“Why do smart people make bad financial choices? Could it be that the very foundation of how we think about economics and decision-making is missing a crucial piece of the human puzzle?” “Prospect Theory is a revolutionary idea in the world of economics. Think of it like a new lens for seeing how people make … Read more
In “The Trial of Henry Kissinger,” Christopher Hitchens plays the role of prosecutor, historian, and moralist, weaving a narrative that is as much an indictment of a man as it is of a system that allowed, and perhaps encouraged, his alleged transgressions. The Litany of Charges Hitchens’ primary accusations against Kissinger are not merely the … Read more
One notable historical example of merchants selling arms and armor at high prices during the Middle Ages can be found in the context of the Italian city-states, particularly Venice and Genoa, during the 12th to 14th centuries. Venetian and Genoese Arms Trade: Example of the Crusades: Quality and Price of Arms and Armor: Impact on … Read more
In the second chapter of “Divided”, Marshall recounts how after the day after Donald Trump was elected President, conservative commentator Ann Coulter jokingly made a plan for his first 100 days in office, mainly about building a wall on the US-Mexico border. This plan was not taken seriously, as it was more for show and … Read more
War isn’t just about fighting; it’s also about money. Some people make a lot of money when there’s a war. They sell guns, tanks, and other things that are used in fighting. This might sound wrong because war causes so much pain and suffering, but it’s true. There are companies and groups that get richer … Read more
Human history is shaped by war, each conflict leaving an indelible mark on the course of civilization. Tracing the evolution of major wars from ancient to modern times unveils a panoramic view of how these cataclysmic events have shaped the world we inhabit. Ancient Wars: Our journey begins in the crucible of ancient warfare. The … Read more
The following is a summary of the Chine in the book, Divided: Why We’re Living in an Age of Walls by Tim Marshall. Chinese emperors, including Xi Jinping, have aimed to unite China’s diverse regions into a cohesive whole. Xi, with multiple titles, oversees a vast and ethnically varied population across a large area. Despite … Read more
Hamas, an Islamist group in a secular, conflict-fatigued society, retains support through various means. It utilizes its reputation for honesty, grassroots activism, and social services to gain public favor, contrasting with Fatah’s corruption. Hamas blends political, charitable, and terrorist activities, often overlapping in function and personnel. Leaders insist on Hamas’ unity, combining political involvement with … Read more
In the shadow of the current conflict between Hamas and Israel in 2023, it is enlightening to revisit Noam Chomsky’s “The Fateful Triangle,” first published in 1983. This work offers a timeless exploration of the intricacies and biases that shape the Israeli-Palestinian discourse, particularly in the context of historical events such as the 1982 Israeli … Read more
“The Physics of Immortality” by Frank J. Tipler is a seminal work that attempts to bridge the chasm between science and religion, specifically physics and theology. The book posits that modern physics, particularly theories like the Omega Point Theory, can offer insights into questions traditionally reserved for theology, such as the existence of God and … Read more