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Xenophobia is the fear and hatred of foreigners, and it has a long history. In today's political climate, it is shaping political debates and causing harm to marginalized groups. Though it is not the same as racism, the two are often related. Xenophobic fears are easy to stir when inequality increases, and the pain felt by the so-called natives is turned onto the foreigner. However, society can tackle this trend by being more equal and providing for all. Learning about xenophobia and its effects can help us understand the world around us and work towards a more inclusive society. By exploring academic concepts like xenophobia, we can gain a deeper understanding of the world and the issues that affect us. This understanding can help us become more empathetic and informed citizens, and ultimately lead to a better world for all.
A black couple's home was undervalued by almost half a million dollars due to their race. With only 7.6% of appraisers being non-white, this story highlights the systemic racism in the real estate industry. Learn about their experiment and the shocking results that led to a lawsuit settlement.
Queen Elizabeth II's death marked a new era for the 54 Commonwealth countries. Learn about the organization's evolution from the British Empire's disintegration to its modern-day form. Discover the push for self-governance and rising nationalism in the dominions that sparked the British Commonwealth of Nations' founding. Find out how India's independence movement led to the Commonwealth's modern-day form. Explore the organization's role in protecting the environment, boosting trade, and supporting democracy throughout the world.
Gentrification is a complex and controversial issue that is affecting cities all around the world. It refers to the process of renovating and improving a run-down urban neighborhood, often resulting in the displacement of low-income residents and small businesses as the neighborhood becomes more attractive to affluent newcomers. One of the leading academics in the field of gentrification studies is Dr. David Harvey, a geographer and sociologist who has written extensively on the topic. In his book, "The Right to the City," Harvey argues that gentrification represents a violation of the "right to the city" for marginalized communities who are pushed out of their neighborhoods as a result. The impact of gentrification on equality can be significant. As low-income residents are forced to move out of gentrifying neighborhoods, they often face challenges finding affordable housing elsewhere, leading to increased homelessness and housing insecurity. Additionally, the loss of diverse communities and small businesses can have a negative impact on cultural richness and local economies. One example of the impact of gentrification can be seen in San Francisco, where the city's African American population declined from 13.4% in 1970 to just 5.8% in 2010 as a result of gentrification and displacement. In London, a similar pattern can be seen, with a report by the Greater London Authority finding that the number of ethnic minority households in the city's inner boroughs has declined by over 50% since the 1980s due to gentrification. These are just a few examples. Explore this interesting and complex topic more and play your part in helping communities grow sustainably and equitably.
Imagine traveling on a high-speed train from Cape Town to Tunis, passing by the best universities in the world, breathtaking farmland, bustling metropolises, and vast solar panels. This is the promised land of Africa, a continent that powers the global economy and is unified into a shared economic and political vision. By learning about the history of Africa's resource control and rejection of Western development aid, you can understand how the continent is now able to prosper without interference. This knowledge not only benefits you intellectually but also practically, as it offers an escape to those in the Diaspora trapped in the West facing racism, poverty, and criminal injustice. Explore this topic through reading, reflection, writing, and self-directed projects, and discover the wealth of knowledge and opportunities that Africa has to offer.
Have you ever wondered what life would be like without the state? The idea of living without rulers may seem strange, but it's been done before. Archaeology shows our ancestors lived in peace for thousands of years before armed rulers appeared. Without the state, life would be less complicated, divisive, and confusing. Poverty would be slashed, and enterprise and innovation would flourish without the regulation that favors large corporations. We would do things voluntarily, and our cooperative and charitable nature would flourish. We could even develop a less rigid justice system that benefits from a reduction in crime and fear. The benefits of learning about the state and its role in society are both intellectual and practical. You'll gain a better understanding of the world around you and how it functions. You'll also be equipped with the knowledge to develop structures that self-govern from the bottom up, evolving as times change. So, let's explore the concept of the state together and see how we can thrive without it!
Are you fascinated by current world events and the interactions between nations, cultures, and societies? Do you want to explore the complexities of global politics and diplomacy? If so, studying International Relations at university undergraduate level might be the perfect fit for you. International Relations is a dynamic and ever-changing field of study that examines the relationships between countries and how they interact with each other on a global scale. It delves into the complexities of international politics, economics, and culture, and explores how these factors shape the world we live in. One of the most appealing aspects of studying International Relations is the opportunity to learn about real-life examples of international relations at work. From the UN peacekeeping missions to the Paris Climate Agreement, you will learn about some of the most significant events and agreements in modern history. You will also get to study the works of well-known academic figures such as Joseph Nye and Samuel Huntington, who have contributed groundbreaking theories to the field. At the undergraduate level, typical majors and modules include International Political Economy, Global Governance, and International Security. You can also specialize in areas such as Middle Eastern Studies or Human Rights, depending on your interests. For example, you could study the role of women in conflict resolution in the Middle East or analyze the impact of climate change on global security. After completing your degree, there are numerous potential career paths you could take. You could work in government agencies or think tanks, consulting firms, or international organizations such as the United Nations or the World Bank. You could also work in the private sector, with companies such as Google or ExxonMobil, who have a global presence and need employees with an understanding of international relations. To succeed in this field, it's helpful to have a strong interest in current world events and a desire to understand how they fit into the bigger picture. Strong analytical and critical thinking skills are also crucial, as is the ability to communicate effectively and work well in a team. So if you're passionate about global issues and want to make a positive impact on the world, studying International Relations at university undergraduate level could be the perfect choice for you.
Ever wondered why corruption levels vary in African countries? A new study suggests that the legacy of colonial rule may be partly to blame. Find out how British colonial rule may have fostered the corruption of local elites (chiefs) and undermined society's trust in them. Discover the significant welfare implications of this on agriculture, natural resources, mining royalties, public goods, and economic development in many African societies.
The pandemic has exposed the flaws in America's social contract and its ability to protect all citizens. Political philosopher Danielle S. Allen calls for a deeper understanding of the responsibilities of public decision-makers and citizens to repair the broken contract and build pandemic resilience and justice through good governance and strong bonds of solidarity.
California's Reparations Task Force is investigating the harms African Americans have faced since 1850 and recommending how to repair the damage for all descendants of enslaved people now residing in the state. Task force member Jovan Scott Lewis, a University of California, Berkeley, associate professor of geography and chair of the geography department, shares his academic focus on reparations, detailed in numerous articles and two recent books. Learn about his books, the work of the task force, and why reparations are due to the descendants of the enslaved.
New research shows that being a woman or racial minority can help someone stand out and be remembered in academia, but they are more likely to be confused in settings where others share the same attributes. This bias in memory could contribute to discrimination and hurt chances of being recruited for a job or invited to collaborate or give a talk. Learn more about the implications of this research on career advancement.
Why have so many Native Americans fought for a country that has colonized and broken promises to them for centuries? The Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian is exploring this question in a new book and exhibition, "Why We Serve: Native Americans in the United States Armed Forces". The book highlights the unique traditions and motivations that Indigenous people bring to their military service, challenging stereotypes and shedding light on a long history of devotion to the U.S. military.
The hasty division of India and Pakistan in 1947 caused one of the largest refugee crises in history and left lasting scars. Learn about the violence and confusion that ensued, and how it still impacts the region today.
The concept of the "Prisoner's Dilemma" has been studied for over 60 years for its insights into political, military, and economic affairs. The scenario involves two criminals who must decide whether to cooperate or betray each other, with each facing different consequences based on their actions. This dilemma highlights the conflict between self-interest and cooperation, and how rational individuals acting in their own self-interest can bring about the worst-case scenario. Learning about this concept can help students understand the importance of cooperation and the dangers of solely focusing on individual self-interest. It also has practical applications in fields such as politics, economics, and international relations. By exploring this concept through reading, reflection, and self-directed projects, students can gain a deeper understanding of human behavior and decision-making.
How does cultural background affect responses to COVID-19? Our research shows that cultural norms and values play a significant role in explaining heterogeneity in exposure to the virus both across and within countries. From social distancing to vaccination campaigns, cultural attitudes can make an important difference in compliance with public health measures. As migration continues to shape cultural backgrounds, policymakers must consider the likely reaction of their citizenship to contain the spread of communicable diseases.
Enter the mind of Adam Smith, the father of modern economics, and explore his magnum opus, 'The Wealth of Nations'. This classic work, considered the first modern work of economics, delves into the nature and causes of wealth in society. Smith's insights on political economy and moral philosophy continue to shape economic thought today. With an unabridged and illustrated eBook report, readers can navigate through Smith's complex ideas with ease. Discover the antidote to superstition and enthusiasm with 'The Wealth of Nations'." Recommended for students of economics, political science, and philosophy, as well as anyone interested in the history of economic thought. This book provides a foundational understanding of modern economics and the role of government in shaping economic policy. Additionally, those interested in the intersection of morality and economics will find Smith's insights on the subject thought-provoking. The book is also valuable for professionals in the fields of finance and business, as it offers a historical perspective on the evolution of economic systems. Overall, 'The Wealth of Nations' is a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of economics and its impact on society.
Have you ever wondered why some people seem to have a strong sense of right and wrong, while others don't seem to care? Do you want to make a positive impact on the world and help create a better society? If so, you may want to consider studying Ethics! Ethics is a fascinating field of study that explores questions about morality, justice, and human behavior. It examines how people make decisions and how they should behave in various situations. By studying Ethics, you will gain a deeper understanding of the world around you and the complex issues that face society today. One of the most appealing aspects of Ethics is that it is relevant to nearly every aspect of life. From business and politics to healthcare and the environment, ethical considerations are essential in every field. For example, medical professionals must consider the ethical implications of treating patients with limited resources, while business leaders must navigate complex ethical dilemmas related to corporate responsibility and social justice. Ethics is also a field that is constantly evolving, with new research and innovations emerging all the time. Some of the most inspiring academic disclosures have come from notable figures such as Aristotle, Immanuel Kant, and John Stuart Mill, who have made significant contributions to the field. Recent research has explored issues such as the ethics of artificial intelligence, the moral implications of climate change, and the role of empathy in ethical decision-making. At the undergraduate level, typical majors and modules in Ethics include courses on ethical theory, applied ethics, and professional ethics. Students may also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as bioethics, environmental ethics, or business ethics. For example, a student interested in bioethics may study the ethical implications of genetic engineering or the use of medical technologies to prolong life. After graduation, there are many potential career paths for those who study Ethics. Some popular roles include ethics consultants, policy analysts, and social justice advocates. Key industries for prospective future employment include healthcare, government, and non-profit organizations. Notable employers include the World Health Organization, Amnesty International, and the United Nations. To succeed in the field of Ethics, it is helpful to have strong critical thinking skills, a passion for social justice, and an interest in philosophy and moral theory. If you are someone who wants to make a positive impact on the world and help create a better society, studying Ethics may be the perfect choice for you!
In recent years, gun violence has become a global concern, and with it, discussions about gun ownership and firearm homicide have become increasingly relevant. The issue of gun violence is not limited to any one country or culture, but rather is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that varies widely across different regions and populations. At the heart of the debate on gun ownership and firearm homicide is the question of how cultural, social, economic, and political factors interact to shape attitudes towards guns and the extent to which they contribute to violence. Many scholars have explored this issue, and their work offers valuable insights into the complex relationships between culture, guns, and violence. For example, one key concept in this field is the notion of "gun culture," which refers to the social and cultural attitudes that promote gun ownership and use. Sociologist David Yamane has argued that the U.S. has a unique gun culture that is deeply ingrained in American society, and that this culture is a key factor in the high rates of gun ownership and gun violence in the country. Other academics, like Gary Kleck and John Lott, have explored the role of guns in self-defense and crime prevention, and have argued that increased gun ownership can lead to a reduction in crime rates. However, this view is not without its critics, and many scholars, like Franklin Zimring, have challenged the notion that more guns necessarily lead to more safety. The cultural differences in attitudes towards guns are also evident when we compare the U.S. to other countries. For example, in Japan, the ownership of firearms is strictly regulated and there are very low rates of gun violence. In contrast, countries like Mexico and Brazil have high rates of gun violence despite having relatively strict gun control laws. When it comes to exploring this topic further, there are many avenues for students to pursue. They might start by delving deeper into the concept of "gun culture" and exploring how it differs across different regions and populations. They might also explore the role of guns in self-defense, and consider the arguments both for and against the idea that more guns lead to greater safety. Finally, they might look at the differences in gun control laws across different countries and consider the factors that contribute to variation in gun violence rates. In conclusion, exploring the relationship between gun ownership and firearm homicide is a multifaceted endeavor that requires a cross-cultural perspective. By delving deeper into the concept of "gun culture" and exploring how it differs across different regions and populations, students can gain a better understanding of this pressing issue, and develop their own informed and nuanced perspectives on this topic.
Discover the hidden history of Britain's post-war immigration laws and their imperial roots. Learn how citizenship and immigration policies shaped the Windrush scandal and continue to impact the UK today. Explore the connections between immigration laws and Britain's relationship with the rest of the world.
Board games can be a fun pastime, but what happens when they reinforce prejudices and glorify colonial domination? Researchers at MIT and Dartmouth delve into the history of board games in their new book, "Playing Oppression," and analyze the assumptions baked into many of them. From the problematic elements of "Puerto Rico" to the glorification of empire-building in games like "Empires: Age of Discovery," this book sheds light on the legacy of conquest and empire in colonialist board games.
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