The Ebola virus is supposed to be « the most dangerous since HIV » according to the US government. Strangely, Germany remained quite distant regarding this health issue. As if the Germans did not feel concerned by this topic? or simply relativized its importance ? On the field, there is a huge concern. Often mixed with a sentiment of…
Once upon a time in France, Enlightened and romantics were filled with revolutionary sentiments. Rejecting people’s violations, atrocities such as Inquisition and absolute monarchy, and dreaming of a uniting spirit of self-confidence. A belief that whatever unites the french people would be stronger that what divides them. Hence the Declaration of Human Rights down to 1905’s law…
On a sleepless night, you fancy set about reading from the « father of capitalism », Scotland’s Adam Smith. Pay attention to what book you pick! The most classic choice is The Wealth of Nations. Ever wondered why this one became a most referred, least completely read book from the author? Ever thought about discovering a quite different…
BELL : Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. GIIPS : Greece, Italy, Ireland, Portugal and Spain. Anders Aslund – economist from the Peterson Institute for International Economics, Washington D.C. – compared the performance of these formerly communist states with South Europe, plus Ireland. Over 2008-2012 period, BELLs economy followed a V curve. Meanwhile, GIIPS looked less exciting for…
« I KNOW…» told you on and on your son or your daughter. Bang! No parent is ready to take that from his own child. « I KNOW… » obviously means something like: « I see your point, it’s understood… but leave me alone! » A clear refusal to dialogue. A protection against the outer world,…
Hard to define the Occident, in its 21st century’s version! It all started in Western Europe then spread both Westward and Eastward. Its most recently developments go as far away as Africa and Asia, despite cultural distance. It seems like there’s a Western movies playing in all theaters all over the world! The Occident is…
« Listen to me! » We all learned this chorus by heart… At times we’d rather not! Should better deny remembering the parental catchphrase. Your parents experienced post-WW2 reconstruction, massive economic growth, blind material development and long-term carelessness. Didn’t Keynes predict that « in the long run we are all dead »? Yet our parents went through counter-culture events,…
At school, literacy teachers nervously put a stress on how important it is to keep a rigorous eye when writing an essay. Rigor is needed in order to understand the subject, analyse the question given by the teacher. Rigor again when preparing one’s written answer, so as to stick to the topic, avoiding any drifting…
Remember the lullaby? When grown-up, one often observes that the bigger the affair, the more likely it will remain unnoticed. So might go the TAFTA, as the most conspiracy-busters do believe. Such a big deal that no one sees it until it swallows us all. Too many news, mostly deprived of actual vital interest, leaves…
What’s the point in reviving protectionism? You’ve got 15 minutes to answer. Pencils or tablets on board. Ready, steady, go! Remember Middle-Age somewhat magnificent and impressive battlements aimed at protecting the city against angry rebellious visitors and doubtful merchants. Are we about to move backward to these obscure times? Globalization, supported by mainstream economic vision, doesn’t allow much free space for…
light up my mind 