The evolution of Western democracy
RevisitAldo Mateucci examines David Graeber's insights on democracy's origins, cultural innovation, and the limitations of historical analysis.
Transforming public space
RevisitEver wonder why unseen influences shape public spaces more than our own decisions? Aldo Matteucci analyses.
History of Diplomacy and Technology: From Smoke Signals to Artificial Intelligence
The book 'History of Diplomacy and Technology' reminds us that every new technology throughout history has promised to change the way diplomacy is conducted. Some changes occurred, but the essence of diplomacy remained the same: the peaceful resolution of disputes through negotiation and mediation. This historical journey of diplomacy's continuity and technological changes since smoke signals is thought-provoking reading as we consider the future of diplomacy in the AI era.
Diplo Academy 2023: A year in review
Alumni, Capacity development, Courses, Faculty Capacity development, Contemporary diplomacy, Diplomacy courses and workshops, Online education, PedagogyDiplo Academy excelled in e-learning in 2023, delivering 20 courses with a 92% completion rate. The academy prioritized diversity, with nearly half of participants being female and most coming from developing countries. Research highlighted the efficiency and eco-friendliness of online learning. Diplo Academy emphasized guided learning for high completion rates and revealed upcoming trends such as increased corporate training and growth in mobile and virtual reality-based learning. The academy's commitment to excellence, diversity, sustainability, and innovation positions it as a leader in digital education for individuals and organizations worldwide.
How General Motors coerced America’s shift to cars
Revisit BlogsIn the 1920s, General Motors covertly dismantled 100+ trolley systems, shifting the USA from public transport to private cars. But how did such a conspiracy go unnoticed? Aldo Matteucci analyses.
East vs West: The roots of different thought patterns
Revisit Globalisation, International relations, law and politics, Principles and valuesRichard E. Nisbett's book 'The Geography of Thought: How Asians and Westerners Think Differently… and Why' explores the differences in Western and Eastern thought. Read Aldo Mateucci's insightful book analysis in our latest blog post.
G20 trade measures becoming more restrictive, says WTO report.
E-commerce and trade E-commerce and trade, SDGs diplomacy UpdatesThe 30th WTO Trade Monitoring Report reveals that G20 economies have implemented more trade-restrictive measures on goods in recent months. While there are also trade-facilitating measures, the trend is concerning as it goes against economic stability and growth. The report highlights export restrictions on food, feed, and fertilizers, which contribute to shortages and price volatility. The WTO Director-General calls on G20 economies to roll back trade restrictions and keep global markets open and predictable. The report is released amidst slow growth in world trade, and G20 economies play a crucial role in strengthening the WTO.
Machiavelli’s hypotheses vs historical facts
RevisitHow do Machiavelli's views on religion and power compare with actual historical facts of empire-building in China and Rome?
When Marx met Confucius
AI & art, AI & linguistics, AI & philosophy, humAInism UpdatesA television series titled "When Marx Met Confucius" has been created by the propaganda department in Hunan province to promote Xi Jinping Thought on Culture, which aims to merge Marxism with Chinese tradition. The show downplays the differences between Marx and Confucius and highlights their similarities in seeking the greatest good for humanity. It also criticizes the West while praising China's responsible global role. The series represents a significant shift in the Communist Party's approach to tradition and ideology.
Challenging conventions: The vital role of contrarians in shaping policy and knowledge
RevisitContrarians have a crucial role in society. Through questioning and challenging established norms, they help shape rational policy and norms.