In a western world premised on a culture of denial of differences, is a concept of ‘national character’ meaningful? Or a basis for harmful stereotyping? Can we learn anything constructive about differences, if, indeed, they exist? . Nigel Pocock . Studies of neurogenesis and synaptogenesis (the life-long generation of new […]
Tag: chaos
Is multiculturalism utopian, and therefore intolerant?
This might sound totally paradoxical and contradictory, for how can a society that is mutually tolerant of multiple cultures, be intolerant? Nigel Pocock Some have argued that such an utopian vision of society could not be achieved without imposition from above. Given that there would no doubt be […]
Babeldom
Last week, I dragged my wife to see the film Babeldom. This was the first feature movie by the award-winning animator Paul Bush. Steve Latham The picture is a profound meditation on the urban condition, employing stunning imagery, as well as superb computer animations. The film is visually […]
Hackney, between modernity and crime
Insecurity, crime, unemployment… these are the characteristics of a neighbourhood under the surveillance of more than 1500 security cameras. The rise in housing costs is forcing many residents to leave their homes for other areas. . Ramón Alabau . August 2011, Hackney burns. Hooded citizens take to the streets of […]
Is ’emptying’ a realistic means of achieving peace?
In his book, A Different Drum, Scott Peck argues that the idea of ’emptying’ is an essential prerequisite to peace in any ‘community’. . Nigel Pocock . With major possible catastrophes, such as global warming and pollution, common cause and open discussion free of power struggles, is absolutely vital. Peck’s […]