their capacity as knowers. Through an analysis of newborn and pediatric genetic and genomic sequencing technologies (GSTs), I argue that biomedical technologies can lead to epistemic injustice through two primary pathways: epistemic capture and value partitioning. I close by discussing the larger ethical and political context of critical analyses of GSTs and their broader (...) implications for just and equitable healthcare delivery. (shrink)

As a continuation of this author’s previous cosmological neuroscience papers on the hypothesized Soul of Multiverse and its possible laws, the present work examined the social aspects of four of these laws. The following key aspects were recognized: (1) Knowing about the cosmic Law of Coexistence in Diversity can let our mind respect not only the endless diversity of human beings but also the cohesive force of space-time in which all are connected. This may help realizing the superiority of cooperation (...) for shared goals over competition for gaining by harming others. (2) Knowing about the cosmic Law of Truth in Complexity can ready our mind to confront the problems of societies with the understanding that these problems are much more complex than generally thought. This may help initiating the needed intellectual renaissance of the 21st century. (3) Knowing about the cosmic Law of Divine - Evil Asymmetry can make our mind appreciate the slight yet sufficient supremacy of divine over evil. This may help restoring faith in the eventual creation of a just society, where social justice is defined as an administrative mechanism providing the right conditions for every human being to accomplish his or her Conscience-led Mission throughout life, while allowing each of these accomplishments to be reciprocated with the gratitude it induced in the involved social systems, small or large, to let equal opportunities in life coexist with due diversity in welcomed, not abused, social recognitions. And (4) knowing about the cosmic Law of Lives to Transcend can empower our mind to build on these advances. This may help moving evolution towards the human species worthy of its origin and destination. (shrink)

The notion that business organizations are akin to Aristotelian political communities has been a central feature of research into virtue ethics in business. In this article, I begin by outlining this “community thesis” and go on to argue that psychological research into the “just world fallacy” presents it with a significant challenge. The just world fallacy undermines our ability to implement an Aristotelian conception of justice, to each as he or she is due, and imperils the relational equality (...) required for shared participation in communities. In the final section, I offer a description of what Aristotelian community might look like within organizations, and some suggestions about how it may be possible to resist the challenge posed by the just world fallacy. (shrink)

In medical ethics, business ethics, and some branches of political philosophy (multi-culturalism, issues of just allocation, and equitable distribution) the literature increasingly combines insights from ethics and the social sciences. Some authors in medical ethics even speak of a new phase in the history of ethics, hailing "empirical ethics" as a logical next step in the development of practical ethics after the turn to "applied ethics." The name empirical ethics is ill-chosen because of its associations with "descriptive ethics." (...) Unlike descriptive ethics, however, empirical ethics aims to be both descriptive and normative. The first question on which I focus is what kind of empirical research is used by empirical ethics and for which purposes. I argue that the ultimate aim of all empirical ethics is to improve the context-sensitivity of ethics. The second question is whether empirical ethics is essentially connected with specific positions in meta-ethics. I show that in some kinds of meta-ethical theories, which I categorize as broad contextualist theories, there is an intrinsic need for connecting normative ethics with empirical social research. But context-sensitivity is a goal that can be aimed for from any meta-ethical position. (shrink)

Modern Monetary Theory and the Universal Law of Balance in Nature -/- Introduction -/- Modern Monetary Theory (MMT) challenges traditional economic thinking by proposing that sovereign governments with their own currency are not financially constrained like households. Instead, they can issue money to finance public spending as long as they manage inflation and resource allocation effectively. When viewed through the lens of my universal formula, which is based on the universal law of balance in nature, MMT emerges as a valid (...) approach to economic management. However, to fully align with natural balance, it must incorporate productivity (GDP), GDP per capita, the Gini coefficient, and population regulation to ensure a stable and just society. -/- The law of Karma in Economic Systems -/- The law of karma, or cause and effect, applies to all systems, whether natural or human-made. For any system to function properly, it must be free of defects or errors. In the economic context, this means that government policies must ensure that money creation and resource distribution do not lead to instability or inequality. -/- MMT recognizes that government spending can boost Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by increasing demand for goods and services. However, if money creation exceeds productive capacity, inflation occurs, disrupting economic balance. Conversely, if spending is too low, unemployment and stagnation result. This delicate balance follows the same principle as a well-functioning system—any defect, such as misallocation of resources or failure to regulate money flow, leads to dysfunction. -/- Using MMT to Increase GDP Without Causing Inflation -/- One of the main criticisms of MMT is the risk of inflation. However, a government can increase GDP annually without triggering inflation if it directs money creation toward productive sectors that expand the economy’s capacity. This aligns with the universal law of balance—spending must be proportional to the system’s ability to absorb it. -/- To achieve this, the government must focus on: -/- 1. Investing in Infrastructure and Public Goods -/- Building roads, bridges, and energy grids increases economic efficiency and reduces business costs. -/- Improved public transportation lowers logistics costs and improves workforce mobility. -/- Infrastructure spending has a high multiplier effect, meaning that every dollar spent generates more economic activity. -/- 2. Funding Research, Development, and Innovation -/- Investing in new technologies and industries increases long-term productivity, ensuring that new money corresponds to real economic growth. -/- Government-funded innovation, such as AI, renewable energy, and biotechnology, leads to new industries and job creation, expanding GDP without inflationary pressure. -/- 3. Expanding Education and Workforce Training -/- Government-funded education and vocational training programs enhance labor productivity, ensuring that the workforce can meet the demands of evolving industries. -/- A highly skilled workforce increases GDP by producing higher-value goods and services, preventing inflation by raising overall economic efficiency. -/- 4. Supporting Strategic Industrial Growth -/- Providing targeted investment and subsidies to high-potential industries ensures that economic expansion is driven by productive capacity rather than speculation. -/- Countries like South Korea and China have used government spending to develop manufacturing and technology sectors, increasing GDP without inflation. -/- 5. Encouraging Sustainable Energy and Agriculture -/- Investment in renewable energy reduces long-term reliance on fossil fuels, lowering production costs and ensuring energy security. -/- Supporting modern agricultural practices increases food supply, preventing price spikes that contribute to inflation. -/- By focusing government spending on productivity-enhancing sectors, MMT can be applied to grow GDP while avoiding excess money supply beyond the economy’s capacity, ensuring economic balance. -/- Balancing GDP and GDP per Capita -/- While GDP measures the total value of goods and services produced in an economy, it does not reflect the distribution of wealth and individual well-being. A country can have a high GDP but still experience widespread poverty if wealth is concentrated among a few. -/- To maintain balance, economic policies must focus on GDP per capita, which measures average economic output per person. If GDP grows but the population increases at an unsustainable rate, per capita wealth declines, leading to economic stress. This aligns with my universal formula, which emphasizes that decision-making must adhere to natural balance. A nation must regulate population growth to ensure that resources, jobs, and social services are adequate for all citizens. -/- Feedback Mechanisms in Economic Policy -/- The economy, like all natural systems, operates through feedback mechanisms. MMT recognizes that government spending fuels growth, but excessive money creation without corresponding productivity leads to inflation. This is where taxation and investment in productivity serve as balancing tools. -/- If inflation rises, taxes can be increased to reduce excess money in circulation. -/- If unemployment is high, the government can spend more on job programs and infrastructure to boost productivity. -/- If wealth concentration worsens, progressive taxation can redistribute income, preventing social instability. -/- The Gini Coefficient and Economic Justice -/- The Gini coefficient measures income inequality within a society. A higher value indicates greater inequality, which can lead to social unrest and economic imbalance. If wealth is concentrated among a small elite while the majority struggle, the economy becomes unstable, much like a defective system that cannot function efficiently. -/- MMT provides tools to reduce inequality by funding public services, education, and healthcare without relying on traditional tax revenues. However, this spending must be directed toward increasing productivity and ensuring fair wealth distribution to avoid imbalances. A well-functioning system should aim for a moderate Gini coefficient, where economic opportunities are accessible to all. -/- Population Regulation to Maintain Balance -/- A key factor in economic stability is population regulation. If a country’s population grows too rapidly, GDP per capita declines, straining resources, infrastructure, and public services. Conversely, a shrinking population can lead to labor shortages and economic contraction. -/- To maintain balance, governments must implement policies that ensure population growth aligns with economic capacity. These include: -/- Education and family planning programs to encourage sustainable growth. -/- Investment in automation and AI to offset potential labor shortages in aging populations. -/- Sustainable immigration policies to balance workforce needs. -/- Conclusion -/- Modern Monetary Theory, when properly applied, aligns with the universal law of balance in nature by ensuring that economic systems function without defects. However, for MMT to work effectively, it must integrate GDP growth, GDP per capita, income distribution (Gini coefficient), and population regulation to maintain stability. -/- By directing money creation toward productive investments, such as infrastructure, education, innovation, and sustainable industries, governments can increase GDP annually without triggering inflation. This approach ensures that money supply matches real economic output, preventing the imbalance that leads to economic crises. -/- Incorporating these principles into policy-making ensures that economic decisions are guided by natural laws, leading to a more stable, just, and prosperous society. -/- . (shrink)

-/- Integrating Spirituality, Ethics, and Natural Law in Education -/- Introduction -/- Spirituality has long been regarded as a guiding force for human behavior, providing a sense of morality, purpose, and inner peace. However, in modern education, spirituality is often separated from rational thought and critical analysis. This has led to a gap between faith-based morality and scientific understanding. To bridge this gap, a holistic educational approach must integrate spirituality with ethics, critical thinking, and natural law. By doing so, students (...) can develop a deeper sense of moral responsibility, rational decision-making, and a balanced perspective on life. -/- The Role of Deep Faith and Genuine Spirituality in Human Behavior -/- Deep faith in God and genuine spirituality play a crucial role in shaping human behavior and thinking. They provide: -/- 1. Moral and Ethical Guidance – Many spiritual traditions emphasize honesty, kindness, and self-discipline, which are essential for maintaining ethical behavior. -/- 2. Inner Peace and Self-Control – Spirituality promotes mindfulness, reducing impulsive reactions driven by anger or fear. -/- 3. A Higher Purpose and Meaning – When people see their lives as part of a greater purpose, they are less likely to engage in negative behavior. -/- 4. Forgiveness and Transformation – Spiritual teachings encourage forgiveness, helping individuals overcome resentment and negative emotions. -/- 5. Accountability and Responsibility – A belief in moral consequences, such as karma or divine justice, reinforces ethical decision-making. -/- 6. A Positive Mindset and Hope – Faith fosters resilience and optimism, preventing destructive thought patterns like anxiety and despair. -/- 7. A Strong Support System – Spiritual communities provide emotional and moral support, helping individuals stay on a positive path. -/- 8. Alignment with Natural Laws – A rational approach to spirituality aligns it with universal laws, ensuring it remains practical and applicable in daily life. -/- Addressing Differences in Religious Beliefs -/- One of the major challenges in integrating spirituality into education is the diversity of religious beliefs. However, this challenge can be addressed through an inclusive and rational approach: -/- 1. Focus on Universal Moral Principles – Instead of promoting specific religious doctrines, the curriculum should emphasize common ethical values such as compassion, honesty, justice, and balance. -/- 2. Teach Comparative Spirituality – Educating students on different spiritual traditions in an objective way fosters mutual respect and understanding while preventing religious bias. -/- 3. Separate Faith from Dogma – While students can practice their own religious beliefs, the educational system should focus on the rational and ethical aspects of spirituality that apply to all people. -/- 4. Encourage Critical Thinking – Teaching students how to analyze spiritual beliefs logically and scientifically ensures that faith is not based on blind acceptance but on reason and understanding. -/- 5. Promote Secular Ethics Alongside Spirituality – Students should be taught that ethical behavior and moral responsibility do not require religious belief but can be understood through natural laws and human values. -/- Practical Steps for Implementing Spirituality in the Educational System -/- To create a holistic and effective educational system, spirituality should be part of a broader curriculum on ethics, critical thinking, and natural law. This can be achieved through: -/- 1. Ethics and Moral Philosophy Courses – Teaching students about ethical systems, natural law, and the consequences of moral decisions. -/- 2. Critical Thinking and Reasoning – Encouraging students to analyze spiritual and philosophical concepts rationally, distinguishing between faith-based beliefs and universal truths. -/- 3. Psychology and Neuroscience of Spirituality – Exploring how spiritual practices affect the brain and behavior, reinforcing their practical benefits. -/- 4. Systems Thinking and Interconnectivity – Demonstrating how human actions, societal structures, and natural ecosystems are interconnected through balance and feedback mechanisms. -/- 5. Comparative Spirituality and Universal Values – Teaching different spiritual traditions while focusing on common values such as compassion, justice, and personal responsibility. -/- 6. Integration with Science and Philosophy – Lessons should include discussions on how natural laws (such as cause and effect, balance, and interconnected systems) relate to ethical and spiritual behavior. -/- 7. Experiential Learning and Meditation Practices – Non-religious meditation and mindfulness exercises can help students develop self-awareness, emotional regulation, and inner peace. -/- Conclusion -/- Integrating spirituality with ethics, critical thinking, and natural law in education is not about promoting religious dogma but about fostering a balanced and rational approach to human development. A well-structured curriculum that emphasizes moral responsibility, logical reasoning, and an understanding of natural laws can correct negative behaviors and thought patterns while guiding individuals toward ethical and purposeful lives. By teaching spirituality in a way that aligns with reason and scientific understanding, we can cultivate a generation that is both morally grounded and intellectually empowered to solve complex societal problems. -/- This approach ensures that spiritual education is inclusive, respects diverse beliefs, and remains aligned with universal natural laws, creating a foundation for a more just and harmonious society. -/- . (shrink)

What would be the consequence of embracing skepticism about free will and/or desert-based moral responsibility? What if we came to disbelieve in moral responsibility? What would this mean for our interpersonal relationships, society, morality, meaning, and the law? What would it do to our standing as human beings? Would it cause nihilism and despair as some maintain? Or perhaps increase anti-social behavior as some recent studies have suggested (Vohs and Schooler 2008; Baumeister, Masicampo, and DeWall 2009)? Or would it (...) rather have a humanizing effect on our practices and policies, freeing us from the negative effects of what Bruce Waller calls the “moral responsibility system” (2014, p. 4)? These questions are of profound pragmatic importance and should be of interest independent of the metaphysical debate over free will. As public proclamations of skepticism continue to rise, and as the mass media continues to run headlines announcing free will and moral responsibility are illusions, we need to ask what effects this will have on the general public and what the responsibility is of professionals. (shrink)

This paper explores Pope Francis’ and the Holy See’s reaction to the war in Ukraine, and attempts to explain the logic behind it. After introducing the Holy See’s statements since the start of Russia’s aggression, the author reads them through the background of Catholic social teaching. In particular, he claims that the ambiguities of the Holy See’s position are due to the unresolved tension between the traditional just war approach and a tendency towards nonviolence. The latter has acquired prominence (...) over the last decades, in particular with Francis’ Fratelli Tutti. The author concludes that the war in Ukraine represents a pivotal moment in the Catholic Church’s thinking on war and peace. (shrink)

Despite recent growth in surveillance capabilities there has been little discussion regarding the ethics of surveillance. Much of the research that has been carried out has tended to lack a coherent structure or fails to address key concerns. I argue that the just war tradition should be used as an ethical framework which is applicable to surveillance, providing the questions which should be asked of any surveillance operation. In this manner, when considering whether to employ surveillance, one should take (...) into account the reason for the surveillance, the authority of the surveillant, whether or not there has been a declaration of intent, whether surveillance is an act of last resort, what is the likelihood of success of the operation and whether surveillance is a proportionate response. Once underway, the methods of surveillance should be proportionate to the occasion and seek to target appropriate people while limiting surveillance of those deemed inappropriate. By drawing on the just war tradition, ethical questions regarding surveillance can draw on a long and considered discourse while gaining a framework which, I argue, raises all the key concerns and misses none. (shrink)

In a study that goes beyond the ego affirmed by Freudian psychology, David Levin offers an account of personal growth and self-fulfillment based on the development of our capacity for listening. Drawing on the work of Dewey, Piaget, Erikson, and Kohlberg, he uses the vocabulary of phenomenological psychology to distinguish four stages in this developmental process and brings us the significance of these stages for music, psychotherapy, ethics, politics, and ecology. This analysis substantiates his claim that the development of our (...) listening capacity is a process that fits Foucault's conception of a practice of the self, forming our character as social beings and moral agents. David Levin contends that our self- development as auditory beings is necessary for the achievement of a just and democratic society. (shrink)

The republican tradition has long been ambivalent about markets and commercial society more generally: from the contrasting positions of Rousseau and Smith in the eighteenth century to recent neorepublican debates about capitalism, republicans have staked out diverse positions on fundamental issues of political economy. Rather than offering a systematic historical survey of these discussions, this chapter will instead focus on the leading neo-republican theory—that of Philip Pettit—and consider its implications for market society. As I will argue, Pettit’s theory (...) is even friendlier to markets than most have believed: far from condemning commercial society, his theory recognizes that competitive markets and their institutional preconditions are an alternative means to limit arbitrary power across the domestic, economic, and even political spheres. While most republican theorists have focused on political means to limit such power—including both constitutional means (e.g., separation of powers, judicial review, the rule of law, federalism) and participatory ones (democratic elections and oversight)—I will examine here an economic model of republicanism that can complement, substitute for, and at times displace the standard political model. Whether we look at spousal markets, labor markets, or residential markets within federal systems, state policies that heighten competition among their participants and resource exit from abusive relationships within them can advance freedom as non-domination as effectively or even more effectively than social-democratic approaches that have recently gained enthusiasts among republicans. These conclusions suggest that democracy, be it social or political, is just one means among others for restraining arbitrary power and is consequently less central to (certain versions of) republicanism than we may have expected. So long as they counteract domination, economic inroads into notionally democratic territory are no more worrisome than constitutional ones. (shrink)

The Science of Balanced Leadership and Competition: The Role of AI Technology as a Guide -/- Introduction -/- Leadership and competition are two fundamental forces that shape human societies, economies, and institutions. However, their effectiveness depends on how they are managed. When leadership is imbalanced, it leads to corruption, authoritarianism, or inefficiency. When competition is unregulated, it creates inequality, exploitation, and instability. The science of balanced leadership and competition is an approach that integrates principles of natural balance, ethical decision-making, and (...) systemic thinking to ensure sustainable and just progress. -/- In the modern era, artificial intelligence (AI) technology serves as a powerful tool to assist leaders in maintaining this balance. AI can analyze vast amounts of data, predict potential crises, and offer insights for decision-making. Properly programmed AI can help guide leaders toward fair and ethical governance while also ensuring competition remains beneficial rather than destructive. -/- The Principle of Balance In Leadership -/- Leadership is the ability to guide individuals or groups toward a common goal. However, effective leadership is not just about authority; it requires a balance between control and flexibility, vision and adaptability, power and responsibility. -/- 1. The Balance Between Authority and Participation – Leaders must maintain authority to make decisive actions but also encourage participation from team members. Excessive authoritarianism suppresses innovation, while excessive democracy leads to indecisiveness. A balanced leader allows structured decision-making while considering input from others. -/- 2. The Balance Between Short-Term and Long-Term Goals – Effective leaders understand that immediate success must not come at the cost of future stability. Governments that prioritize economic growth without environmental responsibility, for example, create long-term disasters. Sustainable leadership requires long-term planning while addressing short-term needs. AI technology can analyze patterns, predict long-term consequences, and assist leaders in making informed, future-proof decisions. -/- 3. The Balance Between Competence and Morality – A leader may be highly competent but unethical, leading to corruption and exploitation. Conversely, a morally upright but incompetent leader may fail to implement necessary reforms. Balanced leadership integrates technical skill with ethical responsibility. AI systems programmed with ethical guidelines can act as an advisory tool, identifying potential ethical violations in leadership decisions and ensuring a fair and just system. -/- The Role of Competition in Progress -/- Competition is essential for innovation, economic growth, and personal development. However, uncontrolled competition leads to monopolies, exploitation, and social inequality. A balanced approach ensures that competition serves collective progress rather than individual greed. -/- 1. Healthy Competition vs. Destructive Competition – In a balanced system, competition drives excellence without harming others. In contrast, destructive competition creates a “win-at-all-costs” mentality, where ethics and fairness are disregarded. Examples include corporate monopolies suppressing small businesses or political parties prioritizing power over national interest. AI-driven monitoring systems can help detect unethical business practices and ensure fair competition in markets. -/- 2. Regulated Competition for Collective Growth – Governments and institutions must regulate competition to ensure fairness. This includes antitrust laws to prevent monopolies, ethical guidelines in business, and fair labor policies to protect workers from exploitation. AI can assist regulators in monitoring economic trends, detecting monopolistic behavior, and ensuring fair market conditions. -/- 3. Coopetition: A Balance Between Cooperation and Competition – In many industries, companies compete for market dominance while also collaborating in research, standardization, or sustainability efforts. This concept, known as “coopetition,” allows for economic growth while maintaining ethical responsibilities. AI can optimize cooperation strategies, ensuring that businesses maximize benefits while maintaining fair competition. -/- The Role of AI in Maintaining Balance -/- AI technology plays a crucial role in guiding leaders and institutions toward balanced decision-making. It can be used in the following ways: -/- 1. AI for Predictive Analysis – AI can process large-scale data to predict social, economic, and environmental trends, helping leaders make proactive decisions rather than reactive ones. -/- 2. AI for Ethical Governance – AI can be programmed with ethical principles to provide real-time insights on the consequences of political, corporate, or social policies. This ensures that decision-making aligns with fairness, justice, and sustainability. -/- 3. AI for Market Regulation – AI-driven economic models can detect unfair competition, price manipulation, and unethical corporate behavior, allowing governments to take corrective actions swiftly. -/- 4. AI for Educational Guidance – AI can be integrated into the educational system to teach critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and the science of balance, helping to shape future leaders who understand the importance of sustainable leadership and competition. -/- Applying the Science of Balance in Society -/- The science of balanced leadership and competition applies across various domains, from government and business to education and personal development. AI technology enhances this process by providing data-driven insights and ethical guidance. -/- 1. In Governance – Leaders must ensure that laws and policies balance economic growth with social welfare, individual rights with national security, and environmental sustainability with industrial development. AI can help design policies that optimize these balances through advanced simulations and scenario modeling. -/- 2. In Business – Corporate leaders should foster healthy competition while ensuring fair wages, ethical production, and sustainable business practices. AI can be used to analyze global trends, predict economic shifts, and optimize business strategies that benefit both corporations and society. -/- 3. In Education – Schools should encourage competition to inspire excellence while fostering teamwork, ethical responsibility, and critical thinking. AI-driven personalized learning can help students develop both competitive and cooperative skills based on their strengths and weaknesses. -/- 4. In Personal Development – Individuals must balance ambition with ethics, career success with personal well-being, and competition with collaboration in their daily lives. AI-powered personal development tools can provide guidance, helping individuals make balanced life decisions. -/- Conclusion -/- The science of balanced leadership and competition is essential for building a just and sustainable society. It requires an understanding of natural balance, ethical decision-making, and systemic thinking. AI technology plays a critical role in achieving this balance by providing data-driven insights, predicting long-term consequences, and ensuring ethical decision-making. -/- When leadership is balanced, it fosters progress without oppression. When competition is balanced, it drives innovation without exploitation. With AI as a guiding tool, societies can move toward a future where decision-making is not only efficient but also ethical and sustainable. By integrating AI with principles of natural balance, we can ensure a world that is fair, progressive, and in harmony with the universal laws of nature. -/- . (shrink)

The Purpose of Human Life: Surviving, Suffering, and Seeking Meaning -/- Introduction -/- The question of whether humans are born simply to survive, thrive, and suffer is a profound philosophical issue. If suffering is a fundamental part of existence, what is the purpose of life? Are humans just biological beings driven by survival, or is there a deeper reason for our existence? This essay explores different perspectives on the meaning of life, from existentialism and religion to humanistic and scientific (...) views, as well as the concept of balance in nature. -/- The Cycle of Survival and Suffering -/- From an evolutionary standpoint, human beings, like all living organisms, are designed to survive, reproduce, and adapt. The biological drive to live is deeply ingrained in our nature. However, survival comes with struggle—hunger, illness, aging, and emotional pain. Historically, human societies have evolved by overcoming challenges, yet suffering remains a constant. -/- Philosophers like Arthur Schopenhauer argued that life is inherently full of suffering because desires and needs are never fully satisfied. Buddhism similarly recognizes suffering (dukkha) as a fundamental truth of existence, proposing that enlightenment can free individuals from this cycle. -/- Existentialist Views: Creating Meaning in a Meaningless World -/- Existentialist thinkers such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus suggest that life has no predetermined purpose. Instead, it is up to individuals to create meaning. Sartre believed that humans have radical freedom to define their own existence, while Camus saw life as absurd—filled with suffering yet still worth living. The “Myth of Sisyphus” metaphor describes how humans push through hardships despite the absurdity of life, embracing struggle as part of existence. -/- Friedrich Nietzsche took a different approach, emphasizing the idea of the “Übermensch”—a person who rises above suffering by creating their own values and purpose. According to Nietzsche, suffering is not merely an obstacle but a force that can be transformed into strength. -/- Religious and Spiritual Perspectives: Life as a Test or Journey -/- Many religious traditions see human life as part of a divine plan. Christianity, Islam, and Judaism view suffering as a test of faith, with the promise of salvation or eternal life as a reward. Hinduism and Buddhism, on the other hand, emphasize karma and reincarnation, where suffering is tied to past actions and spiritual progress. -/- In this view, suffering is not meaningless but serves a purpose—whether as a means of moral growth, spiritual enlightenment, or preparation for an afterlife. Some traditions, such as Stoicism, teach that suffering should be faced with wisdom and resilience, as it is an inevitable part of the human experience. -/- Scientific and Humanistic Perspectives: Progress and Happiness -/- From a scientific and humanistic perspective, the purpose of life is not dictated by supernatural forces but is instead a product of human evolution and intelligence. Humans have the unique ability to seek higher goals beyond survival, such as creativity, love, knowledge, and progress. -/- Psychologists like Viktor Frankl argue that meaning comes from purpose-driven activities, relationships, and overcoming adversity. His theory of “logotherapy” suggests that even in the face of extreme suffering, individuals can find meaning by focusing on their values and contributions to others. -/- Modern humanism proposes that the goal of life should be to maximize well-being, reduce suffering, and create a just and compassionate society. Advances in science, medicine, and technology have significantly improved the human condition, yet existential suffering remains a challenge. -/- The Universal Law of Balance: A Natural Framework for Meaning -/- From your perspective, the Universal Law of Balance in Nature provides a framework for understanding human existence. If all decision-making follows natural laws, then human suffering and survival must also be governed by these principles. -/- Suffering may arise when there is an imbalance—whether in nature, society, or within an individual’s mind. -/- The purpose of life, then, could be to restore balance, both internally and externally. -/- Education, leadership, and societal structures should be designed to minimize suffering and promote equilibrium. -/- Your universal formula suggests that human life is not about meaningless suffering but about learning how to navigate and correct imbalances in thought, behavior, and society. By understanding the natural laws that govern existence, people can make informed decisions that reduce unnecessary suffering and enhance well-being. -/- Conclusion: A Path Forward -/- Are humans simply born to survive and suffer? While suffering is undeniably a part of existence, different philosophical perspectives offer ways to approach it. Existentialism teaches us to create our own meaning. Religion provides a framework for spiritual growth. Humanism and science push us toward progress and well-being. The Universal Law of Balance suggests that by understanding natural laws, we can minimize suffering and create a more harmonious existence. -/- Perhaps the true purpose of life is not to escape suffering, but to transcend it through wisdom, balance, and conscious action. Whether through personal growth, societal reform, or philosophical understanding, humanity has the potential to rise above mere survival and shape a future where life is not defined by suffering but by purpose, balance, and fulfillment. -/- Final Thought -/- If suffering dominates existence, then the next great challenge for humanity is not just to survive—but to create a world where balance and well-being are prioritized. How we achieve that depends on the choices we make as individuals and as a society. -/- . (shrink)