Publisher: ibidem
Leukavets applies here Putnam’s two-level game-theoretical approach in combination with findings from Europeanization literature and democracy promotion studies.
This is a concise summary and analysis of Propaganda, by Edward Bernays. It is not the original book and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Edward Bernays. Ideal those seeking a quick and insightful overview. Propaganda explores the powerful role of public relations and persuasion in shaping public opinion, politics, and consumer behavior. This groundbreaking work unveils the mechanics of influence in modern society, examining how ideas are spread and perceptions are crafted by media, governments, and corporations. Through insightful analysis, the book reveals the techniques used to sway public consciousness and highlights the ethical implications of such manipulation. A must-read for anyone seeking to understand the dynamics of communication and power in the 20th century and beyond.Show book
"For a Utopia to be credible, it must be kinetic—not a static state, but a hopeful stage in an infinite development." Unlike the rigid, stagnant utopias of the past, H.G. Wells presents a "Kinetic Utopia"—a living, breathing world located on a planet identical to Earth but light-years ahead in social and technological evolution. Following two travelers who find themselves transported to this parallel world, Wells explores a global civilization governed by a World State, where poverty is abolished, technology serves humanity, and a voluntary nobility known as the "Samurai" maintains the moral fiber of the race. This is a brilliant exploration of how a planet-wide society could balance individual liberty with the common good. The "Samurai" Class: The most enduring concept of the novel is the Samurai—a voluntary order of men and women who follow a strict Rule of life to qualify for leadership. They are not a hereditary caste but an intellectual and moral meritocracy. Wells uses this concept to solve the age-old problem of governance: how to ensure that those in power are disciplined, selfless, and dedicated to the progress of the species. A World of Motion: Wells argues that a modern utopia cannot be a walled city; it must encompass the entire globe. In this world, every citizen is tracked by a universal indexing system (a startlingly prophetic vision of modern data), ensuring that while people are free to travel and change professions, the state can provide for their needs and maintain social stability. It is a world where the "Five Freedoms" are guaranteed, and the focus of human life shifts from survival to self-actualization. Rediscover the dream of a better world. Purchase "A Modern Utopia" today and explore the frontiers of human possibility.Show book
What drives American foreign relations in the Arctic? It is difficult to give a unified answer to this question because most histories of the region are divided between the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, Asian and European strategic interests, or federal government and Indigenous peoples' concerns, making it difficult to understand the connections among the environmental challenges, scientific understandings, strategic calculations, and governance relationships. Most Americans do not think of their country as an Arctic power, yet it is a region where the United States has had important ties throughout its history.In this sweeping study, from the founding of the country through the acquisition of Alaska to the present, Kathryn C. Lavelle considers American relations across the circumpolar North, incorporating discussions of economics, national security, and science that are conventionally separated. Lavelle argues that it is impossible to understand United States policy without a knowledge of American political development and of how scientific understandings have grown alongside studies of climate and other environmental issues. This history has important implications for future American policy regarding traditional national security and political economy, in addition to climate change and environmental cooperation.Show book
America's greatness comes from people working hard to fulfill their dreams. But today that greatness is being undermined by people using the government to steal other people's dreams (and money). Rather than participate and innovate in the marketplace, generating goods and services that benefit society, people are increasingly vying for political advantage to live at the expense of others. Something for Nothing reveals the social and personal threats inherent in this emerging "grabbing match" culture, juxtaposing free-market virtues against government vices, explaining how the something-for-nothing mentality corrupts the political system, undermines corporate success, and stifles the individual's ability to prosper and contribute long-term to society. More than exposing the dangers, however, Tracy helps readers set a personal and culture-wide agenda for change.Show book
Brainwashing is a process that manipulates an individual’s thoughts, beliefs, and perceptions, often without their conscious awareness. It is rooted in psychological principles that exploit the way the human mind processes information, reacts to stress, and seeks social belonging. By systematically breaking down existing thought patterns and replacing them with new ones, brainwashing can reshape an individual’s identity, morality, and loyalty. Understanding the psychology behind this phenomenon reveals why it is so effective and why some people are more susceptible than others. At its core, brainwashing relies on cognitive dissonance, a psychological state that occurs when a person holds conflicting beliefs or values. When subjected to persistent pressure, individuals experience discomfort and seek to resolve the inconsistency. This vulnerability makes them more likely to accept new ideas, especially if rejecting them would lead to further psychological distress. Manipulators use this to their advantage, gradually shifting a person’s perception by presenting them with controlled information while isolating them from opposing viewpoints. Over time, the person internalizes the new ideology, often without realizing they have been influenced. Another key psychological mechanism in brainwashing is the use of repetition. The more frequently an idea is presented, the more familiar and acceptable it becomes. Studies in cognitive psychology suggest that repeated exposure to a particular message strengthens neural pathways, making certain thoughts or beliefs more automatic. This is why propaganda, advertising, and even extremist ideologies rely heavily on repetition—constant reinforcement solidifies the desired mindset. The brain, overwhelmed by a lack of alternative perspectives, begins to default to the new beliefs as truth.Show book
As the world transitions into a multipolar era, an increasing number of nations are challenging Western dominance and reshaping the global order. Central to this shift is the rise of the Global South, led by Asia's powerhouses – India and China. These two nations, each offering distinct governance, development, and security models, are in a growing competition for influence. Countries across the Global South are advocating for a more equitable international system, demanding debt restructuring, climate action, and solutions to emerging security challenges. What strategies will India and China propose to address these demands? And how will their rivalry shape the future of the Global South as a unified force on the world stage?Show book
