Questions

Does the mainstream vegan movement have a race problem?

In influencer circles advocating for a vegan lifestyle, some have suggested the group is not representative of the larger world. And beyond that may even be racist. Is this the case? Or is vegan advocacy a safe space for all?

Does the marketplace of ideas work?

The 'marketplace of ideas' theory argues that truth is found where opinions intersect. It is the figurative arena in which all can share their opinions, subjecting them to rational, public debate. In the same way that quality goods and services rise to the top in a free market economy, so this theory sees ideas as subject to the same rigorous competition. Popular ideas are considered "truths" insofar as they rise on the back of reason. These truths are essential for society to progress. Does the marketplace of ideas work?

Does the school system benefit girls more than boys?

Girls outperform boys across all subjects, in all age groups, and across all racial groups. They secure more university places and suffer fewer disciplinary problems. By contrast, boys are overrepresented in programs for students with special educational needs and account for around 93% of suspensions and disciplinary actions. Is the modern school system designed to benefit girls more than boys?

Does the subconscious mind create reality?

The relationship between mind and body has been widely explored. The question of how, if at all, our inner world affects the physical realm is not one which has been paid an overwhelming amount of academic attention, yet is nonetheless intriguing.

Does the West still value human rights in light of its dismissal of Khashoggi's death?

The West used to be the loudest voice advocating for human rights. But Western governments' evasive stances on the horrifying death of Jamal Khashoggi, a Saudi government dissident, suggest this is no longer the case. In the light of huge economic links and political turbulence, are human rights still valued in western civilization?

Does white privilege exist?

White privilege, the notion that white people are afforded societal benefits that members of other races are not, has seeped into our lexicon to explain racial disparity in wealth, race and health. But are racial privileges responsible? Does white privilege exist? Can it adequately explain individual experiences? Or are other factors at play in creating racial inequality?

Has Covid-19 turned the clock back on women's equality?

Did the pandemic set back the cause of women's equality? This entry sets out the two positions on the question — that Covid-19 turned the clock back on women's equality, and that it did not.

Has digital cinema destroyed realism?

Has the shift from film to digital cinema undermined the realism of movies? This entry sets out the two positions on the question — that digital cinema has destroyed realism, and that it has not.

Has Donald Trump been a good president?

Trump's presidency is considered by the mainstream media and some in the international community as an on-going disaster. Has Trump's presidency delivered? Will history consider him to have been a good president?

Has surveillance gone too far?

The Post-9/11 political consensus put a greater emphasis on state surveillance. Increasingly sophisticated technologies gave state actors the power to track and watch ordinary people like never before. While supporters argue that this is a small price to pay for increasing safety and preventing terrorism, others see this as a serious contravention of human rights. Is the extent to which we are now surveilled a step too far?

Has the BJP-led civic body let Nagpur down?

Has the BJP-led municipal body failed the Indian city of Nagpur? This entry sets out the two positions on the question — that the civic body has let Nagpur down, and that it has not.

Has the body positivity movement accomplished anything?

The body positive movement has the view that "every body is beautiful" and has been championed acceptance and inclusion for years. Despite this, critics are quick to point out not enough has been done to include all people or that it indulges unhealthy behaviors. What has this movement actually accomplished?

Has the Good Friday Agreement been a success?

The Good Friday Agreement is a set of agreements, concluded on April 10th 1998 and ratified by popular vote on May 22nd 1998, that secured the devolved government in Northern Ireland. The agreement was the result of a long period of political uncertainty and extreme violence in Northern Ireland, known as ‘The Troubles’, which was a period of conflict that ran from the 1960s to, generally agreed, the Good Friday Agreement.

Has the Rosetta Stone been cracked?

Has the Rosetta Stone been fully deciphered, unlocking ancient Egyptian writing? This entry sets out the two positions on the question — that the Rosetta Stone has been cracked, and that it has not.

Has the Trump administration responded well to COVID-19?

Government responses to emergency situations like the coronavirus outbreak can have a critical impact on the health and wellbeing of the public, and on the economy and society at large. So how have President Trump and his team responded? Will the American people benefit from or be hurt by the actions of the Trump Administration?

Has the world started to take climate change fight seriously?

Is the world finally treating the fight against climate change with the seriousness it demands? This entry sets out the two positions on the question — that the world has started to take climate change seriously, and that it has not.

Has Trump kept his promises?

Trump’s re-election campaign slogan is “Promises Made, Promises Kept”. From the border wall to repealing and replacing the ACA, what has he done? What are Trump’s achievements in his first term in office?

Has Trump transformed what it means to be Presidential?

What makes a good President? Is it pragmatism and vision, or, something else entirely? Trump presents himself as a political outsider: his disregard for political correctness is what attracted many of his supporters. Yet, his critics see his unruly behaviour as a weakness; that it is unbecoming for a President. Has Trump changed what it means to be Presidential? The Merriam-Webster defines “presidential” as: “of, relating to, or befitting a president or a president’s authority”. But, is that what Trump means, and his supporters, refer to?

Have e-rickshaws become more of a menace than convenience in India?

Have e-rickshaws become more of a hazard than a help on India's roads? This entry sets out the two positions on the question — that e-rickshaws are a menace, and that they are not.

Have emojis changed the world?

In just two decades, emoji has become ‘the fastest growing language in history’. But are there more complex implications to their popularity? With more than 92% of internet users now using emojis, and billions used every day, do the simple digital pictograms have wider implications for society, relationships and even the way we're hardwired?

Have we stopped creating antiques?

In our modern times, we have created many convenience items which are meant to be temporary and disposable. Does this mean that we will leave fewer heirlooms behind for the next generations to collect and appreciate? Have we stopped creating antiques?

Holding private property is immoral.

Is private ownership of property morally defensible, or should resources be held in common? This entry frames the long-running philosophical debate over whether holding private property is immoral or legitimate.

How accurate are claims that the US election is rigged?

In the run-up to and aftermath of US elections, claims that the vote is 'rigged' recur. This entry maps the positions on how accurate such claims are — that they are very accurate, only partially accurate, or not accurate at all.

How are social classes defined?

Social class shapes nearly every society, but how is it defined? This entry maps the competing criteria — economic, cultural, educational and political status — and the view that all of these forms of capital matter equally.

How are some ways we can Ballance capitalism and socialism as to where all people are afforded the same right s ?

In order to truly be a democratic nation we need to Ballance liberties to all people regardless of economic and social class. In order to do so we need look at where we have come from as a nation and the challenges we have endured. It is not enough to know where we been but we need to look where we are going. Given recent events it is clear that capitalism has its flaws proving that we need to revaluate policy to be a truly inclusive economy.

How can I help others during coronavirus / COVID-19?

The coronavirus / COVID-19 pandemic will impact people in deeply asymmetric ways. While many people have access to healthcare, robust immune systems and the ability to pay for, transport and store stockpiles of groceries, many others are not as lucky. How can those better able to cope help those more vulnerable?

How can we become a better world after the coronavirus pandemic?

Covid has inevitably created a recessionary crisis and Governments will be under intense pressure to restore growth. But if its growth at all costs And/or simply reverting to the way it was it will be a lost opportunity to seek a more equitable model. A model that is also attuned to the larger existential issue of climate change. Any new post Covid martial plan should focus on a progressive model the redressés much of what is faulty and unsustainable. If not, this pandemic will be a forewarning of even more turbulent times to come.

How can we stay mentally healthy in quarantine?

Healthy mind, healthy body. Mental fitness is just as important as physical wellbeing. We can't deny life can sometimes feel bleak without real life interaction. But introducing new habits can lighten those perspectives, and offer moments of calm when life seems anything but.

How complex is animal communication?

Animals signal to one another constantly, but how much structure those signals carry is contested. This entry maps the two positions — that animal communication is very complex, approaching the properties of language, and that it is not.

How did Amelia Earhart die?

Amelia Earhart's disappearance and presumed death in the midst of her attempt to circumnavigate the globe by plane has long been an international interest. Many believe her plane crashed in Pacific and that she and her companion perished, but others believe in more unusual theories.

How did rich millennials become the voice of generation rent?

How did affluent millennials come to speak for 'generation rent'? This entry maps the explanations — that elite millennials want something to complain about, that they seek to relate to their peers, and that they are genuinely affected by problems like scarce job opportunities.

How do coup d'etats and coup attempts happen?

How and why do coups happen? This entry maps the explanations — that coups are both causes and consequences of civil wars, that they follow military dissatisfaction with the government, and that they come when success looks likely.

How do drugs affect the brain?

A psychoactive drug is a chemical substance which, when consumed, can affect the brain and nervous system, resulting in an altered mental state. The potent effects of psychoactive drugs have led some to be used as prescription medicines, while others have become some of the most widely prohibited illicit substances in the world. So what are the effects of drugs on the brain? What are the different types of psychoactive drug, and how do these various chemicals affect behaviour, consciousness, mood, perception, and the functioning of the brain?

How do feminists view pornography

Feminist views on pornography range from condemnation of all of it as a form of violence against women, to an embracing of some forms as a medium of feminist expression. This debate reflects larger concerns surrounding feminist views on sexuality, and is closely related to those on prostitution, on BDSM, and other issues. Pornography has been one of the most divisive issues in feminism, particularly in anglophone (English-speaking) countries. This deep division was exemplified in the feminist sex wars of the 1980s, which pitted anti-pornography activists against sex-positive ones.

How do people benefit from human trafficking?

Human trafficking is a booming global industry which sees millions of people enslaved for the profit of others. There are many advantages to the traffickers including avoiding red tape, financial enrichment, and avoidance of taxes.

How do we think about the "woke" debate?

To proponents of "woke culture", the term denotes only a simple awareness of the fundamental inequalities and injustices suffered by minorities - religious, racial, social (LGBTQ). To its critics, woke culture smacks of liberal authoritarianism - a new cultural religion that tolerates no dissent on threat of 'cancellation'. Which is it?

How do we think about African-American literature?

African-American literature is a body of literature made in the US by Americans of African descent. Because of how African-Americans were integrated into the founding of the US, African-American writing is often concerned with racism, oppression, and struggles for freedom. At the same time, should such literature always be concerned with political advocacy, or should Black writers and artists focus on art for art’s sake? How do writers and readers think about African-American literature?

How do we think about cancel culture?

In June 2020, cancel culture claimed its latest victim: the popular children's television show Paw Patrol. People claimed that its protagonists - animated dogs who operate as police in a fictional universe - were being derided. These pieces said critics saw its positive portrayal of law enforcement strengthened a culture of deference to the police. Headlines around the world stated cancel culture had gone mad. But none of this was true. What began as a joke about cancel culture had grown into a conspiracy tearing across the internet. This crisis underpinned the bigger picture: anyone can be cancelled, and it has gone so far it can reach the international news without questioning. In recent years, the practice of withdrawing support for public figures who hold controversial views has exploded. And not just amongst the cartoons. Michael Jackson, JK Rowling, Louis CK, Woody Allen: the list of its celebrity victims is growing. The boom has divided opinion. Some believe it is a form of online activism that helps the marginalised hold the powerful to account. Their opponents see it as a devastating attack on civil liberties. So, what are the pros and cons of cancel culture?

How do we think about consuming art or products of people accused of sexual abuse?

Can we still enjoy the work of artists accused of sexual abuse? This entry maps the debate over separating art from artist, setting out the positions that consuming such work is acceptable, and that it is not.

How do we think about institutional racism in the American police force?

On June 8 2020, Minneapolis City Council announced it would be dismantling its police force. In its place, they pledged to introduce a new model for public safety, free from the institutional racism that had plagued its police. The decision was unprecedented, and yet, it has been followed by similar moves across the US, for police budget cuts and investigations into how they are run. At the heart of this debate is the question of institutional racism: where it comes from, how it manifests, and how it can be overcome. Following George Floyd's murder, pressure has grown for perceived systemic oppression to be addressed. Others argue that this is a myth, and that police are being victimised for the ills of society. The way that people are mobilising around this question reveals the fundamental ideas that drive their perspectives. So, who are these groups, what do they stand for, and why?

How do we think about removing controversial statues in the US?

Throughout the US, activists are calling for the removal of controversial statues, which most often depict individuals with slavery or colonization ties. These statues have long been a subject of debate, but the American public’s renewed attention to systemic, racially-motivated violence has brought this conversation into the forefront of public discourse. According to those in favor of removal, these monuments glorify individuals who supported racist institutions. They stand as relics to white supremacy and racial terror. Others argue that these statues must remain because they are a part of our story. Although this is a heinous aspect of our past, removing these statues would be an attempt to whitewash America’s history. So, what are the opinions around this debate?

How do we think about taking down controversial statues in the UK?

In June 2020 protestors circulated a hit list of controversial UK statues to be taken down. These included Gandhi, Winston Churchill and Robert Baden-Powell. Campaigners say these statues must be ripped down because they contribute to racialised systemic violence. In turn, this trickles down into every facet of public life and subordinates ethnic minorities. On the other side, groups made up of mostly far right activists say this is deeply offensive. They see this lobby as a violent mob that have been undeservedly handed a mandate to whitewash UK history. So, who are these groups, what do they think, and why?

How do we think about the George Floyd murder?

On May 25 2020, George Floyd was suffocated to death by the police. Floyd had been arrested on suspicion of using a counterfeit $20 bill. In chilling footage that would go viral within 24 hours, officer Derek Chauvin knelt on his neck for more than 8 minutes ignoring Floyd's repeated pleas for him to move. The asphyxiation led to his cardiac arrest. Floyd's death has so far inspired protests across more than 75 US cities, calling for an end to police brutality and institutional racism. The responses to these riots have included state-wide curfews, the threat of military intervention, attacks on the media and civilian arrests. The situation has given rise to a complex debate with commentators arguing over what precisely it has exposed about contemporary America. So, who are these groups, what do they stand for, and why?

How do we think about the shock therapy approach to economics?

'Shock therapy' — rapid, sweeping economic liberalisation — remains fiercely contested. This entry maps the debate over the approach, setting out the positions that shock therapy works and that it does not.

How do we think about the snowflake generation?

Snowflake is a derogatory slang term that developed in the 2010s, implying one may have an inflated sense of uniqueness, an unwarranted sense of entitlement, or are overly-emotional, easily offended, and unable to deal with opposing opinions. Common usages include the terms special snowflake, Generation Snowflake, and snowflake as a politicized insult. Yet, as the term has existed in the vernacular, the ideas surrounding it have evolved and opened the door to an array of opinions.

How do we think about the UK lockdown debate?

The coronavirus pandemic has led to unprecedented isolation measures throughout the world. One effect has been the creation of ideological blocs across traditional party lines, lobbying for different approaches to containing the virus. UK lockdown came into effect on March 23, shutting down non-essential business and movement outside the home, bar a single daily outing for exercise. Critics variously describe this decision as too late, too little, too much and overblown. So, who are these groups, what do they stand for, and why?

How do you cope being single for a long time ?

I need to know because is really hard on me .

How does coronavirus compare to other pandemics?

COVID-19 has been devastating, affecting people across the world and killing thousands. However, it is far from the first pandemic of its kind. From the Spanish flu to the bubonic plague, throughout history pandemics have killed huge amounts of the population. Is the coronavirus pandemic the worst in history? Or have previous pandemics been worse?

How does founder bias impact start-up success?

How does free trade affect jobs?

Does free trade help or hurt employment? This entry maps the competing positions on how free trade affects jobs — that it creates them, that it destroys them, and that it has no net effect either way.