Systems of predation / Systems of service

The news yesterday morning highlighted a fairly common scene. The PNP held a press conference speaking specifically to the emerging incidents of leptospirosis and the health threat posed to the nation in the aftermath of Melissa. At the podium was Dr Alfred Dawes, PNP spokesperson on health and in the background were party dignitaries headed … More Systems of predation / Systems of service

Day of Remembrance

‘Foreign mind’ (the opposite of an emancipated mind) manifests itself on multiple levels. Apart from showing up in balance of trade as import-addiction and export-lethargy, it shows up more generally as strong loyalty and inclination towards foreign products and policies and general contempt and disdain for one’s own. The leadership landscape in the public and … More Day of Remembrance

Institutional Design

The time has come to move from rhetoric to action, but even this challenge could become another case of rhetoric, if we do not design the institutions through which action can be achieved. – Michael Manley Errol Miller’s latest two volume work, Elections and Governance: Jamaica on the Global Frontier – The Colonial Years and … More Institutional Design

Heroes Day Reflections

Having just watched our own national ritual of ancestor worship, I am reminded of Jesus’ frustration: “In vain do they worship me teaching as doctrine the commandments of men.” The New English Translation says “Their teachings are merely human rules/commandments. Jesus knew that for worship to be effective, it has to be both sincere and … More Heroes Day Reflections

Ostrich or eagle?

I still enjoy friendship with those whose views on essential matters – politics, religion, cosmology, sexuality, ethics. aesthetics are diametrically opposite to mine, some which are admittedly high maintenance with the stakes being so high in our presently polarized culture on the verge and in some cases already in the throes of profound and perhaps … More Ostrich or eagle?