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Showing posts from August, 2023

The Remarkable Transformation: Deng Xiaoping's Reformation and China's Economic Rise

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In the realm of history, the term "reformation" carries a profound significance. It encapsulates the eradication of abuses, particularly in the political sphere, and the pursuit of improvement. As a noun derived from the verb "reform," which denotes the act of making something better, reformation embodies the essence of progress and change. Throughout human history, societies have continually strived to enhance their way of life. One such striking example of determination for change can be found in the reform initiatives undertaken by Deng Xiaoping, which played a pivotal role in reshaping the course of China's development. The Visionary Reformer: Deng Xiaoping Deng Xiaoping, also known as Teng Hsiao-ping, stands as a towering figure in the annals of Chinese Communist history. His strategic thinking was profoundly influenced by Confucian-Taoistic Dialectics of Harmonization, a perspective deeply rooted in the Chinese heritage. Deng's reform endeavors were fu...

Exploring the Ideological Divide: Democracy and Communism through Dialectical Philosophy

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Human history has been shaped by the ebb and flow of ideas, and perhaps nothing exemplifies this more than the ideological chasm between Communism and Democracy. From the dawn of civilization, societies have evolved through various stages – from Feudalism to Capitalism – all while grappling with the quest for governance and order. These pursuits have often led to conflicts and wars, and the most prominent instance in the recent past was the Cold War, a clash of Democratic-Capitalism and Communism. To gain deeper insights into this ideological schism, let's turn our attention to Dialectical Philosophy, a framework that illuminates the dynamics of change and interaction. The Essence of Dialectical Philosophy "Dialectic is a process of interacting between two or more things each of which is causally influencing the other in such a way that each develops through such interaction. That is, each while retaining its own integrity, changes not only as a consequence of being influenced...

The Evolution and Challenges of Democracy in Papua New Guinea

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Papua New Guinea (PNG) boasts a rich history of pre-colonial societies with their own unique political systems. These societies navigated leadership through various means, such as hereditary chiefs, skilled individuals, and networks of relationships. However, the advent of European colonization in the 17th century introduced new political structures that merged with indigenous systems. This article explores the journey of PNG's political evolution from its traditional roots to the present-day democratic framework, while also addressing the challenges that democracy faces in this culturally diverse nation. Traditional Political Systems and the Arrival of Colonization Pre-colonial PNG societies showcased diverse political arrangements. Hereditary chiefs and headmen played vital leadership roles across the culturally heterogeneous landscape. The Trobrian Islanders, for example, relied on hereditary chiefs, while other communities recognized the authority of certain clan headmen. In th...

Navigating Academic Integrity: A Guide to Divine Word University's Policy Landscape

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In the pursuit of knowledge and personal growth, academic integrity stands as a cornerstone principle that guides every student, faculty member, and staff at Divine Word University. Deeply embedded within the institution's Plagiarism and Integrity Policy, academic integrity isn't just a buzzword – it's a commitment to trust, honesty, fairness, responsibility, and respect in all scholarly endeavours. Defining Academic Integrity At its core, academic integrity embodies the values that uphold the sanctity of learning. It calls for the avoidance of cheating and plagiarism, requiring a dedicated effort to maintain rigorous standards and honesty when preparing and presenting assignments. More than just a checkbox to mark, it's a mindset that demands responsible conduct, ensuring that information and ideas are generated and communicated ethically and transparently. The cornerstone of this concept is proper attribution, acknowledging the sources that contribute to the developme...

Unveiling the Interconnectedness of Foreign Policy Analysis and International Relations

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In this enlightening blog post, we're about to embark on a journey to uncover the three integral features that bind Foreign Policy Analysis (FPA) with the vast realm of International Relations (IR). Our exploration, though limited in scope, will shed light on the interplay between these two crucial fields, inviting you to delve deeper into their intricate connection. Feature 1: Categorization Let's begin our expedition with the first binding feature: categorization. IR, as meticulously defined by Encyclopedia Britannica, is a subfield of political science. The overarching umbrella of political science encompasses the systematic study of governance through empirical and scientific methods. It delves into the mechanisms of the state, its organs, and the institutions that shape its functioning. Delving further, Encyclopedia Britannica elucidates that IR revolve around the intricate tapestry of political relationships and interactions between countries. This encompasses understandi...

Understanding Sovereignty, Jurisdiction, and their Implications in International Relations

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In the complex realm of international relations (IR), certain terminologies play a pivotal role in shaping our comprehension of the interactions among states. Two such key terms are "sovereignty" and "jurisdiction." These terms are intrinsically linked to a state's authority and decision-making processes within its defined boundaries, and they have profound implications in the global landscape. Sovereignty and Its Significance A state stands as a central actor in the international system, and the notion of sovereignty forms its foundational cornerstone. The concept of sovereignty emerged alongside the birth of the modern state system, gaining prominence after the Treaty of Westphalia in 1648. The term itself traces its roots to the Latin term "superanus" and the French term "souverainete," both signifying supreme power. The idea of sovereignty was systematically analyzed by Jean Bodin in his work "Six Livres de la Republique" in 157...

Exploring Classical Realism: Unraveling the Complexities of International Politics

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In the intricate landscape of international relations, theories abound to shed light on the behavior of states and the intricate web of interactions that shape our world. One such theory that has stood the test of time is classical realism, a school of thought that delves into the core of human nature and its insatiable hunger for power. By examining the essence of classical realism, we can gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics that drive nations and the underlying principles that guide their actions. The Crux of Classical Realism According to the insights of Colin Elman, classical realism operates on a fundamental assumption: the unquenchable thirst for power stems from the intrinsic flaws of humanity. This innate drive propels states into a ceaseless struggle to augment their capabilities and influence. The absence of a global governing entity akin to a state's internal government, as described by Elman, creates an environment where human desires are unchained, resulting in...