International Politics Roundup: From Sheikh Mohammed to Biden written by Kio Amachree.
Meeting Sheikh Mohammed: A Humble Visionary with a Grand Dream
I first met Sheikh Mohammed many years ago in Tramp nightclub. I’ll admit, our initial encounter was less than cordial—my own doing—but the conversation soon turned to horses.
At the time, Sheikh Mohammed had just established Godolphin racing in England, and I was in the company of two prominent Kentucky horse breeders who had recently won the King George VI Stakes.
What struck me most about the man was how down-to-earth and unassuming he was, a trait that impressed not only me but also my companions. They eventually went on to form lucrative partnerships with him.
It’s remarkable to see how his vision for Dubai has since come to pass, transforming the city into one of the world’s greatest. It’s a powerful lesson for corrupt, oil-rich nations like Nigeria about what discipline and honesty can achieve. Sheikh Mohammed’s Dubai is a testament to what could have been if others had followed his example.
Second article
Fake News and the British Psyche: Meghan and Harry AI Video Debunked
Growing up in England, I know the British psyche and sense of humor inside out. Often, this humor can border on the infantile, as seen in the recent AI-generated video that falsely claims Meghan and Harry have split. The video, which portrays one of their biggest critics reporting this fake news, is a deliberate attempt to spread misinformation against Meghan and Harry, who are frequently treated as enemies of the British state.
This isn’t just a misguided joke—it’s a calculated move to create confusion. In British history, when a knight threw down his gauntlet, it was a challenge to fight. By resorting to such underhanded tactics, those behind this video are opening the door for retaliatory videos, possibly even targeting the Royal Family, using the same AI technology.
It’s a reckless move to produce fake news about two people who, as I’ve said before, no longer care what the British media or Royal Family think of them.
Third article
The Dual Nature of Self-Centeredness: A Deeper Examination
Self-centeredness is typically viewed in a negative light, often associated with selfishness, narcissism, and a disregard for others. While it’s true that an excessive focus on oneself can lead to psychological issues such as anxiety, depression, and strained relationships, the concept of self-centeredness is more nuanced. It’s an intrinsic part of human psychology, shaped by a combination of genetic predispositions and early life experiences, particularly trauma or emotional neglect.
This inward focus is often a defense mechanism, helping individuals cope with a lack of emotional security by prioritizing their own needs and desires. However, this approach can lead to fluctuating happiness and emotional instability, as self-centered behavior rarely fosters the deep, meaningful connections that contribute to lasting well-being.
Importantly, self-centeredness should not be confused with self-reflection. While the former involves an unhealthy obsession with oneself, the latter is a constructive process that fosters personal insight and growth. Through self-reflection, individuals can develop greater empathy and self-awareness, which counterbalance the negative aspects of self-centeredness and lead to healthier relationships.
In the arts, self-centeredness plays a dual role. On the one hand, it can drive creativity and deep personal expression, allowing artists to explore complex emotions and societal issues. On the other hand, an excessive focus on self-promotion can lead to superficial work that lacks authenticity and depth. The challenge for artists—and indeed for anyone—is to balance self-centered tendencies with a broader awareness of others and the world around them.
Ultimately, self-centeredness, while often seen as a flaw, can be managed and even harnessed for positive outcomes. Practices like mindfulness and empathy-building can help individuals shift their focus from themselves to others, fostering a more balanced, fulfilling life. By understanding and addressing the underlying causes of self-centeredness, we can transform it from a potential weakness into a tool for personal and creative growth.
Fourth article
The Bookstore Boom in the UK: A Response to Digital Fatigue
The UK is witnessing an unexpected resurgence in physical bookstore sales, reflecting a broader cultural shift. The relentless grip of social media is starting to wane as more people seek refuge in the tangible and immersive world of books. Recent data reveals that the UK book retail market, once threatened by digital alternatives, is experiencing a notable revival. This trend is largely fueled by a growing disenchantment with the overwhelming and often superficial nature of online content.
Independent bookstores, in particular, are capitalizing on this shift. They are not just surviving but thriving, thanks to their ability to offer unique, community-focused experiences that online platforms can’t replicate. From author events to curated book selections, these stores are reestablishing themselves as cultural hubs. For example, innovations like the online platform NearSt, which connects local bookstores to consumers with a one-hour delivery service, are bridging the gap between convenience and the in-store experience.
Moreover, the post-pandemic era has revealed that consumers are rediscovering the joy of physical books, with genres like adult non-fiction and romance seeing significant sales growth. Despite the rise of eBooks and audiobooks, there’s a clear indication that the physical book market remains resilient, driven by those looking to disconnect from screens and engage more deeply with content.
In a time where digital burnout is real, UK bookstores are offering a much-needed analog antidote. This resurgence is more than just a retail trend—it’s a cultural statement.
Fifth article
The Hypocrisy of Selective Outrage: Biden, Netanyahu, and the Cost of Inaction
President Joe Biden’s outrage over the death of an American hostage in Israel is a stark contrast to his administration’s silence on the deaths of over 41,000 Palestinians since the latest escalation in Gaza. This selective outrage is mirrored by the American media, which dedicates hours of coverage to the tragic deaths of six hostages taken by Hamas while largely ignoring the ongoing slaughter in Gaza.
Biden’s unwavering pro-Israel stance isn’t about defending democracy or human rights; it’s about political convenience and a history of financial entanglements. Biden took more money from AIPAC than any other politician during his time as a senator, effectively turning him into a puppet for Israeli interests. This has allowed the Netanyahu government to carry out its brutal campaign in Gaza with little to no pushback from the United States.
The real outrage should be directed at Benjamin Netanyahu, who has exploited the tragic events of October 7th for his own political survival. His administration ignored intelligence reports that could have prevented the Hamas attack, hoping to use the ensuing chaos to quash protests against his increasingly autocratic rule. His actions have escalated violence, leading to massive Palestinian casualties, while emboldening settler expansion in the West Bank and provoking Lebanon. Netanyahu is as culpable as Hamas, if not more so, for perpetuating this conflict, and his desire to cling to power is dragging Israel and the region to the brink of disaster.
Meanwhile, Biden—who is often portrayed as the “wise” elder statesman—has shown himself to be anything but. His administration’s blind support for Netanyahu’s reckless policies has brought the world closer to the brink of a broader regional conflict. Yet, he remains disconnected, taking extended vacations while the crisis deepens.
It’s time for accountability. Netanyahu should be held responsible for war crimes and his calculated decisions that have only served to deepen the cycle of violence. Biden must be replaced by a leader who prioritizes genuine peace and justice over political expediency and financial ties. This crisis demands leadership that recognizes the humanity of all victims, not just those who fit a convenient political narrative.
