Tech Paradox: AI and Human Nature on October 4, 2024In recent years, the discourse surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) has reached a fever pitch, with opinions sharply divided over whether it is a dangerous force or a beneficial innovation. To grapple with this dilemma, one must first delve into the complexities of human nature, our historical precedents, and the duality inherent in all technological advancements […]
Beyond Realism on September 23, 2024In international relations, the concept of the balance of power is a foundational tenet of Realism, a school of thought that sees the international system as inherently anarchic, where states act primarily in their self-interest to ensure survival. This balance ensures that no single state becomes dominant, preserving the sovereignty of all. The theory posits […]
Nukes, Allies, and Expectations on August 16, 2024The US has consistently demonstrated its unwavering support for Israel, particularly following the October 7, 2023, offensive launched by Hamas and the subsequent assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, the chief of Hamas’ political wing. This incident has prompted the US to increase its military footprint and diplomatic endeavours in the Middle East, justifying the move as […]
Sustainability is Luxury? on July 12, 2024Punjab is carelessly divided into South Punjab and North Punjab (Upper Punjab). South Punjab comprises three divisions: Multan, Dera Ghazi Khan, and Bahawalpur. According to the 2023 Census, the total population of Punjab is 127,688,922, with 40,377,576 individuals residing in these three divisions. This accounts for more than 30% of Punjab’s total population. Most of […]
Riyasat-e-Madina? on July 1, 2024Imran Khan had launched the political party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in 1992. It emerged as an anti-status quo force in the country, with a unique manifesto: aiming to ensure justice and establish the rule of law. After struggling for about 22 years, the PTI finally came into power, with Imran Khan as the 22nd Prime […]
Sneering Politics on June 10, 2024The criterion set forth by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) to appoint a professor at a university requires a Ph.D. degree from an HEC-recognized Institution, 15 years of teaching/research experience in an HEC-recognized university, and 15 research publications. The scholars give their sweat, blood and tears to secure the prestigious title of Professor. However, Pakistan’s […]
IMF and Pakistan on April 30, 2024Pakistan has availed of 23 IMF programs since 1958, but due to internal and external reasons, the adoption of IMF policies has not benefited substantially. Pakistan has earned the unfortunate title of “one-tranche nation” which alludes to the nation’s history of taking out loans at crucial junctures and then prematurely abandoning them due to a […]
Education Conundrum in Pakistan on March 24, 2024Pakistan inherited a well-established primary and secondary educational system, especially in the urban centres and much of Punjab, although it had been predominately manned by Hindus, many of whom left for India after the partition. The major educational assets Pakistan inherited were situated in Lahore, where several elite states and missionary schools had taught several […]
What is Security? on March 6, 2024Security is an idiosyncratic and contested notion, subject to individual interpretation. A generic explanation of security is the absence of peril or trepidation. Optimism and hope may be termed as security. And hope and optimism may or may not be a “Law”. It may be rules, precedents, norms, values, customs and traditions. If one is […]
Polls Manifesto and China on February 5, 2024In a democratic system, political parties play a central role, serving as platforms for individuals who support specific ideologies and allowing them to participate in elections – a democratic process to choose a leader. These parties develop their election strategies around a set of principles, goals, and commitments outlined in their manifesto, which reflects the […]