Quadrant

The post-1945 global order faces decline as major powers disregard rules, risking international chaos reminiscent of Hobbes’ “state of nature” without strong authority.

Democratic politics, once fueled by hope for progress, now succumbs to nostalgia and resentment. Economic stagnation and a burdensome debt legacy challenge legitimacy, risking a collapse into authoritarianism as citizens grow disillusioned with their hollow promises.

In early 2004, a struggling German graduate contacted Lord Ralf Dahrendorf for guidance, leading to opportunities that highlighted Dahrendorf’s commitment to intellectual integrity and resistance against totalitarianism, especially in contemporary politics.

Voters are losing patience with democratic process, sliding from civilisation’s hard order back into the comfortable order of the tribe. Thinking in principles is hard; belonging feels good.

Germany had long been on an anti-Western ” Sonderweg,” particularly in its policies towards Russia. It is a history of systemic failures and naivety culminating in recent geopolitical challenges.

Louise Upston, New Zealand’s welfare minister, faces challenges in reforming a welfare system that fosters dependency, complicated by economic downturns and structural changes.

A TikTok activist claims New Zealand’s curriculum reform is scandalous, but overlooks evaluating policy effectiveness. This reflects a troubling shift from policy merit to scrutinizing proposers.

The discourse on AI highlights cultural complacency versus urgency for adaptation, emphasising the need for proactive engagement with emerging technologies.