Positive Discrimination is an approach which takes factors including race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or national origin into consideration in an attempt to mitigate the oppression of underrepresented social groups. The idea was memorably promoted through the US governmental policies of ‘Affirmative Action’ in the 1960s that were aimed […]
As a response to Israel’s incessant expansionism, attacks on the Palestinian people and violations of international human rights agreements, Palestinian civil society issued a call for a campaign of boycotts, divestment and sanctions (BDS) until Israel complies with international law and Palestinian rights. This call, made in 2005, was endorsed by […]
This month’s Great Debate concerns the promotion of a ‘Manifesto for a Global Democracy‘ by some high-profile academics. The Global Suffragettes, a student society that launched the manifesto make the case for it, while the OT editorial team argue that global manifestos are not the way forward. For – The Global […]
Corporate personhood gives corporations both rights and responsibilities, and has been used to prosecute corporations for crimes, but also to give them lobbying power. This month’s Great Debate takes a closer look at the implications of the concept, and asks whether it serves people, profit, or power. For / Andy […]
In this month’s Great Debate we ask if an ethically responsible form of capitalism is possible. Can a system built on profit and competition be utilised for the good of people without damaging the environment, or is reckless consumption, environmental destruction and inequality intrinsic to its nature? YES / Dan […]
Political movements around the world seem to agree that our current democratic model is broken. In using alternative modes of decision-making, consensus has become an integral element of process. However, critics have said seeking full consensus prevents progress, particularly in the second stage of a movement. Do these downsides outweigh […]
Occupy began in the wake of the financial crash, bank bailouts and austerity measures, as a movement opposed to economic injustice. Since then, many other issues have been incorporated into Occupy’s aims and rhetoric. This edition we ask: should Occupy remain focussed on financial questions, or should we broaden the […]
Both the occupation of squares and the squatting of buildings are seen as strategies for re-claiming public space. Recently, some occupations (Sydney, Oakland, London) have turned to squatting in order to utilise empty space as community centres or housing options, in particular after facing eviction from parks or squares. This […]
FOR/ KIT MARSTERS It is becoming increasingly clear that mainstream politicians do not always have the public’s best interest at heart. Over the last few years dodgy practices have been exposed, and few would deny the influence of big business on the political process. The comment sections of online publications, […]
Occupy is based on a few basic principles of economic, social and environmental justice. But some of us want to tweak the system while others want more sweeping change. This week we ask: do we need a revolution, or should we follow the path of systemic reform? FOR REFORM/ KIT MARSTERS Revolutions […]