Seeking truth together
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.
When President Obama refused to release photos of Bin Laden’s body, he reportedly said, “We’re not going to spike the football” (Rhodes, 2018). A lot has changed in the 15 years since the killing of Osama Bin Laden. I review the facts and conclusions of a 2011 blog post while asking if we are spiking the football.
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?
I briefly discuss the challenges of distinguishing between AI-generated content and genuine articles, societal pressures to integrate marketing and entertainment into content creation, and the balance between being yourself and changing yourself in a rapidly-evolving world.
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.
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.
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?
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?
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?
It’s tax season, and many of you may be wondering if Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill increases or decreases wealth … More
Deliberating Truth 