Perspective Without Borders

"Religion is regarded by the common people as true, by the wise as false, and by the rulers as useful ". - Seneca. Leaving Christianity was not a sudden decision but rather a gradual process spanning over 15 years. It was a journey shaped by critical thinking, personal experiences, and an evolving understanding of religion and spirituality. This essay explores the reasons behind my departure, using historical evidence, philosophical inquiry, and psychological insights. The Limitations of Human Understanding of God Our understanding of God is inherently limited. Every religion claims to possess the ultimate truth, yet there is no objective criterion to validate any of these assertions. This raises an important question: what if all religions are wrong? The mere existence of multiple, often contradictory, religious doctrines suggests that at least some, if not all, must be based on human interpretations rather than divine revelation. Religions emerged as a way for humans to...

The American Dream is the belief that anyone, regardless of background, can achieve success and upward mobility through hard work, determination, and opportunity. It’s rooted in the idea that America offers economic and personal freedom, allowing individuals to build a better life for themselves and future generations. Historically, the American Dream has been associated with homeownership, financial stability, and the pursuit of happiness. However, its meaning has evolved — some now question its accessibility due to rising inequality, stagnant wages, and economic barriers. Still, the core idea remains: the U.S. is seen as a place where success is possible through effort and ambition. The American Dream, once a beacon of hope promising prosperity and upward mobility, is increasingly viewed as an unattainable myth. The idea that hard work leads to success is being eroded by economic inequality, stagnant wages, and systemic barriers. Below are ten critical reasons, supported by data and ...

 The Torrijos-Carter Treaties of 1977 were a pair of treaties signed by the United States and Panama that aimed to resolve longstanding disputes over the control and operation of the Panama Canal. These treaties marked a significant shift in U.S.-Panamanian relations and had profound implications for both countries, as well as for international diplomacy. Background: The Panama Canal, completed in 1914, was a vital waterway connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, significantly reducing travel time for ships. However, the canal was under U.S. control following the construction, with the U.S. maintaining sovereignty over the Panama Canal Zone, a strip of land surrounding the canal. This arrangement was formalized in the Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty of 1903, which gave the U.S. perpetual control over the canal and the surrounding zone. Over the decades, many Panamanians viewed this treaty as an affront to their sovereignty, leading to growing resentment and periodic protests. The issu...

 In recent years, globalization has brought about unprecedented levels of cultural exchange, economic interdependence, and geopolitical complexity. Yet, this interconnectedness often stirs anxieties that reflect deeper insecurities about power dynamics on the global stage. One such example is the debate surrounding Taylor Swift's concert tour in Singapore—a seemingly innocuous event that has sparked discussions about its implications for Asia. Could a pop star like Taylor Swift pose a threat to an entire continent? The answer depends largely on how you frame the question. If we view her concerts through the lens of U.S. foreign policy logic, she might indeed represent both a cultural and economic challenge. But does this perception align with reality, or is it merely a projection of our own fears onto benign interactions? The Cultural and Economic "Threat" of Taylor Swift Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour has been nothing short of a phenomenon, drawing massive crowds across contin...

For decades, the United States and China have been engaged in a fierce economic, technological, and geopolitical rivalry. While many in the West still believe America has the upper hand, the reality is starkly different. China has not only caught up but, in many aspects, surpassed the U.S. The competition is over, and China has emerged as the dominant global power. Here’s why: 1. Economic Supremacy China's economy is surpassing the U.S., especially in purchasing power parity (PPP). GDP & Growth: While the U.S. still leads in nominal GDP, China's rapid growth and industrial dominance are pushing it ahead. PPP Metric: China’s GDP in PPP terms is already the largest, meaning Chinese consumers can buy more with their income than Americans can. Manufacturing Powerhouse: China is the "world’s factory," producing everything from electronics to heavy machinery, controlling global supply chains. Economic Policy: The Chinese government takes a long-term approach to economic...