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Introducing the English School Theory: A Fresh Perspective on International Relations

In the ever-evolving landscape of international relations, theories like liberalism and realism have long held sway. However, there's a relatively new kid on the block - the English School Theory (EST). In this blog post, we'll delve into the fundamentals of EST, with a particular focus on the concept of "international society." The Birth of English School Theory EST isn't just any theory; it's distinctly British. It emerged from the collaboration of academics and practitioners across various disciplines in what's known as the British Committee. This collective effort gave rise to a unique theoretical framework that offers analysts, researchers, and students a fresh lens through which to examine the intricate interactions between states and non-state actors on the global stage. The Multidimensional Reality of International Relations EST contends that international relations are a complex tapestry, one that cannot be neatly reduced to a single element like ...

Forging a Path of Progress: Balancing Ideologies and Leadership for National Development

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Striking a Harmonious Balance In the intricate landscape of nation-building, the fusion of ideologies and the caliber of leadership play pivotal roles in shaping the destiny of a country. The case study of Deng's reforms in China underscores the possibility of amalgamating distinct ideologies for the sake of progress. Through the lens of Confucian-Taoistic Dialectics of Harmonization, where liberalism and socialism coalesce, a harmonious co-existence emerges, offering valuable insights for nations seeking a balanced path forward. In this exploration, the focus shifts to Papua New Guinea (PNG), where an analysis of challenges such as corruption sheds light on the importance of harmonizing ideologies and selecting high-caliber leaders to guide the nation towards a brighter future. By evaluating the delicate balance of individual rights, political leadership, and institutional reforms, we unveil a roadmap for sustainable growth and development. Crafting a New Paradigm Elevating Politi...

Exploring the 'Look North' Policy: Pacific Countries' Shift towards China

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In recent years, the 'Look North' policy approach has garnered significant attention and debate among developing countries in the Pacific region. Although geographically speaking, China may not be directly north of countries like Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Fiji, it is figuratively the focal point of this policy shift. The genesis of this transformation dates back to the 1980s, and it continues to shape the foreign policy decisions of Pacific nations today. The core motivation behind this strategic pivot is the desire to learn from China's remarkable model of development and position themselves strategically to benefit from the nation's rapid growth. One of the latest countries to embrace the 'Look North' policy is the Solomon Islands, marking a significant foreign policy change after 36 years. The Solomon Islands now align themselves with the 'One China' policy, viewing Taiwan as an integral part of mainland China rather than an independent nation. This ...

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...