Question: Is “Peace Through Strength” more about peace or “Pax Romana”, “Pax Americana”, and Trump’s “Golden Age”?

The concept of “peace through strength,” rooted in ancient Rome, has resurfaced in modern politics. This foreign policy rhetoric compliments historical patterns of extractive governance. Unchecked concentration of power and influence threatens pluralism, political representation, and inclusive economics/institutions. Any drift towards tyranny necessitates active civic engagement.

Question: Is Xi gaining influence & is Trump’s power waning as they prepare to meet in China?

The United States faces challenges in the Strait of Hormuz as the Russo-Ukrainian War persists. Xi Jinping’s leadership continues to assert authoritative control over Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the South China Sea, while potentially leveraging U.S. political dynamics for Chinese expansionism. This climate highlights current global power shifts.

Beetle on soil near a nuclear missile with US Air Force markings in a bunker

Question: What do cuckoos, kings, cleaner fish, caterpillars, and beetles have to do with nuclear proliferation?

The Trump administration is receiving a lot of criticism over the war with Iran, but I’m hearing few suggestions from those critics on what to do now. I can understand criticizing the administration for initiating the conflict without a better-developed strategic plan. But where do we go from here? If you’re the POTUS, what’s your next move?

Update: “No Kings” 3 in Rural Missouri – Local Residents Rally in Warrenton to Express their Support for Constitutional Rights & Opposition to Trump’s Politics

On a brisk Saturday in Warrenton, Missouri, a crowd gathered for the No Kings rally, expressing discontent with the current political climate. Attendees voiced concerns about authoritarianism, government corruption, and the degradation of constitutional rights. The rally reflected a desire for democratic principles and connection among like-minded individuals in a predominantly conservative area.

Question: Is the US-Iran War is driven by a desire for influence?

Hegemony is dominant influence, not violence. A county can be influential without being violent. But the quickest way to expand power is through violence. And violence often comes with the territory of hegemony.

Question: Are guns & gold fueling war in Sudan?

Fox News recently reported that President Trump is sending 200 troops to Nigeria to protect Christians who are being persecuted there. Fox has also reported Christians being killed in Sudan. So, why isn’t President Trump sending troops to Sudan as well?

Analysis: “Show me [the data].”

What would happen if we took it upon ourselves to show not tell? What if we politely ask for a link to the data supporting a person’s point of view? What if we held ourselves to higher standards of [empirical] evidence? Why don’t we take a lesson from the skeptics and turn the Show Me State motto into a mantra for empiricism?

Question: Does the USA need Greenland?

It’s possible that another country (e.g. China, Russia) or group of countries (e.g. European Union) could seek to seize Greenland to develop its resources and use its land for its own strategic advantage. The United States may be seeking to beat its rivals, including the European Union, to this potential outcome. But, what if they don’t need to?

Question: Does Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Increase or Decrease Wealth Inequality in the United States?

It’s tax season, and many of you may be wondering if Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill increases or decreases wealth…