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Geopolitics Ideas Society

We, The Ochlocracy: How Democracies Devolve Into Mob Rule

It is not the first time in history demagogues have spoken of mass movements led by a charismatic leader as “true” democracy, as is happening in several Western nations today. Even the ancients could see this for what it was: a mix of mob rule and political manipulation.

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Geopolitics

More Than Half Of Europeans Consider Trump An “Enemy,” According To New Poll

A survey conducted in nine European countries reveals strong opposition to Donald Trump and his policies, along with fears of a conflict on European soil. This has led to overwhelming support for an independent European defense — even in traditionally pro-U.S. nations. A turning point.

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Geopolitics Russia-Ukraine War

How Russia Adjusts Its “Hybrid” Energy War For Maximum Impact

It is a gas and electricity war that extends from Moldova to Slovakia to Finland, with very real consequences for millions, which is ultimately a reflection of how Russia is waging a hybrid war with any means to bring both Ukraine and Europe to its knees.

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Society

“Two Censors Walk Into A Bar…” Inside The Slippery World Of Stand-Up Comedy In China

In China, stand-up comics must submit their sets to a state censor. Plus, there are self-appointed wannabe censors online (like on all social media!). How do would-be professional standup comedians handle this blatantly gray zone?

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Israel-Palestine War

Netanyahu Hubris, Hezbollah Raison D’Être: Toward A Ground War In Lebanon

The first calls for ceasefire made by the United States and France, supported by a broad coalition, was ignored by the belligerents Hezbollah and Israel, for different reasons. The risk of escalation, including an Israeli ground invasion, grows with each passing day.

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Geopolitics Society

Taiwan Clings To Death Penalty, Undermining Claim As Asia’s “Model Democracy”

The country’s Constitutional Court ruled on Sept. 20 in favor of maintaining the death penalty, in line with the position expressed by an overwhelming majority of the population. Yet, capital punishment remains controversial for a country that sees itself as East Asia’s model democracy.

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This Happened

This Happened — June 11: Thich Quang Duc, Vietnam’s Burning Monk

Updated June 11, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. On this day in 1963, Vietnamese Buddhist monk Thích Quảng Đức self-immolated to protest the persecution of Buddhists by the South Vietnamese government. Why did the monk self-immolate during the Vietnam war? Buddhists were facing religious discrimination, and the South Vietnamese government had imposed various restrictions on them. […]

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Israel-Palestine War

Israel As Tragedy: Alone In The World, Blind To The Crimes Of Its War

Eight months into the Israel-Hamas war, Israel has lost the battle of world public opinion. This may seem unfair to Israelis, but the right to self-defense does not authorize anyone to disregard international humanitarian law. And undermining these legitimate international bodies will only cause wider chaos.

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Geopolitics Israel-Palestine War

Netanyahu On French TV — Epitome Of An Arrogant Leader Detached From The World

The Israeli Prime Minister appeared on French television to try to convince European audiences of his war aims. But his main weakness is his lack of vision for the “aftermath”: he has nothing to offer the Palestinians.

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Geopolitics Ideas

Africa Must Stop Using France As An Excuse For Not Taking Any Responsibility

Conspiracy theories about France’s involvement in every twist and turn of African politics abound. Yet, writes Adama Wade for Dakar-based Financial Afrik, using leftover grievances of colonial influence is often a way for Africans to make excuses for their political failings.

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Geopolitics Israel-Palestine War

Gaza — Why The West Keeps Letting Israel Do Whatever It Wants

The West’s passive response to Israel’s actions in Gaza is increasingly difficult to maintain in front of the looming humanitarian crisis in Rafah. The lip service of “deep concern” doesn’t bother Netanyahu at all.

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Israel-Palestine War special series

Israel’s Choice Right Now: Halt “Collective Punishment” Or Lose U.S. Support

As fighting has resumed and intensified in the southern area of the Palestinian territory, more and more criticism builds from around the world. How much longer can Israel fight this war for if it loses the support of even its most steadfast allies?

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Eyes on the U.S. Geopolitics special series The Endless War

Friends, Enemies And Public Opinion: Inside Biden’s Middle East Balancing Act

The United States has found itself at the forefront of a conflict that the whole world is following. President Joe Biden faces the pull of public opinion, the threat of Iranian action, and the escalation of the Israeli state.

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Russia-Ukraine War

Ukraine’s Biggest Challenge This Winter: Staying United

Last winter, many Ukrainians believed the only factor delaying the war’s end was the weather. A year later, the country faces a very different situation, with a stalled counteroffensive ahead of the coming cold days creating fertile ground to lose precious national unity.

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This Happened

This Happened — June 8: Napalm Girl Photograph

On this day in 1972, photographer Nick Ut captured the devastating impact of the Vietnam War on innocent civilians, particularly children. The girl in the photo is Kim Phuc, a nine-year-old Vietnamese girl, running naked and severely burned from a napalm attack. What happened to Kim Phuc after the Napalm Girl photograph was taken? Kim […]

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Geopolitics Society

A Clever Survey Reveals How Russians Really See Themselves

A new survey asking Russians how they think people abroad view them and their country is overly optimistic, revealing a “warped” sense of reality.

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