ALLERGY TO THE ALPHABET

How many people will actually read this!? Or a summary of this!? Or even an inspirational quote pulled from it!? Or their brain will process three consecutive sentences of the first disclaimer!?

In the Era of the Stupid, we have cultivated a society that views the written word with the kind of deep suspicion usually reserved for a software terms-and-conditions agreement.

Let us be perfectly clear — we are no longer mourning the decline of ‘reading books’. We are talking about the sweat-inducing, Herculean labor required for a few lines. We have bred a demographic of scroll-zombies who diagnose a standard paragraph as a literal microaggression against their dopamine receptors.

If a geopolitical crisis, a philosophical breakthrough, or a basic set of instructions cannot be spoon-fed through a 60-second video — preferably featuring a hyperactive influencer pointing at floating text, they feel an immediate brain death might happen. We have successfully subcontracted our basic literacy to a robotic text-to-speech voiceover. And there is a profound, bitter comedy in this: we are actively living in a dystopian nightmare, but no one has the attention span to read THE MANUAL OF THE DYSTOPIAN REALITY: “1984” MEETS “BRAVE NEW WORLD”

When discussing social control, we are caught between two distinct dystopian nightmares. On one hand, we see the suppression of new ideas and the complete rejection of sensory evidence characteristic of Orwell’s 1984. On the other hand, much like in Huxley’s Brave New World, we are willingly participating in our own distraction, pacified by endless, mind-numbing entertainment while genuine critical thought slowly erodes away.

We are currently navigating a paradox that would leave both George Orwell and Aldous Huxley completely baffled. We have access to the entirety of human knowledge in our pockets, yet we are collectively acting as if we are in the dark. This is not just a passing phase; it is a structural decline in critical thought. Welcome to what we can accurately call the “Era of the Stupid.”

ONLINE, OUR BRAINS ARE PROUDLY NEANDERTHAL

Let us look at the actual biology of this collective regression. We love to pride ourselves on being the apex of human evolution, parading around with our smart phones capable of accessing the James Webb Space Telescope. Yet, the moment we connect to a Wi-Fi network, our neurology fundamentally reverts to that of a startled caveman. “Digital stupidity” is not just a catchy insult; it is a measurable, physiological state.

In the physical world, your prefrontal cortex is ostensibly in charge. This is the sophisticated, evolutionary marvel of your brain responsible for complex logic, impulse control, and critical analysis. But virtual spaces are not designed for the prefrontal cortex. They are laser-targeted at the amygdala — the primitive, reptilian core of the brain responsible for our “fight or flight” survival instincts.

We are dealing with a profound evolutionary mismatch. Our brains evolved to react instantly to sudden threats on the savanna, like a rustling bush or a predator. Today, algorithms exploit that exact same survival mechanism, substituting the stalking lion with a digitally manufactured political outrage or a hyper-polarized viral video.

The tech conglomerates sitting in Silicon Valley did not build digital town squares; they built high-tech Skinner boxes. They understand that anger and fear are the most efficient hacks into human attention. If they can trigger your amygdala, your prefrontal cortex is effectively bypassed. Logic is suspended. Nuance is assassinated. You do not pause to verify a source or consider a counter-argument because your brain is biologically screaming at you to neutralize a perceived threat by furiously typing a comment.

We are not evolving alongside our technology. We are being actively devolved by it. We have surrendered the crown jewel of human cognition — our capacity for reasoned, deliberate thought — in exchange for the primal, fleeting dopamine hit of digital tribalism. We are effectively bringing a stone ax to an information war, and we are losing badly.

THE DEATH OF NUANCE AND IRONY

Let’s hit a nerve; something so stupid that a quick glance at a dictionary can clarify: “gilded” literally means covering a cheap base metal with a microscopic layer of gold. A “Golden Age” implies intrinsic value, prosperity, and enlightenment throughout. A “Gilded Age,” by definition, implies a cheap facade, deception, and a rot hiding just beneath a shiny surface.

It is important to note that the people living in the late 19th century did not proudly name their own era the “Gilded Age.” The term was coined by Mark Twain and Charles Dudley Warner in their 1873 satirical novel, The Gilded Age: A Tale of Today.

They used the word specifically as an insult. It was a biting critique of an era where rapid economic growth and the extreme wealth of a few “robber barons” masked rampant political corruption, terrible labor conditions, and widespread poverty. The era was a cheap, corrupt metal painted with a thin layer of gold.

Perhaps the most alarming symptom of our collective cognitive decline is the rapid disappearance of our ability to process irony, satire, or subtext. We are transitioning into an age of aggressive, unyielding literalism.

The South Korean-born philosopher Byung-Chul Han perfectly diagnoses this in his critique of our digital age, which he calls the “society of transparency.” Han argues that our modern digital culture demands that everything be immediate, explicit, and smoothed out for frictionless consumption. By systematically eradicating ambiguity and nuance, we have inadvertently eradicated the exact psychological space where irony lives.

Irony requires a cognitive gap between what is said and what is meant. It demands that the reader actively participate, think critically, and decode the context. But in the Era of the Stupid, critical thinking is a friction that the algorithm actively seeks to eliminate.

We see this played out daily in internet culture. We have reached a point where digital communication requires explicit disclaimers — like the ubiquitous “/s” tag to denote sarcasm — because vast swathes of the population are no longer mentally equipped to read the room or interpret context. When a society takes everything at absolute face value, its critical distance vanishes. A population that cannot understand irony is a population entirely defenseless against the manipulation, outrage-bait, and political charlatans that define our modern digital landscape.

WHAT WAS THE LAST TIME YOU SEARCHED FOR A WORD IN THE DICTIONARY?

The fact that anyone today would proudly compare our current era to the “Gilded Age” — or mistake the term for a compliment synonymous with a “Golden Age” — is a prime example of the cognitive decline I am debating.

When modern commentators, politicians, or tech billionaires romanticize the “Gilded Age,” they are inadvertently proving my point about the “Era of the Stupid.” They are exposing a profound lack of historical literacy and critical thinking. They see the word “gold” and stop reading, completely missing the satire.

This “Golden vs. Gilded” distinction serves as a perfect, central metaphor for the digital age I’m analyzing in my piece:

• The Gilded Interface: Just like the 1800s, our modern digital world is heavily gilded. We have sleek, shiny devices and beautifully designed social media interfaces (the thin layer of gold) that mask data harvesting, algorithmic manipulation, and the degradation of our attention spans (the cheap base metal);
• Superficial Consumption: We consume information the same way people misunderstand the word “gilded.” We look at the shiny headline, the aesthetic of the post, or the viral outrage, and we accept it as valuable without ever scratching the surface to see the hollow, often manipulated reality underneath;
• The Illusion of Knowledge: As Christiane Amanpour noted regarding the weaponization of media, we have the illusion of a “Golden Age” of information. In reality, it is a “Gilded Age” of information — massive in volume and shiny on the outside, but largely devoid of actual, solid truth.

IF IGNORANCE IS BLISS, WHY IS EVERYONE SO ANGRY ALL THE TIME?

There is an old adage that ignorance is bliss. If that were biologically and sociologically true today, the “Era of the Stupid” should be the most joyful epoch in human history. We should be frolicking in a utopian paradise of empty-headed contentment, entirely unbothered by the complexities of the world. Instead, we are chronically miserable, perpetually offended, and ready to go to digital war over a 15-second clip lacking any discernible context.

If we are thinking less, why are we hurting more?

The answer lies in the fact that modern ignorance is no longer a passive state of simply “not knowing.” It is an active, highly profitable industrial complex. The algorithms that govern our digital lives do not monetize bliss. Bliss does not scroll. Contentment does not click. Nuance does not generate ad revenue. Outrage does.

We are trapped in the ultimate dystopian paradox, experiencing the absolute worst of both Orwell and Huxley simultaneously. We possess the profound cognitive laziness and demand for endless entertainment of Brave New World, yet we are fueled by the manufactured, “Two Minutes Hate” paranoia of 1984. We refuse to read, we are blind to irony, and we have surrendered our critical thinking to the amygdala’s primal scream. But into that self-imposed intellectual vacuum, the machinery of this New Gilded Age pours a relentless, targeted stream of weaponized sensationalism.

Nature abhors a vacuum, and in the digital age, the empty space where critical thought used to be is instantly backfilled with rage.

We are not blissfully ignorant; we are violently misinformed. The ultimate tragedy of the Era of the Stupid — the grandest scam in a century of evolving frauds — is not just that we are willingly surrendering our collective intelligence. It is that we are actively paying for our own cognitive decline with our peace of mind, trading the hard work of actual enlightenment for the cheap, gilded thrill of being constantly, stupidly angry.

SOURCES:

ALLERGY TO THE ALPHABET

• Maryanne Wolf, Reader, Come Home: The Reading Brain in a Digital World: HarperCollins Official Page
• Nicholas Carr, The Shallows: What the Internet Is Doing to Our Brains: The Shallows | Nicholas Carr | W. W. Norton & Company

THE MANUAL OF THE DYSTOPIAN REALITY

• Neil Postman, Amusing Ourselves to Death: Public Discourse in the Age of Show Business: Amusing Ourselves to Death: Public Discourse in the Age of Show Business: Postman, Neil, Postman, Andrew

ONLINE, OUR BRAINS ARE PROUDLY NEANDERTHAL

• Daniel Kahneman, Thinking, Fast and Slow: Macmillan Official Page
• Tristan Harris / Center for Humane Technology: Official Organization Website

THE DEATH OF NUANCE AND IRONY

• Tom Nichols, The Death of Expertise: The Campaign against Established Knowledge and Why it Matters: The Death of Expertise: The Campaign against Established Knowledge and Why it Matters
• Byung-Chul Han, The Transparency Society: Stanford University Press Official Page

WHAT WAS THE LAST TIME YOU SEARCHED FOR A WORD IN THE DICTIONARY?

• Christiane Amanpour’s 2016 Burton Benjamin Memorial Award Speech: Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) Transcript
• Steven Sloman and Philip Fernbach, The Knowledge Illusion: Why We Never Think Alone: The Knowledge Illusion by Steven Sloman, Philip Fernbach:

IF IGNORANCE IS BLISS, WHY IS EVERYONE SO ANGRY ALL THE TIME?

• Shoshana Zuboff, The Age of Surveillance Capitalism: The Age of Surveillance Capitalism by Shoshana Zuboff | Hachette Book Group
• William J. Brady, et al., “Emotion shapes the diffusion of moralized content in social networks”: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) Journal Article

The Ghost in the Mother Tongue

In the world of linguistics, we often speak of “acquisition” and “mastery” as if they are trophies to be won and kept on a shelf. But for those of us who live in the narrow, high-pressure corridors between languages — the interpreters, the translators, the computational linguists — language is not a static prize. It is a living, predatory thing. Sometimes, to make room for a new world, it begins to consume the old one.

I recently lost a job because I could no longer think quickly enough in Portuguese. For a native speaker, especially one whose career was built on the foundation of the United Nations system and the nuances of simultaneous interpretation, this admission feels like a betrayal of the self. It is a specific kind of professional mourning: the realization that my mother tongue, the language of my first thoughts and my deepest emotions, has become “heavy.”

The Erosion of the Primary Horizon

In linguistics, we call this phenomenon linguistic attrition. It is usually reserved for immigrants who have spent decades away from home, but for a polyglot immersed in a dominant professional language like English, the process is more insidious. My brain, wired for the efficiency required by AI prompt engineering and international discourse, has been re-optimized.

When my days are consumed by the syntactic rigor of “nativelike” English and the coaching of global voices, Portuguese is relegated from the language of praxis to the language of reminiscence. English becomes the language of logic, of work, and of the future. Portuguese, meanwhile, has been relegated to the realm of tacit dwelling — the quiet, foundational ground of my existence. But dwelling is contemplative and slow; it lacks the tactical, synaptic velocity required by simultaneous interpretation. It is the language of being, whereas the profession demands the language of doing.

The Cost of the Bridge

In a professional setting, especially in high-stakes communication, “thinking quickly” isn’t just about knowing the word; it’s about the latency of the neural path. In high-stakes communication, such as simultaneous interpreting, is an exercise in managing the void between thought and expression. When a speaker is mid-sentence and you are interpreting, you aren’t just translating words; you are managing cognitive load. For me, that load has become unbalanced… My current struggle is a failure of this transit.

When I reached for the Portuguese equivalent of a complex technical concept, I found myself encountering a “buffer” that felt like a phantom limb.” The English word arrived instantly, sharp and ready. The Portuguese word, however, felt like it was being retrieved from a dusty archive. That two-millisecond delay — the “glitch” in my internal hardware — is the difference between a successful interpretation and a professional failure.

The Sound Of A Bridge Cracking Under The Weight Of Its Own Length

There is a quiet, devastating grief in failing at your own essence. It is a specific kind of heartbreak to stumble over the very sounds that once lulled me to sleep, to feel my own history becoming a locked door I no longer hold the key to. My professional victories — the precision of my AI prompts, the accolades for my scholarship — feel like thin, paper-dry masks. They are successful in the “outer world,” but they cannot fill the hollow ache of being rejected by my mother tongue. How can I stand as an authority on language when I am an exile from my own cradle? I feel like a ghost in my own career, who can navigate the complex architecture of a foreign logic but can no longer find the light switch in my own home. It is a heavy, isolating shame.

The Identity of the Polyglot

Losing a job for this reason triggers a profound identity crisis. If I am no longer a “quick” speaker of my mother tongue, who am I in the professional market? I have spent a career being the bridge between worlds, yet I find myself standing on one side, watching the other shore grow foggy.

As someone who navigates GAD and ADHD, I am acutely aware of how bandwidth works. The mental energy required to “fight” for a language that used to be as natural as breathing is exhausting. It is a cruel irony: I am a member of the Linguistic Society of America, a professor who teaches the “Discourse Approach,” and yet I am currently a stranger to the discourse of my own heritage.

The Third Space

This loss is not a defect of intellect, but the inevitable friction of a mind stretched across multiple geographies. I am a speaker of many tongues, a scholar who continues to engage in graduation-level training in Portuguese, and a practitioner who understands the mechanics of discourse with intimate rigor. To stumble in speed is not to be a “loser”; it is to be a specialist who has pushed the boundaries of cognitive capacity until the architecture itself had to shift. I have become so thoroughly a creature of global exchange that I have outgrown the narrow, singular linguistic borders of my origin. This is a metamorphosis that carries a price, but it also confers a unique authority.

While the loss of a job is a mourning, it is also an invitation to inhabit a “Third Space.” Perhaps my role is no longer to be the lightning-fast conduit for the words of others in real-time, but to be the philosopher of the gap itself. I am still a bridge — one fortified by diverse languages and rigorous training. But I am beginning to understand that a bridge’s value does not lie in its loyalty to one shore or the other, but in its ability to endure the tension of being suspended between them.

Reclaiming the Narrative

While the real-time retrieval of my cradle-tongue has shifted, the depth of my engagement with it has only matured through advanced academic inquiry and the broader perspective of a polyglot. I am not losing a language; I am refining its utility within a more complex cognitive architecture. My ability to speak many tongues and shape the very discourse of machines proves that my mind has not diminished — it has simply expanded beyond the constraints of a single, immediate reaction. The job I lost was a demand for a specific, linear speed; the career I am building is a demand for a multidimensional depth. I stand on the bridge, not as a casualty of the crossing, but as its architect.

SOURCES:

1. Theoretical Frameworks & Keynotes

• Schmid, M. S. (2023). The final frontier? Why we have been ignoring second language attrition, and why it is time we stopped. Language Teaching.
• Schmid, M. S., & Köpke, B. (2017). The relevance of first language attrition to theories of bilingual development. Linguistic Approaches to Bilingualism.
• Schmid, M. S., Köpke, B., & de Bot, K. (2013). Language attrition as a complex, non-linear development. International Journal of Bilingualism.
• Schmid, M. S. (2013). First language attrition. WIREs Cognitive Science.

2. Age, Development, and Maturational Constraints

• Schmid, M. S., & Karayayla, T. (2020). The roles of age, attitude, and use in first language development and attrition of Turkish–English bilinguals. Language Learning.
• Hicks, G., et al. (2023). L1 grammatical attrition in late Spanish-English bilinguals in the UK: aspectual interpretations of present tense in Spanish. The Language Learning Journal.
• Schmid, M. S. (2014). The debate on maturational constraints in bilingual development: a perspective from first language attrition. Language Acquisition.

3. Psycholinguistics: Lexical Access & Processing

• Soto, C., & Schmid, M. S. (2023). Carrot or parrot? An eye-tracking study on spoken word recognition in a language attrition context. The Language Learning Journal.
• Schmid, M. S., & Yılmaz, G. (2021). Lexical Access in L1 Attrition — Competition versus Frequency. Applied Linguistics.
• Yılmaz, G., & Schmid, M. S. (2018). Predictors of Language Dominance: An Integrated Analysis of First Language Attrition and Second Language Acquisition in Late Bilinguals. Frontiers in Psychology.

4. Phonology and Pronunciation

• Bergmann, C., Nota, A., & Schmid, M. S. (2016). L2 immersion causes non-native-like L1 pronunciation in German attriters. Journal of Phonetics.
• de Leeuw, E., Tusha, A., & Schmid, M. S. (2017). Phonological L1 attrition in Albanian-English late bilinguals. Bilingualism: Language and Cognition.
• Schmid, M. S., & Hopp, H. (2014). Comparing foreign accent in L1 attrition and L2 acquisition. Language Testing.

5. Fluency and Complexity

• Lahmann, C., Steinkrauss, R., & Schmid, M. S. (2019). Measuring linguistic complexity in long‐term L2 speakers of English and L1 attriters of German. International Journal of Applied Linguistics.
• Schmid, M. S., & Beers Fägersten, K. (2010). Fluency and language attrition. Language Learning.

Let’s be honest: the real drama here isn’t on social media [that cesspit of snark and “sewer journalism”]. It’s unfolding in official Washington, and it’s a lot more absurd.

The Debasement of Discourse

Let us dispense with a common category error. The digital spectacle of outrage you scroll through daily is not “politics.” It is the degraded linguistic residue of what happens when journalism dissolves into a sewer of tribal provocation. It is a public square where semantics have been sacrificed for sentiment, and the primary mode of communication is the grunt of performative anger. The recent diplomatic theatre between the United States and Brazil serves as a perfect, if painful, case study.

On July 30, 2025, President Trump announced a 40% special tariff on Brazil — effectively a 50% rate on top of the 10% global tariff. The headline-grabbing number was supposed to take effect on August 6. Except… It hasn’t.

THE DOCUMENT ITSELF IS A MASTERCLASS IN RHETORICAL MISDIRECTION. TO THE HEADLINE FIGURE, TWO CODICILS WERE ATTACHED

First, Trump postponed implementation by a week. Second, his order is riddled with nearly 700 exemptions. These carve-outs cover vast swaths of Brazilian exports — on the order of two-thirds of its trade with the U.S. — leaving only about 36% of sales actually subject to the higher duties. (In fact, Brazil’s own estimates are that just 35.9% of export value will be hit.)

WHERE THE TARIFF GO?

The commercial aspect of Trump’s threats has always been the least important component; after all, the trade balance in services heavily favors the U.S. This is about political pressure. It’s about protecting American Big Tech from regulation and taxation abroad. And as the official document, titled “Addressing Threats to the United States Posed by the Government of Brazil,” makes clear, it’s about a lot of things that have nothing to do with a container of orange juice. Speaking of which, the powerful U.S. beverage lobby, including giants like Coca-Cola, was very concerned about tariffs on Brazilian orange juice concentrate. Unsurprisingly, orange juice is now on the exemption list. Coca-Cola’s pressure seemed to work.

This is a diagnosis of a pattern of performative bluster followed by strategic retreat, a syntax of power that prioritizes the announcement over the action. The spared items read like a “who’s who” of Brazilian exports: civil aircraft, iron ore, orange juice, wood pulp, even fertilizers are exempt. Notably beef and coffee — Brazil’s big American exports — were not spared Ethanol, too, gets no grace — big surprise given Trump’s clean energy budget cuts.

A 50% TARIFF OR A 66% SURRENDER?

At what point does an exception devour the rule? When does a threat become an empty signifier?

This chasm between threat and substance invites a certain vernacular diagnosis. In American political slang, there’s the acronym ‘TACO’ (Trump Always Chickens Out). Brazil, with its characteristic linguistic flair, offers a more visceral term: ‘pipocou’. Both diagnose a pattern of performative bluster followed by strategic retreat, a syntax of power that prioritizes the announcement over the action

THE TEXT, THE SUBTEXT, AND THE PRETEXT

To read the executive order is to engage in an exercise of literary deconstruction. Its title, “Addressing Threats to the United States Posed by the Government of Brazil,” immediately signals that this is not a trade document but a polemic. The text is a catalogue of grievances concerning democracy, Big Tech, and censorship — commerce is merely the pretext, the weapon chosen to prosecute a different war.

THE DIPLOMACY OF THE DEAF

Watching this mess, one constant is clear: nobody’s really talking. President Lula loudly complains that his VP, Geraldo Alckmin, “calls [Washington] daily” but literally “nobody will talk to him.” Hard to disagree. The Trump administration’s version of diplomacy these days is to push career diplomats aside and conduct back-channel transactions — or just bark demands via executive order. In practice, getting time with Trump has become more like begging to join a mafia summit than setting up trade talks. Even Brazil’s polite gambit of sending a Senate delegation to Washington went nowhere. Aiming for a mediator, one Brazilian senator even suggested George W. Bush — which says a lot about how desperate the situation is; because although George W. Bush and Luis Inacio Lula da Silva are relatively close, there are deep grudges running between Bush and Trump.

WHAT SAYS THE ONES IN THE FRONT ROW OF THIS CIRCUS?

Perhaps the most telling feature of this episode is that the policy’s most potent critics are not in Brasília, but in Washington D.C. itself. A rare consensus has formed among otherwise divergent editorial boards: the Washington Post sees it “backfiring,” the Financial Times dubs Trump the “Emperor of Brazil,” and The Economist calls it “shocking.”

Within the U.S., the Consumer Brands Association warns of penalties to American consumers, and a bipartisan senatorial letter calculates a potential loss of 130,000 jobs. It is a fascinating paradox: while a segment of the Brazilian right treats support for Trump as a sacred duty, American capital and a cross-section of its political class view his actions as reckless self-harm.

WHY IS NO ONE TALKING ABOUT MARCO RUBIO — BRAZIL’S BIGGEST “HATER”

Deconstructing the Hawk: Marco Rubio’s Brazil Problem

In the grand, often clumsy, theater of U.S.-Brazil relations, one actor consistently plays the role of chief antagonist: Secretary of State Marco Rubio. To understand the current diplomatic friction, one must look past the presidential letterhead and analyze the linguistic and ideological architecture of the man shaping the message. It is a fascinating study in political rhetoric — a performance by a man whose entire political vocabulary is built on the denunciation of tyranny, yet who serves a political project that flirts openly with its own authoritarian impulses.

A Grammar of Exile

To understand Secretary Rubio is to first decode his political grammar, a lexicon forged in the crucible of Cuban exile. His worldview is not merely conservative; it is a rigid, binary system rooted in a foundational anti-socialist axiom. For Rubio, Latin America is not a diverse tapestry of sovereign nations but a chessboard in a perpetual Cold War. Any government that aligns with “anti-U.S. narratives” or participates in regional blocs that exclude Washington (like UNASUR or CELAC) is not exercising autonomy; it is committing a category error — a dangerous deviation from the proper order of things.

Under this hermeneutic key, a Brazilian government under the Workers’ Party (PT) is immediately suspect. Its historical solidarity with Venezuela, Cuba, and Bolivia is not seen as regional diplomacy but as collusion with a hostile axis. Every handshake is a concession, every independent policy a betrayal.

The Tyranny of Convenient Definitions

Herein lies the central, glaring contradiction of the man. Rubio’s public indictment against Brazil is a familiar list: diplomatic ties with Iran, friendly relations with Cuba, engagement with China and Russia. These are presented as prima facie evidence of Brazil’s embrace of authoritarianism.

Yet, how does one reconcile this righteous fury with his unwavering loyalty to a Trump administration that openly admires autocrats from Riyadh to Budapest? How does a champion of liberty abroad pledge fealty to a political movement that seeks to construct its own techno-authoritarian surveillance state at home — one that aims to weaponize the state against political opponents and views digital privacy as a quaint obstacle?

The word ‘tyranny’ in Rubio’s lexicon is not a universal descriptor; it is a partisan weapon, deployed with surgical precision against ideological foes and holstered with conspicuous silence for his allies. He criticizes Brazil for its friendship with regimes he dislikes, while serving a president who sees no issue in praising the “strength” of Xi Jinping or the “smart” tactics of Vladimir Putin. This is not a principled stand; it is a rhetorical sleight of hand.

The Architect of the Backyard

This lexical double standard is not merely academic; it is the blueprint for policy. Rubio has positioned himself as the self-appointed proconsul for Latin America, the chief architect of a doctrine that demands absolute alignment. His heavy hand can be seen in the sanctions against Venezuela and the rollbacks of Cuba policy.

From this vantage point, Brazil’s pursuit of an autonomous foreign policy is an act of insubordination. When Brasília criticizes U.S. sanctions or advocates for a multipolar world, Rubio perceives it not as the legitimate expression of a sovereign state but as an affront to his meticulously constructed regional order. His hostility is not that of a statesman engaging with a peer, but of a headmaster reprimanding a recalcitrant student.

The Pragmatics of Performance

Beyond ideology lies the baser pragmatics of performance. Every denunciation of Lula, every broadside against “Latin American socialism,” is a carefully calibrated broadcast to his electoral base in Florida. The audience of Cuban, Venezuelan, and Nicaraguan exiles demands a language of intransigence. In this context, diplomacy is weakness and nuance is appeasement. Bashing Brazil’s PT is not just foreign policy; it is good local politics — a cynical feedback loop where domestic pandering dictates international relations.

His stance, therefore, is not a simple “hatred” of Brazil. It is a complex amalgam of a rigid Cold War syntax, the strategic blindness of a hypocrite, and the crass calculus of a politician who knows his audience. The proof lies in the predictable shift in his rhetoric: when Brazil was governed by a pro-U.S., anti-China administration, even one with its own dubious democratic credentials, Rubio’s tone softened dramatically. The ultimate irony is that Marco Rubio, the self-proclaimed champion against autocracy, has become the chief apologist for its creeping variant in his own homeland. He warns Brazil of the dangers of authoritarian friends, all while serving an administration that seems determined to become one.

PERSONAL VENDETTAS ON PARADE

As if the economic farce weren’t enough, enter the vendettas. First came the visa bans: the U.S. State Department quietly yanked the visas of Justice Alexandre de Moraes and seven of his colleagues on Brazil’s Supreme Court. Then Trump turned the screws further by freezing Moraes’ American assets under the Magnitsky Act. The stated justification was that Moraes had become “judge and jury” in a “witch hunt” against U.S. companies and citizens. In reality, Moraes barely blinked — he had let his visa expire anyway, has no property in the U.S., and had zero intention of visiting (he’s now in charge of Bolsonaro’s trial). The asset freeze might only grind payment cards, since he “holds no assets in the United States,” per Brazil’s Supreme Court.

NO SHORTAGE OF VOLUNTEERS FOR THE ROLE OF ARCHITECT OF BRAZIL’S TROUBLES

Eduardo Bolsonaro took to social media, declaring that if a “scorched earth” scenario unfolds, “at least I will be avenged of these dictators in robes.” Not to be outdone, Senator Marcos do Val boasted of his status as an “informant” for the U.S., claiming he is the one truly responsible for the American offensive.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR THE “AMERICAN BACKYARD”?

The messy fallout is already redefining regional dynamics. On one hand, it’s certainly about U.S. corporate interests (shielding Big Tech and Big Cola) and old-school ideology (a revival of a Monroe Doctrine mindset). New Secretary of State Marco Rubio seems to fancy Latin America as Washington’s own backyard where he’s more comfortable with orders than negotiations. Perhaps he dreams of being Uncle Sam’s envoy to a puppet continent.

On the other hand, the globe is clearly moving on without Uncle Sam. Mexico and Canada, long resentful about being the U.S.’ junior partners, have quietly hatched plans for a “North Belt” trade corridor — a direct land-and-sea route between them that avoids the U.S. transit system entirely (Let’s see how tariffs on Canada go over once it’s exporting to the U.S. from deep in Mexico!). Mexico’s president is also courting Asia: he’s pursuing a free-trade agreement with Japan to broaden Mexico’s options beyond a mercurial Uncle Sam. And here in South America, Brazil, Chile, Uruguay and Colombia just met for a “Democracy Always” summit. The joint declaration from that meeting reads like a tip of the hat to Venezuelan, Nicaraguan and Cuban democracy advocates, explicitly promising to collaborate against “authoritarian projects” and foreign meddling. In short, these countries are quietly banding together on a pro-democracy, multilateral front — effectively telling Mr. Trump that Latin America is open for partnership, not for imperial orders.

SOURCES:

Trump hits Brazil with tariffs, sanctions but key sectors excluded | Reuters

Brazilian companies react to Trump’s tariffs with relief and doubt | Reuters

US Tariffs on Brazil: Key Exemptions Explained — Fastmarkets

Addressing Threats to The United States by the Government of Brazil — The White House

Brazil VP hails ‘good’ and ‘fruitful’ conversation with Lutnick on tariffs | Reuters

Tensions rise as Lula blasts US over visa sanctions tied to Bolsonaro trial | Reuters

Brazilian banks scramble to understand scope of US sanctions on Supreme Court justice | Reuters

[2025–07–25] Shaheen and Kaine Lead Colleagues in Urging Trump to End…

Canada and Mexico get cosy with trade plan to bypass US — The Loadstar

La Moncloa. 21/07/2025. Pedro Sánchez and the leaders of Chile, Brazil, Uruguay and Colombia approve a declaration in defence of democracy [News]

[2025–07–25] Shaheen and Kaine Lead Colleagues in Urging Trump to End…

More countries are restricting new technologies in classrooms, with nearly 40% banning mobile phones in schools.

You can also listen to a summary in my Podcast:

In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in education has become a pressing issue. As AI-driven systems grow more powerful, the line between human decision-making and machine-driven actions often blurs, raising critical questions about preserving human agency. How can we ensure that human agency remains central to these advancements? How can education empower individuals to navigate this new landscape?

UNESCO’s Director-General, Audrey Azoulay, has called on Member States to invest in training both teachers and students on the responsible use of AI in education. In high-income countries, over two-thirds of secondary school students already use generative AI tools for schoolwork, and teachers increasingly rely on AI for lesson preparation and student assessment. AI is also playing a growing role in school guidance and admissions, traditionally the domain of teachers and experts.

Azoulay emphasizes that AI offers significant opportunities for education, provided its deployment is guided by clear ethical principles. AI should complement the human and social dimensions of learning rather than replace them, serving as a tool to enhance the autonomy and well-being of teachers and students. However, there is a lack of clear guidelines on AI practices in education.

CHALLENGES:

• 1 in 4 primary schools still lack electricity and only 50% of lower secondary schools are connected to the web;
• In 2022, for instance, only 15 countries had included AI learning objectives in their national curricula, and only 7 countries had developed AI frameworks or programmes for teachers;

THE TREND THAT HARMS TEACHING AND LEARNING: MORE COUNTRIES ARE RESTRICTING NEW TECHNOLOGIES IN CLASSROOMS, WITH NEARLY 40% BANNING MOBILE PHONES IN SCHOOLS

The rapid integration of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), in education has sparked a global debate on their benefits and potential drawbacks. While AI offers significant opportunities for enhancing learning outcomes, its deployment must be guided by clear ethical principles to ensure it complements the human and social dimensions of education. However, the lack of clear guidelines and frameworks for AI use in schools has led to a split among countries, with some embracing the technology and others imposing restrictions.

In high-income countries, over two-thirds of secondary school students use generative AI tools for schoolwork, and teachers increasingly rely on AI for lesson preparation and student assessment. Despite these advancements, only 10% of schools and universities have an official framework for AI use, according to new data from UNESCO.

By 2022, only seven countries had developed AI frameworks for teachers:

• China;
• Finland;
• France;
• India;
• Singapore;
• South Korea;
• United Kingdom

Only 15 included AI training objectives in their national curricula:

• Australia
• Canada
• China
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• India
• Japan
• Netherlands
• Singapore
• South Korea
• Sweden
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States

Almost 40% of countries now have laws or policies banning the use of mobile phones in schools, up from 24% in July 2023, for example:

• Brazil
• France
• Italy
• Finland
• Australia (in some states)
• Spain (in some regions)
• United States (in some states)
• Sweden
• Belgium
• Greece
• Portugal
• Turkey
• New Zealand
• Canada (in some provinces)

While these bans aim to mitigate the potential harms of technology, they can also hinder the integration of beneficial tools that enhance education. For instance, mobile phones and other digital devices can be valuable resources for research, collaboration, and personalized learning. Banning these technologies may limit students’ access to information and reduce opportunities for developing digital literacy skills essential for the modern workforce.

FOR THIS REASON, THE ISP IS IMPLEMENTING UNESCO’S AI COMPETENCY FRAMEWORKS FOR TEACHERS AND LEARNERS.

UNESCO is implementing AI competency frameworks at the International School of Paris (ISP) to integrate AI-related topics into core subjects like STEM (stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics and social studies), while promoting fairness, privacy, and gender equality. Teachers are demonstrating responsible AI use, such as employing AI as a personal tutor. For example, in teacher’s English class, students use ChatGPT to receive feedback similar to what they would provide. This approach enhances learning outcomes by focusing on critical and creative thinking, keeping the human element central. Education remains a fundamentally human process, centered on the relationship between teacher and student, with AI serving as a powerful assistant but not a replacement. UNESCO’s frameworks aim to help people make informed decisions about using AI responsibly.

UNESCO’s debate over the use of new technologies in education highlights the need for balanced approaches that maximize benefits while minimizing risks. Clear guidelines and ethical frameworks are crucial to ensure that technologies like AI and mobile devices serve as tools for enhancing learning rather than sources of distraction or harm. By fostering responsible use and integrating these technologies thoughtfully, educators can prepare students for a future where digital literacy and critical thinking are paramount.

PROFESSOR PERSPECTIVE:

The initial impression of AI often evokes existential dread, with fears of job displacement due to automation. However, the real question isn’t whether one uses these tools, but rather how they are used. Initially, the thought of AI writing essays better than humans led to concerns about the relevance of teaching traditional writing skills. This mindset shifted upon exploring AI tools within the context of lesson planning and classroom enhancement. The focus moved from fearing role changes to leveraging technology for better teaching.

The key is not just using these tools, but using them correctly. Students who relied on AI as mere answer generators performed worse than those who didn’t use the tools at all. The conversation then shifted to using AI as a personal tutor, helping students understand their mistakes rather than just providing answers. This approach has shown promise in changing not just the process but also the outcomes in the classroom.

For instance, AI has been introduced as a writing tutor, coaching students in a manner similar to a human teacher. However, there is a concern that overreliance on AI might reduce engagement with complex texts, a trend that has been declining even before AI’s advent. The challenge is to encourage students to use AI as a thought partner, not a replacement for the reading and struggling process.

The UNESCO competency framework emphasizes the importance of educators modeling proper use of AI tools to avoid setting students up for failure. Critical and creative thinking skills, as highlighted by the World Economic Forum, are essential, and the challenge is to integrate these skills effectively with AI tools.

There are tools available to detect AI-generated content, but their reliability varies. Early experiences with AI, such as mistakenly accusing a diligent student of using AI, highlight the need for vigilance and skepticism. As both a student and a teacher, the use of AI in research has shown that while AI can assist, it can also lead to inaccuracies if not used carefully.

The current generation faces unprecedented uncertainty, impacting their cognitive development and well-being. The rapid changes and unknown future can be daunting. Despite these challenges, there is cautious optimism about AI’s potential to increase educational equity, especially in developing countries. With widespread smartphone access, AI can support students who lack traditional educational resources, acting as personal tutors.

In conclusion, while there are valid concerns about AI’s impact, there is also hope that, with careful integration and focus, AI can enhance education and society. The goal is to harness AI’s potential for good, making it a valuable tool in the collective effort to improve learning and development.

Catch up with part 1 here: 2025 to be the WORST year in recent history! (Part 1)

✱ The world is about to make another bad decision concerning the water crisis: Water as a Commodity/Common Good

Nestle Waters’ chief sustainability officer Nelson Switzer:

“Nestle has water rights, of course, in this area [California]. From a legal standpoint, of course it’s fair. From a perception standpoint, I understand why people are asking that question [isn’t it the people’s water?]. But water belongs to no one.”

✱ First of all, let’s remember that “Safe drinking water is part of human race survival, not a luxury”

Humans can typically survive without water for about 3 to 5 days. However, this can vary based on factors like age, health, and environmental conditions.

→ Here’s what happens to the body during dehydration:

↳ First Few Hours: You start feeling thirsty and may experience a dry mouth.

↳ 12–24 Hours: Fatigue, dizziness, and headaches set in as the body begins to conserve water.

↳ 24–48 Hours: Urine output decreases, and you might feel confused or disoriented.

↳ 48–72 Hours: Severe dehydration can lead to rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, and even seizures.

↳ Without water, the body can’t regulate temperature, transport nutrients, or remove waste, leading to organ failure and eventually death.

→ “Where there’s water there’s life”

According to educator Mia Nacamulli, water is essential for human survival and plays a crucial role in maintaining various bodily functions. The human body is composed of 55–70% water, with this percentage being even higher in infants. Water is involved in numerous physiological processes, including cushioning and lubricating joints, regulating body temperature, and nourishing the brain and spinal cord.

Each day, we lose about two to three liters of water through sweat, urine, bowel movements, and even breathing. To compensate for this loss and maintain a balanced water level, it is vital to consume an adequate amount of water. Dehydration can lead to significant drops in energy, mood, skin moisture, and blood pressure, as well as cognitive impairment.

Maintaining proper hydration is relatively easy for those with access to clean drinking water — remember that over 2 billion people lack access to clean water in the world. While water is the healthiest option, other beverages and water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables also contribute to our daily hydration needs.

Optimal hydration has long-term health benefits, including reducing the risk of stroke, managing diabetes, and potentially lowering the risk of certain cancers. Therefore, drinking the right amount of water is essential for overall health and well-being.

✱ Will we see more countries privatizing water in 2025?

This question is a complex one and depends on various factors, including regional policies, economic conditions, and public sentiment. However, there are some important points to consider; this is not a new trend and raises concerns about the ethics of profiting from water scarcity, especially when over 2 billion people lack access to clean water in the world. The United Nations advocates for water as a human right and insists it should be managed as a common good.

→ Current Trends:

Some regions and countries are already exploring or implementing water privatization “to address infrastructure challenges and improve efficiency”.

In Chile, the privatization of water was initiated in the 1980s under dictator Augusto Pinochet, which is said to be a major contributing factor to water scarcity. This privatization led to a market where water rights could be bought, sold, or rented without state intervention, taking water privatization to an extreme. Chile is often cited as a model for water privatization, with its fully privatized water system serving as a case study for other nations.

In the United States, a speculative market for water prices exists, with an index launched in 2018 to track the “stock” water prices in California.

The concept of water as a commodity is gaining traction in financial markets. For example, the CME Group launched water futures contracts based on the Nasdaq Veles California Water Index; which might be the most developed and prepared company to deal with water as stocks, reflecting the increasing recognition of water’s economic value.

The concept of water as a commodity is gaining traction in financial markets. For example, the CME Group launched water futures contracts based on the Nasdaq Veles California Water Index; which might be the most developed and prepared company to deal with water as stocks, reflecting the increasing recognition of water’s economic value.

CME Group might be the most structured in regard to “water stocks”, but there are several companies heavily involved in the water industry whose stock prices are influenced by their water-related activities. Some notable ones include:

↳ American Water Works (NYSE: AWK): This is the largest publicly traded U.S. water and wastewater utility company;

↳ Xylem Inc. (NYSE: XYL): A global water technology provider, Xylem offers solutions for water and wastewater applications;

↳ Essential Utilities (NYSE: WTRG): This company provides water, wastewater, and natural gas services;

↳ York Water Company (NASDAQ: YORW): One of the oldest investor-owned water utilities in the U.S., it purifies and distributes drinking water.

These companies are part of a broader industry that includes water utilities, technology providers, and infrastructure companies, all of which play a role in the water supply chain and are influenced by factors such as climate change, infrastructure investments, and regulatory changes.

✱ Global Water Scarcity:

The World Bank estimates that by 2025, up to two-thirds of the global population could face reduced access to fresh drinking water.

This scarcity drive discussions and actions around water management through privatization

Although only by tackling the root causes of the water crisis can the world hope to secure a stable and prosperous future for its people; it doesn’t seem to be number one in the list of priorities of the ones who hold power.

Governments and State Environmental Agencies have been issuing permits to corporations to extract millions of gallons of water a day from local aquifers to bottle and sell; corporations aren’t the only actors in this water privatization scheme.

The response to water privatization varies widely. Some governments and communities resist privatization due to concerns about access and affordability, while others see it as a potential solution to funding and infrastructure issues.

→ The “Brazil Paradox”

Brazil, a country renowned for its vast natural resources, faces a paradoxical dilemma: despite possessing the largest freshwater reserves in the world, it is grappling with a severe water crisis. Brazil’s water crisis is primarily driven by prolonged droughts, deforestation, and climate change. The country has experienced its worst drought in decades, particularly affecting the south-central region, which is crucial for both agriculture and energy production.

↳ Drinking water, irrigation, and hydroelectric power affected:

Reservoirs, which supply water for drinking, irrigation, and hydroelectric power, have reached alarmingly low levels, some below 20% capacity; This scarcity has led to water rationing in major cities and has severely impacted agricultural output, causing food prices to soar.

Agriculture is a cornerstone of Brazil’s economy, with the country being one of the world’s largest producers of coffee, soybeans, and beef. The water crisis has had a devastating effect on this sector. Reduced water availability has led to lower crop yields and increased production costs. For instance, coffee prices surged by 30% due to the drought, and soybean prices rose by 67% from June 2020 to May 2021. These increases not only affect local farmers but also have global repercussions, given Brazil’s significant role in the international food market.

Brazil relies heavily on hydroelectric power, which accounts for about 65% of its electricity generation. The water crisis directly impacts this energy source, as low reservoir levels reduce the capacity for hydroelectric plants to generate power. This has led to higher electricity prices and the need to import energy from neighboring countries. While this situation highlights the vulnerability of Brazil’s energy infrastructure, it underscores the broader issue: the water crisis is the root cause of the electricity shortages.

Access to clean water is a fundamental human right, yet over 35 million Brazilians lack reliable access to safe drinking water. The water crisis exacerbates this issue, leading to increased health risks, particularly in poorer communities. Water scarcity affects sanitation and hygiene, contributing to the spread of waterborne diseases. Moreover, the stress on water resources can lead to conflicts over water usage, further destabilizing communities.

→ Environmental Degradation In Brazil

Deforestation in the Amazon rainforest plays a significant role in Brazil’s water crisis. The rainforest acts as a natural water regulator, with its trees contributing to the formation of “flying rivers” — atmospheric moisture that influences rainfall patterns. Deforestation disrupts these patterns, reducing precipitation and exacerbating drought conditions. This environmental degradation not only affects Brazil but also has global implications for climate change and biodiversity.

According to John Kerry U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate:

“Addressing the climate crisis requires impactful global partnerships and Brazil will be a key partner in identifying and implementing solutions for this crisis.”

→ How close is Brazil to privatizing water?

Recently, significant steps have been taken, particularly in the state of São Paulo. In December 2023, São Paulo state lawmakers approved a bill to privatize the state-controlled water and sanitation utility, Sabesp. This decision marks a major step towards privatization in one of Brazil’s most populous states.

Nationally, the New Regulatory Framework for Environmental Sanitation, approved in 2020, encourages states and municipalities to privatize their water and sanitation services. However, the implementation of this framework has been uneven, with some regions moving faster than others.

The privatization efforts have faced opposition from various social movements and communities concerned about access to affordable and safe water. These groups argue that water should remain a public resource and not be subject to market forces.

✱ Advanced discussions about water privatization

→ Here are a few notable examples:

↳ England and Wales: These regions have long-standing privatized water services, with private companies providing water to the entire population;

↳ Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, and Gabon: These African countries have significant private sector participation in their water supply systems;

↳ Australia and Indonesia: Both countries have explored the Chilean model as part of their water policy reforms;

↳ Cameroon and Ghana: These countries have seen evolving private sector participation in water supply, often through public-private partnerships.

“WATER DISTRIBUTION HAS NO DISTINCTION BETWEEN THOSE WHO TRULY NEED FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AND THOSE WHO DON’T.” — WORLD BANK

According to the World Bank, “Funds are given to those providing the service and not to those using the service; no distinction is made between those who truly need financial assistance and those who don’t. As a result, subsidies fail to achieve their intended impact. The approach inadvertently leads to negative consequences. It favours high-income groups, exacerbating inequality, and fails to motivate service providers to improve efficiency or expand services to poorer areas.”

Access to water and sanitation services is fundamental to health, dignity, and prosperity. However, the cost of delivering these services can exceed what people can realistically afford. In such cases, governments must intervene to bridge the gap by providing subsidies. Subsidies are intended to ensure that water remains affordable for all, but there are significant issues with how they are currently allocated.

To deliver this fundamental service to everyone who needs it, subsidies must be realigned with their purpose. When well designed, subsidies can be powerful tools to help those in need and ensure utilities can continue to provide water and sanitation services. With the support of the World Bank and SECO (Switzerland’s State Secretariat for Economic Affairs), the Government of Albania is leading the way with its new subsidy structure to modernize the water and sanitation sector.

Under this structure, the government will pay utilities on behalf of people who truly need them, covering the cost of up to 5 cubic meters of water per month. Eligible individuals include parents in need with more than two children, orphans, households with inadequate income, and victims of trafficking or domestic violence. This structure aims to make water services affordable to all while also incentivizing utilities to improve their performance and expand access to those in need.

With this approach, the Government of Albania is an example of the transformative potential of a well-conceived subsidy structure. By ensuring that subsidies reach those who need them most, Albania is setting a precedent for other nations to follow in making water services both efficient and affordable for all.

✱ HOW DOES CLIMATE CHANGE CONTRIBUTE TO CLEAN WATER SCARCITY?

↳ Altered Rainfall Patterns: Climate change disrupts traditional rainfall patterns, leading to more intense and frequent droughts in some regions and excessive rainfall in others. This variability can reduce the reliability of water supplies;

↳ Melting Glaciers and Ice Caps: Glaciers and ice caps, which act as natural water reservoirs, are melting at an accelerated rate due to rising global temperatures. This not only contributes to sea level rise but also diminishes the freshwater resources that many communities rely on;

↳ Increased Evaporation: Higher temperatures increase the rate of evaporation from water bodies and soil, reducing the amount of water available for human use and agriculture;

↳ Contamination from Extreme Weather: Flooding and rising sea levels can contaminate freshwater sources with saltwater and pollutants, making them unsafe for consumption. This is particularly problematic in coastal areas where infrastructure may be damaged by extreme weather events;

↳ Reduced Snowpack: In many regions, snowpack acts as a critical source of freshwater during warmer months. Climate change is reducing snowpack levels, leading to lower water availability during dry periods;

↳ Increased Demand: As temperatures rise, the demand for water increases for drinking, agriculture, and cooling purposes. This heightened demand puts additional stress on already limited water resources;

↳ Impact on Water Infrastructure: Extreme weather events, such as hurricanes and heavy rains, can damage water infrastructure, leading to disruptions in water supply and increased costs for repairs and maintenance.

✱ Are there coasts that might be uninhabitable already in 2025?

Yes. Well, it will depend on what parameters we use to consider a coastal city “uninhabitable”. However, some regions are at higher risk due to their geographical and socio-economic conditions; which makes sea level rise, extreme weather events, and lack of local adaptation measures an immediate concern.

→ Here are some examples of areas that will soon be affected:

↳ Low-Lying Island Nations: Countries like the Maldives, Kiribati, and Tuvalu are particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels. These nations are already experiencing significant impacts and may face severe challenges in maintaining habitable land;

↳ Coastal Areas in Southeast Asia: Regions such as the Mekong Delta in Vietnam and parts of Bangladesh are at high risk due to both sea level rise and increased frequency of extreme weather events like cyclones and heavy rainfall;

↳ Parts of the United States: Coastal areas in Florida, Louisiana, and parts of the East Coast are experiencing increased flooding and storm surges. Cities like Miami and New Orleans are investing heavily in adaptation measures, but some areas may still become uninhabitable;

↳ African Coastal Cities: Cities like Lagos in Nigeria and Alexandria in Egypt are facing significant threats from rising sea levels and coastal erosion. These areas are densely populated and have limited resources for large-scale adaptation;

↳ South Pacific Islands: Many islands in the South Pacific are experiencing rising sea levels and saltwater intrusion, which threaten freshwater supplies and agricultural land.

There is a wide range of topics yet to be covered; they will be approached in the following updates.

What is technology?

First off, let’s start with the basics: technology = the continuous quest for knowledge and the application of that knowledge to create tools and systems that enhance human capabilities and experiences.

Here’s a short Timeline of ‘Key Technologies’ developed by humans over the past 10,000 years:

~10,000 BCE: Agriculture
The development of farming allowed humans to settle in one place, leading to the rise of civilizations;

~3,500 BCE: The Wheel
The invention of the wheel revolutionized transportation and machinery;

~3,000 BCE: Writing Systems
The creation of writing systems like cuneiform and hieroglyphics enabled record-keeping and the transmission of knowledge;

~1,200 BCE: Iron Smelting
The Iron Age began with the ability to smelt iron, leading to stronger tools and weapons;

~600 BCE: Coinage
The introduction of coinage facilitated trade and economic systems;

~1st Century CE: Concrete
The Romans developed concrete, which allowed for the construction of enduring structures like the Pantheon;

~9th Century CE: Gunpowder
Invented in China, gunpowder changed warfare and led to the development of firearms;

15th Century: Printing Press
Johannes Gutenberg’s printing press made books more accessible, spreading knowledge and literacy;

18th Century: Steam Engine
The steam engine powered the Industrial Revolution, transforming manufacturing and transportation;

19th Century: Electricity
The harnessing of electricity led to innovations like the light bulb and telegraph;

20th Century: Computers and the Internet
The development of computers and the internet revolutionized communication, information sharing, and many aspects of daily life;

21st Century: Artificial Intelligence and Renewable Energy
Advances in AI and renewable energy technologies are shaping the future, addressing challenges like climate change and automation.

Let’s talk about the Bug in the room… I mean, the Elephant in the room…

Not every recent technology is A.I., but A.I. uses all recent technologies

The basic principle of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is to create systems that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. This involves several key concepts: Learning from human data or reinforcement learning (learning through trial and error); Logical reasoning and problem-solving capabilities; Perception of sensory data, such as image, sound; Natural Language Processing (NLP) to communicate effectively with humans*; etc.

Therefore, adapting to new information and improvement of their performance over time without being explicitly programmed for every task.

AI is indeed a versatile technology that leverages advancements in various fields to enhance its capabilities. For instance, AI utilizes cloud computing for scalable data storage and processing, big data for training models, and internet of things (IoT) devices for gathering real-time data. However, not every recent technological advancement is inherently AI. Recent technologies that are used daily by billions of people are significant on their own and can exist independently of AI, such as: 5G networks; Augmented Reality (AR); Virtual Reality (VR): VUIs (Voice User Interface); “Smart” Devices in general; E-commerce; Streaming Services; Mobile Payment Systems; Wearable Technology; Blockchain; Quantum Computing; etc.

In essence, while AI can benefit from most recent technologies, most recent technology is not synonymous with AI.

* Complementary Reading: Voice Assistants, Such As Siri, Google Assistant, And Alexa Are Obsolete Pieces Of Garbage! | By Jaime Corrêa | Medium

Is Artificial Intelligence… Intelligent?

Intelligence is a complex and multifaceted concept that encompasses a range of abilities and behaviors. It is not a single trait but rather a combination of various skills that enable an individual to solve problems, gather and use information, learn, be creative, and form strategies. In this editorial, let’s explore the different dimensions of intelligence, highlighting its significance in both humans and other species.

The Essence of Intelligence:

At its core, intelligence is a mechanism for solving problems. It involves gathering knowledge, learning from experiences, thinking critically, and being creative. These abilities help living beings navigate their environments, find food and shelter, avoid predators, and ultimately survive. Intelligence is highly valued in humans, as it allows us to tackle complex challenges and shape our world in profound ways.

Basic Tools of Intelligence:

The foundation of intelligence lies in basic tools such as gathering information through the senses, memory, and learning. Sensory information provides the raw data needed to understand the environment. Memory allows individuals to save and recall this information, enabling them to learn from past experiences and adapt their behavior accordingly. Learning is the process of acquiring new knowledge and skills, which can be repeated and refined over time.

Examples of Intelligent Behavior:

Intelligent behavior can be observed in various species, demonstrating the diverse ways in which intelligence manifests. For instance, slime molds have been shown to navigate mazes, finding the shortest path to a food source. Bees can learn to move a ball to receive a reward, showcasing their ability to learn and adapt. Raccoons are known for their problem-solving skills, such as unlocking complex mechanisms to access food.

Advanced Tools of Intelligence:

Beyond basic tools, more complex animals possess advanced tools of intelligence. Creativity involves making new connections and generating novel ideas. The use of physical tools, such as sticks or coconut shells, demonstrates an ability to manipulate the environment to achieve specific goals. Planning and strategizing for future needs are also hallmarks of advanced intelligence, allowing individuals to anticipate and prepare for upcoming challenges.

Intelligence Across Species:

Intelligence varies among species based on their needs and environments. Squirrels, for example, exhibit intelligent behavior through their food hoarding strategies, which involve remembering the locations of hidden food caches. Sheep display social recognition skills, identifying and remembering individual members of their flock. Humans, with their diverse intelligence toolkit, have developed complex cultures that enhance their problem-solving abilities and enable them to address a wide range of challenges.

Intelligence is essential for survival and adaptation, allowing individuals to navigate their environments, solve problems, and achieve their goals; so, we cannot close this multifaceted topic without mentioning some specific human concepts that encompasses a variety of skills/tools and behaviors of being:

Educated: Having received formal instruction or schooling. An educated person has acquired knowledge through academic means;

Knowledgeable: The facts, information, and skills acquired through experience or education. Knowledge is the foundation for many of the other traits;

Informed: Having a lot of information about a particular subject. An informed person stays updated with the latest knowledge and news;

Book Smart: Someone who excels in academic settings and has a lot of theoretical knowledge. They are good at learning from books and formal education;

Street Smart: Someone who has practical knowledge and skills gained through real-life experiences. They are adept at handling everyday situations and navigating social environments;

Smart: A general term that can refer to both book smarts and street smarts. It implies quick thinking and the ability to solve problems effectively;

Clever: The ability to think quickly and creatively. Clever people often come up with innovative solutions to problems;

Resourceful: The ability to find quick and clever ways to overcome difficulties. Resourceful people make the most of what they have;

Wise: Wisdom involves good judgment and the ability to make sound decisions based on experience and knowledge. It’s often associated with age and life experience;

Brilliant: Exceptional intelligence or talent. Brilliant people often excel in their fields and come up with groundbreaking ideas;

Genius: Extremely high intelligence or creative power. Geniuses often make significant contributions to their fields and are recognized for their extraordinary abilities.

Each of these traits contributes to a person’s overall ability to navigate the world and solve problems.

Will AI take all humans’ jobs as we know them nowadays?

Yes, it will. Not the way people speculate and it has happened before — with other technological advances and machinery.

In the early 1900s, many jobs that were once essential began to disappear due to technological advancements and industrialization. For example, the agricultural sector, which employed about 80% of the workforce in the 1880s, saw a dramatic reduction to just 2% by the modern era. This shift was driven by the introduction of machinery like tractors, which replaced the need for human and animal labor on farms.

As these traditional jobs vanished, new industries and roles emerged that were previously unimaginable. For instance, if someone in 1900 had predicted that future jobs would include IT engineers or quantum physicists, it would have been met with confusion and disbelief. The same applies to the rise of the automotive industry; no one could have foreseen the myriad of jobs that would develop around cars, from manufacturing to maintenance.

This pattern of job displacement and creation continued throughout the 20th century and into the 21st. The advent of the internet and digital platforms has given rise to entirely new professions, such as YouTube content creators, a job that didn’t exist 15 years ago. Despite fears of job loss due to automation and technological change, the overall employment rate has actually increased, and the average income has risen significantly in constant dollars.

So, how will this “symbiose” be?

Human-AI Collaboration:

AI is not an alien force but a creation of human ingenuity designed to overcome our limitations and enhance our capabilities. As AI advances, it will not operate independently of humans, but will be integrated into our lives, augmenting our abilities and helping us perform our jobs more efficiently. This integration means that humans and AI will work together, leveraging each other’s strengths.

Overcoming Limitations:

Historically, technology has always been developed to solve human problems and improve our quality of life. For instance, machines replaced manual labor on farms, leading to increased productivity and freeing people to pursue other types of work. Similarly, AI is being developed to address current challenges and limitations, such as enhancing cognitive functions and solving complex problems that are beyond human capabilities alone.

Fear of AI and Employment:

There is a common fear that AI will undermine human employment by taking over all jobs. However, this fear is not new. It dates back to the early 1800s with the Luddite movement, where people feared that machines would eliminate jobs. Contrary to these fears, technological advancements have historically led to the creation of new industries and job opportunities. Employment rates have generally increased, not decreased, as technology has advanced.

Future Opportunities:

As AI continues to evolve, it will likely free humans from routine and mundane tasks, allowing us to focus on more creative, strategic, and innovative endeavors. This shift will enable us to invent new projects, ideas, and challenges that we cannot even imagine today. The enhancement of human intelligence through AI will open up possibilities for new types of work and industries, much like how the internet gave rise to jobs that did not exist a few decades ago.

Conclusion:

The key takeaway is that while it was impossible to predict the specific new jobs that would emerge, history shows that technological progress tends to create new opportunities even as it renders old ones obsolete. This ongoing evolution of the job market highlights the resilience and adaptability of the workforce in the face of change.

In summary, the role of humans in an AI-driven future will be one of collaboration and enhancement. AI will not replace humans but will work alongside us, helping us to overcome our limitations and unlock new opportunities. This partnership will lead to the creation of new jobs and industries, ensuring that humans remain an integral part of the workforce.

SOURCES

· Book: The Singularity Is Nearer: When We Merge with AI by Ray Kurzweil (computer scientist, author, entrepreneur, futurist, and inventor);

· Book: Mission AI: The New System Technology by Haroon Sheikh, Corien Prins , Erik Schrijvers;

· Book: Animal Minds (Elements in Philosophy of Mind) by Marta Halina (Lecturer in the Philosophy of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Cambridge);

· Book: Minimal Selfhood and the Origins of Consciousness by Rupert Glasgow (Independent philosopher, Author of Minimal Selfhood and the Origins of Consciousness);

· Book: Human Difference: Reflections on a Life in Proximity to Disability by Dr. Andrew Barron (Neuroethologist, Australian Research Council Future Fellow, Deputy Head of the Department of Biological Sciences at Macquarie University);

ACADEMIC PUBLICATIONS by Dr. Henry Shevlin (Research Associate, University of Cambridge):

· Srivastava et al. (including Shevlin) (forthcoming). “Beyond the Imitation Game: Quantifying and extrapolating the capabilities of language models.” Transactions on Machine Learning Research.

· Vervoort, Shevlin, Melnikov, & Alodjants (2022). “Deep Learning Applied to Scientific Discovery: A Hot Interface with Philosophy of Science.” Journal for General Philosophy of Science.

WEBSITES:

· Luddite | Industrial Revolution, Machine-Breaking, Protest Movement | Britannica

· Technology | Definition, Examples, Types, & Facts | Britannica

· History of Technology Timeline | Britannica

· technology | Search Online Etymology Dictionary (etymonline.com)

· Philosophy of Technology | Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy (utm.edu)

· Philology Definition & Meaning — Merriam-Webster

· Chart: Visualizing 150 Years of U.S. Employment History (visualcapitalist.com)

· How Businesses Are Using Artificial Intelligence In 2024 — Forbes Advisor

· Recent Advancements In Artificial Intelligence (forbes.com)

· The present and future of AI (harvard.edu)

· AI Is Not a New Technology: Here’s How Old It Is (howtogeek.com)

· AI as a System Technology | SpringerLink

FIRST OF ALL, THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE HAS GENDER-NEUTRAL PRONOUNS

For more than 600 years, “they”, “them”, “their”, “theirs” and “themselves” have been used when you don’t know the gender or you don’t want to specify whether you’re talking about “he” or “she” — yes, in singular.

E.g.

↦ “A person came to my door, but I didn’t know who they were.” (Unknown Person)

↦ “Your friend went to the store, and they bought some booze.” (I don’t actually know your friend that well)

↦ “The doctor messaged, and they said that my test results were fine.” (I don’t know the gender of the doctor)

↦ “Don’t forget to tell the applicant that they have to bring their portfolio for the interview tomorrow.” (The position is open for any genders and one person was selected for the final phase)

BUT, DOESN’T “THEY/THEM” (SINGULAR) GO AGAINST PROPER GRAMMAR?!

No. The singular “They” had been first used in literature back in 1375 in “The Romance of William and the Werewolf” by French romantic poet Guillaume de Palerme. 18th-century grammarians had suddenly started finding faults with “grammatically incorrect” use of the third person plural pronoun “they”. Being a plural pronoun, “they” should always be paired with plural antecedents. Although, that didn’t prevent “they” from being used in singular as ‘De Facto’ language, because at that period ‘you’ had already substituted ‘thou’, being used in singular and plural.

E.g.

↦ “Thou shalt respect thy neighbors.” (Singular)

↦ “Ye shall respect your neighbors.” (Plural)

Post Middle-English (and Contemporary English)

↦ “You should/must/will/shall respect your neighbors.” (Singular or Plural)

SECOND OF ALL, LET’S COVER SOME VERY BASIC DIFFERENCES:

SEX: “The basis of human’s reproductive organs and structures.” Usually, a baby with female reproductive structure has 2 X chromosomes (XX) and a baby with male reproductive structure has 1 X and 1 Y chromosomes (XY); however, that might not always be the case. Babies with male reproductive structures might be born with a trio of chromosomes, XXY (one extra X). They will often not realize having this extra chromosome — the reproductive system is still the male one — , but occasionally it can cause problems that may require treatment. This is called Klinefelter Syndrome.

GENDER: “The behavioral, cultural, or psychological traits typically associated with one’s sex.” The characteristics of a gender change depending on different eras and cultures; “High-heeled shoes were first worn in the 10th century as a way to help the [male-gendered] Persian cavalry keep their shoes in their stirrups” — however King Louis XIV was perhaps the most famous wearer of heels in history. In the 21st century high-heeled shoes became, in most parts of the globe, a symbol of female-gendered elegance and sensuality. But observe the social-construct of these associations, since noble cis-males were used to wearing high-heeled shoes for elegance.

SEXUALITY: “The sexual habits and desires of a person; expression of sexual receptivity or interest; sexual activity with another”.

“WHAT IS A WOMAN?! RHETORIC”

I came up with this term to classify phrases often used by far-right members of the US Republican Party in Congress and the Senate in discussions about rights and equity for women and transgender people — although some politicians around the world are “importing” the rhetoric, it is still exclusively used inside the United States of America.

They don’t think the answer is simple and in just a few words [if they do, they urgently need to look for biology and sociology elementary-school books]. This is used to undertake important decisions that mainly affect transgender and cis women.

This is part of Bad Faith Debaters’ techniques to gain an advantage. Some examples are the “dodgers", “twisters", “liars" and “wranglers"; they dodge, distort, lie or refute (without counter-evidence) any argument.

BUT THEN IT COMES MY AREA, LINGUISTICS — AND, IN THIS CASE, VERY MUCH SOCIOLINGUISTICS

I have to break the news for those who only speak English: there’s a subclass, within a grammatical class called “gender”, applied to nouns, pronouns, adjectives, or verbs of most languages that is partly arbitrary — meaning objects or actions have morphological genders —, also, partly based on living beings gender/sex characteristics. Reminder: the gender in morphology for non-human nouns is not linked to biology, and for humans it is linked to the social-construct of a person’s gender at a given moment in history.

SO, OBJECTS AND PEOPLE IN MOST LANGUAGES SHARE THE SAME PRONOUS?

Yes. E.g., “School” in Portuguese “Escola”, in Spanish “Escuela”, in French “École” and in Russian “Школа” /shkola/ are all grammatically classified as “gender feminine”. And, for example, “Telephone” is grammatically classified as “gender masculine;” in Portuguese (“Telefone”), in Spanish (“Teléfono”), in French (“Téléphone”) and in Russian (“Tелефон” /telefon/).

Since human grammatical structures are part of a hierarchy, each word has an echelon. In the languages I mentioned above the verb depends on the pronoun (noun) — something close to the -s/-es-/ies suffixes in English for verbs connected to he/she/it, but with a lot more variations — , we call it “verbal conjugation”; adjectives depend on the pronouns (nouns); adverbs depend on the verbs, and so on.

HOW DO GENDER FOR THINGS AND ACTIONS WORK?

For example: “I will binge-watch Muriel’s favorite TV series this rainy weekend.”

First of all, to translate that into Portuguese I need to know: is “Muriel” of male or female gender? Because it affects the adjective; is “TV series” singular or plural? Because in English it can be both, but that also affects the adjective in Portuguese; and “binge-watch” is an idiom (idiomatic expression, not literally translatable into other languages), then its necessary to localize the translation — is it Portuguese of Brazil, Portugal, Macau (a semi-autonomous region of China), Angola, Cape Verde, East Timor, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, São Tomé and Príncipe or Mozambique?

To exemplify — among the dozens of possible combinations — , I will use 4 examples into Brazilian Portuguese, because it has the biggest number of native speakers in the world nowadays:

↦ “Muriel” is a “woman” and “series” is “singular”: Eu vou maratonar a série favorita da Muriel nesse final de semana.

↦ “Muriel” is a “woman” and “series” is “plural”: Eu vou maratonar as séries favoritas da Muriel nesse final de semana.

↦ “Muriel” is a “man” and “series” is “singular”: Eu vou maratonar a série favorita do Muriel nesse final de semana.

↦ “Muriel” is a “man” and “series” is “plural”: Eu vou maratonar as séries favoritas do Muriel nesse final de semana.

Ps. The idiom “binge-watch” in Brazilian Portuguese is “maratonar” — something to the effect of “run a marathon”.

Fun facts: in Brazilian Portuguese “Eu” (equivalent to “I”) can be omitted; “vou maratonar” can be “irei maratonar” or even “maratonarei”; informally, “fim de semana” is perfectly grammatically acceptable instead of “final de semana”; and very informal structures, in which proper grammar is not followed, you might use “plural forms” and “gender” only on “definite articles” (equivalent of “The”) and the sentences would be totally understandable for a Brazilian Portuguese speaker.

MORE “GENDERLESS” LANGUAGE

Language is in constant social construction, including connotations, adaptations, mutations, evolution, and new terms and concepts that emerge over time. However, the acceptance and adoption of new words and forms of language varies and depends on the linguistic community and, massively, on society as a whole.

I tried for months in 2023 and 2024 to put together an academic article trying to find viable ways of making gender-neutral words not only naturally used by people in daily conversations, but also appealing to “language academy” members that usually define proper grammar of a language in a country — consequently being used in schools, for example.

I was writing aiming at American English and Brazilian Portuguese; but when it came to gathering information from people of the LGBTQQIAAP community, there was basically no interest in answering “what would you like gender-neutral communication to be like?” — let’s take into consideration that the LGBAP are in the community due to sexuality, not gender — as a cisgender “G”, I’ve never faced first-hand any of the whole transgender life experiences empirically.

Then I narrowed down my interviews, online questionnaires, and online opinions on the part of the community that deals somehow with their own gender and self-perception that is usually seen as an “issue” in society. For most of them, my inquiries about language structure had been the first time they thoroughly thought about the communicative efficacy of gender-neutral language.

Then, in a narrower and more insisting approach, what I heard the most for the question “What would you like gender-neutral communication to be like?” was the following:

“We want less gender-affirmative language”; which led to “What would you like genderless communication to be like?”. However, the examples were, in general, of “gender-inclusive” terms; which, in my opinion, are not only a very viable option — especially for Latin-derived languages — but are already naturally paving their way in daily conversations in society. We can see an increase of words, to describe people, that don’t have a specific gender across many languages, e.g. “humankind”/“humanity”/“human race” instead of “Mankind”.

P.s. I also heard that feminism and transgender causes are interwoven, but I could not find any reliable sources about it. I considered the statement as “gender-inclusive terms”, since generalizations — especially in Latin-originated languages — use terms referring to men in these cases.

Continuing the research I’ve heard “I’d like to be called by my correct pronouns.”; which I view as less “genderless language”, but still doable.

However, I need to admit that the complicating factor was when I heard pronouns other than “he, she, they” in both American English and Brazilian Portuguese — which I consider to be the two languages of deepest knowledge in my career.

Then I had to fully put my initial academic article idea on the back-burner — having to research where such pronouns and suffixes came from due to my lack of knowledge of such pronouns and suffixes, and what people mean by them;

POSSIBLE ORIGIN OF ‘E’ AS NEUTRAL — E.G. “TODES” (BRAZILIAN PORTUGUESE):

Most words ending in ‘e’ in Portuguese are used for any genders (morphology): e.g. “Estudante” (‘student’) or “Presidente” (‘president’).

Generally, nouns and adjectives ending in ‘a’ are feminine (morphology) and nouns and adjectives ending in ‘o’ are masculine (morphology).

Arbitrary cases: e.g. “Jornal” — masculine noun (morphology) that means “newspaper”; “Comunicação” — feminine noun (morphology) that means “communication”; “Sofá” — ends in “a”, but is a masculine noun (morphology) that means “sofa/couch”.

Brazil has already had a woman as a president, and avid fans of hers and she insisted on the word “presidentA”, which goes against the argument of a more neutral language — since “presidentE" is gender neutral (morphology).

So, to make it clear, changing the last letter, in Portuguese, doesn’t necessarily make it neutral. Actually, adding “e” to a word in French makes it, usually, feminine (morphology).

POSSIBLE ORIGIN OF ‘ELU’ AS A NEUTRAL PERSONAL PRONOUN IN BRAZILIAN PORTUGUESE

In Vulgar Latin, the use of the neutral demonstratives “illud” and “ipsum” became frequent, which began to function like articles, to substantiate a word that was referring to (no matter the morphological gender). In this way, we can highlight that “illud” fulfilled a generic meaning in contemporary Portuguese, making “elu” a genderless pronoun, but inserted artificially.

Examples of “illud" in Latin:

↦ Illud etiam satis mihi grato fuit — Isso também foi bastante aceitável para mim

↦ Illud sane satis admirabile est — Isso, claro, é bastante admirável

↦ Illud Ipsum aemulari — Isso é para ser emulado

↦ Ostendit nobis Illud Illa retulit nobis persona ipse — Ele nos mostrou o que Ela nos relatou pessoalmente

WHERE DO THESE “NEW” PRONOUNS IN AMERICAN ENGLISH COME FROM?

When it comes to the American English language, some students of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee introduced me to;

“ey,” “em,” “eir,” “eirs,” and “eirself”; “sie,” “sir” “hir,” “hirs” and “hirself”; “ve,” “ver” “vis,” “vers” and ”verself”; “zie,” “zim,” “zir,” “zirs” and “zirself”; among others.

Well, after some digging:

↦ “ey,” “em,” “eir,” “eirs,” and “eirself” are called “Spivak Pronouns”. The first recorded use of these pronouns was in a January of 1890 editorial by James Rogers to replace the, until then, proposed gender-neutral pronoun “thon”; which had not spread.

↦ “Thon” was coined in 1858 by Christian American composer Charles Crozat Converse as a solution to the lack of a gender-neutral third-person singular pronoun in English.

‘Thon’, short for “that one,” appeared in our Unabridged dictionary from 1934–1961. Though the word was dropped for lack of use.

Around the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, “thon” was included in the Funk and Wagnalls dictionary; which gained some popularity, but eventually fell out of use.

↦ In 1975, Christine M. Elverson of Skokie — winner of the Chicago Association of Business Communicators contest — said she created the “transgender pronouns” “ey,” “em” and “eir” by dropping the “th” from they, them, and their.

I could go on and on about the philology and etymology of these pronouns, however, despite numerous attempts to create gender-neutral pronouns, the only one that stands out as the one that almost made it into common vernacular has been “thon”.

Pronouns “they,” “their,” “theirs”, “them” and “themselves” remain more widely accepted, and used in proper grammar and common vernacular — besides being the easiest way to “teach” people who are not familiar with “fluidity of genders”.

CONCLUSION: “NICHE LANGUAGE”

Although languages ​​are under constant social construction — including connotations, adaptations, mutations, evolutions, and new terms and concepts emerging over time — the acceptance and adoption of new words and forms of language vary and does not only depend on the linguistic community, but mainly, on society as a whole. Terms artificially inserted into languages ​​and dialects are hardly incorporated into the broader scope of “de facto” communication.

It is worth emphasizing that the difference between ‘dialect’ and ‘language’ is a political-diplomatic decision; Languages ​​are often adopted as “official” (De Jure) by countries and states, but dialects are the ones that are not. Quoting Max Weinreich: “A language is a dialect with an army and navy.” Therefore, I cannot say that the pronouns mentioned constitute a dialect; it has potential to be a niche language. We all know certain groups of people that, among themselve, have their own expressions, connotations, intonations and pronunciations — from people of a certain profession to people with similar walks of life. We, linguists, call it “vernacular”; which refers to the ordinary, informal, spoken form of language, and contrasts with standard language, which is more codified, institutional, literary, or formal.

But, for me, I will call the LGBTQIA+ speech: “niche language.” After researching and pondered for this editorial, I recognized its significance and complexity in present times — besides it already has a set of language sociolects spoken by most gender-nonconforming people in the world. Not to mention the fact that it is encompassing a language continuum ranging from “vernacular language” to a more standard language. Therefore, I see the prospect of the “LGBTQIA+ Niche Language” reaching communicative efficacy inside the community in a near future.

SOURCES AND COMPLEMENTARY READING:

↳ Third Person Reference in Late Latin: Demonstratives, Definite Articles and Personal Pronouns in the Itinerarium Egeriae By Mari Johanne Bordal Hertzenberg

↳ Иностранные языки и современный мир — Foreign Languages and Contemporary World; Belarus, Brest, Brest State Pushkin University, 2022; Editorial team: L. M. Maksimuk, N. V. Ivanyuk, L. M. Kalylets,O. N. Kovalenko, L. E. Levonyuk, S. V. Milach, I. V. Povkh, I. A. Poleva (Л. М. Максимук, Н. В. Иванюк, Л. М. Калилец, О. Н. Коваленко, Л. Е. Левонюк, С. В. Милач, И. В. Повх, И. А).
Научно-практическая конференция «Иностранные языки и современный мир» cреди учащихся филиала БНТУ «Минский государственный политехнический колледж» — ФИЛИАЛ БНТУ “МИНСКИЙ ГОСУДАРСТВЕННЫЙ ПОЛИТЕХНИЧЕСКИЙ КОЛЛЕДЖ” (bntu.by)

↳ Understanding Neopronouns — Human Rights Campaign (hrc.org)

It is really unfortunate for accessibility — my mother has a rare degenerative disease called ‘Stargardt’, which happens in the macula (the small part of the retina needed for sharp, central vision). It’s agonizing to see her having these miserable interactions with Voice User Interfaces (VUIs). I, personally, have given up on it long ago.

Well, in case Apple, Google and Amazon want to keep these Voice User Interfaces (VUIs) in their devices, they need to update at least 3 things in them:

✱ There were no advances in recognizing ‘coarticulations’ — each vowel or consonant actually comes out very differently depending on what comes before and what comes after; e.g., we pronounce the words “Kate” and “Caught” using the phoneme /k/, but we use different parts of the mouth to produce it.

✱ There’s still a complete absence of ‘segmentation and word boundary’ — looking at the waveform of a sentence on an oscilloscope, there are not little “silences” between the words, it’s a continuous ribbon; in simple terms, when we have zero knowledge of a language, we cannot define when a word and/or sentence end and another begins. For example, the sentence “It’s an important thing to do: to use seven new stitches in the wound”. It would basically sound like this: “itzanimportanthintousevenewstitchezinthezwound”. Also, VUIs often recognize sentences as similar pronunciations (Minimal Pairs), such as, “It’s unimportant thing to use even news teaches in this eazy wound.”

✱ And, for me, the most annoying is the complete lack of ‘linguistics pragmatics’ — understanding language in context using knowledge of the worlds before, after and the “the cooperative principle.”

Humans communicate expecting that the other party is doing everything they can to understand them, even if subjective and subliminal ideas are present, and expect to be asked to clarify in case the message is not clear, not having to repeat all over again.

As a human, you can observe the ambiguity of the comic strip above: The first answer might mean, “I want the grass cut, but not too tall not too short” or “I’m not very willing to have my grass cut”. Then we end up knowing that the latter answer is what was meant to be said. Meanwhile, the meaning for the one questioning was, since the beginning, “how much are you willing to pay to have your grass cut?”

Finally, without pragmatics, it becomes simply impossible to differ ‘homophones’— words with the same pronunciation, e.g., flour and flower;

A.I. might be the solution for it. According to META CEO:

Building the best AI assistants (…) needs advances in every area of AI — from reasoning to planning to coding to memory and other cognitive abilities.” — Mark Zuckerberg (META) about the purchase of around 350,000 NVIDIA H100s or around 600,000 H100 equivalents of compute if you include other GPUs (at a cost of around US$ 10 billion).

PREDICTIONS MATCHING OUR LIVES (MARCH 2024)

Why take into consideration COVID-19, BREXIT, increased dependence on technologies, etc.? Because they are ‘Zeitgeists’; in 18th- and 19th-century German philosophy, a ‘zeitgeist’ is an invisible agent and force dominating the characteristics of a given epoch in world history; “zeit” means “time” and “geist” means spirit, and the “spirit of the time” is supposed to be what is happening culturally, religiously, or intellectually during this given epoch in world history.

In 2021, COVID-19 peak, we used to talk about “The New Normal”, which was a pretty vague concept. So much so that the PEW RESEARCH CENTER, in February 2021, asked some experts — JANNA ANDERSON, LEE RAINIE AND EMILY A. VOGELS — what the “New Normal” would look like by 2025. By what they answered, their main concerns can be summarized as follows:

• The widening gap between the advantaged and the disadvantaged in society;
• The increasing influence and dominance of Big Tech companies over people’s lives and choices;
• The proliferation of online falsehoods and their negative impacts on democracy, trust and well-being;
• The rise of surveillance, authoritarianism and human rights violations due to health, work and security measures;
• The challenges of remote work, automation and mental health in a socially isolated world;
• The lack of effective action and leadership to address these problems and create a better future.

“Compared to, say, November 2020, the ‘new normal’ in 2025 is net worse for the average person, based on economic, health and well-being factors.” — Jay Owens, social anthropologist and writer

In 2020, Jay Owens made several predictions about the state of the world by 2025. She anticipated a high risk of extended unemployment for those in COVID-19 impacted sectors, leading to increased debt and hindered financial growth. Women with children are expected to face pressures to reduce their work commitments due to childcare challenges, resulting in significant long-term economic and emotional consequences. Health-wise, there is concern over lasting disabilities from COVID-19, including lung damage and chronic fatigue. Economically, Brexit was predicted to strain UK industries that might have otherwise weathered the pandemic. Socially, a decline in friendships and increased focus on the old-fashioned idea of family are expected, potentially leading to a society that is more uninterested in cultures and new ideas outside one’s own experiences.

WHY ARE BIG TECH COMPANIES LAYING-OFF MILLIONS OF EMPLOYEES IF THE INDUSTRY IS MORE ADVANCED THAN EVER?

“The confluence of degrading economic conditions, civil unrest, uncertain long-term pandemic outcomes strike me as more likely to lead to technology-related harms and abuses than not, particularly as products rush to market with even less rigor applied to threat modeling, risk assessment, etc.” — Soraya Chemaly, an American writer and activist whose work focuses on the role of gender in politics, religion, education, tech, and media.

While translating some world-economics material I noticed this paradox. The tech industry is indeed more advanced than ever, but these advancements can sometimes lead to significant changes in workforce needs. The recent layoffs in big tech companies have been attributed to the following factors:

• Investment in AI: Companies are reallocating resources to invest in artificial intelligence, which requires significant capital for chips and servers;

“It’s become clearer that the next generation of services requires building full general intelligence. Building the best AI assistants, AIs for creators, AIs for businesses, and more. That needs advances in every area of AI—from reasoning to planning to coding to memory and other cognitive abilities.” — Mark Zuckerberg (META) about the purchase of around 350,000 NVIDIA H100s or around 600,000 H100 equivalents of compute if you include other GPUs (at a cost of around US$ 10 billion).

• Market Performance: Layoffs have not negatively impacted stock prices; in some cases, companies have seen their stock prices rise after announcing layoffs;

• Economic Shifts: The surge in demand for tech products during the pandemic led to aggressive hiring, which is now being scaled back due to a more pessimistic economic outlook and fears of a recession;

• Social Contagion: There’s a trend of “social contagion” where companies mimic the actions of others, leading to a wave of layoffs across the industry.

FURTHER RESOURCES 1 2 3 4

WHAT ABOUT THE USA, THE WORLDWIDE “SUPERPOWER”?

“Only we can save ourselves. The ‘new normal’ is a society that’s more divided than it has ever been in history.” — An anonymous response of a journalist and industry analyst expert in AI ethics.

The US spending ceiling surpassed 33 trillion dollars, equivalent to 20 times the GDP (Gross Domestic Product) of Brazil (1.6 trillion dollars in 2021). For example, in August 2019, the Obama’s administration reached the maximum debt limit, then US$22 billion, causing a 24-month shutdown. During this period, the Treasury borrowed an additional 6.4 billion dollars. However, we are now in uncharted territory. But why?

Firstly, there has never been a value like this as a spending ceiling to be dealt with. Secondly, the United States has been experiencing a social — even humanitarian — and political crisis.

According to the State Department, the most critical problems they are currently dealing with are:

• Anti-Corruption and Transparency;
• Arms Control and Non-Proliferation;
• Climate and Environment;
• Climate crisis;
• Combating Drugs and Crime;
• Combating Terrorism;
• Cyber issues;
• Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy;
• Energy;
• Health;
• Women’s Rights;
• Human Rights and Democracy;
• Human traffic;
• Ocean and polar issues [which could affect the US West Coast by 2030];
• Refugees and Humanitarian Assistance;
• Science, technology and innovation;
• International treaties and agreements.

According to the population, a Gallup survey showed that the six biggest concerns of citizens are:

• Inflation;
• Government/Leadership [presidency];
• Questions Related to Abortion;
• Judicial System/Courts;
• Unify the Country;
• Immigration.

[As Of June 2022]

And from a humanitarian perspective, according to the ‘Human Rights Career Foundation’, the 10 main problems of USA are:

• Student debt;
• Pay inequality;
• Medical assistance;
• Housing;
• Right to vote;
• Reproductive rights;
• Banning books in schools;
• LGBTQ+ rights;
• Climate justice;
• Racism.

BRICS RESPONSE TO THE USA CRISES

Brazil and China, since the beginning of 2023, have been the main coordinators of the BRICS for less dependence on the US dollar, the currency of the United States; which would perhaps protect these countries in the event of a shutdown in the US. BRICS stands for Brazil, Russia, India, China & South Africa projecting itself as a geopolitical alternative to a US-led world order. The acronym “BRICS” was formulated by economist Jim O’Neill, of Goldman Sachs.

The 10 products most exported by Brazil in 2023 to the USA — which would be stopped immediately in the event of a shutdown — , according to ComexStat would be:

• Soy;
• Iron ore and its concentrates;
• Crude petroleum or bituminous mineral oils;
• Sugars and molasses;
• Fresh, chilled or frozen beef;
• Soybean meal and other animal feed (excluding unground cereals), meat and other animal meals;
• Cellulose;
• Unground corn, except sweet corn;
• Other products — transformation industry;
• Poultry meat and its edible offal, fresh, chilled or frozen.

There is a wide range of topics yet to be covered; they will be approached in the following updates:

↳ 2025 to be the WORST year in recent history! (Part 2): Privatization of water | by Jaime Corrêa | Oct, 2024 | Medium

I’m very forthcoming about my Generalized Anxiety Disorder and all the issues that come with it. So, “how do you socialize with a person that just had an episode from a Mental Breakdown followed by suicide attempt?!”

Well, I usually like to answer this question with another question: “How do you socialize with a person that has just broken an arm?!”

YOU WILL BE curious about the elephant in the room and you WILL probably show sympathy. And that’s it. If the person is back socializing, it’s because they have been treated and are going back to their daily activities — also, taking their meds, some things will be harder to do than others, etc.

You may offer some type of support if you feel intimate enough to them, you don’t need to pretend that nothing happened, although, getting into details about exactly what happened will depend on how close you are with them.

Socializing can be an awkward thing on a regular basis, so much so that part of my career is Cultural Facilitation; which translates into: “make this weird conversation, with someone I have nothing to do with, less awkward…” Just kidding… Not so much, though.

✱ Have you noticed?! Have you noticed that when I talked about ‘socializing’ I didn’t specify whether I was talking about the person who recently had a mental breakdown nor the one who broke an arm?! See?! That’s what I meant with my analogy.

Need help?

↳ Mental Health Helplines: International Directory (helpguide.org)