This kind of thing has been happening throughout all the other threads related to Trump and Ukraine.
I think it best not to encourage this troll.

It's an effort to bring the kind of political polarization to Europe that is happening in the US.
— ssu

Yes. But it has been happening for years. A slow boil. Here, in the UK, we have Nigel Farage and the party he founded or purchased - 'Reform UK'. Leading to Brexit. It is gaining in strength. Full of populist rhetoric, it appeals to the young and disillusioned. Alienation including misogyny and hate. But we need to look further into the inequalities - house prices, job security.

The issues of insecurity are driving some from democracy to the 'certainties' of strong-man dictatorship. Extreme parties are gathering force. Can we re-engage by tackling issues at the root?
For parties to listen to and tackle serious problems at the level of the citizen.
They all claim to be the voice of the people. What people? — Amity

Along similar lines, from Bernie Sanders:

I will be doing town meetings in Omaha, Nebraska, this Friday night and Iowa City, Iowa, on Saturday morning. Further, in the coming weeks and months, I and other progressives will be holding grassroots events from coast to coast.

Why, at this moment, are we doing town meetings around the country – especially in conservative areas? The answer is obvious.

Trumpism will not be defeated by politicians inside the DC beltway. It will only be defeated by millions of Americans, in every state in this country, coming together in a strong, grassroots movement which says no to oligarchy, no to authoritarianism, no to kleptocracy, no to massive cuts in programs that working people desperately need, no to huge tax breaks for the richest people in our country. And that’s what these events are about.
[...]

While Trump now “floods the zone” and occupies most of the political oxygen, it is imperative that we never lose sight of the progressive vision – a nation and world based on human cooperation and compassion, not greed and a “survival of the fittest” mentality. What we are fighting for is not “utopian”, or unachievable. Much of it already exists in other countries, and poll after poll shows that it is exactly what the American people want.

In the richest country in the history of the world we must establish that:

Healthcare is a human right and must be available to all regardless of income.

Every worker in America is entitled to earn a decent income. We must raise the minimum wage to a living wage and make it easier for workers to join unions.

We must have the best public educational system in the world, from childcare to vocational training, to graduate school – available to all.

We must address the housing crisis and build the millions of units of low-income and affordable housing that we desperately need.

We must create millions of good paying jobs as we lead the world in combating the existential threat of climate change.

We must abolish all forms of bigotry.

Not only must we continue to fight for a nation based on the principles of economic, social, racial and environmental justice, we must also lead the effort against Trump‘s reactionary legislative agenda.

In the coming weeks the Republicans in Congress will be bringing forward a major piece of legislation, a “reconciliation” bill, that encapsulates the value system of greed and their obedience to oligarchy. It is the economic essence of Trumpism.

At a time of unprecedented income and wealth inequality, this legislation will provide trillions of dollars in tax breaks to the richest people in our country. It will make the rich even richer. At a time when the working class of this country is struggling to put food on the table and pay for housing, this legislation will make savage cuts to Medicaid, housing, nutrition, education and other basic needs. It will make the poor even poorer.

We cannot allow this to happen. This legislation is enormously unpopular. It is exactly what the American people do not want. It must not be passed by Congress.

It must be defeated and we can defeat it.

This is a perilous moment in American history. Let us go forward together.
— The Guardian - Bernie Sanders

Where are all the voices of the opposition? Does America not have other strong Democrat leaders? Do they only come out at Election time? I'm sure that there those who are fighting for human rights but they need to be more obvious and in our faces to counteract the ugliness and false information of the criminal and his team. They are all over the joint with their loud, brash, aggressive actions and lying words. Words that stick in people's minds, even when/if they are shown to be false.

Find the right words and spell it out so that people can't say they didn't know.

And an additional question to all those arguing that peace is unacceptable: how many of your sons and daughters have you sent to Ukraine in order to stop the second coming of the mustachioed gentleman? — Tzeentch

You need to stop right there. This is not the issue of the OP. Nobody is arguing that peace is unacceptable. You are trolling and this is unacceptable.

if you expect me to be satisfied with what little you have produced thus far. — Tzeentch

It is unreasonable to expect proof of future events. As in another reply to you:

Don't be ridiculous, the proof or disproof of any prediction whatsoever has to await the event or non-event. — unenlightened

It looks to me as the choice for the US is between fascism and civil war. Either will produce a big decline in global influence and possibly economic collapse... — unenlightened

Thanks for providing a well-considered and informed analysis. A post of substance. Including UK politics and economic issues of decline and where that leads.

I think that the US is already being considered fascist and a rogue state by some.
Civil war is at the extreme end of the spectrum.
I don't think that is a choice, as such, it will be a case of escalation. Or the domino effect.
Nobody knows and that is what is scary.

It depends on the criminal...what actions he takes against the citizens who oppose his rule.
Who he will call traitors...

Thank you for your support. :sparkle:

So you have no proof? — Tzeentch

Proof of future events is not possible. You are not being reasonable.

What proof do you have of that? — Tzeentch

History of appeasement. Psychology.

Dictators are never satisfied with concessions or deals. They want more. European and Global expansion is in their sights. It's a double act.

Empires of ego.

Would you rather see the war continue? — Tzeentch

Do you think that will be the end of it?

Appeasing Putin is not the end of it. Not by a long chalk.

Protests in the US can grow quite heated and Americans, unlike most civilian populations, are heavily armed. Violent clashes are inevitable; the regime has not yet had time (if they're even competent to do it) to organize an effective enforcement agency. Civil war may yet be averted, but if they get frightened enough, the Trumpites will surely call for martial law. Then it will depend on which side the federal, state and municipal armed forces take. (My guess is, half and half, which ensures a long and costly civil war, like the last one.)

Will that be enough to galvanize the still-sensible nations? I hope so.... I'm still feeding all those things with feathers outside my window. — Vera Mont

Yes. Past, persistent protests changed the status quo. At a hefty price. And all of these gains are being destroyed with a wholesale ripping up of rights. At the stroke of a criminal's pen. How he gloats.

The criminal can do what he likes. The potential for violence and war is real. He is a terrorist.

Other nations know this. Some are with him, some against and others still willing to negotiate.

In the UK, we have Starmer who seems to be an 'appeaser', who seems to relish the role of middle-man between Europe and America. And other leaders still want, or need, to keep America on board.

The criminal seeks to have the glory and public demonstration of approval by King Charles III.
Ah well...there ya go...
Is there a deal to be made?

I had to check out what you meant by PO1135809.
I know that the US President is a criminal, but didn't realise that he was given an inmate number.
Unfortunately, this and his mugshot are seen as a badge of honour. And money-making.

For now, I just refer to him as 'criminal'. It's simpler. The power he now has to disrupt the whole world is beyond belief. He is a domestic and global terrorist of the first order. And should be treated as such.

There is a European and Global Crisis. We know where and how the 'Ukraine Crisis' started and where it led. Are we to wait until there is conflagration and the most hellish of wars?
Where the cowardly perpetrators stand back and watch people and their worlds being destroyed...

We do not negotiate with terrorists. — Vera Mont

How true is that? Who said it? Is it just a good soundbite used by Bush/Obama?

It begs a few questions: Who is 'We', who are the 'terrorists', what does it mean to 'negotiate'. And what are the alternatives?

It's a stated policy by most Western governments, related to hostage situations. This doesn't mean that negotiations with hostile countries should not take place.

Is this the same as the deal-making, transactional approach so beloved by the US President?
The criminal and outlaw who is destroying human rights and laws to be the dictator or King?
Who pardoned the domestic terrorists jailed for following his cause, his hatred for anyone who opposes him. Those who tried and failed to put him down. Now taking spiteful revenge. Look out!

He, who is now making his own laws to benefit self. Who is making deals with fellow terrorists and war criminals. Who is now blaming the victims of terrorism, war perpetrated by Putin for not making a deal? It's all their fault. Really?

Trump blames Ukraine over war with Russia, saying it could have made a deal
President hits back at Ukraine’s complaint that it has been left out of US-Russia talks, saying it had years to make a deal ‘without the loss of much land’

Sean Savett, who was spokesperson for the White House National Security Council under then president Joe Biden, said in a social media post: “Sounds like Trump bought Putin’s propaganda hook, line, and sinker.

“A reminder no one should need: Putin started the war by invading Ukraine unprovoked and his forces have committed war crimes against the Ukrainian people. Russia is the party responsible for this war continuing.”

European leaders are increasingly fearful that Trump is giving too many concessions to Russia in his pursuit of the Ukraine deal that he promised to seal even before taking office. But Trump insisted that his only goal was “peace” to end the largest land war in Europe since the second world war. Trump said he was “much more confident” of a deal after the talks, adding: “They were very good. Russia wants to do something. They want to stop the savage barbarianism. — The Guardian

The criminal is not satisfied with creating chaos and fear in his own land, he is spreading his 'peace' all over the world.

'We do not negotiate with terrorists'. Oh, yes, we do. It seems we must. In an attempt to prevent more war. War that suits and benefits the arms industry and more. Money directed to war or defence that could be better spent elsewhere.

For the enrichment of citizens. To improve lives. From poverty to the basics. Shelter and food.
Not even close to the honeyed golden showers of riches poured from one MAGA trillionaire to other terrorist billionaires.

The world and its resources will pay the price. For criminals and their greed.
Countries or their leaders will be bought. Is there a law against that?

What good is talk and protest? Delusional madmen do not listen. They live to create fear and terrorise, to gain even more wealth and power.

It was ever thus. Humans never seem to learn until it is too late...

The shift has already taken place, whatever the next election in Germany, Sweden or Canada throws up on top. Liberal parties have been pulled farther and farther rightward, leaving labour either out of touch or taking up what used to the center. The only thing that will reverse this trend is a wide enough popular dissatisfaction. — Vera Mont

Yes but now the slow boiled frog is damned near cooked. The trend is war and defence.
Already, big smiles and profits for defence companies and the arm manufacturing industry.
Popular dissatisfaction be damned.

There is hope in that. The Trump regime is so drastic and crude in its actions, protests have already begun. People are finally noticing that he and his gang mean to carry out all the threats they made over the last several years. This extreme example might - just barely might - wake up other nations to the peril they're courting. His childishly spiteful trade and defence policies might - just possibly - spur greater co-operation among the countries where democracy is still alive. The extreme insanity of Trumpism just maybe possibly might perhaps trigger a global reaction against all similar agendas before it's too late. — Vera Mont

There is always hope. On both sides of the equation. Some call it prayer. In God We Trust.
There are always possibilities, until the clamp down of prison, torture and death for those who protest.
Being criminalised for protest happens even in a so-called democracy like the UK.

What is happening is the fight for resources. Trump is bargaining for such in his Peace Deal with Russia. Ukraine side-lined. Trump longs not for Peace but for the Nobel Prize. Him and his pal, Musk.
They are bully boys extracting payment from their victims. With a bit of world domination on the side. Unfortunately, I doubt there will be a happy ending.

It should never have got this far. Hate-filled criminals charging about the world.
As if it were a game. The winners take it all...

There is already a global reaction - but how effective is it? There is nobody in charge...

The crisis is real and global. — Vera Mont

Yes. Too much to deal with?

Under perceived threats from migrants, economic recessions, pandemic measures, loss of religious privilege, automation and international terrorism, people are open to offers of simple solutions.

The far right always has simple solutions: blame a powerless minority and punish it. The left always has a more complicated plan it can't explain in terms that fit on a tractor-hat. More importantly, the left never promises its supporters special privileges. — Vera Mont

I bolded the list of 'perceived threats'. We could address them one by one. And see where it takes us. Migrants:

'Get Brexit Done' - the simple electioneering slogan > overwhelming majority for Johnson's Tory party.
'Reform UK' - the name of Farage's party/company sounds like a positive change.

The issue of immigrants. People ignorant of their value e.g. in the NHS, tourism, agriculture, etc..
Not to mention they fill the gap in decreasing populations in different European countries.

Immigrants in Europe are an essential force that has a huge economic influence. Immigrants make significant contributions to labour markets, help innovations, and fill critical shortages of skills. The analysis of demographic trends shows the need for immigrants to keep European economies growing as its aging population diminishes. Diverse skills, unique perspectives, as well as strong work ethos that immigrant employees embody boosts general productivity in various sectors. — EIIR - The Importance of Immigrants in Boosting European Community

But it seems like another option is preferred. We must have more babies!
Farage has it sorted. Have you ever heard such nonsense?

“Of course family matters enormously, of course we need higher birth rates,” Farage told the event, adding that the UK and wider west had “kind of forgotten that what underpins everything is our Judeo-Christian culture, and that’s where we need to start”.

Restoring a “sense of optimism” that was last afoot in the 1980s and 1990s was essential to reversing decreasing fertility rates in the UK, Farage said.

Calling for some “very, very big cultural changes” to persuade Britons to have children, he went on: “We’ve got to start telling young kids that hard work is good, that success is good, that there are no shortcuts in life, that making money is good.”

[...]

The issue of declining birth rates in the west has been highlighted by Elon Musk and several other Maga-related figures. — Financial Times - Farage calls for more UK births

Oh yes, and their solution is to 'own' women and take away their rights. Make babies. Now!

Calling this “the law of the jungle,” the Daily Wire host then suggested that many women only know how to act civilly under the threat of physical violence, encouraging his audience to steer away from those women when seeking relationships.[...]

Though Klavan recognized that this was “not right” and “not good,” he also gave credit to far-right misogynist social media personality Andrew Tate for having “some kind of panache with young people because he says this out loud, and nobody ever says it out loud.”

Besides being a notorious “manosphere” influencer, Tate has been charged in Romania with rape, human trafficking and forming a criminal gang to sexually exploit women. He’s also facing civil and criminal cases in the United Kingdom related to sexual assault and harassment.

“That doesn't create a responsibility in you to beat your wife,” Klavan concluded. “It creates responsibility in you to find a woman who will respect you so you can treat her as she deserves to be treated.” — The Independent

To return to shared values...

There are still European countries who retain a misogynistic attitude. A lot of homicide is femicide.
So, there is no such thing as a common value system. Just as you can't generalise about American values.

Progress made in all spheres to right wrongs, to value human rights...well, that is being systematically destroyed. If that's not a crisis, I don't know what is.

I understand the scepticism due to past negative experiences, yet that cannot blur our hopes for the future! — javi2541997

The question I asked was 'real', about the future and pragmatic hopes. Not based on wishful fantasy.
Identifying real solutions to real problems. Not just for electioneering purposes but for long-term.

"Human values" are always more linked with this continent than anywhere else. We are not perfect, I know. But the amount of philosophers, artists, jurists, teachers, and all experts on humanities is priceless and beyond description. It seems to me that human values have not been well framed in some nations for a lot of different reasons. — javi2541997

Human values have been framed in many nations.
Liberty, Equality and Freedom - in the American Constitution.

It is in the regulation of these values, that we find tension and conflict.

As the preamble to the Constitution acknowledges, we established government precisely in order to “spread the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity.” Government is not inimical to liberty; it is necessary for it.

John Locke himself observed that liberty without law is meaningless, and a free market cannot exist without government regulation. Our children will not enjoy the blessings of liberty if we destroy the environment, for example.

Liberty is meaningful only if we also exercise responsibility, both personal and collective. The question is how to regulate, not whether to regulate. If our goal is to ensure that each person can enjoy the blessings of liberty, then our philosophy must explain the democratic values of humanity, dignity, equality, community, responsibility and the common good. Nor are progressives averse to liberty; indeed, we care about it so much that we want the legal system to make it available to everyone, not just the privileged few. — Democratic Values and the American Constitution Society

A normal citizens' movement. It does not have to be technical. I am referring to the participation and the pursuit of European people for taking care of our continent. — javi2541997

What is a 'normal citizens' movement'?
How can a whole continent be 'taken care of' ?
What does that even mean?
Europe is diverse. Multiple viewpoints. That is its strength and also its weakness.

After the US neocon establishment got dealt a heavy blow, the equally abject European establishment is next in line. This is a good thing - the excising of a tumor that has been allowed to fester for much too long.

There is no crisis. — Tzeentch

There is a crisis, as described in the OP.
Your view that the European/Global crisis is a 'good thing' is noted.

Brexit was one of the most terrible mistakes in recent EU history. The more divided, the better to them. — javi2541997

Exactly. And it was all part of a well-laid plan.

It is time to build something where we could be together and united. Even closer than in the European Union. I am thinking of a European organisation where our differences are put aside and we work for a common goal: European values. It will be something where doesn't matter if you are from Spain like me, UK like you Amity or Finland like ssu. It is not necessarily political. Like a citizens' movement. — javi2541997

I think that is easier said than done. There will always be differences. If it hasn't worked in the EU, then where and how would it work?

It is not so much about 'European values' - whatever they might be. But human values.
But that is not going to happen anytime soon.

It takes education and yeah, look who is in charge of that...

A citizens' movement not political but philosophical? Hah.
Not a chance in hell. One man's freedom an' all that.

It's an effort to bring the kind of political polarization to Europe that is happening in the US. — ssu

Yes. But it has been happening for years. A slow boil. Here, in the UK, we have Nigel Farage and the party he founded or purchased - 'Reform UK'. Leading to Brexit. It is gaining in strength. Full of populist rhetoric, it appeals to the young and disillusioned. Alienation including misogyny and hate. But we need to look further into the inequalities - house prices, job security.

The issues of insecurity are driving some from democracy to the 'certainties' of strong-man dictatorship.
Extreme parties are gathering force. Can we re-engage by tackling issues at the root?
For parties to listen to and tackle serious problems at the level of the citizen.

They all claim to be the voice of the people. What people?

Do we need this crisis to get real? Or is it now about going to war?
How civilised are we? Will the people even have a say in the matter?

And many, including my own president, made the correct conclusion of JD's scolding: this was far more for the American audience (people like you) than it was to engage Europeans — ssu

I disagree. It has very much engaged the Europeans. It is viewed as a Crisis, a major turning point.

With this in mind, I have started a new thread:

https://thephilosophyforum.com/discussion/15786/european-or-global-crisis

Are they sufficient for you Christoffer? — Moliere

The links provided are only a few from all that is available. People will use whatever suits them.

I know from the Lit. Activity that @Christoffer has experience in using AI and ChatGPT for research (and editing). So, easy to find answers to the question:

...are there any good sources of inspiration for how to structure an essay in more detail? — Christoffer

Since many aren't academics in philosophy and we've not had any rules of essay formatting for this forum, — Christoffer

To re-iterate. This challenge is for all. It is flexible. Open to all kinds of philosophy writing. It does not impose rules for essay formatting. However, for those that wish to use the academic form, there is plenty information out there.

Most here can find out stuff for themselves. Personal research is part of the fun of writing.

***
A simple Google for 'examples of philosophy essays: outlines' immediately brought up an AI generated Overview:

A philosophy essay outline typically includes an introduction with a clear thesis statement, a body with well-structured arguments supporting the thesis, and a conclusion that summarizes the main points and reiterates the argument; here are a few examples of philosophy essay outlines covering different topics:

Example 1: "Is there a moral obligation to help the poor?" (Utilitarian perspective)
Introduction:
Define key terms: morality, obligation, poverty, utilitarianism.
Thesis statement: "Utilitarianism provides a strong moral argument for helping the poor, as maximizing overall happiness requires addressing systemic inequalities."

Body:
Argument 1: Principle of Utility:
Explain the core concept of maximizing happiness in utilitarianism.
Illustrate how poverty significantly reduces happiness for many individuals.
Provide examples of how helping the poor can lead to greater overall happiness.

Argument 2: Addressing Objections:
Counterargument: "Helping the poor can incentivize dependency."
Rebuttal: Discuss potential solutions to address dependency while still providing necessary aid.
Counterargument: "Focus on individual responsibility, not systemic issues."
Rebuttal: Explain how systemic factors often contribute to poverty, requiring collective action.

Conclusion:
Summarize the main points, emphasizing the moral imperative to help the poor based on a utilitarian framework.
Acknowledge limitations or complexities of the argument, if applicable.
Conclude by reiterating the thesis statement.

***

Example 2: "Can artificial intelligence achieve consciousness?" (Philosophy of Mind)
Introduction:
Define "consciousness" and key aspects of the concept.
Thesis statement: "While AI can mimic certain aspects of consciousness, it is unlikely to achieve true consciousness due to the lack of subjective experience and qualia."

Body:
Argument 1: The "Hard Problem" of Consciousness:
Explain the challenge of explaining the subjective "what it is like" quality of experience.
Discuss how current AI models primarily focus on computational processes, not subjective experience.

Argument 2: The Turing Test and its Limitations:
Explain the Turing Test as a criterion for AI intelligence.
Argue that passing the Turing Test does not necessarily indicate consciousness.
Discuss limitations of the Turing Test in assessing subjective experience.

Conclusion:
Summarize the main arguments against AI consciousness, highlighting the lack of a clear understanding of the nature of consciousness itself.
Discuss potential future directions in AI research related to consciousness.

Key points to remember when creating a philosophy essay outline:
Clearly state your thesis:
Your thesis should be a focused argument that you will defend throughout the essay.

Logical structure:
Organize your arguments in a coherent manner, addressing potential counterarguments and objections.

Support with evidence:
Use relevant philosophical concepts, examples, and scholarly citations to strengthen your claims.

Precise language:
Employ clear and concise terminology when discussing philosophical ideas.

Generative AI is experimental.

:cool:

Some university sites are worth checking out. But possibly a bit too much and off-putting?
From Southampton Uni:
Posing the Question - An Academic Guide to Planning Essays
https://www.southampton.ac.uk/~assets/doc/University_life/learning_teaching/posing_the_question.pdf

My advice would be to start with a concise paragraph expressing the point of the essay. Then sketch out headings and sub-headings, representing the progressive stages of building the argument and the steps required to establish each step. That step of building level 1, 2 and 3 headings is often helpful in structuring your content.

Also consider likely objections and your counter to them.

End with a conclusion which should state the paragraph you started with but now as a conclusion based on the preceding paragraphs. — Wayfarer

Thanks. I missed this good piece of advice. All easier said than done.
Do you have an example of an essay, along with its structured Outline?

Will you be along for the ride? I hope so :sparkle:

I'd say this would be more interesting as we would get two perspectives on a similar topic. — Christoffer

I agree.
It's why I originally suggested a single topic for all to chew over. Like 'Imagination'.
However, an open choice gives more flexibility and whotnot.

I hope we will see a variety of views and approaches. Looking forward to reading yours, also @AmadeusD and others who are up for the challenge!

:smile: :cool:

@Moliere

Since many aren't academics in philosophy and we've not had any rules of essay formatting for this forum, are there any good sources of inspiration for how to structure an essay in more detail? — Christoffer

I posted this earlier and in the original discussion. Perhaps, it would be an idea to include in the OP? Or simply cut to the chase [*]?

How to Read Philosophy
https://philosophy.tamucc.edu/texts/pryor-guidelines-on-reading-philosophy

How to Write Philosophy
Includes 7 links - one pdf by the highly recommended Pryor.
https://philosophy.tamucc.edu/resources/writing — Amity

***

From the latter:

You needn't follow all this advice, of course. Yet some of it is likely to help. For more advice, see the following guides to writing philosophy. To be sure, there is a lot available here: Start with Lenman's "How to Write a Crap Philosophy Essay" to quickly learn what not to do; follow up with Pryor's superb "Guidelines on Writing a Philosophy Paper".

"A Brief Guide to Writing the Philosophy Paper" Harvard College Writing Center (pdf)
Peter Horban, "Writing A Philosophy Paper"
Michael Huemer, "A Guide to Writing"
James Lenman, "How to Write a Crap Philosophy Essay" (pdf, highly recommended)
Peter Lipton, "Writing Philosophy"
Adrian M.S. Piper, "Ten Commandments of Philosophical Writing" (pdf)
James Pryor, "Guidelines on Writing a Philosophy Paper" (pdf, highly recommended)

The above sources are live links in the original article.

***

[*] To cut to the chase:

https://philosophy.tamucc.edu/graphics/berkich/texts/james-lenman-how-to-write-a-crap-philosophy-essay.pdf

https://philosophy.tamucc.edu/graphics/berkich/texts/james-pryor-guidelines-on-writing-a-philosophy-paper.pdf

There ought to be a special section for retired staff to complain about how things have gone downhill, and there are no proper discussions any more, and the mods don't seem to care, etc. — unenlightened

There is. It's called 'Feedback'. I doubt any mods, present, past or future would use it to complain.
There would seem to be an element of loyalty and need for privacy in airing 'what is really going on'.

Some will share in PMs. Or in other places. Or not at all.

The job is time-consuming and messy. It takes a certain kind of person to do it well.
Sometimes, we get to see timely interventions. Other times, not so much. Work is behind the scenes, not recognised and not given enough appreciation.

As you know, the messiness comes in degrees and cycles.
Lately, there seems to have been an increase in reporting to mods.

There comes a point when some say, "Enough is enough!".
It must take its toll on those who have been dedicated to the site for 10yrs...
I couldn't do it for 5 minutes.

Time and health are precious. Best wishes to all who make the choice to move on.
:heart: :flower: :pray:

For those mods that stay. Thank you :100: :clap:

Thanks for quick reply and clarification. Appreciated, as always.
Whatever you do with your new time, enjoy the day. Take care. Be well. :sparkle: :flower:

See title. Please don't me for mod reasons after Friday, kthx. — fdrake

And your status as 'Admin'? Are you moving on from that as well?

What on earth is going on?

Baden seems to have given up the ghost, too?

Is it a 10yr anniversary re-think?

Who will be next?

Mass exit?

Well, I suppose you're all entitled to a rest after all the years of wonderful service. :clap: :clap: :clap:

Thank you @fdrake :100: :flower:

I've loved, I've laughed, and cried
I've had my fill, my share of losing
And now, as tears subside
I find it all so amusing

:cry: :snicker:

:heart: :flower:

A follow-up to @unenlightened's music choice. I've No More F****s To Give:
https://thephilosophyforum.com/discussion/comment/967306

The simple uke and its lightness of being. From a Concert for George Harrison.

For the first half of “Something,” McCartney accompanies himself on a Gibson uke that George had given him, playing the song almost as a light shuffle until Marc Mann comes in mimicking Harrison’s iconic electric guitar solo, before they’re joined by the full band and orchestra; it’s a stunning version.

Then, at the very end of the concert, for the encore, Joe Brown, who had earlier played guitar and mandolin as he guided the band through “Here Comes the Sun” and “That’s the Way It Goes,” came out with a little Martin soprano uke and went into a beautiful but heart breaking version of the 1920s standard “I’ll See You in My Dreams,” as thousands of pieces of large orange, yellow, and green confetti floated gracefully from the rafters of the Albert Hall like falling autumn leaves. There probably wasn’t a dry eye in the house after that one. It was the perfect ending to a magnificent tribute to George Harrison.

Be well. Take care. :sparkle: :flower:

Another day, another sentiment; a happy song, for all the happy people. — unenlightened

Not sure about the happy aspect but, yeah, the uke can bring a gentle simplicity to life. A clear tone and voice of sense and absurdity. Humour in the midst of life frustrations. An English gentleman swearing. What's not to like?! Great fun find :cool:

Written and performed by Thomas Benjamin Wild Esq. Performed at Boyds of Bedford - November 2nd - 2018. Featured on the album Awkward Encounters While Walking My Dog (released 2018).

I've tried, tried, tried and I've tried even more
I've cried, cried, cried and I can't recall what for
I've pressed, I've pushed, I've yelled, I've begged
In hope of some success
But the inevitable fact is that it never will impress

I've no more fucks to give
My fucks have runneth dry
I've tried to go fuck shopping
But there's no fucks left to buy
I've no more fucks to give
Though more fucks I've tried to get
I'm over my fuck budget and I'm now in fucking debt!

I strive, strive, strive to get everything done
I've played by all the rules but I've very rarely won
I've smiled, I've charmed, I've wooed I've laughed
Alas to no avail
I've run round like a moron to unequivocally fail!

I've no more fucks to give
My fuck fuse has just blown
I've been hunting for my fucks all day
But they've upped and fucked off home
I've no more fucks to give
My fuck rations are depleted
I've rallied my fuck army but it's been fucking defeated!

The effort has just not been worth the time or the expense
I've exhausted all my energy for minimal recompense
The distinct lack of acknowledgement
Has now begun to gall
And I've come to realize that I don't give a fuck at all!

I've no more fucks to give
My fucks have flown away
My fucks are now so fucked off
They've refused to fucking stay!
I've no more fucks to give
My fucks have gone insane
They've come back round and passed me while they're fucking off again!

I've no more fucks to give
My fucks have all dissolved
I've planned many projects
But my fucks won't be involved!
I've no more fucks to give
My fucks have all been spent
They've fucked off from the building
And I don't know where they went!

I've no more fucks to give
I've no more fucks to give
I've no more fucks
I've no more fucks
I've no more fucks to give!

For non-commercial use only.

So, what is the point of 'Process Philosophy'?

What are its ethical implications? Or any other kind, for that matter?
— Amity

I can't say with any authority... — Gnomon

Hello. I wrote that on page 1. At the end of my longer response to @Count Timothy von Icarus's substantive post, here:
https://thephilosophyforum.com/discussion/comment/963537

I then posted an informative video concerning:

Insights from Nicolas Rescher's Philosophy: Process Metaphysics (06:43) — Amity

https://thephilosophyforum.com/discussion/comment/963557

I disagreed with @Darkneos's opinion that it was 'dehumanising'.

People are not being labelled as 'just processes'. It seems to be a way to understand humans and their place in the world. As individuals and part of many processes, relationships and interactions, including the creative. Changing and not static.
Just as in:
Essentially it means that all is flux, nothing is static
— punos — Amity

As far as I recall, @Darkneos did not reply to @Count Timothy von Icarus.

And now the thread is on p5.
So be it. Another process along the way.

I have nothing further to contribute, here.
My attention is now on writing something for the Philosophy Writing Challenge - June 2025.
https://thephilosophyforum.com/discussion/15749/philosophy-writing-challenge-june-2025-announcement/p1

Perhaps will see some of you there? In the meantime, best wishes :sparkle:

I appreciate your initiative and the opportunity to take part. — RussellA

Hi there. It's so good to hear this, thank you!

We're not allowed to talk specifics...

5) Submissions are to be anonymous. Don't advertise what you've written. — Moliere

....but...do you have something in mind already?


Right now, my mind is on the chaotic side of clarity. Ideas floating around, one bubble after another.

Best wishes with whatever you decide. :up: :flower:

The experienced, here, all know that. And I hope they will submit. — Amity

To @Moliere
I'll leave it here, for now. I've said more than enough. Don't want to bore the pants off everybody.
I hope that we hear from other voices, as yet silent. :sparkle:

One of the reasons I thought this a fun activity is I like to read other people's thoughts, no matter what they are thinking. — Moliere

Yup! :up:

A personal anecdote. My first academic essay.

Once upon a time...
In't days before t'internet.
In an institution preparing students to be teachers.
Write an essay on:
I can't remember the title.
But it had something to do with education. Perhaps, it ended with 'Discuss'.

I was woefully ignorant of 'How to Write an Essay' with all its criteria and standards.
No Guidelines were offered. Imagine that!

So, I duly wrote my thoughts on the subject, thinking that was what was required.
So, wrong! Low marks. Ouch! We don't want to hear your views. Oh, Oh-Kay...

I had worried about using other people's words. Concerned about 'copying', I thought it was cheating.
My new friend, educated at a private school, knew better.
So, I read her prize-winning essay. And was shocked to find a host of quotes, strung together by a few personal thoughts.

It is only when you know what the tutors/examiners are looking for that you can write accordingly.
To fit the bill and pass with flying colours. I learned the lesson.
You gotta know the structure, especially in philosophy. You gotta read and read to get a sense of what is good writing. Reflect and analyse. To recognise the need to be clear and keep to the point. To support your views and arguments by using relevant quotes. And so on...

The experienced, here, all know that. And I hope they will submit. And not just see this event as something trivial. This is important to widen perspectives and stretch the reader's ability to understand.
And if confused, to feel confident to ask. Curious questioning an' all that jazz!

I don't want people to worry about the rules too, too much. I'm mostly hoping to hear from many contributors who are stretching their creative sides and trying out something new, insofar that they are enjoying themselves [...]

if anyone who is lukewarm on participation because they want more guidelines then please say something.
We can come up with more guidelines together if that's necessary for participation. — Moliere

:smile: :cool:

I think most will appreciate the inclusive and welcoming approach taken.
I understand the desire for rule flexibility so as to encourage maximum participation.
Also, the slight 'push' to 'stretch' creative aspects. To try something different. Perhaps approaching a familiar topic from another perspective or using a 'new' form.

Until now, I have been somewhat guilty of a focus on literary philosophy.

I have ideas for this event but have yet to work out content and most interesting form. I'm motivated and enthused as to the choice available. I tend to the more 'artistic'...ahem! Playful.

Having said that, perhaps I need to return to something more academic. To exercise parts once excised or exorcised. To limber up and improve skills, I would need to read some rules or specific guidance.

I'm reminded of a post from the original thread:

I probably wouldn't write one, my essay skills have yet to evolve from early grade school (Paragraph 1: Introduction; Paragraphs 2 - 4: Three supporting reasons, Paragraph 5: Conclusion). Former English teacher once said to me: "Everything to write about has already been written, there is nothing new, only clever rehashing." He teaches philosophy at a major-ish university, last I was aware. I'm sure a few people here more intrepid than I could give him a run for his money, however. It'd be nice to see what gets submitted, that's for sure.

[my emphasis]

I despair when I read this kind of message. It discourages rather than encourages creativity.
Of course, the same topics or themes have been discussed and written about. Aspects of human life in a world with all its questions...values, how best to live, love, etc.

However, this is about the individual and what is 'new' to them. How it appears and how experience can be shared. There is always something new. It's all in the eyes and view.

It is also about combining the past, present and future. So, there is the example essay I posted earlier:
Plato’s Cave & Social Media
Seán Radcliffe asks, has Plato’s Allegory of the Cave been warning us of social media for 2,400 years?
from: https://philosophynow.org/issues/165/Platos_Cave_and_Social_Media

It is an imaginative way to reach something original for the author. And perhaps the reader.
There is a freshness. We can be unusual...

***

To return to academia and rules. From one of my earlier posts:

I think it would be good for both beginners and the more experienced.
To be challenged in ways other than writing in a thread. This would give people a chance to be creative and test themselves against others. Or simply for own enjoyment. That I would love to read :sparkle:

For revision, if needed! Or if other ways are better, suggestions welcome :up:

How to Read Philosophy
https://philosophy.tamucc.edu/texts/pryor-guidelines-on-reading-philosophy

How to Write Philosophy
Includes 7 links - one pdf by the highly recommended Pryor.
https://philosophy.tamucc.edu/resources/writing

I will see. Do I really need to go back there to student days? What, if anything, is there to prove?

It will be wonderful if people who are reluctant to participate, because of previous discouragement, would find the joy in self-expression. Everyone's voice is important. Let it out, be fearless! Take the leap! :fire: