3 Classic Books to Prepare Us for the AI Revolution

At this stage, it seems that not much can be done to stop the AI Revolution from taking place. Let us have a look at the possible scenarios that may play out if AI is given full autonomy, or if regulation fails to control it. Here are three classic books about governance, power, control, and survival, which capture the social issues of concern in today's debates about AI. The fictional scenarios in these books use metaphoric and allegoric forms to convey messages of importance about identity, individuality, the misuse and abuse of power, and the fragility and limitations of humanity.

May 14, 2023 0

My Khmer New Year 2023 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

After a quiet, cool dinner and stroll around Toul Kork, I was BORED! It wasn't enough. So I decided to take a night ride into the city to photograph the beautiful KNY lights and decorations at Wat Phnom. Toul Kork was so quiet that I expected the wat to be quiet after 9 pm too. But I was wrong….Mayhem!

Apr 15, 2023 0

Resisting patriarchy in Africa: Desire and agency in ‘Woman at Point Zero’ and ‘Under the Udala Trees’

Woman at Point Zero by Nawal El Saadawi and Under the Udala Trees by Chinelo Okparanta are two very different African novels, yet both bring attention to gender-based oppression and patriarchy in Africa. In both novels, there are several female characters who cope with patriarchy in different ways. Some women submit to the system, while others resist it. There are also women who manipulate the system to their advantage, while other women outrightly oppose it. In this essay, I will focus on an exploration of the main female protagonists, and how they resist the different types of patriarchy challenging them.

Mar 11, 2023 1

Identifying the connection between land, language and identity through narrative analysis in ‘We Need New Names’ by NoViolet Bulawayo

In this essay, I will analyse the features of Darling’s narration in relation to the changes in narrative style that indicate Darling’s coming of age. I will begin with a discussion of the dialogue between Darling and her friends, followed by an interpretation of the songs and symbolism used in the novel.

Mar 11, 2023 2

The rise of womanism in South African praise poetry: Dismantling past traditions of patriarchy

In this essay, I will pay particular attention to South African praise poetry to demonstrate that there is a slow shift away from patriarchy towards inclusivity. The genre of praise poetry has progressed from being predominantly male to include more female poets who have gained fame and respect across the African continent. I will begin with a discussion of the past, before addressing the current shift away from patriarchy.

Mar 11, 2023 1

Life lessons from a tragic hero in ‘Things Fall Apart’ by Chinua Achebe

Okonkwo, in Chinua Achebe's 'Things Fall Apart', is a complex character who teaches us many lessons about life, society, and culture. According to the definition of a tragic hero in literature, one could easily consider Okonkwo a tragic hero. Okonkwo's life and death reveal tragedies which can be avoided with careful judgment and informed decision-making. In this essay, I will outline the elements of a tragic hero as they pertain to Okonkwo, and conclude with some thoughts on how to avoid such tragic endings.

Feb 15, 2023 0