After a period of silence, I am resuming my engagement with current events. Various factors, such as health issues, writing commitments, and age-related bureaucratic challenges, have contributed to my absence. However, the primary reason for my return is the need to address meaningful journalism within a rapidly evolving global context.
I am a subscriber to a UK publication akin to The Daily Star and Prothom Alo, called The Guardian. The publication aligns with my values of seeking truth from a liberal, inclusive, and socially progressive standpoint. One of the challenges faced by such outlets is providing insightful commentary that remains relevant amidst rapidly changing circumstances. Established writers at The Guardian have struggled to offer fresh perspectives without falling into the trap of stating the obvious or being perceived as outdated.
As I approach 80 years of age, I have observed a pervasive sense of stagnation among the intellectual elite. The current volatile and threatening global landscape has left many struggling to produce engaging content. From protests against atrocities in Gaza to geopolitical crises in regions like Iran and Ukraine, the world is witnessing a series of events that seem almost surreal, resembling scenes from a disaster movie.
Beyond overt conflicts, there are other pressing political issues unfolding, such as cuts to essential services, crackdowns on immigrants, and widening wealth inequality. The rise of what some term “feudo-capitalism” poses challenges that demand a critical analysis of its origins and impacts. The concentration of economic power in the hands of a few, coupled with technological advancements leading to job displacement, paints a bleak picture of our future if left unchecked.
Experts like Nobel laureate Geoff Hinton advocate for socialist solutions to address the threats posed by artificial intelligence. Alternative perspectives propose reevaluating the notion of work as the sole source of dignity and exploring avenues for social contribution beyond traditional employment. Concepts like a citizen’s income aim to distribute national resources more equitably among all members of society.
The consequences of the current era of uncertainty and insecurity are evident in the growing precarity of ordinary people’s lives. Forced to work multiple jobs just to make ends meet, individuals find themselves trapped in a cycle of economic struggle with little time for reflection or political engagement. This vulnerability leaves them susceptible to populist rhetoric and divisive narratives that offer simplistic solutions to complex problems.
In the face of these challenges, it is crucial for journalists and intellectuals to engage with a broader audience and communicate complex analyses in accessible ways. The need for progressive policies that address the root causes of social and economic inequality has never been more urgent. As I break my silence and reenter the discourse, I remain committed to confronting the pressing issues of our time and advocating for a more just and equitable society.
Dr. Geof Wood, a respected development anthropologist and author, shares his views on the current state of affairs, urging for a more inclusive and proactive approach to addressing the crises that define our era.