The document discusses the history and future of democracy. It notes that while democracy is widely viewed as the best system today, it was not always seen that way and was rarely used throughout history. The rise of advanced algorithms and AI threatens some core principles of democracy by potentially allowing computers to better understand public preferences and policy choices than voters or politicians. This could further reduce voter turnout and participation. Looking to ancient Greece, the first widespread democracy, the document suggests that democracy emerged as a solution to not having obvious rulers, but declined when leaders like Alexander were viewed as divine or superhuman. Advanced technologies may similarly undermine democracy's claims of being the most efficient and just system if they are seen as having godlike knowledge and abilities that sur
The document summarizes and critiques the Puno ConCom constitution proposal. It argues that the proposal is objectionable due to the current populist context in the Philippines and some concerning content changes. Specifically, it argues that the proposal would further concentrate power in the presidency and weaken checks on executive authority. Additionally, it questions whether federalism is actually the best means to address poverty and inequality in the country based on empirical studies. The document raises doubts about the transition process and risks of political dynasties gaining more regional control under the proposed federal system.
This presentation was session 12 in a 12 part webinar series on the book Extreme Democracy. Extreme democracy is a political philosophy of the information era that puts people in charge of the entire political process. It suggests a deliberative process that places total confidence in the people, opening the policy-making process to many centers of power through deeply networked coalitions that can be organized around local, national and international issues. This seminar covered Future of Democracy: A discussion among the participants
Polls increasingly show that the American public views the US government as a problem and distrusts both political parties. This suggests the US has become a dictatorship that serves wealthy elites rather than a democracy that represents public interests. A 2014 academic study found the US government is dominated by economic elites and business groups, with average citizens having little influence. Recent polls confirm this, showing public opposition to policies like tax cuts and moving the US embassy to Jerusalem that were enacted anyway. Most Americans believe only the rich will benefit from tax reform and growing distrust both Trump and the Mueller investigation. This provides further evidence the US is an oligarchy ruled by the wealthy rather than a democratic republic.
2010 Post-Election Analysis: President Barack Obama and the Closely Divided 1...Patton Boggs LLP
With Republican candidates having made significant gains in the mid-term elections by capturing the House and increasing their share of the Senate, President Barack Obama faces a starkly different legislative environment as he seeks to advance the balance of his policy agenda and as he runs for reelection in 2012. The President has already accomplished two of his most ambitious legislative goals on which he campaigned—health care reform and financial services reform, but two remain unfulfilled—energy/climate change legislation and immigration reform. And now, notwithstanding the need to create jobs and further stimulate the economy, he will likely add deficit reduction as a third one. Will he go for comprehensive bills or will he try for incremental reform? Will he choose confrontation or compromise at the outset? Will he give up on Congress and try to accomplish as much as possible through regulatory action? And how will action in the courts and international events, including the war in Afghanistan, the situation in Iraq, ongoing developments in Iran, and terrorist threats, limit his domestic agenda?
Political Institutions and Online campaigningNickAnstead
The document outlines Nick Anstead's research on explaining the discrepancy in how political institutions in the US and UK have impacted the adoption of the internet by political actors. It analyzes factors like the party system, primary elections, campaign financing laws, and cultural narratives that have led to more online success stories in US politics compared to the UK, where the internet has had little impact. Anstead proposes using an institutional approach and new institutionalism as an analytical framework to address this question.
The document analyzes the relationship between political polarization, wealth inequality, voter turnout laws, and voter turnout. Regression models found that political polarization and voter ID laws did not significantly impact turnout, but wealth inequality did have a significant negative effect on turnout. While the study has limitations, it provides initial evidence that increasing wealth inequality, rather than polarization alone, may contribute to decreasing voter participation. Further research is needed to more fully understand the impacts of polarization and inequality on political engagement.
Party Structure and the Development Of Online Campaigning: The US and UK in C...NickAnstead
The document discusses how differences in political party structures between Britain and America have influenced the development of online electoral campaigning. It outlines characteristics of British and American parties, with British parties having formal membership and internal democratic structures, while American parties have no formal membership and weak central organization. It argues that the candidate-focused model of internal democracy used by American parties, manifested through primaries, has allowed the internet to facilitate information transfer between participants, making online campaigning more successful in the US.
The document summarizes and critiques the Puno ConCom constitution proposal. It argues that the proposal is objectionable due to the current populist context in the Philippines and some concerning content changes. Specifically, it argues that the proposal would further concentrate power in the presidency and weaken checks on executive authority. Additionally, it questions whether federalism is actually the best means to address poverty and inequality in the country based on empirical studies. The document raises doubts about the transition process and risks of political dynasties gaining more regional control under the proposed federal system.
This presentation was session 12 in a 12 part webinar series on the book Extreme Democracy. Extreme democracy is a political philosophy of the information era that puts people in charge of the entire political process. It suggests a deliberative process that places total confidence in the people, opening the policy-making process to many centers of power through deeply networked coalitions that can be organized around local, national and international issues. This seminar covered Future of Democracy: A discussion among the participants
Polls increasingly show that the American public views the US government as a problem and distrusts both political parties. This suggests the US has become a dictatorship that serves wealthy elites rather than a democracy that represents public interests. A 2014 academic study found the US government is dominated by economic elites and business groups, with average citizens having little influence. Recent polls confirm this, showing public opposition to policies like tax cuts and moving the US embassy to Jerusalem that were enacted anyway. Most Americans believe only the rich will benefit from tax reform and growing distrust both Trump and the Mueller investigation. This provides further evidence the US is an oligarchy ruled by the wealthy rather than a democratic republic.
2010 Post-Election Analysis: President Barack Obama and the Closely Divided 1...Patton Boggs LLP
With Republican candidates having made significant gains in the mid-term elections by capturing the House and increasing their share of the Senate, President Barack Obama faces a starkly different legislative environment as he seeks to advance the balance of his policy agenda and as he runs for reelection in 2012. The President has already accomplished two of his most ambitious legislative goals on which he campaigned—health care reform and financial services reform, but two remain unfulfilled—energy/climate change legislation and immigration reform. And now, notwithstanding the need to create jobs and further stimulate the economy, he will likely add deficit reduction as a third one. Will he go for comprehensive bills or will he try for incremental reform? Will he choose confrontation or compromise at the outset? Will he give up on Congress and try to accomplish as much as possible through regulatory action? And how will action in the courts and international events, including the war in Afghanistan, the situation in Iraq, ongoing developments in Iran, and terrorist threats, limit his domestic agenda?
Political Institutions and Online campaigningNickAnstead
The document outlines Nick Anstead's research on explaining the discrepancy in how political institutions in the US and UK have impacted the adoption of the internet by political actors. It analyzes factors like the party system, primary elections, campaign financing laws, and cultural narratives that have led to more online success stories in US politics compared to the UK, where the internet has had little impact. Anstead proposes using an institutional approach and new institutionalism as an analytical framework to address this question.
The document analyzes the relationship between political polarization, wealth inequality, voter turnout laws, and voter turnout. Regression models found that political polarization and voter ID laws did not significantly impact turnout, but wealth inequality did have a significant negative effect on turnout. While the study has limitations, it provides initial evidence that increasing wealth inequality, rather than polarization alone, may contribute to decreasing voter participation. Further research is needed to more fully understand the impacts of polarization and inequality on political engagement.
Party Structure and the Development Of Online Campaigning: The US and UK in C...NickAnstead
The document discusses how differences in political party structures between Britain and America have influenced the development of online electoral campaigning. It outlines characteristics of British and American parties, with British parties having formal membership and internal democratic structures, while American parties have no formal membership and weak central organization. It argues that the candidate-focused model of internal democracy used by American parties, manifested through primaries, has allowed the internet to facilitate information transfer between participants, making online campaigning more successful in the US.
No need for free market utopias and thoughts on political organizingStephen Cheng
These thoughts on paper come from two Web log entries I wrote a couple of years ago. Here, I discuss the virtues of social democracy in relation to neoliberalism as how as how Hillary Clinton and the "New" Democrats lost the way they did to Donald Trump and the Republicans in 2016. We may see a 2016 redux, or replay, come the 2020 U.S. presidential election.
This document discusses democratic theory and citizens' support for democracy despite losing confidence in democratic institutions. It begins by defining democracy and institutions, then discusses how citizens have become more critical of political elites as values have shifted to post-material issues. While citizens are less trusting of institutions like political parties, this critical view reflects greater political sophistication rather than discontent with democracy itself. The essay will examine whether citizens' paradoxical views reveal something fundamental about the nature of democracy.
The document analyzes and compares political blogging in Hong Kong, Australia, and the United States. It finds that in Hong Kong, Chief Executive Donald Tsang's blog focuses on addressing younger generations but provides few links or comments. In Australia, Prime Minister Julia Gillard's blog is more frequently updated and links to other government pages. In the US, President Obama's campaign blog was highly successful at engaging supporters and building dialogue through open commenting.
Social media in conflict situations - Ushahidi, Twitter and Morespieli
The presentation analyses with the different views on how social media are used in conflict related situations, comparing the arguments of Evgeny Morozov and Clay Shirky. Examples used are the "Green Uprising" in Iran, the Sichuan Earthquake in China and the Minsk Flash Mobs.
UIUC SLIS LIS531 MiniCourse Endangered Data Weekaaroncollie
This document provides an agenda for a class on endangered data and data curation. It discusses the current threats to government data from policies that remove access to climate data and other information. It outlines specific data at risk from the EPA, agriculture, and other agencies. It emphasizes that accessible data is important for democracy and decision making. The document also discusses efforts by professionals, archives, libraries and others to preserve endangered data through initiatives like Data Refuge.
This document summarizes a research paper that examines the economic development effects of coups. It finds that coups overthrowing democratic governments have distinctly negative effects on economic growth, lowering GDP per capita by 1-1.3% per year over a decade. By contrast, coups in autocratic countries show smaller and imprecise positive effects. These results are robust across different empirical methods and not explained by alternative hypotheses. Additionally, coups reversing economic reforms, increasing debt, and reducing social spending, suggesting a shift in priorities away from the public.
Temple Law School/ICAS Joint Lecture:
#vivalarevolucíon: New Millennium Political Protests
Slides for John Russell
Speakers:
David H. Slater, Professor of Cultural Anthropology and Japanese Studies and Director of the Institute of Comparative Culture, Sophia University
John Russell, Professor of Anthropology, Gifu University
William Andrews, writer and translator.
Sarajean Rossitto, Nonprofit NGO Consultant
Moderator:
Tina Saunders, Director and Associate Professor of Instruction in Law, Temple University School of Law, Japan Campus
ICAS public lecture series videos are posted on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLAA67B040B82B8AEF
SOCIAL, POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC IMPACTS OF COUNTRY CATEGORIZATION AND THE LOOPHOLES OF DEFINING DEMOCRACY: Freedom House
The aim of this study is three-fold: First, it aims to evaluate how Freedom House defines democracy and whether the critics make valid points regarding potential score implications on ‘different’ democratic structures. Second, the study will review the instrumental players who use the scores, and repercussions regarding aid, policy, trade, or investment for the country. And thirdly, the study will look into the impact of Freedom House scores; the actions a country takes as a result and whether there are positive measureable impacts that can substantiate the consequences of the scores.
This document summarizes a paper analyzing racial gerrymandering and electoral districting. It discusses Supreme Court cases like Shaw v. Reno that found racial gerrymandering unconstitutional but provided no clear legal standard. It also analyzes Illinois' 1st Congressional District, finding it was drawn to include a slim African American majority that typically votes Democrat along with suburban and rural whites that often vote Republican, maximizing the partisan benefit to Democrats. While this helps minority representation, it may increase political polarization and discourage community-building and participation. The document explores potential solutions like emphasizing local communities over partisan goals in redistricting or basing districts on contiguous geographic communities to increase voter engagement, but acknowledges this does not fully solve gerry
5 Things You Need to Know About the Coming Trump vs. Clinton ShowdownAtif Fareed
What to expect if The Donald doesn’t change course, and what to expect if he does.
Read more: http://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2016/05/2016-donald-trump-hillary-clinton-election-things-you-should-know-213875#ixzz48Ld19944
Follow us: @politico on Twitter | Politico on Facebook
Facebook has a policy prohibiting praise or support of events they deem violate standards, but as internet providers are shielded from liability for user content by Section 230, they have no obligation to censor. However, social media CEOs are censoring accounts that don't conform to their views, like former President Trump for allegedly fomenting the January 6 riot. While people should be responsible for their own actions, social media censoring violates free speech. No one has a monopoly on truth, and social media shouldn't act as arbiters of acceptable views. Congress could repeal Section 230 protections if platforms censor, or CEOs should enable free exchange of all information and viewpoints.
This document provides details about vulnerabilities in the New York City subway fare collection system. It describes the various devices used, including vending machines and turnstiles, and explains how to decode the magnetic stripe on MetroCards to view stored information like ride balances and card types. The document aims to educate readers about the inner workings of the system while exposing potential security issues.
Doing Digital Methods: Some Recent Highlights from Winter and Summer SchoolsLiliana Bounegru
Talk given at the Digital Methods Winter School 2017 at the University of Amsterdam. It presents a selection of projects developed at the 2016 Digital Methods Winter and Summer Schools (www.digitalmethods.net).
Mapping Issues with the Web: An Introduction to Digital MethodsJonathan Gray
Slides from talk on "Mapping Issues with the Web: An Introduction to Digital Methods" at Tow Center for Digital Journalism, Columbia University, 23rd September 2014. Further details at: http://jonathangray.org/2014/09/10/mapping-issues-with-web-columbia/
PS 101 The Media And American Politics Fall 2008Christopher Rice
The document discusses the role of media in American politics. It defines what is considered "the media" and discusses its roles as a common carrier, watchdog, signaler and public representative. The document also explores the concepts of bias, objectivity and agenda setting in the media and debates whether and how bias can exist in reporting. It notes that while bias may be difficult to define and measure, media coverage can still reflect certain tendencies that favor some interests over others.
The Great White Hack. Trump is the "White Hat" Hacker of US Democracyeholmes80
Account of 2016 Election as a cautionary tale and cause for individuals to rise up and exercise their democratic rights as the 2020 election approaches.
Dov Levin - Partisan electoral interventions by the great powers: Introducing...Davide J. Mancino
This document introduces a new dataset on Partisan Electoral Interventions by the Great Powers (PEIG) between 1946 and 2000. The dataset provides information on instances where the US and USSR/Russia attempted to influence election results in other countries. It defines partisan electoral interventions and how cases were identified and coded. Some initial patterns are presented, such as the US and USSR intervened in about one of every nine competitive national elections. The dataset aims to facilitate further quantitative research on electoral interventions and their effects.
Doing Social and Political Research in a Digital Age: An Introduction to Digi...Liliana Bounegru
Lecture given at the National Center of Competence in Research: Challenges to Democracy in the 21st Century, 5 November 2015, Zürich University, Zürich, Switzerland
GitHub as Transparency Device in Data Journalism, Open Data and Data ActivismLiliana Bounegru
Slides from presentation of research agenda around uses of GitHub in journalism at the Digital Methods Summer School 2015. More details here: http://lilianabounegru.org/2015/07/08/github-as-transparency-device-in-data-journalism-open-data-and-data-activism/
Re-Imagining the Place of ESL in the Community Collegeystone
The document discusses the ESL program at Holyoke Community College and a research project examining how prepared faculty and staff feel in working with English language learners (ELLs). The research found that many faculty feel unprepared and unaware of support services available for ELLs. It recommends that the entire college collaborate to support ELLs, including providing training to faculty on issues related to second language acquisition. The ESL program aims to strengthen collaboration between academic departments and reposition itself as a conduit for diversity across the college.
The document is a quarterly innovation monitor report that provides an overview of key trends in cleantech venture capital investment and M&A activity. Some of the highlights include strong investment in transportation deals, lower corporate investment levels compared to 2015 averages, and notable cleantech M&A deals such as Schneider Electric's acquisition of ETAP for $1.4 billion.
This document summarizes the results of a military simulation exercise examining potential Russian offensive operations in Ukraine. Six scenarios are analyzed: 1) Creating a land bridge from Crimea to separatist forces in Ukraine. 2) Seizing Ukraine's entire southern coast. 3) Capturing all of eastern Ukraine up to the Dnieper River. 4) A limited version of scenario 3. 5) A minor expansion of existing separatist lines. 6) Temporary incursions along Ukraine's entire border. The analysis finds that most scenarios would require extensive Russian forces and control massive amounts of territory, far exceeding Russia's actual military capacity.
No need for free market utopias and thoughts on political organizingStephen Cheng
These thoughts on paper come from two Web log entries I wrote a couple of years ago. Here, I discuss the virtues of social democracy in relation to neoliberalism as how as how Hillary Clinton and the "New" Democrats lost the way they did to Donald Trump and the Republicans in 2016. We may see a 2016 redux, or replay, come the 2020 U.S. presidential election.
This document discusses democratic theory and citizens' support for democracy despite losing confidence in democratic institutions. It begins by defining democracy and institutions, then discusses how citizens have become more critical of political elites as values have shifted to post-material issues. While citizens are less trusting of institutions like political parties, this critical view reflects greater political sophistication rather than discontent with democracy itself. The essay will examine whether citizens' paradoxical views reveal something fundamental about the nature of democracy.
The document analyzes and compares political blogging in Hong Kong, Australia, and the United States. It finds that in Hong Kong, Chief Executive Donald Tsang's blog focuses on addressing younger generations but provides few links or comments. In Australia, Prime Minister Julia Gillard's blog is more frequently updated and links to other government pages. In the US, President Obama's campaign blog was highly successful at engaging supporters and building dialogue through open commenting.
Social media in conflict situations - Ushahidi, Twitter and Morespieli
The presentation analyses with the different views on how social media are used in conflict related situations, comparing the arguments of Evgeny Morozov and Clay Shirky. Examples used are the "Green Uprising" in Iran, the Sichuan Earthquake in China and the Minsk Flash Mobs.
UIUC SLIS LIS531 MiniCourse Endangered Data Weekaaroncollie
This document provides an agenda for a class on endangered data and data curation. It discusses the current threats to government data from policies that remove access to climate data and other information. It outlines specific data at risk from the EPA, agriculture, and other agencies. It emphasizes that accessible data is important for democracy and decision making. The document also discusses efforts by professionals, archives, libraries and others to preserve endangered data through initiatives like Data Refuge.
This document summarizes a research paper that examines the economic development effects of coups. It finds that coups overthrowing democratic governments have distinctly negative effects on economic growth, lowering GDP per capita by 1-1.3% per year over a decade. By contrast, coups in autocratic countries show smaller and imprecise positive effects. These results are robust across different empirical methods and not explained by alternative hypotheses. Additionally, coups reversing economic reforms, increasing debt, and reducing social spending, suggesting a shift in priorities away from the public.
Temple Law School/ICAS Joint Lecture:
#vivalarevolucíon: New Millennium Political Protests
Slides for John Russell
Speakers:
David H. Slater, Professor of Cultural Anthropology and Japanese Studies and Director of the Institute of Comparative Culture, Sophia University
John Russell, Professor of Anthropology, Gifu University
William Andrews, writer and translator.
Sarajean Rossitto, Nonprofit NGO Consultant
Moderator:
Tina Saunders, Director and Associate Professor of Instruction in Law, Temple University School of Law, Japan Campus
ICAS public lecture series videos are posted on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLAA67B040B82B8AEF
SOCIAL, POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC IMPACTS OF COUNTRY CATEGORIZATION AND THE LOOPHOLES OF DEFINING DEMOCRACY: Freedom House
The aim of this study is three-fold: First, it aims to evaluate how Freedom House defines democracy and whether the critics make valid points regarding potential score implications on ‘different’ democratic structures. Second, the study will review the instrumental players who use the scores, and repercussions regarding aid, policy, trade, or investment for the country. And thirdly, the study will look into the impact of Freedom House scores; the actions a country takes as a result and whether there are positive measureable impacts that can substantiate the consequences of the scores.
This document summarizes a paper analyzing racial gerrymandering and electoral districting. It discusses Supreme Court cases like Shaw v. Reno that found racial gerrymandering unconstitutional but provided no clear legal standard. It also analyzes Illinois' 1st Congressional District, finding it was drawn to include a slim African American majority that typically votes Democrat along with suburban and rural whites that often vote Republican, maximizing the partisan benefit to Democrats. While this helps minority representation, it may increase political polarization and discourage community-building and participation. The document explores potential solutions like emphasizing local communities over partisan goals in redistricting or basing districts on contiguous geographic communities to increase voter engagement, but acknowledges this does not fully solve gerry
5 Things You Need to Know About the Coming Trump vs. Clinton ShowdownAtif Fareed
What to expect if The Donald doesn’t change course, and what to expect if he does.
Read more: http://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2016/05/2016-donald-trump-hillary-clinton-election-things-you-should-know-213875#ixzz48Ld19944
Follow us: @politico on Twitter | Politico on Facebook
Facebook has a policy prohibiting praise or support of events they deem violate standards, but as internet providers are shielded from liability for user content by Section 230, they have no obligation to censor. However, social media CEOs are censoring accounts that don't conform to their views, like former President Trump for allegedly fomenting the January 6 riot. While people should be responsible for their own actions, social media censoring violates free speech. No one has a monopoly on truth, and social media shouldn't act as arbiters of acceptable views. Congress could repeal Section 230 protections if platforms censor, or CEOs should enable free exchange of all information and viewpoints.
This document provides details about vulnerabilities in the New York City subway fare collection system. It describes the various devices used, including vending machines and turnstiles, and explains how to decode the magnetic stripe on MetroCards to view stored information like ride balances and card types. The document aims to educate readers about the inner workings of the system while exposing potential security issues.
Doing Digital Methods: Some Recent Highlights from Winter and Summer SchoolsLiliana Bounegru
Talk given at the Digital Methods Winter School 2017 at the University of Amsterdam. It presents a selection of projects developed at the 2016 Digital Methods Winter and Summer Schools (www.digitalmethods.net).
Mapping Issues with the Web: An Introduction to Digital MethodsJonathan Gray
Slides from talk on "Mapping Issues with the Web: An Introduction to Digital Methods" at Tow Center for Digital Journalism, Columbia University, 23rd September 2014. Further details at: http://jonathangray.org/2014/09/10/mapping-issues-with-web-columbia/
PS 101 The Media And American Politics Fall 2008Christopher Rice
The document discusses the role of media in American politics. It defines what is considered "the media" and discusses its roles as a common carrier, watchdog, signaler and public representative. The document also explores the concepts of bias, objectivity and agenda setting in the media and debates whether and how bias can exist in reporting. It notes that while bias may be difficult to define and measure, media coverage can still reflect certain tendencies that favor some interests over others.
The Great White Hack. Trump is the "White Hat" Hacker of US Democracyeholmes80
Account of 2016 Election as a cautionary tale and cause for individuals to rise up and exercise their democratic rights as the 2020 election approaches.
Dov Levin - Partisan electoral interventions by the great powers: Introducing...Davide J. Mancino
This document introduces a new dataset on Partisan Electoral Interventions by the Great Powers (PEIG) between 1946 and 2000. The dataset provides information on instances where the US and USSR/Russia attempted to influence election results in other countries. It defines partisan electoral interventions and how cases were identified and coded. Some initial patterns are presented, such as the US and USSR intervened in about one of every nine competitive national elections. The dataset aims to facilitate further quantitative research on electoral interventions and their effects.
Doing Social and Political Research in a Digital Age: An Introduction to Digi...Liliana Bounegru
Lecture given at the National Center of Competence in Research: Challenges to Democracy in the 21st Century, 5 November 2015, Zürich University, Zürich, Switzerland
GitHub as Transparency Device in Data Journalism, Open Data and Data ActivismLiliana Bounegru
Slides from presentation of research agenda around uses of GitHub in journalism at the Digital Methods Summer School 2015. More details here: http://lilianabounegru.org/2015/07/08/github-as-transparency-device-in-data-journalism-open-data-and-data-activism/
Re-Imagining the Place of ESL in the Community Collegeystone
The document discusses the ESL program at Holyoke Community College and a research project examining how prepared faculty and staff feel in working with English language learners (ELLs). The research found that many faculty feel unprepared and unaware of support services available for ELLs. It recommends that the entire college collaborate to support ELLs, including providing training to faculty on issues related to second language acquisition. The ESL program aims to strengthen collaboration between academic departments and reposition itself as a conduit for diversity across the college.
The document is a quarterly innovation monitor report that provides an overview of key trends in cleantech venture capital investment and M&A activity. Some of the highlights include strong investment in transportation deals, lower corporate investment levels compared to 2015 averages, and notable cleantech M&A deals such as Schneider Electric's acquisition of ETAP for $1.4 billion.
This document summarizes the results of a military simulation exercise examining potential Russian offensive operations in Ukraine. Six scenarios are analyzed: 1) Creating a land bridge from Crimea to separatist forces in Ukraine. 2) Seizing Ukraine's entire southern coast. 3) Capturing all of eastern Ukraine up to the Dnieper River. 4) A limited version of scenario 3. 5) A minor expansion of existing separatist lines. 6) Temporary incursions along Ukraine's entire border. The analysis finds that most scenarios would require extensive Russian forces and control massive amounts of territory, far exceeding Russia's actual military capacity.
This document summarizes the services provided by Provivo LT, an engineering consultancy firm. It lists their services such as consultancy, procurement, construction management, and engineering services including design, process, mechanical, and civil engineering. It provides examples of projects in various industries including oil and gas, process, infrastructure and buildings. It highlights some of Provivo's recent projects including an LNG terminal jetty in Klaipeda, Lithuania, a shopping center in Warsaw, Poland, and oil terminals in Latvia and Lithuania.
Here are the key people being acknowledged in this section:
- Marjan Bace, publisher of Manning, for providing the opportunity to write this book, along with his staff Clay Andres, Susan Capparelle, and Dave Roberson for their support throughout the process.
- Jacquelyn Carter, their developmental editor, for her patience through all their "whining and last-minute changes."
- The production team including Mary Piergies, Tiffany Taylor, and Tony Roberts for their efforts in providing professionalism and polish.
- Their diligent technical reviewers including Phil Hanna, Christophe Avare, Frank Jania, Ted Neward, Dan Dobrin, Ryan Lowe, Steve Gutz,
This document discusses several issues with democracy as it currently exists. It argues that democracy is coming under scrutiny in countries like the US and UK, and is seen as sliding towards oligarchy and autocracy due to money's influence over politics. Lobbying and corruption are seen as polluting the political process. The document questions why democracy is being forcibly exported through violence when it is not even in good shape in Western countries. It concludes that recent events support the view that democracies often "waste, exhaust, and murder themselves."
The document discusses several major geopolitical risks for 2024, with a primary focus on the dysfunctional state of American politics and the upcoming US presidential election. Key points:
- The US political system is more divided than ever, with low public trust in institutions. The 2024 election will feature two candidates, Trump and Biden, who are widely seen as unfit for office.
- The election outcome is uncertain but will likely further damage America's social fabric, political stability, and international standing regardless of who wins. Trump may contest any loss and claim fraud.
- If Trump wins, it will weaken the US globally as allies hedge against his policies. If he loses and refuses defeat, it could cause
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The document discusses how the Internet has impacted citizens' relationship to the public sphere. While some argue the Internet could provide new democratic possibilities by circumventing traditional media, others are more pessimistic. The Internet reflects existing social inequalities like the "digital divide" between those who do and do not have access. Additionally, concepts like democracy and public sphere may not apply to the postmodern nature of online interactions. Recent studies also suggest the Internet has a limited role in promoting citizenship. In conclusion, the Internet has not significantly changed how citizens relate to the public sphere despite new communication abilities.
Donald Trump's use of social media in the 2016 US Presidential election transformed political campaigning into a "real time" endeavor. Through his core staff of 85 compared to Hillary Clinton's 600+, Trump drove engagement through platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Reddit. Despite being outspent, Trump's message resonated more. Now, events have real-time impacts as crowdsourced activism and social media backlash can influence corporate decisions and consumer behavior within hours. Real-time data analytics and social physics modeling will continue shaping outcomes in business and politics.
The document discusses several companies that collect and aggregate personal data on individuals, including Acxiom, Seisint/Matrix, and ChoicePoint. It describes how these companies grew to assemble vast databases by purchasing records from various sources and offering their data services. The document also discusses concerns about privacy and the potential misuse of this collected data, especially as it relates to government surveillance in the post-9/11 era.
The social capital and civic engagement in the United States has been declining since the 1950s as younger generations have become more focused on individualism and less involved in their communities. Technology and social media use has increased dramatically and some argue this contributes to declines in social and political engagement as people interact face-to-face less. While new technologies provide opportunities for political information and organizing, they can also distract people and political decisions are sometimes based on superficial factors rather than issues. Scholars debate the causes and consequences of declining social capital for democracy.
This document discusses the issue of regulating free speech in the age of social media. It argues that while the First Amendment protects free speech, more regulation may be needed to prevent hate speech, threats, and bullying online. It notes that unregulated speech on social media allows monitoring by governments and can have serious real-world consequences if used to attack or incite violence against others. While democracy relies on free speech, some restrictions may be reasonable to uphold social norms and prevent harm, especially as technology enables speech to reach wider audiences than ever before.
The document discusses cultural changes that have occurred in Argentina over the past 30 years since the return to democracy in 1983 after decades of military dictatorship. It notes that democracy, while imperfect, has brought revolutionary cultural changes to Argentina, including greater freedoms of expression in the arts. Television viewership has declined significantly as more diverse media like cable and digital technologies have proliferated. Younger generations are less influenced by television and more engaged with the online world. Overall, Argentine culture has become more open and democratic.
Similar to Democracy: The Least Bad Form of Government (10)
This certificate above verifies that Vytis Maleckas Brunius successfully completed the course The Location Advantage on Dec. 11, 2017, as taught by Linda Peters, John Shramek on Udemy. The certificate indicates the entire course was completed as validated by the student.
EY General Data Protection Regulation: Are you ready?VYTIS MALECKAS
The document discusses the new EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) which introduces more stringent data protection rules and fines of up to 4% of global annual revenue. It will apply from 2018, replacing the previous directive. Organizations need to review their compliance and determine what investments are needed to address the new requirements regarding rights for individuals, accountability, security, and more. The GDPR will have a significant impact and those unprepared risk substantial fines.
The case for secession of the Königsberg regionVYTIS MALECKAS
This document summarizes and analyzes the historical claims to the Königsberg region (now known as the Kaliningrad region) of Russia. It discusses how the region was part of Germany as East Prussia until after World War II. At the Teheran and Potsdam conferences, Stalin claimed the northern part of East Prussia for the Soviet Union, though no formal agreement was made. Therefore, the document argues that the Soviet/Russian occupation of the region is illegal under international law. It examines primary documents from the conferences to support this claim. The document aims to make the case that the region's status is unclear and that its continued Russian control and militarization is against the interests of neighboring states like Lithuania
Geopolitics of the_united_states_-_ebook_finalVYTIS MALECKAS
This document provides an overview of the geography of the United States and how it has contributed to the country's growth and power. It discusses several key geographic features, including the Mississippi River basin which provides extensive internal waterways for transportation. It also notes the country's insulation from threats by surrounding oceans, deserts, forests and lakes. The document argues that control of the Mississippi basin core region has allowed the US to dominate North America and emerge as a global power.
The document discusses the history of Ukraine and its relationship with Russia and the West over centuries. It notes that Ukraine was originally part of Kievan Rus along with Russia, but later split between Western Catholic powers like Poland and the growing Russian Orthodox state. This created an East-West divide in Ukraine that continues today. In the 17th century, the Cossack people led an uprising for Ukrainian independence but ultimately allied with Russia, bringing Eastern Ukraine under Russian control while Western Ukraine remained with Poland.
Vieno iš paskutinių lietuvos partizanų paskutinis žodis 1962 mVYTIS MALECKAS
Vieno iš paskutinių Lietuvos partizanų paskutinis žodis 1962 m. teisme. Kai buvo suteiktas paskutinis žodis - vienas paskutinių Lietuvos partizanų Juozas Streikus kalbėjo dvi valandas.
This document summarizes the services provided by Provivo LT, an engineering consultancy firm. It lists their services as consultancy, procurement, construction management, project management, and design and engineering for projects in various industries including process, oil and gas, public sector infrastructure, buildings, ports and airports. It provides examples of six projects Provivo LT has worked on, including an LNG terminal jetty in Klaipėda, Lithuania, a shopping center in Warsaw, Poland, and various oil and gas facilities in Lithuania and Latvia. Safety and risk services are also mentioned.
This document summarizes the services provided by Provivo LT, an engineering consultancy firm. It lists their services as consultancy, procurement, construction management, project management, and design and engineering for projects in various industries including process, oil and gas, public sector infrastructure, buildings, ports and airports. It provides examples of six projects Provivo LT has worked on, including an LNG terminal jetty in Klaipėda, Lithuania, a shopping center in Warsaw, Poland, and various oil and gas facilities in Lithuania and Latvia. Safety and risk services are also mentioned.
This document advertises the sale of two spacious attached homes totaling 827 square meters located in the prestigious Zaliakalnis neighborhood of Kaunas, Lithuania. The homes are well-built, fully equipped, and currently generate rental income. They are conveniently located near schools, hospitals, shops, and transportation in the historical commercial center of Zanavyku Marketplace.
This document describes a property for sale located in the prestigious Zaliakalnis neighborhood of Kaunas, Lithuania. The property consists of two large, attached homes totaling 827 square meters plus a 58 square meter garage. One home has an additional finished attic level. The homes are divided into apartments that are currently rented. The location is described as logistically excellent, near the city center, shops, transportation and more. It is located in a historic marketplace area integrated with services. The sale represents an investment opportunity due to the existing commercial and residential tenants.
This document describes an ideal 185-acre ready-to-build site in Kaunas Fez, Lithuania for critical facilities like tier 4 data centers. The location has advantages such as no natural disasters, a Nordic climate suitable for cooling, a long international runway, high-quality fiber optics, a strong electricity grid able to support over 100 MW of power load, and proximity to a secured hydroelectric plant. All necessary permits and approvals for the site have already been issued.
This document summarizes the process and requirements for obtaining temporary residency and work permits in Lithuania for highly skilled foreign workers. A temporary blue card valid for 1 year can be issued if the worker has higher education, skills in demand, and a salary over double the national average (currently 11300 CNY or 1350 EUR). The application process takes around 2.5 months. Family members can accompany blue card holders. New legislation improving conditions for investors will take effect on January 1st, 2015.
This document describes an ideal location for critical facilities like tier 4 data centers. The location has no natural disasters, a Nordic climate well-suited for cooling, a long international runway, high quality telecoms and electricity infrastructure, a 185-acre ready-to-build site adjacent to secured infrastructure, and has already obtained necessary permits and approvals.
This document describes an urban assault training facility located in Kaunas, Lithuania that is well-suited for close quarters battle and hostage rescue training exercises. The property includes two attached two-story homes totaling 827 square meters that have multiple entrances, garages, and living quarters. The facility offers opportunities to simulate urban combat scenarios and train special forces and civilians. It also has space for parking, shooting demonstrations, and is located near public transportation.
This presentation by Nathaniel Lane, Associate Professor in Economics at Oxford University, was made during the discussion “Pro-competitive Industrial Policy” held at the 143rd meeting of the OECD Competition Committee on 12 June 2024. More papers and presentations on the topic can be found at oe.cd/pcip.
This presentation was uploaded with the author’s consent.
This presentation by Thibault Schrepel, Associate Professor of Law at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam University, was made during the discussion “Artificial Intelligence, Data and Competition” held at the 143rd meeting of the OECD Competition Committee on 12 June 2024. More papers and presentations on the topic can be found at oe.cd/aicomp.
This presentation was uploaded with the author’s consent.
Collapsing Narratives: Exploring Non-Linearity • a micro report by Rosie WellsRosie Wells
Insight: In a landscape where traditional narrative structures are giving way to fragmented and non-linear forms of storytelling, there lies immense potential for creativity and exploration.
'Collapsing Narratives: Exploring Non-Linearity' is a micro report from Rosie Wells.
Rosie Wells is an Arts & Cultural Strategist uniquely positioned at the intersection of grassroots and mainstream storytelling.
Their work is focused on developing meaningful and lasting connections that can drive social change.
Please download this presentation to enjoy the hyperlinks!
Carrer goals.pptx and their importance in real lifeartemacademy2
Career goals serve as a roadmap for individuals, guiding them toward achieving long-term professional aspirations and personal fulfillment. Establishing clear career goals enables professionals to focus their efforts on developing specific skills, gaining relevant experience, and making strategic decisions that align with their desired career trajectory. By setting both short-term and long-term objectives, individuals can systematically track their progress, make necessary adjustments, and stay motivated. Short-term goals often include acquiring new qualifications, mastering particular competencies, or securing a specific role, while long-term goals might encompass reaching executive positions, becoming industry experts, or launching entrepreneurial ventures.
Moreover, having well-defined career goals fosters a sense of purpose and direction, enhancing job satisfaction and overall productivity. It encourages continuous learning and adaptation, as professionals remain attuned to industry trends and evolving job market demands. Career goals also facilitate better time management and resource allocation, as individuals prioritize tasks and opportunities that advance their professional growth. In addition, articulating career goals can aid in networking and mentorship, as it allows individuals to communicate their aspirations clearly to potential mentors, colleagues, and employers, thereby opening doors to valuable guidance and support. Ultimately, career goals are integral to personal and professional development, driving individuals toward sustained success and fulfillment in their chosen fields.
This presentation by Professor Alex Robson, Deputy Chair of Australia’s Productivity Commission, was made during the discussion “Competition and Regulation in Professions and Occupations” held at the 77th meeting of the OECD Working Party No. 2 on Competition and Regulation on 10 June 2024. More papers and presentations on the topic can be found at oe.cd/crps.
This presentation was uploaded with the author’s consent.
This presentation by OECD, OECD Secretariat, was made during the discussion “Competition and Regulation in Professions and Occupations” held at the 77th meeting of the OECD Working Party No. 2 on Competition and Regulation on 10 June 2024. More papers and presentations on the topic can be found at oe.cd/crps.
This presentation was uploaded with the author’s consent.
XP 2024 presentation: A New Look to Leadershipsamililja
Presentation slides from XP2024 conference, Bolzano IT. The slides describe a new view to leadership and combines it with anthro-complexity (aka cynefin).
This presentation by Juraj Čorba, Chair of OECD Working Party on Artificial Intelligence Governance (AIGO), was made during the discussion “Artificial Intelligence, Data and Competition” held at the 143rd meeting of the OECD Competition Committee on 12 June 2024. More papers and presentations on the topic can be found at oe.cd/aicomp.
This presentation was uploaded with the author’s consent.
Suzanne Lagerweij - Influence Without Power - Why Empathy is Your Best Friend...Suzanne Lagerweij
This is a workshop about communication and collaboration. We will experience how we can analyze the reasons for resistance to change (exercise 1) and practice how to improve our conversation style and be more in control and effective in the way we communicate (exercise 2).
This session will use Dave Gray’s Empathy Mapping, Argyris’ Ladder of Inference and The Four Rs from Agile Conversations (Squirrel and Fredrick).
Abstract:
Let’s talk about powerful conversations! We all know how to lead a constructive conversation, right? Then why is it so difficult to have those conversations with people at work, especially those in powerful positions that show resistance to change?
Learning to control and direct conversations takes understanding and practice.
We can combine our innate empathy with our analytical skills to gain a deeper understanding of complex situations at work. Join this session to learn how to prepare for difficult conversations and how to improve our agile conversations in order to be more influential without power. We will use Dave Gray’s Empathy Mapping, Argyris’ Ladder of Inference and The Four Rs from Agile Conversations (Squirrel and Fredrick).
In the session you will experience how preparing and reflecting on your conversation can help you be more influential at work. You will learn how to communicate more effectively with the people needed to achieve positive change. You will leave with a self-revised version of a difficult conversation and a practical model to use when you get back to work.
Come learn more on how to become a real influencer!
Mastering the Concepts Tested in the Databricks Certified Data Engineer Assoc...SkillCertProExams
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