iGURU!’s – Weekly Review – 27th October 2019 “The law is what the judge had for breakfast” – Justice Jerome Frank ‘SOME JURISPRUDENCE’ Whether it likes it or not - and as a consequence of both the Brexit debacle and the Julian Assange ‘Show Trial,’ the UK legal system, has itself been on trial. Both matters have and more likely shall continue to raise, major constitutional issues, affecting the UK and its inhabitants, either directly or obliquely, in terms of the political and social ramifications of judicial action. The Brexit Prorogation case, raised among other things, the nature and limits of Prime Ministerial power. The Julian Assange case, is likely to shine a much needed spotlight on issues, such as political asylum & extradition, treatment of political prisoners and the fundamental - opaque, yet thorny issues of freedom of speech, Justice, Liberty, Journalist's and ‘Whistleblower’s’ rights etc... These are a heady and potentially toxic mix, which shall come to the fore politically, in the already confused, desperate and uncertain state of British politics. The ‘Boris Johnson Prorogation Trial’ was good public relations for UK Justice, the Supreme Court and the UK legal system generally. - However, that was a ‘celebrity case’ - only time will tell whether it is truly a ‘celebrated case.’ The world watched that drama - and they are still watching. A famous judge once remarked that ‘hard cases make bad law.’ The Julian Assange case is proving - and is likely to continue to prove to be a difficult one for the British judicial system. It’s a case – which will prove to be much more troublesome – since there is less room for ‘glamour’ and ‘hyperbole’ as the machinery of the British judicial system is put through it's trials. An ideal Judicial system should abide by the ‘Rule of Law’ itself - and its judges should be against unlawful and arbitrary executive (government) action. The ideal judge – the ideal court – the true and ideal conception of Justice, is one which is ‘honest’ and ‘impartial.’ With judges neither subject to ‘bribes’ or ‘intimidation’ - exercising their judicial functions fearlessly and without favour. Given all of that, it is shocking to hear of and read about the scandalous treatment of Julian Assange, at his recent court hearing, when he appeared at Westminster Magistrates Court (21st October 2019.) - Having said that however - if I am to be absolutely truthful - I am unsurprised. I am not surprised because unknown to most, particularly those outside of the UK, is the fact that the UK judicial system has been radically transformed for the worst - it is not what it once was. As a black woman the historical injustices of the UK judicial system is known to me. Both its past and present failings form part of the ‘Black folk lore,’ of growing up black in Britain. The experiences of these ‘cultural realities’ (e.g. the racism and discrimination) are in our blood, our genes and we imbibed the ‘practical realities’ of such conduct into our being, along with our mothers milk. But there was something to be said, about the albeit often romanticised elements of ‘The Common Law Tradition.’ – Some are well known, trial by ones peers (jury system), Habeas Corpus (due process), Magna Carta (Liberty)… these and many others were a part of that tradition, a tradition dutifully exported to other countries, such as America, Australia and other Commonwealth countries. The British people had to fight persecution and face death to gain them. They were not obtained lightly. Many have unfortunately been severely eroded, but what few vestiges remain should be strenuously defended. Therefore such cases like Julian’s, not only bring such issues to the fore, but with a correct understanding and interpretation of what has happened - the British public are being given a much needed wake up call – as to what is happening to their judicial system. In a previous article, I noted how the much admired and often mythical representation of the English legal system, was just so much romantic fantasy. The English legal system has seen many radical changes in recent years. Some believe that this is a drive to perform the ‘ultimate privatisation’ – namely that the English legal system, is being prepared for just that – the ‘privatisation of Justice.’ Sounds crazy? – well there is no other rational explanation as to why the ‘Common Law’ tradition, has been so deliberately and carefully dismantled in the United Kingdom. To introduce a tyrannical system – there is no need to pass a single law - you simply need to do three things. The first is to physically remove public access to legal material – law books from the public space (libraries.) There is no need to 'burn the law books' - since then your motives will become obvious. I hear some say, but what of the internet? - What! - The internet as your Lawyer? - I would much prefer to do my own research in a library, without restrictions, noteably AI algorithms directing which legal resources I have access to. The book, in this respect is a priceless guarantee for 'freedom to research.' The second is to remove access to the courts themselves. This can be done physically and also by making it impossible financially for ordinary people to bring cases themselves (not employing Lawyers) to court. In effect you make it virtually financially impossible, to start and proceed with a claim. Thirdly, so that no one suspects what has happened, you maintain the court buildings, so that it appears that nothing has changed. To generate the necessary revenue to maintain those buildings, you simply ‘privatise Justice’ - having covered your expenses, the rest is profit. Your tyrannical system is established. The UK is well on its way in this process - 'graduated court fees' that are so unreasonable and exorbitant, that they are in reality a form of ‘graduated taxation’ on ordinary people to access Justice. Cases filed in such courts are no more than, ‘speculative’ ‘financial issues’ or ‘products,’ in which the person bringing a claim, is simply an ‘investor’- hence the usurious graduated court fees and so on… for more information on what’s happening in the UK justice system click here. We see the outcome of such radical judicial ‘reforms’ in the treatment of individuals who come to court seeking justice, but are given nothing of the sort. In this sense therefore, the appearance of Julian Assange in court and his ‘show trial’ hearing which occurred on the 21st October 2019, is a timely warning. The British public had better take note – since this is the way the courts now behave for all of you. THE ‘JUDGE'S BREAKFAST’ In the quote referred to above “The law is what the judge had for breakfast,” – I don’t believe that Justice Frank was being sarcastic, or flippant, but was in dramatic fashion, expressing, the Positivist ‘American Realist,’ tradition of jurisprudence - namely that the individual judge is at the heart of legal jurisprudence. This approach regards, such ideas as for example ‘God’ or ‘Natural Law,’ as not providing a sufficient basis for the ‘legitimacy,’ of a legal system – no - in the ‘real world,’ – it’s the judge who by her/his office provides such legitimacy - and if s/he has an ‘upset stomach’ – it may well be reflected in the judge’s decision – that’s the reality of Justice! However, what Julian Assange experienced and has experienced at the hands of the UK courts is worse - a lot worse. What we are seeing exhibited in his case, is not a case of the capriciousness of a particular judge – but a judge ‘under orders.’ A judge under orders to behave, ‘speak,’ even ‘perform’ – ‘playing judges’ - (see footnote 1 at the end of the article) and eventually give a ‘decision’ in a certain way. This is not a case of a Judge's ‘bad breakfast’ – but of the ‘systematic’ and ‘bureaucratic’ purported administration of ‘justice’ - to order! This is the ‘highest form,’ of judicial corruption and judicial subversion. (As an aside, I would just add this – that even the Brexit campaign – with their opposition to EU regulations – is related to an innate sense, those who wish to leave the EU are getting – which is that they have lost control, not just of the political processes/parliamentary sovereignty, but of their Law and consequently Justice.) ‘THIS IS A MAN…’ Julian Assange - This is a man – who has been ‘confined’ in the Equadorian embassy for almost 7 years – following allegations made against him – which were later dropped and found out to be ‘fabricated’ (read more click here.) – Julian – a man who along with his organisation have won numerous awards (see list here.) A man who with his organsation and whistleblower Chelsea Manning, brought us information about the despicable ‘war crimes’ of the US – the video revealing these crimes has often been described as ‘Collateral Murder’ – (to watch video - click here.) THE JULIAN ASSANGE ‘SHOW TRIAL’ I watched a heart felt and quite tragic video this week, titled 'John Pilger- Julian Assange’s Extradition Case is a SHOW TRIAL!' which discussed the recent court hearing of Julian Assange (for background events to Julian’s case – click here.) Julian’s work and the revelations disclosed, exposed the activities of the global power elite that rule the planet. It has contributed, significantly to the increased public awareness of many undoubted crimes, of corruption, human trafficking and most famously, US war crimes (colatteral damage.) - read more here. It is no exaggeration to state, that he has single handedly achieved more in revealing this truth about the true nature of global power and its power elites than anyone else or organisation. He put mainstream media to shame and following the general lack of support of him, from them - the reason for this lack of support seems obvious. They failed to do their work then - and they are failing him now. John Pilger along with many others who have been to visit Assange in prison have consistently exposed his ill treatment in prison, his solitary confinement for 23 hours a day (read more here) and his prevention from socialising with other prisoners. There is also concern about the lack of proper medical care he is receiving, he has suffered dramatic weight loss, his general mental and physical health is deteriorating rapidly – he is also displaying worrying signs of severe psychological torture – for more info click here. For example, one article reports that during the recent court case – Julian struggled to recall his name and date of birth when asked (click here for article.) Many, who are familiar with both Julian Assange and his work will know that he has always presented as a strong minded and intelligent individual. Commenting on his condition, Craig Murray, a Historian, former Ambassador and Human Rights Activist, has written the following in a recent article: “I was shocked by just how much weight my friend has lost, by the speed his hair has receded and by the appearance of premature and vastly accelerated ageing. He has a pronounced limp I have never seen before. Since his arrest he has lost over 15 kg in weight” (to read the full article - click here.) It is becoming clear - that there is something seriously wrong with the treatment of Assange - and the recent court hearing again, highlighted another facet of this ill treatment. - A number of articles have described his hearing as a ‘show trial’ – ‘fixed’ – ‘rigged’ – ‘premeditated.’ This should give rise for concern to all and not least to the British public, whose legal system it is. In a previous Weekly Review, I made some observations about its serious failings (click here.) The impartiality of the court Julian appeared before, is open to doubt - in the article - ‘Stalinist Show Trial of Julian Assange Is Underway In England,’ the writer, who was present at the hearing, describes the District Judge as basing her ‘legal decision’ on the information that was being transferred to her – from US Representatives who were present. John Pilger described the judges bias as ‘incandescent’ – he went on to say - “This is London – do they know what’s happened to Justice here?” (I have touched upon this matter previously in this article.) He is also quoted as saying elsewhere - “This extradition is unlawful. And there is no question about that because …there is one very explicit statute in this treaty that says no one could be extradited if they are charged with a political offense. This under law is a political offense what the U.S. wanted [him] for. So the whole thing should be thrown out of court and Julian [should be] walking out.” (John Pilger as reported in the article - 'Assange’s Extradition Is a Case About the Crimes of Empire.') During the court hearing - Julian Assange was denied further time to prepare his case to defend against his extradition – despite being denied access to his documents whilst detained. These are serious matters and the British public should be concerned about what is going on in their courts. The integrity not just of the court, but of society in general, is being undermined by such conduct. When all is said and done, Julian Assange was simply a journalist doing his job. We watch a Journalist – who has committed no crime – and yet is being penalised, being persecuted – for what? – For standing up for Truth. If the British public do not wake up soon, to what is being done to this man in their name, it may be too late, not just for Julian Assange but for themselves and future generations! This is a man – who is being pursued by a ‘superpower,’ namely the US, who wishes to keep its skeletons in the closet – but now we are all able to see the true nature of its global activities along with its political and power elite acolytes. Various articles make it clear and warn, that Julian Assange is being used as a ‘scapegoat’ (for related article - click here) and this ‘show trial’ charade is being staged as a warning to all journalists (most of whom appear to be eerily quiet throughout his continuing ordeal - click here.) THE ‘STREETS SHALL SPEAK!’ If the political global elities of this world, fail to listen, then the ‘streets shall speak!’ In last week’s Weekly Review – I explored the growing perception among ordinary people of the lack of concern shown by their leaders in the exercise of 'state power.' They are clearly asking questions as to how, the 'states power' should be used to preserve both them and their communities. Governments worldwide appear to be failing the people, failing to protect their communities, their social rights, their environment - failing to properly serve their best interests. If these questions about the nature of 'state power' continue unchecked, it is inevitable that the very legitimacy of such structures, will be called into question. As things stand at present, it would appear that, the global bureaucratic, judicial and political elites, have failed to abide by and uphold the ‘Rule of Law’ with respect to their people – and as such, have failed to honour the ‘Social Contract’ between the state and the people. In a recent article the UN Secretary General – Antonio Guterres said - “It is clear that there is a growing deficit of trust between people and political establishments, and rising threats to the social contract” (to read the full article - click here) - he is also quoted in this article, as telling the world leaders “to listen to the real problems of real people.” We can see evidence of this breach in the 'social contract' - in the demonstrations, protests and general global civil unrest - currently sweeping the planet (click here to read previous article, which explores this topic further.) CONCLUSION In addition to the obvious issues of freedom of speech, the status and protection of ‘whistleblowers’ and journalists, the treatment of Julian Assange in the British courts – raises much wider and equally fundamental questions - British Justice itself is on trial – what do I mean by this? – Julian's trial is a highly political trial. – A clear case where Global Politics meets Law, Justice and Truth – all these matters are clearly intertwined, despite what some academics, theorists, or commentators would like us to believe. – Thus his case raises issues of Individual State power, Nation State independence versus Hegemonic Empire – (namely the US) and the wider issue of ‘State legitimacy.’ Cases such as Julian’s should compel us all to take a ‘principled position’ – and to question where we stand on these issues - will we remain silent? - Will we compromise, on such fundamental Matters? We are in fact all on trial and our responses now, will determine the legacy we pass on to future generations. Footnotes: [1] "When he spoke truth and when his barrister spoke, Baraister contrived boredom; when the prosecuting barrister spoke, she was attentive. She had nothing to do; it was demonstrably preordained. In the table in front of us were a handful of American officials, whose directions to the prosecutor were carried by his junior; back and forth this young woman went, delivering instructions." - Quote from article title 'JOHN PILGER: Did This Happen in the Home of the Magna Carta?' REFERENCES TO ARTICLES, VIDEOS ETC To view the contents of this index – click on the subject of interest below. ALPHABETICAL ORDER
C Contact iGURU! - To get in touch with iGURU! - Send us a message I iGURU!'s - Weekly Review - LOL! - But It Ain't Funny! - 'Brexit, The UK Supreme Court, The 'Rule Of Law' et al Index Suggestions - Make a suggestion to / or for an iGURU! index J Julian Assange - Journalists silent on Assange’s plight are complicit in his torture and imprisonment - Julian Assange: A Scapegoat For History’s Violent Male Aggression - Liveblog: Julian Assange Under Threat Julian Assange-Court Hearing - Assange in Court - Craig Murray - Assange’s Extradition Is a Case About the Crimes of Empire - EP.807: John Pilger- Julian Assange’s Extradition Case is a SHOW TRIAL! - JOHN PILGER: Did This Happen in the Home of the Magna Carta? - Julian Assange’s court hearing in London: Britain stages a lawless show-trial - Stalinist Show Trial of Julian Assange Is Underway In England Julian Assange-Mistreatment - Demasking the Torture of Julian Assange - Julian Assange held in 'sordid' solitary confinement for up to 23 hours a day, says father - Julian Assange has been ‘psychologically tortured’ and must not be extradited to US, says UN expert R References to other articles, videos etc related to the article - About WikiLeaks - Freedom Now! (The Indexed Web) - Freedom Of Speech - Global Civic Responsibility - WikiLeaks Digest T The People vs World Leaders - Guterres urges world leaders to listen to protesters' issues U US-War Crimes - Collateral Murder W WikiLeaks - Awards - How WikiLeaks works
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iGURU!’s – Weekly Review – 20th October 2019 “Without Justice, What Else is the State But a Great Band of Robbers?” – Saint Augustine If ‘the State’ is unable to uphold Universal Laws such as Justice, derived from principles which are rooted in a ‘consensus morality,’ based upon what it is to be human – chaos ensues. – This I believe, is what we are increasingly seeing being played out, in Nation States globally. The roots of this chaos and disorder may well be orchestrated by power elites, who have calculated that they may attain some gain, but it is not necessary here, to prove or speculate on this. What is clear however, is the evidence, this takes the form of a pervading uncertainty and unease people are experiencing, with things as they are - this ubiquitous feeling that things are not right. If we are not insensitive, we can also see and feel, what people are experiencing on both an individual and collective level. The trauma, being exhibited by ordinary people in diverse countries, regions and cultures. To feel and also express this ‘dis-ease,’ is now it seems, a common trait in what it means to be human, in today’s world. But the disease took time to arrive and take hold, initially touching only the poor and impoverished, the ‘wretched of the earth,’ - but now it is unquestionably here to infect all – save the deluded, or those in denial. The civil unrest, turmoil and disaffection - the protests, the cries for justice and fairness – the challenges to the State. The State has only itself to blame – or more accurately, I should say, those who have purported to rule and to lead, who have through ill will or negligence, allowed the institutions of the State, to become venial ‘corrupted’ and/or ‘captured.’ I can speak in general terms since, with rare exceptions, it is a truly global phenomena, which has taken hold the length and breadth of the planet. It seems that the ‘People,’ awoke and complained too late. Themselves - too negligent in part, to protect that which was fought for, through death and struggle, by generations past – the Freedom, Liberty, Justice, Equality – for All! – In truth these were aspirations - aspirations mouthed by many, but only heeded by a few – and so this Planet, the Societies of the earth, have now slipped into ‘default mode’ – which is not based on these things – but as exhibited now, tends to ‘Disorder’ and ‘Chaos.’ Resolution? - The grim spectre - Tyrants of ‘left’ or ‘right’ - or ‘technocratic’ - who wait quietly and patiently in the wings. Where is ‘Justice?’ – the overseer of Law, Order and Truth – I ask – where is She? As I look around, I don’t see Her. But she is immortal and shall require an answer, from those purported custodians of her attributes - since in her absence, the State itself becomes nothing more than a ‘criminal enterprise,’ which in its turn too - shall be usurped. To attempt ideological, partisan answers is to miss the point, since those solutions as interesting as they might be, only scratch the surface of the problem, since politically, the range of political ideological solutions have been tried from ‘left’ to ‘right.’ Both the former Soviet Union and China tried the left or Socialist option (some purists may argue whether this was indeed so.) It was also an ideology which was embraced to a great extent by the former colonized peoples, the so called developing nations or ‘third world.’ But look at where we are now, Russia has made its own traumatic passage through ‘Capitalism’ and has birthed the ‘Strong Man’ state and ‘Oligarchs.’ China is currently the second largest economy, in a largely ‘neo-liberal’ capitalist world and its remarkable achievements ‘warts and all,’ are vaunted as a possible model for nation states in the future. But there are clearly problems with this model (as with all previous ones.) One only has to look at 'China's Surveillance Society' (click for details) and China's alleged ill treatment of minorities - e.g. the Uighurs (for video - click here.) In addition, the protests that are occurring in Hong Kong (for index - click here) – these are current issues to be dealt with. As I have said to attempt a glib ideological answer to the problems currently facing the State, misses the point, since the issues raised go much deeper. Karl Marx was wrong – the state does not ‘wither away,’ its disappearance is not a ‘benign act’ – but neither does it disappear as a result of violence – it does not and will not wither. – What occurs is that it becomes ‘irrelevant.’ It does not ‘wither away,’ but shall continue to be assaulted by ‘Revolutions,' ‘Protests’ and crises - political, social and economic - but even they shall not cause its demise, since it is too well engrained in the ‘human psyche.’ It must become irrelevant to that psyche - the Consciousness of Humanity - that is the process of transition - it is the evolution of Human Consciousness. These are ‘Transitions’ - ‘Transitions' in the 'People’ themselves – their changes in ‘Consciousness,’ which will in turn ‘transform,’ the societies they live in – to ‘Create,’ which in turn will render the ‘State’ – irrelevant and meaningless. It is that ‘psyche,’ which must first be changed – And this is the ‘historic function’ of ‘Capitalism’ with its innate appeal to a ‘selfish consciousness’ as opposed to a ‘selfless consciousness,’ one finds in all the great and perennial spiritual teachings of the world. Seen in this light, we realise that it is therefore the role of Capitalism and its current ‘neo-liberal’ incarnation to ‘bring on,’ this assault on the State, since the consequence of its logic is inescapable, despite what its stewards and supporters – political theorists, economists and politicians may say. Both ‘Capitalism’ and its counterpart ‘Communism,’ seen historically are simply ‘rites of passage’ for the ‘emerging Consciousness’ – which shall render the State irrelevant. However, in the meantime, the challenges shall continue. There was a stark reminder as to the weakness of the State as it is, in Mexico this week. Here we saw a lethal example of armed defiance of the state, by powerful criminal elements – namely the Sinaloa Drug Cartel. The incident was sparked following the arrest of the son of an infamous Mexican Drug lord, Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán a former leader of the Sinaloa Drug Cartel. The Mexican government, attempted to meet the challenge of armed resistance by the Sinaloa Mexican Drug Cartel. The streets were thrown into mayhem as the Sinaloa Drug Cartel waged war on the police and civilians. The police - overwhelmed by the Sinaloa Drug Cartel’s fire power, machine guns etc – backed down and El Chapos’s son was released (to read more - click here.) It is quite clear where the power is in Mexico – some would say that Mexico has become a ‘Narco State’ (a state run on drugs) – and its people unfortunately caught in the middle, are the victims of this global trade in drugs, which is worth billions of dollars and often dwarfs legitimate activity. Whilst actions, such as those which occurred in Mexico, appear alarming – we should not be surprised, since these ‘non state actors (Sinaloa Drug Cartel) are simply another example of the challenges all States now face, which may well be masked under various guises. In reality and with few exceptions, State functions have been uniformly and globally, ‘hollowed out.’ Their social functions carried out on behalf of the people, have become increasingly marginalized, through such ideologically driven economic processes/programmes, like the ‘privatisation’ of State assets. One consequence of such development is that the State’s appearance of power is just that - fictitious, in all things save its own survival – when it is still capable of using its unmatched and unparalleled force, should it choose to do so. But it has ceased to be the Shepherd of its people, since it makes its decisions not on any principle of Justice, but out of self interest. When, however it is met with organised and determined opposition as we saw in Mexico, it cowers. This is unfortunate. The worrying aspect for those currently at the levers of State power, is how low the threshold, in terms of ‘force,’ the challenge was, which caused the government to back down – whatever the excuses given. This must be concerning, given the wave of ‘people protests’ - and civil unrest we are witnessing. In Hong Kong -Friday 18th October marked the 20th weekend in a row of Hong Kong’s people protests (click for details.) In Barcelona the people took to the streets to riot as a result of Catalan Separatist leaders being convicted (to read more click here and here. This week saw Haiti mourners clash with police - “as thousands across Haiti attended funerals for protesters who have died in demonstrations aimed at ousting President Jovenel Moïse” (to read the article - click here.) In Lebanon the people are fighting back against taxes. In an article titled - 'Amid protests, Lebanon's Hariri sets deadline to resolve crisis' - one of the protesters is quoted as saying "Everyone is tired of this, the situation is horrible, people have no money, the people are falling apart, and all they give us is taxes, taxes, taxes," - And in Iraq – the people protest as a result of the Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi's government failing to uphold his promise to end the corruption – and close the gap between the rich and the poor - read the article here. I could go on - Equador, Peuto Rico, Honduras, France – the list it seems, is getting longer by the day. But none of this is new. In recent times, the States power has been routinely challenged and even dwarfed by other non state actors, such as trans national corporations, global institutions, which exercise regulatory controls and private sectional interests, like global Banking – this leads us to the financial mismanagement, corruption, fraud, thefts - looting of State (the people’s) assets – the challenge to the State in Mexico, was simply a more obvious and blatant one – however, the morality is the same - endemic corruption and lawlessness, not just amongst criminals, but amongst a vaunted and hypercritical leadership (here's a link.) People are not naïve! – They have always known that ‘money talks’ – corruption, bribery and graft – it seems like the poor – ‘will always be with us’ (Mark 14:7, KJV) – But now – Money! - ‘screams!’- it ‘barks!’ ‘bites!’ – ‘roars!’ It seems - money talks alright! – more so now than ever before and people know it. As a consequence the civic morals, values and principles, that once governed society via institutions such as ‘the State’ – have all but disappeared and the State itself - hi-jacked. – Things are not as they were. Power has been increasingly amassed into fewer and fewer hands – oligarchs, tyrants, dictators (for related article - click here) – and as we can see from the recent events in Mexico – ‘organised crime’ and ‘gangsters’ are also now securely ensconced on that list. What we are seeing universally - is the interests of ordinary people, not being properly represented as the State has become corrupted and captured. In events such as these – we begin to see that it is the people vs. the state – the people are losing faith in the state - and will no longer support the state because they see it lacks Justice – the state has failed to protect the people, failed to honour its part of the ‘social contract’ (for a philosophy of social contract, government and people, one need only consider Rousseau's - 'The Social Contract' - click here.) The people in the main have honored their part of the bargain, recorded history shows the mass of Humanity as obedient - nay, maybe even servile. What have they received in return - unrelenting exploitation, pillage, wars, death. The Social Contract has been broken - this is what we are witnessing - the majority of people, even if they cannot articulate this - know it, because they feel it - since its breach has structured their minds, as much as it has fractured, their lives - and communities. It is both public opinion and public thinking. The danger of this public mindset, to those elites in power, is that all political discourse can be interpreted through this mindset, seen through these lenses. Standard or common political debate, is no longer ‘standard’ or ‘common’ - and can rapidly veer off into ‘uncommon behaviour,’ such activities are often, ill thought out, are counter- productive serving only to cause more misery. We saw an example of this earlier in the week as Extinction Rebellion protesters in London decided to climb on top of a train roof during rush hour to protest - to read the article click here. Further, every political debate or issue, has the potential to become a ‘constitutional crisis,’ – we are witnessing this in ‘Trump’s America.’ There is no more ‘normal politics’ anymore. If this situation continues, the corrosiveness unchecked and the fabric of the State is continually rent in this way – then there shall arise ultimately the question of ‘legitimacy’ - or to be more accurate the ‘Lack Of Legitimacy’- of the State. I am sure most are familiar with LOL – this acronym of social media - and in that context meaning to ‘laugh out loud’ – Here though it stands for the ‘Lack Of Legitimacy.’ So – LOL! – But it ain’t funny! – since the events that we witness, occurring daily around the world are troubling and extremely serious. It seems that whilst ‘global power elites’ were actively seeking and amassing power, they have simultaneously lost legitimacy. The wise know that power should not be ‘grabbed,’ but ‘ridden’ – since in the former there is created an ‘inverse relation’ to the ‘attribute’ – ‘Legitimacy.’ The latter course of ’riding’ power - provides no such difficulty, since such actions move in harmony with the ‘natural order.’ So what to expect now? – further tumultuous incidents, more ‘grabbing’- further ‘challenges’ - Tyrants - And a strive for legitimacy. REFERENCES TO ARTICLES, VIDEOS ETC To view the contents of this index – click on the subject of interest below. ALPHABETICAL ORDER
C China-Surveillance Society - Exposing China's Digital Dystopian Dictatorship | Foreign Correspondent (on Youtube 18-Sep2018) details Contact iGURU! - To get in touch with iGURU! - Send us a message Corruption - Corruption 101: The Dark Side Of Leadership (19-Jun2015) D Dictators - Dictators Love Trump, and He Loves Them (14-Mar2018) E El Chapo - Joaquín 'El Chapo' Guzmán | World | The Guardian I Index Suggestions - Make a suggestion to / or for an iGURU! index P People Protests - Barcelona - Catalonia protests: Marches and general strike paralyse Barcelona - Barcelona - Violent clashes erupt as Spanish court jails Catalonia leaders - Haiti - Haitian funerals turn to protests as mourners, police clash - Hong Kong - Hong Kong braces for 20th straight weekend of unrest - iGURU!'s About Hong Kong Protests Index - Iraq protests: What's behind the anger? (7-Oct2019) - Lebanon - Amid protests, Lebanon's Hariri sets deadline to resolve crisis - London - Protesters dragged off tube train as Extinction Rebellion delay commuters in London – video - Protest News - The Guardian S Sinaloa Drug Cartel - The Sinaloa Cartel - Mexicandrugcartels Wiki Sinaloa Drug Cartel V Mexican Police - El Chapo: Mexican police free drug lord's son as Culiacán battle erupts - Mystery of Mexico’s cartel wars grows as ‘The Mouse’ is rescued - Violent clashes erupt between cartel gunmen and police in Mexico – video report Social Contract - Social Contract | Definition of Social Contract by Lexico PDF - The Social Contract by Jean-Jacques Rousseau iGURU!’s – Weekly Review – 13th October 2019 "Where was I Before I AM? How many Bodies are we? Where do I go when I sleep? Where are the deceased?" (4 Meditations On Existence – Science Of The Immortals) These 4 questions – SOTI Meditations, are created to make us think about the nature of ‘Existence’ and of ourselves. What do we do with them and how do they help us? The power of these 4 meditations is that they cause us to reflect on the nature of ‘Self’ by engaging in ‘Introspection.’ They are an access point, a lens into the Self A significant part of the work of psychologists and psychotherapists and others engaged in healing the mind, is listening and ‘talking issues through’ with a client, thereby shining a light on what the individual is experiencing. What is the purpose of introspection? – Its purpose is to find out who we really are, by examining our ‘inner space.’ This self-examination – through the process of 'reflection' and 'self analysis,' enables us to become an ‘observer’ of our own lives, its meaning and purpose - thereby, providing the information necessary to make positive changes. Conducted properly and regularly - it is a ‘Self Empowering’ activity - truly liberating. I have therefore come to realise that this process of ‘introspection’ is a necessary one, if one is to maintain, mental and emotional balance and health. Most importantly it is not a process reserved solely for those who attend ‘therapy sessions’ – but it is a process, which can and should be used by all - your average man and woman on the street – great Sages – anyone with a ‘Mind’ – anyone who can - ‘Think!’ - will find the process useful. What is the prize? – What is the treasure? There are many benefits to Meditation-Introspection - Thinking! - but it is arriving, at a true knowledge of ‘Self,’ which must be one of the most valued. This true understanding and knowledge of 'Self,’ may at first sound rather abstruse – but it can be boiled down to a simple word - ‘genuineness’ – the ‘genuine,’ the ‘real,’ the 'true' you. Lately – I’ve been thinking about the word ‘authenticity.’ - What does it mean to be real and authentic – in this day and age? – What is 'real' / 'reality' and what is 'fantasy?' - in this Age of - Consumerism, rampant Technology – and ubiquitous Social Media Narratives. A friend of mine, once told me a story – about an exchange he had witnessed on the street. It was a curious incident. A member of the public, a young man, had seen an actor who played a role in a popular UK TV ‘Soap’ - from recollection I think it was Eastenders – or some such similar sitcom drama. Anyway - in this TV soap, the character this particular actor played, was not very likeable, in fact, one could say quite detestable – however, when this young man saw this actor in ‘real life’ – he became enraged! He started to shout, raised clenched fists - and even sought to approach this actor, who bewildered - managed to dodge into a local supermarket store. The shouting and insults from outside of the store continued, in fact, the ranting and shouting now almost incomprehensible grew louder. I shall not repeat here, the abuse and expletives used. Unsurprising, a crowd gathered - "what's all this about?" an elderly woman asked. The young man, now almost in a fit of fury, could scarcely explain, such was his anger at the actor. The elderly woman laughed, "But its just a TV programme!" Having been told this particular incident - I’m pretty sure such incidents must frequently occur (here's an article you might find interesting - click here.) As crazy as this may sound to many of us – it's actually not so surprising. Think about it - the lines between reality and fantasy are becoming increasingly blurred - I mean how do you distinguish nowadays between what is real and what is not, given the nature of social media, the power of modern technology and the ease with which, lies are accepted, even from prominent persons, as being a normal part of everyday discourse. Practically each day I come across some article, video or piece of information, addressing this issue - about what is real and what is fake. In having to deal with it, in not being able to trust what one sees and hears, our human experiences are not only being manipulated, but distorted. The idiom 'seeing is believing' - was always pretty thin in reality, but now its of little practical use, since it appears, our eyes are being constantly deceived. Google is disliked for many things - but I suppose its manipulation of our perceptions on a daily basis, by deciding what users see and do not see via their search engines, and weighted algorithms (for info - click here) - these kinds of practices affect what we see here and experience online and is one of its more obvious objectionable practices. Then there's - ‘fake news' – which has become quite a popular global buzzword affecting our perception of news and information (for more info - click here.) It seems that nothing is sacred from this march - this drive to sow confusion - the very food we eat is often no longer food - since if one is not a conscious consumer, it is - more than likely full of pesticides - genetically modified and it is not exaggeration to say its content is no longer as nature intended - add to that its often low or even non-existent nutritional value - But it's marketed as food!... And then there's the field of education - I watched a video recently titled ‘False History - How Deep is the Lie - Max Igan (Mirrored)’ – in the video, the host Max Igan – explores, how significant parts of world history have been tampered with – changed – altered – with parts missing - omitted - erased, completely removed - from historical literature. These are crimes - since to deliberately manipulate and interfere with our collective Human Consciousness in this way, so that sections of Humanity can be collectively managed, for some ulterior motive, is surely criminal. If you want to watch this video – click here. Why does it matter, if history has been altered and changed? - I guess, we should also ask – Who has initiated such changes and why? Who decides? It is clear, that there are many agendas in play here. The manipulation of a peoples history - can be and has been easily accomplished in the past and current technology would seem to make the process even easier, indeed it seems that we are experiencing it, on a daily basis. This manipulation has always occurred in order to manipulate particular sections of Humanity. The manipulation and falsification of African History in particular, is something I have personal experience of. What little African History I was taught in school, bears little relationship to the truth, which I was later to discover, through my own researches. Marcus Garvey said -"A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots." African History is not the only example of this process - there are countless others – and so it can be seen that ‘History’ – itself is not ‘neutral,’ ‘impartial’ or ‘unbiased.’ Well if that’s the case - if History - can and is being manipulated, how can we hope to approach ‘Truth?’ This manipulating and distortion of truth is serious as it has a corrosive effect on civic institutions, personal relationships, Human Consciousness. We are told continually, how smart AI is and how within perhaps decades such technologies, will outstrip the intelligence of Human Consciousness - I don't believe that that is the case and that human creative genius, will more than hold its own - but these are not foregone conclusions, Human Consciousness itself will have to play its part, in its own survival - the ability for us as individuals (i.e. Individual Consciousness) to be able to rationally and easily discern 'lies' from 'truth' - 'fact' from 'fiction' - the 'real' from the 'fake' - is an important part of our 'armory' - if there is to be a struggle (which I doubt) between 'Man and Machine.' Max Igan sums it up well in his video, when he states - “… the world is not what we have been taught to believe – and the trick is getting to the bottom of the puzzle – finding out what the world really is…” he then goes on to say “…the real trick, I have always found is asking the questions to begin with.” Yes – things are not always what they appear to be – but the beauty of being human, is that we can at least ‘think!’ – albeit less freely - but with introspection, even this intrusion can be halted and overcome. - We can ponder the things of Life and the World – we can ask questions… and through introspection - we can still play an active role in the ‘constructing’ and / or ‘consolidating’ of our own reality. Now - here’s something else to think about – the said AI technologies referred to above. AI technology can now create what are termed - ‘Deepfakes’ (click for definition,) which through social media can quickly feed into the public arena. This AI technology has apparently been around for some time and has been used for many years in the film industry, but it is now rapidly making its way into the mainstream - moving beyond the world of ‘fantasy’ and ‘fiction’ - and into our reality – the world of ‘established fact.’ Here’s an example - This AI technology enables its user to manipulate video footage - both visually and aurally. By using this technology you can manipulate both facial images which appear in the video - and what is said in the video – e.g. you could put the head of one person onto another person’s body. This gives the term identity theft a whole new meaning. You could actually make a person appear to have done something, when they didn't - or appear somewhere, they have never been to. You can learn more about ‘Deepfakes’ by watching the following video - 'Deepfakes - Real Consequences.' Whilst such technologies may be ‘fun’ to use in the ‘social media environment,' clearly these technologies can be used maliciously, to create “malicious deepfakes,” this is explained in the article - 'You’ve been warned: Full body deepfakes are the next step in AI-based human mimicry' (to read click here.) There are therefore, serious implications in the eventual distribution of such a technology into the wider community. It is yet another troubling consideration - when having to determine, what is ‘fake’ and what is ‘real,’ what is ‘fact’ and what is ‘fiction’ – what is ‘authentic’ and what is not. In terms of its impact on civil society – politics for example - it could be used to manipulate members of the public – i.e. to discredit a candidate during a political campaign. In the article mentioned above, it explores this idea further – as it features and features a ‘doctored video’ of Nancy Pelosi (US Congresswoman) – the video has been slowed down – which makes Nancy Pelosi sound drunk. The speed and depth by which such false images can permeate throughout society, due to social media networks, is phenomenal and the potential damage goes far beyond the individual personality impacted, but extends in its impact, to a corrosion of civic society (i.e. political process,) - the possible distortion of History - and ultimately, Human Consciousness itself. Another video I watched, called ‘This AI Can Clone Any Voice, Including Yours,’ similarly explores the implications of AI technology, which can clone the human voices. In this video, the presenter makes the following statement - “Its nice to be enthusiastic – its also nice to meditate on the consequences of your inventions.” It's a thoughtful comment - however, one gets the impression, that scientists working in the field of AI technology, often lack a full understanding, of where the technology they invent, will lead us - and what will be its impact on Humanity, in the long run. So – it seems the lines between what is real and what is not, are becoming increasingly more blurred – as fantasy and virtual reality - seeps into become 'everyday life' - reality. This AI technology is an interface with Human Consciousness - a point where 'virtual reality' meets – 'individual reality' / Human Consciousness – and whereby events created in a virtual reality, can easily become merged with Human Consciousness and individual personal experience - both for good or ill. This brings us to the issue of transhumanism - a whole subject in itself. The world is changing at a rapid pace – in a blink of an eye – the world is changed – where are we in this change? - What is our role in this change? - Look inside - introspection. REFERENCES TO ARTICLES, VIDEOS ETC To view the contents of this index – click on the subject of interest below. ALPHABETICAL ORDER
D Deepfakes - Deepfake Pioneer: “Perfectly Real” Fake Vids Are Six Months Away - Deepfakes - Real Consequences - What is Deepfake? - Definition from Techopedia - You’ve been warned: Full body deepfakes are the next step in AI-based human mimicry F 'Fake News' - Fake news: What is it? And how to spot it - How "fake news" and misinformation online is changing society False History - False History - How Deep is the Lie - Max Igan (Mirrored) G - How Google's search algorithm spreads false information with a rightwing bias - Study Shows Google Manipulating Search Results, Despite Promises S Surviving The Matrix-Max Igan - The Reality of Our Future (on Youtube 12-Oct2019) T Television - Television Characters: I Know They’re Not Real People, But... U US-Trump - Fake News, Fake Polls, and Now, Fake History — 14-Oct2019 - Strategic Culture V Voice Cloning - This AI Can Clone Any Voice, Including Yours iGURU!’s – Weekly Review – 6th October 2019 Funny how life can be, isn’t it? - how you can say or do something - and later, at some point it returns to haunt you – or comes back and bites you! A couple of weeks ago, I wrote a weekly review titled ‘Words Matter,’ in that article I made a reference to the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Mr. Boris Johnson – referring to a former colleague - and previous Prime Minister, Mr. David Cameron - as a ‘girly swot.’ For those who are interested in the background surrounding Mr. Boris Johnson’s use of the term - click here. The term ‘girly swot’ is a particularly English term, apparently used in certain English male Public Schools, as a term of jocular abuse. The word ‘public,’ often confuses, those not familiar with its use in this context, since these are actually exclusive - private educational institutions, normally associated with wealth and privilege (for details of Public Schools in the United Kingdom click here.) The British Public School has been a major feature of British social and political life for centuries. By the 20th century however, it seemed as if its hey day had passed and with the decline of Empire, domestic, social and political reforms, it’s significance also seemed destined to fade. However – not so - Enter in 2010 – David Cameron, a former UK Conservative PM and an ‘Old Etonion’, (arguably, the most famous of British Public Schools.) PM David Cameron, by appointing a number of ‘Old Etonian’ cabinet ministers (to read more - click here) in his first Conservative government (2010-2016) – audaciously heralded the return of this particular fraternity of male politician - since ‘Old Etonions,’ represent a particular aspect of the British old boy network. With these ministerial appointments, gone was the ‘democratic’ and ‘meritocratic’ cover, which had masked this particular aspect of British society, namely the true nature and social makeup of British Governments and the higher reaches of power. The term ‘girly swot’ - that jibe of the public schoolboy – has arisen again, because of an article I read this week titled 'Supreme court chief’s jibe at PM: let’s hear it for the girly swots' - it’s a fascinating article, and the writer, quotes Lady Hale, the President of the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom - who during her opening speech, at the Association of State Girls’ Schools annual leadership conference - begins by saying - “Let’s hear it for the girly swots.” One strategy, to disarm a ‘verbal bully’ - is to adopt an ‘abuse’ or ‘insult’ – then ‘ make it yours’ – by removing its ‘power to harm’ – you then ‘empower’ yourself. As I read the article, I pondered on that thought - So - lets make it a rallying call! – ‘girly swots’ Unite and Fight! - hooray hooray for ‘girly swots!’ – ‘girly swots’ rule OK! - since ‘Girly Swots - Eventually become Powerful Women! – Both the UK & the US are currently experiencing a ‘crisis of power.' In every conceivable sense of that phrase, as it is applied to major civic institutions, be they political (Office of the President / Prime Minister,) economic (activities of big corporations) and social (issues of freedom and liberty.) Given that, it is not surprising that people are increasingly asking questions about the nature and quality of political leadership. Both Donald Trump and Boris Johnson face not just major domestic political crisis, the former an impeachment enquiry (click here for details) and the latter Brexit, but also, open and vociferous challenges to the nature and style of their leadership. Both their approaches to that highest office of state, the Office of President and position of Prime Minister, is so distinctive that they both represent a stark break with the past. In addition, both men seem like ‘lightening rods,’ when it comes to attracting controversy, when dealing with women. Donald Trump’s’, are well known and legion (for details click here.) Boris Johnson, has similarly faced criticisms in this area - earlier on this week Boris Johnson was accused of 'groping' a woman at an event (for more info - click here), he allegedly, put his hand on a lady’s thigh 20 years ago. Whatever one makes of the allegations, he appeared to brush them off – unsurprising, given the serious political crisis in which he is currently embroiled – namely Brexit. It seems however – he faces a far greater threat with the continuing Brexit saga and the prospect of the legality of his actions, once again coming before the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom – whose President is Lady Hale. On this theme my attention was drawn to another article which referred to both Donald Trump and Boris Johnson - titled - There's nothing more satisfying than watching Donald Trump and Boris Johnson be taken down by older women.' – The article provocatively begins - “…the guy who traded in wives as if they were auto leases is having his impeachment being led by a 79-year-old pantsuit-wearing feminist — and the man who misled the Queen into letting him suspend Parliament is being censured by a 74-year-old brooch-wearer from the wrong side of the tracks..” The ‘79 year old pantsuit wearing feminist,’ is Democratic leader – Nancy Pelosi. Nancy Pelosi – formally entered Congress in 1987 – she became the first female Democratic leader of the House of Representatives and the first female speaker of the House – she has been a solid member of Congress – throughout the last 5 presidencies prior to Donald Trump (click for details.) The ‘74-year-old-brooch-wearer from the wrong side of the tracks..' (to read how Lady Hale got her 'brooch wearer' name click here) is none other than Baroness Lady Hale – who became the first and only woman in the Supreme court – and the first woman to be appointed President of the Supreme Court in England and Wales in 2017. Unlike, probably many of her male colleagues, Lady Hale – famously studied for her bar exams whilst teaching as a lecturer – and working in a pub – achieving the top results for her year in the bar finals. - (read more about Lady Hale here.) As I read the article, certain things struck me, these two clearly powerful women in male dominated societies – currently at the centre of major constitutional crises, in two different major western powers. Both women are septuagenarians - Lady Hale, 74 (UK) and Nancy Pelosi, 79 (US.) The exploitative sexualisation of women, has been an important aspect of disempowering us, as we then ultimately become viewed as ‘objects’ and our views and opinions can then be easily marginalised or trivialized. ‘Septuagenarian Matriarchs,’ – Grandmothers who know how ‘to suck eggs,’ - wielding the office of State, Legislative and Judicial power - cannot be so easily dismissed! – The Donald Trump Impeachment Inquiry and Britain’s Brexit woes are likely to continue and dominate the political landscape of both the US and UK respectively, these are seismic political events, which have the ability to cause serious and catastrophic damage to both societies. Whatever happens, both will cause lasting change to the body politic. Donald Trump and Boris Johnson – you can be sure will never be the same following their encounters with these women. They will be changed at all levels and perhaps most importantly for both of them, as individuals at the ‘psychological level.’ Hopefully both developing in ‘Wisdom’ - as they develop and perhaps change, in their perception and attitudes towards women. It shall be interesting to watch as this global political drama unfolds – more ‘Matriarchs' to appear? – who knows, but we eventually, shall know. In just these encounters alone - what happens – when ‘girly swots’ become ‘Women of Power?!’ REFERENCES TO ARTICLES, VIDEOS ETC To view the contents of this index – click on the subject of interest below. ALPHABETICAL ORDER
D David Cameron & 'Old Etonions' - David Cameron Defends Appointing More Old Etonians, 'William Hague Is From Yorkshire' - Gove attacks 'preposterous' number of Old Etonians in Cameron's cabinet B Boris Johnson - Boris Johnson Is Facing Allegations That He Groped Women and Misused Public Funds. Here's What to Know - Insights... ‘big girl’s blouse’, ‘girly swot’? The prime minister should choose his insults more carefully D Donald Trump - List of Trump's accusers and their allegations of sexual misconduct - Trump Impeachment Inquiry | The Guardian L Lady Hale - Baroness Hale Biography | First 100 Years - Lady Hale: a career of breaking barriers in the judiciary (24-Sep2019)- - Say it with a brooch: what message was Lady Hale's spider sending? N Nancy Pelosi - Nancy Pelosi - U.S. Representative - Biography R References to other articles, videos etc related to the article - About Brexit Index - Words Matter T Trump & Boris V Lady Hale & Nancy Pelosi - Supreme court chief’s jibe at PM: let’s hear it for the girly swots - There's nothing more satisfying than watching Donald Trump and Boris Johnson be taken down by older women (5-Oct2019) - Spider woman takes down Hulk: Viewers transfixed by judge’s brooch as ruling crushes PM (24-Sep2019) U UK - Britain is run by a self-serving clique. That’s why it’s in crisis (5-Jul2019) |
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