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The age of Simulacra Swiss linguist Ferdinand de Saussure is known for his theory of signifier and signified. A "signifier" is a verbal reference to a given object, while "signified" is the actual object being referred too. For instance, the word "chair" is the signifier for the object on which individuals sit in an office... Continue Reading →
Technology has always influenced the practice of diplomacy and, subsequently, the role of Ambassadors. Until the 19th century Ambassadors were both extraordinary and plenipotentiary meaning that they had the authority to negotiate on behalf of their monarch and even sign treaties in his name. This was a result of the communication mediums that were available... Continue Reading →
20th Century Diplomacy For most of the 20th Century, diplomacy was practiced behind iron curtains. While diplomats would often pose for photo opportunities, such photographs were taken before and after their meetings. The diplomatic deliberations themselves took place within the inner sanctums of great palaces or behind the closed doors of historic halls. It was... Continue Reading →
On January 23, 2017, the Polish Embassy in the US published a YouTube video titled “Words Matter”. The video aims to ensure that journalists and social media users employ the correct term when referring to concentration camps built by Nazi Germany on Polish soil during World War 2. This video serves as a fascinating example... Continue Reading →
In November of 2016, Oxford dictionary proclaimed “Post Truth” the 2016 word of the year. The choice was obviously a reflection of two important political campaigns- Brexit and the US Presidential elections. In both campaigns truth became subservient to political gains while the distinction between fact and fiction eroded. Exaggerations, fabrications and lies became an... Continue Reading →
Two weeks ago I published an analysis of the images of Syria used by the British FCO on Twitter. My analysis found that the FCO employs images that resonate with iconic moments from British history. In addition, I found that these images are an integral part of the British narrative of events in Syria. This... Continue Reading →
On Thursday, the 29th of December 2016, President Barack Obama announced the expulsion of 35 Russian diplomats from the US as well as new economic sanctions targeting Russia's intelligence agencies. Both measures were part of the American response to Russia's alleged interfering in the 2016 Presidential elections. Russia's digital response was immediate. Within an hour... Continue Reading →
For the past 8 years, the Gaza strip has existed as an island entire onto itself. Physically it is cut off from the rest of the world by an Israeli and Egyptian blockade. Politically it is isolated from the West Bank as it is ruled by the Hamas Party and not the PLO. Diplomatically it... Continue Reading →
The end of World War 2 saw the decline and ultimate abolition of most European Monarchies. By 1945, the majority of European nations had either exiled their Monarch or transitioned towards various forms of constitutional Monarchies. Yet while the remaining Monarchs may have lost their hard power resources (i.e., their status as sovereigns) they soon... Continue Reading →
On the 23rd of July, Donald Trump accepted the Republican nomination for the Presidency of the United States. This week Hillary Clinton is likely to be chosen at the Democratic nominee for the Presidency. While it is true that national elections often draw attention from foreign countries and governments, no election is as closely monitored... Continue Reading →
