The Karlovian
A media platform by PPE Students of Charles University (BA in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics)
Civilisations in ruins
It’s truly fascinating how productive one can be just staring at the ceiling. At those high hours of the night when the shadows in the corners twist in bizarre angles and presences are felt under the bed. A beguiling time to reflect upon recent events, if you ask this author. One such event is the…
Recent Articles
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Civilisations in ruins
It’s truly fascinating how productive one can be just staring at the ceiling. At those high hours of the night when the shadows in the corners twist in bizarre angles and presences are felt under the bed. A beguiling time to reflect upon recent events, if you ask this author. One such event is the…
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Spider Monkey and Me: Navigating Life as a Young Disabled
On December 3rd, the International Day for Persons with Disabilities, I posted about my cane. Her name is Spider Monkey (yes, Twilight fans, you caught that reference), and I also shared a hard truth: I’m still sometimes ashamed to use it. The comments I received were kind and encouraging—things like, “You have nothing to be…
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La Catrina’s Elegance: a Veil of Elitism & a Critique Of Social Inequalities
Representation of the original engraving by José Guadalupe Posada titled “La Calavera Garbancera” One of the most interesting and famous characters which nowadays stands for the Mexican tradition of Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead in anglophone) is called La Catrina. Nevertheless, the context that surround its origins is one which is far from…
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This Woman Undressed in Tehran
By Isciane Genuist On Saturday, November 2, Ahou Daryaei, a 30-year-old French literature student, removed her clothes for a few minutes in front of her university in Tehran, the capital city of the Islamic Republic of Iran. This act was deeply symbolic in a country where women are required to wear body-covering clothing to hide…
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Rewind Culture – How Nostalgia Became the Media’s Industry Secret Weapon
By Natasha Noam Gol “Nostalgia is the bittersweet longing for former times and spaces” (Niemeyer, 2014). Whether it’s personal nostalgia—reflecting on our own past—or collective nostalgia—remembering shared cultural, national, historical moments, or even longing for very old, unlived ages—nostalgia is a powerful emotion. It’s a universal experience, a kind of “emotional time travel” that can transport us…
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Ha’Satan & Dualism: Manichaeism as a tool against uncertainty
Painting by Goya titled “ El Aquelarre” 1823 ( the actual painting is bigger than the one presented here) The rejection of phenomena which does not have a place in our empirical knowledge seems to be part of human nature, those things that are weird and we just simply do not know about. Of course,…
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The Hummingbird and the Flood of Injustice: Finding Meaning in Small Acts
By Natasha Noam Gol In an era where every scroll reveals a new crisis, atrocity, or social injustice, it’s easy to feel like we’re wading through an endless tide of pain. It’s not that today’s world has more injustice than in the past (unfortunately, history shows it’s always been around). The difference is that now,…
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7 BOOKS EVERY FEMINIST SHOULD READ!
Finding the right feminist read can feel like a quest—especially when life’s pulling you in every direction. But some books are worth it, delivering powerful insights, fierce inspiration, and a dose of social justice. Here’s a roundup of game-changing feminist books by women authors that’ll fuel your fire, whether you’re after a quick hit or…
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Trump and Putin – Best Friends?
On October 15th, Bob Woodward, renowned journalist and exposure of the 1970s Watergate scandal, published War. In this book, Bob Woodward reveals details about the relationship between Donald Trump, ex-president of the United States, and Putin, the current Russian President, sparking widespread debate and public reaction.
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Political Philosophy Basics: Mill on Individual Liberty
Welcome to a new series on the basics of political philosophy. Understanding political philosophy is essential to properly understand the way the world around us functions. From the way our governments are structured, how much authority they have over us as individuals to intra and interstate conflict, the centuries of thought encompassed in PolPhil is…
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Students’ Community for Ukraine: Uniting to Support
The new academic year has just started, but we already have a new student organisation to tell you about! Students’ Community for Ukraine is an organisation founded by Ukrainian students of Charles University to support, unite and organise events for other young Ukrainians in the Czech Republic. But if you think that it would not…
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If Aristotle & Plato Had Talked About Oranges
Last night I had a thought. In Spanish, there is a famous metaphor about love and oranges. It is said that when you find your person, your partner for life, you find your “media naranja” or half an orange. Your other half if you will. Now, it wasn’t until recently I started having problems with…
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Starship Troopers: The Image of the Republic of the Future or Fascist Society?
Starship Troopers novel. What a weird choice for an essay on political philosophy, right? According to some prominent thinkers like Hannah Arendt, politics is not just thoughts of the philosophers of higher standing and debates in parliaments. Politics is often created in the discussions in bars among friends. This way, political thought condenses into and…
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An Incoming PPE Student’s Guide to Prague
You’ve just arrived in the Czech Republic, an incoming fresh-faced aspiring PPE student, and you feel totally lost in Prague. How does the public transport system work? How do you get student discounts for, well… anything? How do you find your footing and anchor yourself in your PPE community?
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Völkisch Germanic Nationalism & the Belonging
When we talk about the creation, development or construction of the nation we have to take into consideration factors which are further away from the logical or concrete matters which build the nowadays legal & political bureaucratic-institutionalized structure that govern the contemporary societies. There are other factors which bound us as a group. But the…
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Mexico, a Member of the BRICS+ ?
An etiolated plan The drums anticipating the entrance of the untold G2(China & Russia) and its economic & political group are rumbling throughout the whole international system and the former global hegemonic power shivers but what does the southern neighbor’s strategy says? The group of the BRICS+ representing a new big package of “reforming” economies…
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Should You Wear a Tie?
At the first instance, this simple question poised may seem like a no-brainer. Even in the 21st century, ties are still a staple – and often the centrepiece of a formal wardrobe. As such, they are (sometimes justifiably) viewed as conservative, stifling and uncomfortable to wear. However, what can we learn from an era gone…
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They Killed Cassandra First: A Feminist Analysis of Rousseau & Hegel
Throughout history, the female gaze has been silenced, repressed, and eliminated. Women who dared to think were disregarded, considered crazy, and even killed. Only a few women have walked the sands of time and left footprints so deep not even the patriarchal system could erase them. Mothers, fighters, queens, protectors, nurturers… victims of invisibility. One…
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Czech-Mates: Ice Hockey World Championship
Follow our video ground reporters, Anna and Julieta, in the first episode of the new Karlovian Prague Guide: Czech-Mates. They take on the Ice Hockey World Championship game between Norway and Denmark . From the 10th of May to the 26th of May the Czech Republic is hosting the 2024 Icehockey World Championship. Buy tickets…
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Testing the Alliance: Shifts in US-Israel Relations During the Israel-Hamas War
Author’s Note: I wrote this paper for the course JPB024: Israel’s Foreign Policy, on April 14th, 2024. I am now publishing it here, with only minor modifications, in May 2024. Given the nature of the Israel-Hamas war, the analysis presented here is already outdated. In the elapsed month, PM Netanyahu has gone ahead with the…
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Pace, Pain, and Prague International Marathon 2024
Last weekend Prague welcomed athletes from around the world to the 29th annual Prague International Marathon. Have you ever thought about running a half or even a full marathon? I bet if you ask some of your fellow students you’ll find someone who has. Many of us like to run from our problems, some have…
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This Week’s News Wrap – 05.05.24
5 of the most important global news stories this week. Panama begins general elections, and incumbent president Laurentino Cortizo is constitutionally ineligible for a second consecutive term. Chad presidential elections begin this week, with frontrunner incumbent transitional president Mahamat Deby, son of the late president Idriss Deby who died in 2021. In the UK local…
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“You Just Need to Focus”: Student Life with ADHD
Author’s note: Hi! My name is María. If you’re new to the Karlovian, welcome! I write here every month. If you have been following us for a while, you might know me for my coverage of Spanish politics. This month I decided to write something different, a bit more personal. I was recently diagnosed with…
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Must-have Apps To Live Comfortably In Czechia!
Are you about to start your student life in Prague, either as a full-time or exchange student? Here’s a list of essential apps to download that will make the transition much smoother: 1. PID Lítačka: This app is a must for navigating public transport in Prague. You can purchase tickets in advance and track the…
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This Week’s News Wrap – 21.04.24
5 of the most important global news stories this week. After Saturday, when Iran launched more than 300 drones and missiles at Israel, the world has been waiting for the Israeli response. Iran’s first ever direct attack on Israel was a retaliation to the strike on Iran’s consulate in Syria, which killed two top generals.…
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My Experience as a Jew at the Jewish Museum Berlin
On the recommendation of many of my peers who had previously visited the Jüdisches Museum Berlin, or Jewish Museum Berlin, I traveled 4.5 hours to Berlin to experience the museum myself. Based on the testimony of my peers who have already visited the museum, my expectations were set high, and I was both excited and…
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Shootings in Europe: School Shootings as a Growing Global Phenomena
On April 2nd at 9 a.m, a 12-year-old boy opened fire at his secondary school in Vantaa, Finland, just outside of Helsinki.3 One student died, and two others were injured in what has been named the Viertola School Shooting, which has not only shaken Finland, but all of Europe.3 This shooting was tragically not an…
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China’s Rise in the Global Order: Power Dynamics, Ideologies, and Economic Transformation
Two centuries ago, Napoleon warned, “Let China sleep; when she wakes, she will shake the world.” Today China has awakened, and the world is beginning to shake (Allison, 2018). Formally known as the People’s Republic of China (PRC), the implications of various aspects of China’s rise, from its expanding influence and military muscle to its…
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Solve for X: Spain’s Political Crisis
In the heart of Catalunya, a storm brews, echoing the clash between economic development and environmental concerns, political manoeuvrings, and the weight of historical grievances. Amidst this backdrop, the looming presence of Carles Puigdemont, the erstwhile symbol of Catalan independence, casts a long shadow, with his potential return to Catalunya contingent upon the passage of…
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Differences between Thomas Hobbes’s Contractarian Vision of the State and the Neo-Roman Theory of Free States
In this essay, I would like to discuss two views that clashed during the civil war in England in 1642, namely Thomas Hobbes’s contractarian view of society and the Neo-Roman theory of free states. The supporters of Hobbes’s opinion advocated for England to be governed by the king, while the other side defended the parliament.…
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This Week’s News Wrap – 17.03.24
5 of the most important global news stories this week. On Wednesday, the US House of Representatives approved a bill that would require TikTok to be sold by ByteDance, a company based in Beijing. U.S. officials are increasingly concerned with China’s influence and access to the data of the 170 million Americans that use the…
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This Week’s News Wrap – 10.03.2024
The top 5 stories from this past week: With Prime Minister Ariel Henry still stuck out of the country, gangs have seized control of the capital city Port-au-Prince. This week they surrounded the main international airport, shutting down flights in and out of the country. The gangs destroyed police stations, raided prisons, freeing over 4,000…
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Shaking off EU Doubts: Navigating Euroscepticism through the Lens of the Youth
By: María Miralles i Viu The European parliamentary elections of 2024. Dreaded by some, anticipated by others, but indifferent to the large majority, especially the younger generation. The situation is so desperate that the executive branch of the European Union, the European Commission, went as far as calling on world-known pop star Taylor Swift to…
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This Week’s News Wrap – 03.03.2024
Five stories that have dominated the global headlines this past week. On Thursday more than 100 Palestinians were killed by Israeli forces while waiting for a humanitarian aid delivery. The IDF spokesperson claimed that they were merely trying to “disperse the mob,” and ease the movement of an aid convoy carrying vital food and water…
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Raise a Glass to Prague: the City’s Top 5 Bars for an Unforgettable Night
Prague is renowned globally as a party city and it lives up to its reputation. Prague boasts a wide array of nightlife spots that seems to rival most European cities and, even better, for affordable prices as well! If you have a friend coming to visit Prague, here’s where to bring them. Image credits: Tasting…
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International Gaming Night by Ignighted Prague: An Event Worth Coming To
This article is my attempt to tell you about a really interesting opportunity that has appeared recently. It will cover my personal impressions from attending the Gaming Night and contain all the info you might need about the club. It all started when I was just surfing my social networks aimlessly until I stumbled upon…
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Reflections on Celebrating Christmas in Different Cultures
So once the Christmas festivities are over, many of you are returning home with memories of pleasant times spent with your families. Each of you likely has some traditions closely related to celebrating Christmas that are carried from year to year. But have you ever wondered how other people have celebrated Christmas century after century?…
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Quiet Corners and Cozy Cafés: A Guide to Prague’s Top Study Spots
As the exam season sweeps through Prague, the search for the ideal study spot becomes paramount for every student. From enchanting cafes to hidden nooks with a touch of history, Prague offers a diverse range of environments to cater to every student’s unique preferences. Join us as we explore and unveil the best study spots…
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Past Policy Imperatives in the Face of Adversity: EU Energy Crisis 2022/23
Authored by: Swastik Pravit Jallepalli, Alicia Tremel, Ruxandra Botas, Matyáš Holub and Joséphine Cauwe Abstract Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the European Union has found itself in a difficult stance regarding its member states’ energy policies. The crises of the last three years have left many economies crippled, with inflation rates skyrocketing and food…
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Languages have the word: The use of minority languages in democratic institutions
According to the European Parliament Research Center, there are 60 minority and regional languages (RMLs) and 50 million people who speak them. However, the European Union only recognises the 24 main languages spoken in the Member States as official. The same happens in Spain, where until recently, the only language allowed to be spoken in…
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Strutting Through the Snow: A Night of Camp and Courage
Friday night at 19:00 and I am getting ready backstage to walk in a DIY fashion show. Backstage in a figurative sense, given that there is no stage, but rather a bar and a donation bin: pay what you can. I switch my beat-up doc martins for a pair of shiny black high heels, brushing…
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The Ultimate Guide to Christmas Gifts
Christmas season is finally here and so is time to start thinking about gifts. Whether you’re shopping for friends, family, or yourself, here’s your all-encompassing guide to finding the perfect presents for your loved ones these holidays. I’ve included links to example products that can be ordered online. For book lovers: For foodies and home…
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How the Grain Dispute Changed Polish-Ukrainian Relations
The recent events show a deterioration in the political and economic relationship between Poland and Ukraine. It is a bit overwhelming to process all this information, so this article will contain a recap of the events and some important conclusions. Situation in the beginning of the war Poland and Ukraine have never been close friends,…
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5 Japanese Techniques to Overcome Laziness and Procrastination
We’re already halfway through the semester and for many of us, the workload is beginning to pile up. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), anywhere from “80% to 95% of college students procrastinate, particularly when it comes to doing their course work.” Finding motivation and staying consistent with our studies can be really challenging…
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Ron DeSantis’ Sassy Little Boots: the Importance of Appearance in American Politics
Ron DeSantis wears sassy little boots meant to make a small man look bigger. What does this say about America?
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Art, Light, and Urban Exploration: The Signal Festival
The Signal Festival is a significant cultural event taking place annually in Prague, which links contemporary visual art, urban space, and modern technologies. Several installations are set up around the city centered around light design, digital and visual art. Additionally, the festival aims to educate visitors and explore contemporary social issues, making it a platform…
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