Essays

To know, is to know that you know nothing.
That is the meaning of true knowledge.”

Socrates

Michiel van der Velde Michiel van der Velde

Universal Healthcare: A Moral Imperative Beyond Economic Constraints

This perspective challenges the traditional paradigms through which healthcare policy is often viewed, urging a shift from viewing healthcare as a service or commodity, influenced by market dynamics and financial considerations, to regarding it as a right that should be universally accessible to all individuals, irrespective of their socioeconomic standing.

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Michiel van der Velde Michiel van der Velde

From Scramblers to Systems: Reimagining Cognition through Blindsight and ChatGPT

In the intricate dance between fiction and reality, few narratives bridge the gap as poignantly as Peter Watts' "Blindsight." A novel that delves into the deep recesses of consciousness and intelligence, it intertwines seamlessly with our modern technological marvels, embodied by AI entities like ChatGPT. Here, we embark on a philosophical odyssey, exploring the myriad cognitive landscapes painted by both the book and the burgeoning realm of artificial intelligence.

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Michiel van der Velde Michiel van der Velde

Soldiering On: Youth, Decision-Makers, and the Dilemmas of War

Dive deep into the profound ethical paradoxes of warfare, exploring the juxtaposition between young soldiers and the seasoned decision-makers. This essay uncovers the tragic realities that lie beneath declarations of war and the poignant truths about those who bear its brunt.

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Michiel van der Velde Michiel van der Velde

A Lesser Evil: Tywin's Approach to Warfare in Ethical Spotlight

Ever pondered the ethics of warfare through the lens of Tywin's controversial tactics? Dive into a comprehensive exploration of his strategy, weighing the morality of targeted action against large-scale conflict. From the battlefield to the dinner table, we delve deep into the heart of ethical dilemmas.

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Michiel van der Velde Michiel van der Velde

Ethical Considerations of Animal Use

The relationship between humans and animals has always been a complex one. Drawing parallels between the treatment of animals and historical instances of human slavery can be problematic. It's crucial to understand that while there might be some similarities in the exploitation of both humans and animals, the contexts are very different.

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Michiel van der Velde Michiel van der Velde

The Interplay of Fact, Value, and Perception in Human Understanding

In every human endeavor, there exists a delicate interplay between objective facts and subjective values. The juxtaposition of the terms 'objective' and 'evaluation' reflects an inherent tension as they seem to encapsulate two distinct and often opposing ideas.

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Michiel van der Velde Michiel van der Velde

Vitalism, Transhumanism and Posthumanism: A Speculative Odyssey in Science Fiction

From the age-old inquiries into the very essence of life, as posited by vitalism, to the ambitious aspirations of transhumanism that seek to enhance the human experience through technology, and the profound realms of posthumanism, which imagines entities and consciousness beyond our current human form, science fiction offers a rich tapestry of narratives that both enthrall and provoke thought.

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Michiel van der Velde Michiel van der Velde

A Just Tomorrow: A Call for Holistic Human Rights Reforms

In the contemporary geopolitics, developed Western nations stand out as beacons of prosperity, democracy, and human rights. For these nations, the preservation and actualization of such rights is not just a matter of international compliance but of foundational ethos. In this discourse, we shall argue that these nations bear a primary responsibility to guarantee these rights to their fullest extent, transcending mere nominal protection to ensure tangible, accessible, and equitable provisions for all.

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Michiel van der Velde Michiel van der Velde

The Limits of Opinion: Contesting Unchecked Tolerance

The age-old maxim, "everyone is entitled to their opinion," finds newfound resonance in our times. However, a deeper probe into the nuances of this phrase reveals its shortcomings. When weaponized to defend or mask views that perpetuate bigotry, prejudice, and tangible harm, the nobility of the phrase quickly dissolves.

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