Secular
-
Understanding the Nobel Prize (Contents)
Part 1 – Origin and Significance of the Nobel Prize Part 2 – Structure and Organisation of the Nobel System Part 3 – The Nomination and Selection Process Part 4 – Transparency, Bias, and Integrity in the Nobel System Part 5 – Bribery, Corruption, and Ethical Safeguards Part 6 –…
-
Part 1 – Origin and Significance of the Nobel Prize
1.1 Introduction The Nobel Prize represents one of the most distinguished and enduring systems of international recognition for human achievement. Established in accordance with the final will of Swedish inventor and philanthropist Alfred Nobel (1833–1896), the awards are conferred annually upon individuals and organisations whose contributions have significantly advanced humanity…
-
Part 2 – Structure and Organisation of the Nobel System
2.1 Introduction The organisational structure of the Nobel Prize is complex yet remarkably stable. It is composed of a central administrative foundation and six autonomous prize-awarding bodies operating in Sweden and Norway. This hybrid model reflects both Alfred Nobel’s explicit instructions in his 1895 will and the socio-political context of…
-
Part 3 – The Nomination and Selection Process
3.1 Introduction The nomination and selection procedures of the Nobel Prizes form the heart of the system’s credibility and mystique. They combine elite peer recognition, strict confidentiality, and methodical evaluation by highly specialised committees. While the process is often perceived as opaque, its structure is meticulously designed to protect the…
-
Part 4 – Transparency, Bias, and Integrity in the Nobel System
4.1 Introduction The Nobel Prize is often described as the highest symbol of intellectual integrity and humanitarian idealism. However, its credibility has also been challenged by persistent questions about bias, opacity, and institutional accountability. The secrecy surrounding nominations and deliberations, while intended to protect independence, also limits transparency and invites…
-
Part 5 – Bribery, Corruption, and Ethical Safeguards
5.1 Introduction The Nobel Prize stands globally as a moral benchmark of intellectual and humanitarian virtue. Yet, because of its secrecy and prestige, it has also attracted scrutiny regarding the potential for bribery, corruption, or undue influence. In over a century of operation, no verified instance of financial corruption or…
-
Part 6 – The People Behind the Nobel Prize
6.1 Introduction Behind the grandeur of the Nobel Prize lies an intricate network of individuals who ensure its continuity, credibility, and global impact. While the public face of the Nobel system is the laureate, the institution’s moral and administrative stability depends on a relatively small group of academics, administrators, and…
-
Part 7 – After the Award: Money, Power, and Moral Responsibility
7.1 Introduction Winning a Nobel Prize represents one of the highest honours attainable in human achievement. Yet, for many laureates, the aftermath of the award brings not only prestige but also profound personal, social, and moral consequences. The Nobel Prize is more than a financial reward — it is a…
-
Part 8 – Significant and Controversial Nobel Prize Cases: Lessons from History
8.1 Introduction No institution dedicated to human excellence can remain untouched by controversy. Across more than a century of its existence, the Nobel Prize has not only celebrated genius and virtue but also provoked moral debate, political tension, and public dissent. Some awards have been hailed as triumphs of conscience…
-
Part 9 – Accuracy, Voting, and Human Judgment in the Nobel Prize System
9.1 Introduction The Nobel Prize, often perceived as the pinnacle of objective recognition, is in fact the product of collective human judgment. Behind each award lies a process of deliberation, persuasion, and consensus — a microcosm of how societies determine truth and value. This chapter examines the accuracy and fairness…
-
Part 10 – Competitors and Complementary Global Prizes: The Nobel’s Evolving Landscape
10.1 Introduction Although the Nobel Prize remains the most internationally recognised symbol of excellence, it no longer stands alone as the sole arbiter of intellectual and moral achievement. Over the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, new global prizes have emerged — some as rivals, others as complements — reflecting shifts in…
-
Part 11 – Criticism, Missed Laureates, and Institutional Reforms: The Nobel Prize in Reflection
11.1 Introduction No global institution of recognition has been more revered — or more scrutinised — than the Nobel Prize. Its unparalleled prestige has ensured that every omission, controversy, or bias attracts moral debate. While the Nobel Foundation presents itself as an impartial guardian of excellence, modern scholarship increasingly views…
-
Part 12 – The Nobel Prize in the Digital and AI Era: Tradition Meets Technological Transformation
12.1 Introduction As artificial intelligence (AI), data science, and digital technologies transform knowledge creation, the Nobel Prize faces a defining question: can a 19th-century institution remain relevant in the 21st-century digital age? The Nobel system, rooted in the ideals of individual genius and moral virtue, must now confront a world…
-
Part 13 – The Philosophical Legacy and Global Significance of the Nobel Prize
13.1 Introduction The Nobel Prize is more than a set of awards; it is a moral institution. For over a century, it has functioned as humanity’s most visible instrument for defining virtue, genius, and progress. Its power lies not in wealth or policy but in symbolic authority — the ability…
-
From Immaturity to Maturity (Contents)
Part 1 – Foundations of Maturity: What It Means to Grow Up Part 2 – Emotional Maturity vs. Immaturity Part 3 – Cognitive Maturity vs. Immaturity Part 4 – Social Maturity vs. Immaturity Part 5 – Moral and Ethical Maturity vs. Immaturity Part 6 – Communication and Relational Maturity vs.…
-
Part 1 – Foundations of Maturity: What It Means to Grow Up
Introduction Maturity is often described as “growing up,” but it is more than chronological age. It reflects the development of emotional regulation, cognitive reasoning, social responsibility, and moral awareness. An immature mindset is marked by impulsivity, self-centredness, and short-term thinking, whereas a mature mindset demonstrates responsibility, empathy, and long-term perspective.…
-
Part 2 – Emotional Maturity vs. Immaturity
Introduction Emotions are at the core of human experience, shaping decisions, relationships, and identity. Emotional maturity reflects the ability to recognise, regulate, and express emotions constructively, while emotional immaturity is marked by impulsivity, overreaction, and avoidance. Emotional growth is not automatic with age — it requires reflection, practice, and social…
-
Part 3 – Cognitive Maturity vs. Immaturity
Introduction Cognitive maturity refers to the ability to think critically, reason abstractly, and adapt perspectives based on evidence and reflection. In contrast, cognitive immaturity is marked by rigid, egocentric, and short-sighted thinking. Cognitive growth is not only developmental (as Piaget showed) but also a lifelong process, as adults can continue…
-
Part 4 – Social Maturity vs. Immaturity
Introduction Humans are inherently social beings, and maturity is most visible in the way we interact, empathise, and build relationships. Social maturity reflects the ability to form respectful, cooperative, and empathetic connections, while social immaturity often appears as selfishness, conflict escalation, or dependency. Developing social maturity is crucial for healthy…
-
Part 5 – Moral and Ethical Maturity vs. Immaturity
Introduction Moral and ethical maturity reflects the ability to discern right from wrong, act with integrity, and make decisions guided by principles rather than self-interest. Moral immaturity, by contrast, is often characterised by rule-following to avoid punishment, selfish gain, or inconsistency between values and actions. Developing moral maturity is crucial…
-
Part 6 – Communication and Relational Maturity vs. Immaturity
Introduction Communication is the foundation of all human relationships. Relational maturity is reflected in the ability to communicate honestly, respectfully, and empathetically, while immature communication is often reactive, manipulative, or defensive. Relational maturity allows people to build trust, resolve conflict, and sustain healthy connections — essential for families, workplaces, and…
-
Part 7 – Work, Responsibility, and Purpose
Introduction Work is more than employment — it reflects how we take responsibility, contribute, and find meaning in life. A mature mindset approaches work with accountability, discipline, and purpose, while an immature mindset often avoids responsibility, blames others, or prioritises pleasure over contribution. Work maturity is central not only for…
-
Part 8 – Cultural and Spiritual Dimensions of Maturity vs. Immaturity
Introduction Maturity is not only psychological and social; it is also cultural and spiritual. What is considered “mature” in one society may differ in another. For example, some cultures emphasise collective responsibility, while others stress individual autonomy. Likewise, spirituality and philosophy often frame maturity as rising above ego, embracing humility,…
-
Part 9 – The Path of Growth: Moving from Immature to Mature Mindsets
Introduction Maturity is not a fixed state but a lifelong journey. Everyone shows areas of maturity and immaturity depending on their stage of development, experiences, and choices. The transition from immaturity to maturity involves cultivating self-awareness, responsibility, empathy, and purpose. This process is not linear but iterative — setbacks and…
-
Part 10 – Measuring Maturity: Frameworks and Self-Assessment
Introduction Maturity can feel abstract, but psychologists and educators have developed frameworks and tools to assess it. These measures evaluate how individuals manage emotions, think critically, relate socially, act morally, and take responsibility. While no single scale captures the whole picture, self-assessment and reflection can help identify areas of strength…
-
Faith Across the Ages of Egypt: Pharaohs to the Moving Mountain (Contents)
Chapter 1 – The Dawn of Egyptian Spirituality Chapter 2 – Foreign Influence and Religious Syncretism Chapter 3 – The Rise of Christianity and the Coptic Identity Chapter 4 – Doctrinal Conflict and the Coptic Church Chapter 5 – The Arab Conquest of Egypt (641 CE) Chapter 6 – Gradual…
-
Chapter 1 – The Dawn of Egyptian Spirituality
Part I – The Sacred Origins of Egypt 1.1 The Nile as the Source of Life and Faith The civilisation of ancient Egypt emerged along the fertile banks of the Nile around 3100 BCE, when Upper and Lower Egypt were unified under King Narmer. The river’s annual inundation transformed arid…
-
Chapter 2 – Foreign Influence and Religious Syncretism
Part I – The Sacred Origins of Egypt 2.1 The Persian and Hellenistic Encounters (525–332 BCE) In 525 BCE the Persian Achaemenid Empire, under Cambyses II, conquered Egypt and absorbed it into a vast multicultural realm stretching from the Indus to the Aegean. Persian rule largely preserved Egypt’s administrative and…
-
Chapter 3 – The Rise of Christianity and the Coptic Identity
Part II – The Christianisation of Egypt 3.1 St Mark the Evangelist and the Birth of the Alexandrian Church According to early ecclesiastical tradition, St Mark the Evangelist arrived in Alexandria around 42 CE, bringing the Christian message from Jerusalem to one of the ancient world’s greatest intellectual capitals. While…
-
Chapter 4 – Doctrinal Conflict and the Coptic Church
Part II – The Christianisation of Egypt 4.1 The Council of Chalcedon (451 CE) and the Schism The fifth century marked a decisive rupture in Egyptian Christianity. The Council of Chalcedon (451 CE) attempted to resolve long-standing Christological disputes concerning the nature of Christ. Building upon the formulations of the…
-
Chapter 5 – The Arab Conquest of Egypt (641 CE)
Part III – The Coming of Islam and the Reconfiguration of Society 5.1 The Historical Setting By the early seventh century, Egypt stood as one of the richest provinces of the Byzantine Empire, supplying grain to Constantinople and functioning as a bastion of imperial power in the eastern Mediterranean. Yet,…
-
Chapter 6 – Gradual Islamisation and Cultural Integration
Part III – The Coming of Islam and the Reconfiguration of Society 6.1 From Conquest to Cultural Transformation The Arab conquest of Egypt (641 CE) brought administrative and political change, yet the process of Islamisation—the adoption of Islam as a faith and culture—was gradual and complex. Initially, Muslims formed a…
-
Chapter 7 – Taxation, Law, and Tolerance in Medieval Egypt
Part III – The Coming of Islam and the Reconfiguration of Society 7.1 Fiscal Foundations: Zakat, Jizya, and Kharāj The early Islamic state that emerged after 641 CE was both a religious community and a fiscal entity. Its stability depended upon a just and sustainable taxation system. In Egypt, as…
-
Chapter 8 – Egypt under the Fatimids
Part IV – The Fatimid Era and the Miracle of Mokattam Mountain 8.1 The Rise of the Fatimid Caliphate The Fatimid Caliphate (909–1171 CE) emerged in North Africa as an Ismāʿīlī Shiʿa dynasty claiming direct descent from the Prophet Muḥammad through his daughter Fāṭima. Unlike the Sunni Abbasids in Baghdad,…
-
Chapter 9 – The Story of Saint Simon the Tanner
Part IV – The Fatimid Era and the Miracle of Mokattam Mountain 9.1 Historical and Religious Context The reign of Caliph al-Muʿizz li-Dīn Allāh (953–975 CE) was marked by prosperity, intellectual debate, and religious tolerance. Within his pluralistic court, inter-faith disputations were encouraged as demonstrations of the empire’s scholarly sophistication.…
-
Chapter 10 – The Miracle Re-examined
Part IV – The Fatimid Era and the Miracle of Mokattam Mountain 10.1 Primary Sources and Transmission The earliest and most authoritative record of the Moving of Mokattam appears in the Coptic History of the Patriarchs of Alexandria, compiled between the 11th and 13th centuries (Gawdat & Vivian 2013). The…
-
Chapter 11 – Muslim and State Perspectives
Part IV – The Fatimid Era and the Miracle of Mokattam Mountain 11.1 Fatimid Pragmatism and Religious Neutrality The Fatimid Caliphate (969–1171 CE) was remarkable for its administrative sophistication and religious pragmatism. While the Caliphs were Ismāʿīlī Shiʿa, they governed a majority Sunni Muslim and Coptic Christian population with deliberate…
-
Chapter 12 – From Miracle to Memory
Part V – Modern Egypt and Religious Continuity 12.1 The Enduring Presence of Mokattam Over a millennium after the supposed Moving of the Mountain, the Mokattam Hills still dominate Cairo’s eastern skyline—no longer a site of fear or debate, but of worship, art, and community life. The Coptic Church continues…
-
Chapter 13 – The Enduring Coptic and Islamic Identities
Part V – Modern Egypt and Religious Continuity 13.1 Egypt as a Land of Two Faiths Modern Egypt remains one of the world’s oldest and most complex religious landscapes. Roughly 90–92% of Egyptians are Muslim, predominantly Sunni, while 8–10% are Christian, almost entirely Coptic Orthodox (CAPMAS 2021). Both faiths claim…
-
Chapter 14 – The Legacy of Faith: Lessons from Mokattam
Part V – Modern Egypt and Religious Continuity 14.1 The Journey of Faith through Time From the pharaohs to the Fatimids, and from the Copts to contemporary Cairo, Egypt’s history is not merely political — it is profoundly spiritual. Across 5,000 years, belief has taken many forms: Each era has…
-
Technological and Human Innovations from Lunar and Martian Exploration
Learning Through Failure Author: Lian Than TuangAffiliation: University of Gloucestershire, United KingdomKeywords: Space exploration, innovation, failure, spinoff technologies, resilience, lunar missions, Martian missions Abstract Space exploration has long symbolised humanity’s ambition to extend knowledge and capability beyond Earth. However, its progress has been characterised as much by failure as by…
-
The Evolution of Money (Contents)
Part A — Foundations of Money and Early Exchange 1 — The Concept and Functions of Money 2 — Barter Systems in Prehistoric Societies (c. 9000 BCE – 3000 BCE) Part B — Commodity Money and Early Coinage 3 — Commodity Money in Ancient Civilisations (c. 3000 BCE – 600…
-
1 — The Concept and Functions of Money
Part A — Foundations of Money and Early Exchange Money is one of the most significant inventions in human history, serving as both an economic instrument and a social technology. Its emergence allowed humans to transcend the limitations of barter, enabling complex trade, measurement of value, and accumulation of wealth.…
-
2 — Barter Systems in Prehistoric Societies (c. 9000 BCE – 3000 BCE)
Part A — Foundations of Money and Early Exchange Before the development of formal money, human societies relied on barter and reciprocal exchange to facilitate trade. This period, encompassing the late Paleolithic to Neolithic eras, illustrates the foundations of economic interaction in human history. Economic Context Characteristics of Barter Systems…
-
3 — Commodity Money in Ancient Civilisations (c. 3000 BCE – 600 BCE)
Part B — Commodity Money and Early Coinage With the expansion of trade and complexity in early societies, commodity money emerged as a widely recognised medium of exchange, facilitating economic growth beyond the limitations of barter. Economic Context Characteristics of Commodity Money Examples of Commodity Money Functions and Limitations Significance…
-
4 — The Advent of Coined Money (c. 600 BCE – 500 CE)
Part B — Commodity Money and Early Coinage The introduction of coinage marked a fundamental shift in monetary systems, combining intrinsic metal value with state authority and enabling large-scale, standardised trade across regions. Origins of Coinage Key Features of Early Coinage Economic and Social Impacts Challenges and Limitations Significance References
-
5 — Paper Money and Credit in Early Trade (7th – 15th Century)
Part C — Paper Money and the Rise of Banking The emergence of paper money and early credit systems represents a significant evolution in monetary history, transitioning from tangible metal coins to more abstract, representative forms of value. Economic Context Origins and Development of Paper Money Functions of Paper Money…
-
6 — The Development of Modern Banking (15th – 18th Century)
Part C — Paper Money and the Rise of Banking The period from the 15th to 18th centuries witnessed the formalisation of banking institutions and monetary practices, laying the foundations for modern financial systems. This era saw the rise of centralised banks, fractional reserve banking, and state-backed currencies. Economic Context…
-
7 — The Gold Standard and Global Trade (19th Century)
Part D — Gold Standard and Fiat Money The 19th century was characterised by the adoption of the gold standard, which linked national currencies to a fixed quantity of gold. This system profoundly influenced international trade, economic stability, and monetary policy. Economic Context Principles of the Gold Standard Implementation Across…
-
8 — Fiat Money and Modern Monetary Systems (20th Century)
Part D — Gold Standard and Fiat Money The 20th century marked the transition from gold-backed currency to fiat money, where government-issued currency derives value primarily from public trust and legal decree rather than physical commodities. This shift enabled greater monetary flexibility and the development of modern financial systems. Economic…
-
9 — Digital Payments and Financial Globalisation (Late 20th – Early 21st Century)
Part E — Digital and Decentralised Finance The late 20th and early 21st centuries witnessed a technological transformation in money and finance, driven by the rise of digital payment systems, electronic banking, and global financial integration. Economic Context Key Innovations in Digital Payments Economic and Social Impacts Significance References
-
10 — Cryptocurrencies and Decentralised Finance (2009 – Present)
Part E — Digital and Decentralised Finance The advent of cryptocurrencies and decentralised finance (DeFi) represents one of the most significant transformations in the monetary system since the introduction of coinage. By leveraging blockchain technology, these innovations enable peer-to-peer transactions without traditional intermediaries, redefining trust, transparency, and financial accessibility. Economic…
-
11 — AI-Driven Financial Systems (2010s – Future)
Part F — AI and the Future of Money The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into financial systems represents the latest evolution of money, transforming how money is managed, invested, and transacted. AI technologies enable automation, predictive analytics, and personalised services, fundamentally reshaping both traditional and digital finance. Economic and…
-
12 — The Evolution of Money: Lessons and Future Trajectories
Part G — Conclusion The historical journey of money—from prehistoric barter systems to AI-driven financial ecosystems—reflects humanity’s continuous quest for efficiency, trust, and innovation in economic exchange. Understanding this evolution provides critical insights for future financial systems and policy-making. Synthesis of Historical Developments Key Lessons Future Trajectories Conclusion The evolution…
-
Chapter 1: The Night That Changed the World
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 1: The Unexpected Victory (2016–2017) 8 November 2016Trump Tower, New York City The evening began with uncertainty. Inside Trump Tower, the Republican candidate was surrounded by a tight circle of advisors. The polls, according to nearly every major outlet—The New York Times, CNN, FiveThirtyEight—had…
-
Chapter 2: The First Moves – Syria, Sanctions, and Signals (Early 2017)
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 1: The Unexpected Victory (2016–2017) February–March 2017Washington D.C. – Moscow – Damascus The early days of Donald Trump’s presidency offered little clarity on how U.S.–Russia relations would develop. On one hand, Trump had called for “getting along with Russia” during the campaign (Trump, 2016);…
-
Chapter 3: The Kremlin Files – Flynn, Comey, and the Special Counsel (Mid–Late 2017)
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 1: The Unexpected Victory (2016–2017) Washington D.C., May 2017 By mid-2017, the Trump administration was unraveling under the weight of its own contradictions. What began as an attempt to reset U.S.–Russia relations soon descended into scandal, investigation, and public suspicion. Central to the drama…
-
Chapter 4: Parallel Agendas – Ukraine, NATO, and the Art of Disruption (Late 2017–Early 2018)
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 1: The Unexpected Victory (2016–2017) Brussels – Washington – Moscow – KyivOctober 2017 – March 2018 By the close of 2017, the strategic lines between Russia and the West had hardened. Yet amid escalating rhetoric and sanctions, Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin continued to…
-
Chapter 5: Helsinki – The Summit That Shook the West (July 2018)
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 1: The Unexpected Victory (2016–2017) 16 July 2018Presidential Palace, Helsinki, Finland Two men, two flags, and one room that changed the world’s perception of American leadership.When Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin met in Helsinki, the geopolitical symbolism was inescapable. It was not merely a…
-
Chapter 6: The Midterms, Mueller, and the Expanding Theatre (Late 2018–Early 2019)
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 1: The Unexpected Victory (2016–2017)* November 2018 – March 2019Washington – Moscow – Kyiv – Caracas – Beijing The reverberations of the Helsinki Summit had not yet faded when the next act of the geopolitical drama began. What had been a two-man show between…
-
Chapter 7: Shadows of 2020 – Impeachment, Ukraine, and the Coming Storm
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 1: The Unexpected Victory (2016–2017)* April 2019 – December 2019Washington – Kyiv – Moscow – New York – Brussels As the Mueller Report faded from front-page headlines, a new storm gathered—one not from a courtroom, but from a phone call. If the Trump–Russia chapter…
-
Chapter 8: The Pandemic, the Protests, and the Politics of Collapse (2020)
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 1: The Unexpected Victory (2016–2017) January – November 2020Wuhan – Washington – Moscow – Minneapolis – Geneva 2020 began with threats of war and ended with mass death, economic collapse, and a contested U.S. election. In a year that would rewrite global history, the…
-
Chapter 9: January 6, Navalny, and the Winter of Reckonings (2021)
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 2: The Biden–Xi Reset or Rivalry (2021–2022) January – June 2021Washington – Moscow – Berlin – Geneva – Kyiv 2021 began with two symbolic moments—one in Washington, the other in Moscow—that would define the direction of East–West relations in the post-Trump era. In America,…
-
Chapter 10: War Clouds over Kyiv – Russia’s Full-Scale Invasion (February 2022)
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 2: The Biden–Xi Reset or Rivalry (2021–2022) January – February 2022Moscow – Kyiv – Washington – Brussels – Beijing For years, the world had tolerated Russia’s slow-motion aggression in Ukraine. The 2014 annexation of Crimea, the simmering war in Donbas, and the steady erosion…
-
Chapter 11: The Sanctions Era – Economic Warfare and the New Global Order (Mid–Late 2022)
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 2: The Biden–Xi Reset or Rivalry (2021–2022) March – December 2022Washington – Moscow – Brussels – Beijing – New Delhi – Tehran As missiles exploded across Ukrainian cities, another quieter war unfolded—one fought in stock exchanges, shipping lanes, energy grids, and digital markets. The…
-
Chapter 12: Kherson, Kharkiv, and the Counteroffensive (Late 2022 – Early 2023)
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 2: The Biden–Xi Reset or Rivalry (2021–2022) September 2022 – March 2023Kyiv – Kherson – Kharkiv – Moscow – Washington – Warsaw In the late months of 2022, a shift occurred—not just in the momentum of war, but in the strategic imagination of the…
-
Chapter 13: Bakhmut, Belarus, and the Battle for 2023
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 2: The Biden–Xi Reset or Rivalry (2021–2022) January – June 2023Bakhmut – Kyiv – Moscow – Minsk – Washington – Beijing As 2023 dawned, the war in Ukraine settled into a new and brutal phase—no longer one of sweeping offensives, but of grinding attrition,…
-
Chapter 14: The Counteroffensive Begins – Zaporizhzhia, Sea Drones, and Crimea’s Shadow
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 2: The Biden–Xi Reset or Rivalry (2021–2022) June – September 2023Zaporizhzhia – Melitopol – Crimea – Kyiv – Moscow – Black Sea After months of anticipation, Ukraine’s 2023 counteroffensive was finally underway. It was not a blitzkrieg—it was a slow, deliberate push through the…
-
Chapter 15: Wagner’s Mutiny – The Day Russia Turned on Itself
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 2: The Biden–Xi Reset or Rivalry (2021–2022) 23–24 June 2023Rostov-on-Don – Moscow – Voronezh – Belarus – St Petersburg For 16 months, Russia’s war in Ukraine had defined the world’s headlines.But in one dramatic 24-hour period, the battlefield shifted—from Ukraine to Russia itself. The…
-
Chapter 16: Autumn of Attrition – Drones, Diplomacy, and the Global Recession Risk (Oct–Dec 2023)
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 2: The Biden–Xi Reset or Rivalry (2021–2022) October – December 2023Kyiv – Moscow – Washington – Brussels – Tel Aviv – Beijing By the final quarter of 2023, the war in Ukraine had settled into a grim rhythm: incremental gains, persistent losses, and a…
-
Chapter 17: Year Three – The Battle for 2024 Begins
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 3: Year Three – Unfinished Wars and Uncertain Worlds (2024–2025) January – March 2024Kyiv – Moscow – Washington – Munich – Beijing – Warsaw As 2024 began, the war in Ukraine entered its third calendar year, no longer a geopolitical shock but a protracted,…
-
Chapter 18: Tehran, Taiwan, and the Multipolar Chessboard (April–June 2024)
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 3: Year Three – Unfinished Wars and Uncertain Worlds (2024–2025) April – June 2024Tehran – Taipei – Moscow – Kyiv – Washington – Beijing – Jerusalem As spring unfolded in 2024, the war in Ukraine remained centre stage, but it was no longer the…
-
Chapter 19: The Trump Return – Campaigns, Crises, and Global Shockwaves (July–August 2024)
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 3: Year Three – Unfinished Wars and Uncertain Worlds (2024–2025) July – August 2024Washington D.C. – Milwaukee – Kyiv – Moscow – Brussels – Beijing – Tel Aviv In the summer of 2024, the world entered a period of political turbulence not seen since…
-
Chapter 20: Cyber, Collapse, and the Countdown to November (Sept–Oct 2024)
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 3: Year Three – Unfinished Wars and Uncertain Worlds (2024–2025) September – October 2024Washington D.C. – Kyiv – Moscow – Brussels – Atlanta – Tel Aviv – Beijing As the leaves turned in Washington and the frosts returned to the Donbas, the world moved…
-
Chapter 21: Election Fallout – The World Reacts (Nov–Dec 2024)
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 3: Year Three – Unfinished Wars and Uncertain Worlds (2024–2025) November – December 2024Washington D.C. – Kyiv – Brussels – Moscow – Beijing – Tel Aviv – Riyadh The world held its breath on Tuesday, 5 November 2024, as the United States of America…
-
Chapter 22: Year Four Begins – Trump Inaugurated, Putin Resurges (January–February 2025)
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 4: Year Four – A Dangerous New Order (2025) January – February 2025Washington D.C. – Moscow – Kyiv – Brussels – Beijing – Tehran – Jerusalem The dawn of 2025 was not greeted with celebration but with apprehension. Donald J. Trump’s second inauguration marked…
-
Chapter 23: The Red Line – Israel, Iran, and the Next Strike (March–April 2025)
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 4: Year Four – A Dangerous New Order (2025) March – April 2025Jerusalem – Tehran – Riyadh – Washington D.C. – Moscow – Brussels – Dubai In early 2025, the Middle East stood on a razor’s edge. As Iran edged closer to nuclear weapons…
-
Chapter 24: The Dragon Moves – Taiwan and the Three-Day Siege (May–June 2025)
The Bear and the Eagle Volume 4: Year Four – A Dangerous New Order (2025) May – June 2025Taipei – Beijing – Washington D.C. – Tokyo – Canberra – Manila – Shanghai While the world reeled from the Israeli–Iranian confrontation, another fuse was quietly lit—this time in the Pacific. With…
-
What is Religion?
Definition and Conceptual Questions: 1. Introduction Defining “religion” is a central problem in religious studies, sociology, anthropology, and philosophy. There is no universally accepted definition, as religion encompasses beliefs, practices, experiences, symbols, ethics, institutions, and worldviews. Definitions can be substantive (content-based) or functional (purpose-based). 2. Substantive Definitions 2.1 Edward Tylor…
-
What Are the Main Purposes of Religion in Society?
Definition and Conceptual Questions 1. Introduction The purpose of religion in society is a multi-dimensional question studied across sociology, anthropology, psychology, philosophy, and theology. Religion performs functions ranging from individual meaning-making to maintaining social order and cultural continuity. 2. Theoretical Perspectives 2.1 Emile Durkheim: Social Cohesion In The Elementary Forms…
-
How is Religion Different from Spirituality?
Definition and Conceptual Questions 1. Introduction The distinction between religion and spirituality is a major theme in contemporary philosophy, psychology, and religious studies. While historically interconnected, modern discourse often contrasts them in terms of structure, authority, belief systems, and individual experience. 2. Definitions 2.1 Religion Scholarly Definitions Key Features 2.2…
-
What Are the Major World Religions?
Comparative Religion Questions 1. Introduction The term “major world religions” refers to religious traditions with substantial global influence, historical depth, and significant numbers of adherents. These religions have shaped civilisations, cultural identities, and moral systems across history. This analysis outlines: 2. Criteria for “Major World Religions” 2.1 Demographic Size Religions…
-
How Are Monotheistic Religions (Christianity, Islam, Judaism) Similar and Different?
Comparative Religion Questions 1. Introduction Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, often termed the Abrahamic religions, share historical and theological roots yet differ in doctrines, practices, and interpretations of revelation. This analysis examines: 2. Core Similarities 2.1 Monotheism All affirm belief in One God: 2.2 Abrahamic Lineage All trace spiritual heritage to…
-
What Are the Core Beliefs of Eastern Religions (Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism)?
Comparative Religion Questions 1. Introduction Eastern religions encompass diverse traditions with complex philosophies and practices. This analysis summarises the core beliefs of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Taoism, highlighting their metaphysical, ethical, and soteriological frameworks. 2. Hinduism 2.1 Overview Hinduism is a pluralistic tradition rooted in Vedic, Upanishadic, and later philosophical and…
-
What Are Indigenous and Tribal Religions, and How Do They Shape Culture?
Comparative Religion Questions 1. Introduction Indigenous and tribal religions represent the oldest spiritual systems of humanity, deeply embedded within specific ethnic, cultural, and geographical contexts. They are often: This analysis examines their definitions, characteristics, theological frameworks, and cultural influence. 2. Definitions 2.1 Indigenous Religions Religions rooted in specific local communities,…
-
Does Religion Explain the Meaning of Life?
Philosophical and Existential Questions 1. Introduction The question of whether religion explains the meaning of life is foundational in philosophy of religion, existential thought, and theology. It explores: This analysis evaluates how religions address life’s meaning and the critiques of religious explanations. 2. Definitions 2.1 Meaning of Life Encompasses questions…
-
Is Religion Necessary for Morality?
Philosophical and Existential Questions 1. Introduction The question of whether religion is necessary for morality addresses foundational issues in ethics, philosophy of religion, psychology, and sociology. It considers whether moral values and duties require a religious basis or can exist autonomously through reason, social contract, or evolutionary psychology. 2. Definitions…
-
Can Humans Live Well Without Religion?
Philosophical and Existential Questions 1. Introduction The question of whether humans can live well without religion engages philosophical anthropology, ethics, psychology, and sociology. It explores whether religion is essential for: This analysis examines arguments for and against the necessity of religion for human flourishing. 2. Definitions 2.1 Religion Systems of…
-
Do All Religions Lead to the Same Ultimate Truth?
Philosophical and Existential Questions 1. Introduction The question of whether all religions lead to the same ultimate truth is central to comparative theology, philosophy of religion, and interfaith dialogue. Responses generally fall into three major categories: This analysis examines these positions with philosophical, theological, and critical reflections. 2. Exclusivism 2.1…
-
Is Religion Compatible with Science?
Scientific and Rationality Questions 1. Introduction The compatibility of religion and science has been a central philosophical and theological question for centuries. Responses range from conflict theories arguing they are fundamentally opposed, to integrationist approaches seeing them as complementary or mutually informative. This analysis examines: 2. Defining Terms 2.1 Science…
-
How Do Religions Explain Creation and the Origins of Life?
Scientific and Rationality Questions 1. Introduction Religions across cultures present diverse accounts of creation and the origins of life, reflecting theological, cosmological, and anthropological concerns. These narratives often explain: This analysis explores major religious creation accounts, their interpretations, and philosophical implications. 2. Abrahamic Religions 2.1 Judaism Genesis Creation Accounts Theological…
-
Does Science Disprove Religious Beliefs or Can They Coexist?
Scientific and Rationality Questions 1. Introduction The relationship between science and religion has been characterised by conflict, independence, dialogue, and integration (Barbour, 1990). This analysis examines: 2. Definitions 2.1 Science Systematic study of the natural world through empirical observation, experimentation, and falsifiable theories, aiming for objective knowledge (Popper, 1959). 2.2…
-
How Does Religion Shape Culture, Traditions, and Identity?
Social and Cultural Questions 1. Introduction Religion is a foundational force shaping culture, traditions, and individual or collective identity. It informs worldviews, social structures, ethics, and artistic expressions. This analysis examines: 2. Theoretical Perspectives 2.1 Clifford Geertz: Religion as Cultural System Geertz (1973) argues religion is: Implication: Religious beliefs and…
-
Does Religion Promote Social Cohesion or Division?
Social and Culture 1. Introduction Religion’s role in society is ambivalent: it has historically united communities through shared beliefs and rituals, while also fostering divisions based on doctrine, identity, or competition for power. This analysis examines sociological, anthropological, and theological perspectives to evaluate whether religion promotes cohesion or division. 2.…
-
How Do Religious Rituals and Symbols Influence Daily Life?
Social and Culture 1. Introduction Religious rituals and symbols are core to spiritual expression, cultural identity, and social cohesion. They shape how individuals interpret reality, structure time, and interact with others. This analysis explores: 2. Definitions 2.1 Rituals Rituals are prescribed actions imbued with symbolic meaning, repeated to express, enact,…
-
Why Do Religious Dietary, Dress, and Purity Laws Exist?
Social and Culture 1. Introduction Religious dietary, dress, and purity laws are integral to many faith traditions, shaping daily behaviour and community identity. This analysis examines: 2. Defining Terms 2.1 Dietary Laws Regulations on permissible and forbidden foods (e.g. kosher in Judaism, halal in Islam). 2.2 Dress Codes Rules governing…
-
What is the Role of Religion in Government and Law?
Political and Legal Questions 1. Introduction The role of religion in government and law has been a central issue in political theory, constitutional design, and legal practice across civilisations. This analysis examines: 2. Historical Roles of Religion in Government and Law 2.1 Ancient Civilisations Divine Kingship 2.2 Medieval Europe Canon…
-
Should There Be Separation of Religion and State?
Political and Legal Questions 1. Introduction The question of separation of religion and state lies at the heart of modern constitutional and political theory. This principle, often termed secularism or laïcité, is implemented differently across contexts. This analysis examines: 2. Defining Separation of Religion and State 2.1 Conceptual Definition Separation…
-
How Do Religious Laws (e.g. Sharia) Interact with Secular Law?
Political and Legal Questions 1. Introduction In pluralistic societies, religious laws such as Sharia, Halakha, or Canon Law coexist with secular legal systems. Their interaction raises complex questions of sovereignty, jurisdiction, human rights, and multicultural accommodation. This analysis explores: 2. Defining Religious and Secular Law 2.1 Religious Law 2.2 Secular…
-
How Does Religious Freedom Work in Pluralistic Societies?
Political and Legal Questions 1. Introduction Religious freedom is a foundational principle in pluralistic societies, protecting individuals and groups to practice, change, or reject religion without coercion. This analysis examines: 2. Defining Religious Freedom 2.1 International Standards Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), Article 18 (1948): “Everyone has the right…