The Sunday Brew #107
In this brew - The Price of Happiness in a picture | Emotive Conjugation & Enantiodromia |UK moves for assisted death bill, Canada sues Google, and Australia moves to ban SM for under 16
Welcome to The Sunday Brew, weekly 1-2-3 newsletter by The Percolator. Every Sunday we drop in your inbox 1 story in a picture, 2 concepts, ideas or frameworks to expand your horizons and 3 news from the week, to keep you updated.
If you are not a paid subscriber, here is what you missed last week:
ONE STORY IN A PICTURE
TWO IDEAS, FRAMEWORKS OR CONCEPTS
This week we bring to you two concepts - Emotive Conjugation & Enantiodromia
Emotive Conjugation
Emotive Conjugation, also known as Russell's Conjugation, is a rhetorical technique that illustrates how language can be manipulated to evoke emotional biases toward or against a subject. Popularized by philosopher Bertrand Russell in 1948, this concept demonstrates that the same underlying fact can be expressed in various ways that elicit different emotional responses based solely on word choice.
The essence of emotive conjugation lies in its ability to highlight the emotional connotation of words, which significantly influences opinions. For instance, describing someone as "firm" conveys a positive sentiment, while labeling them as "obstinate" or a "pig-headed fool" creates a negative impression, despite all terms referring to similar behaviors such as stubbornness.
This technique emphasizes that human beings often prioritize the social implications of accepting facts over the facts themselves. Consequently, our opinions are frequently shaped more by emotional resonance than by objective truth. Emotive conjugation can be illustrated through triads of synonymous terms that carry different emotional weights; for example, one might say, "I am enthusiastic; you are interested; he is obsessed." Such examples reveal how the same trait can be framed positively, neutrally, or negatively, thus influencing perceptions without altering the underlying reality.
The implications of emotive conjugation are profound in communication and persuasion. It is widely used in politics, marketing, and media to sway public opinion by framing issues in emotionally charged language. Understanding this technique enables individuals to recognize when language is being used manipulatively, fostering critical thinking and awareness. By being mindful of the emotional implications of word choices, one can better assess information and form more balanced opinions. Ultimately, emotive conjugation serves as a powerful reminder of how language shapes our understanding of reality and influences social interactions.
🚀
Enantiodromia
Enantiodromia is a psychological principle introduced by Carl Jung, derived from the ancient Greek term meaning "running counter to." Jung defines it as the emergence of the unconscious opposite over time, suggesting that when an extreme or one-sided tendency dominates conscious life, a powerful counterposition inevitably develops.
This concept reflects a broader philosophical idea observed by Heraclitus, who noted that all things are in constant flux and that extremes tend to transform into their opposites. For instance, Heraclitus expressed that "cold things warm, warm things cool," illustrating how balance is restored through opposing forces.Jung's exploration of enantiodromia emphasizes its role in psychological dynamics, particularly in relation to neurosis and personality development. He posits that this phenomenon often precedes a rebirth of the personality, as individuals confront and integrate aspects of themselves that they have previously repressed or neglected. The process involves recognizing and embracing opposing qualities within oneself, which is essential for achieving psychological wholeness.
The concept also highlights the tension inherent in extremes; just as a bow must be drawn back before releasing an arrow, so too do psychological extremes create a buildup of tension that can lead to a shift toward the opposite state. This principle has implications not only in psychology but also in understanding social and cultural dynamics, where extreme ideologies can lead to their opposites over time.
Enantiodromia serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of opposites and the dynamic nature of human experience, illustrating how striving for balance is a fundamental aspect of both individual growth and broader societal change.
THREE NEWS FROM THE WEEK
Historic Vote in UK Parliament Paves Way for Assisted Dying Legislation
In a landmark decision, British lawmakers voted on November 29, 2024, to legalize assisted dying for terminally ill patients, marking a significant shift in the nation’s approach to end-of-life care.
The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill passed in the House of Commons with a vote of 330 in favor and 275 against, reflecting a growing acceptance of assisted dying in the UK, which has historically maintained strict prohibitions against such practices.
Under the new legislation, adults diagnosed with terminal illnesses and given six months or less to live will have the option to seek assistance in ending their lives. The process mandates approval from two doctors and a High Court judge, ensuring that the decision is made voluntarily and without coercion. This vote is particularly notable as it is the first parliamentary discussion on assisted dying in nearly a decade, following the failure of similar legislation in 2015.
The debate was marked by emotional testimonies from MPs who shared personal stories, highlighting the urgent need for compassionate options for those suffering from unbearable pain. Proponents argue that the bill offers dignity and choice at the end of life, while opponents express concerns about potential pressures on vulnerable individuals.
As the bill moves forward to parliamentary committees for further scrutiny, significant amendments are anticipated. Critics, including some government ministers, have raised alarms about inadequate safeguards and the risk of coercion. Despite these concerns, advocates from organizations like Dignity in Dying celebrated the outcome as a step toward a more compassionate legal framework.
âž–
Canada Sues Google Over Alleged Anti-Competitive Practices in Online Advertising
In a significant legal move, Canada’s Competition Bureau has filed a lawsuit against Google, alleging anti-competitive conduct within the tech giant's online advertising operations.
The lawsuit, announced on November 28, 2024, accuses Google of abusing its dominant market position to stifle competition and manipulate advertising auctions in favor of its own services.
According to the Competition Bureau, Google controls approximately 90% of the market for publisher ad servers, 70% for advertiser networks, 60% for demand-side platforms, and about 50% for ad exchanges in Canada. The Bureau claims that Google's practices have locked market participants into using its proprietary ad tech tools, effectively sidelining competitors and distorting the competitive landscape. This alleged conduct has reportedly led to higher advertising costs and reduced revenues for publishers, ultimately harming Canadian advertisers and consumers.
Matthew Boswell, Commissioner of Competition, stated that Google's actions have prevented rivals from competing fairly and have inhibited innovation within the industry. The Bureau is seeking an order from the Competition Tribunal to compel Google to divest two of its key ad tech tools—DoubleClick for Publishers (DFP) and AdX—and to impose financial penalties under Canada’s Competition Act.
In response, Google has defended its practices, asserting that the online advertising market is characterized by intense competition. Dan Taylor, Google's Vice President of Global Ads, emphasized that the company’s technology supports content funding for publishers while providing businesses with effective customer outreach options.
This lawsuit adds to a growing list of regulatory challenges facing Google globally, including similar actions in the United States and the European Union. As the case unfolds in Canada, it underscores ongoing concerns regarding monopolistic practices in the digital advertising sector.
âž–
Australia Enacts Groundbreaking Ban on Social Media for Under-16s
In a historic move, Australia has officially banned social media access for individuals under the age of 16, making it the first country in the world to implement such stringent regulations.
The legislation, which passed through the Senate on November 28, 2024, aims to protect children from the potential harms associated with social media use, including cyberbullying, peer pressure, and online predation.
The new law mandates that social media companies like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat must take "reasonable measures" to prevent minors from accessing their platforms. Failure to comply could result in hefty fines of up to 50 million Australian dollars (approximately $32 million). This unprecedented legislation was approved by a vote of 34 to 19 in the Senate after receiving overwhelming support in the House of Representatives.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the necessity of this law, stating that it addresses significant concerns raised by parents about their children's safety online. He noted that while social media can offer positive connections, it also poses serious risks that need to be mitigated. Albanese remarked, "Social media can serve as a weapon for bullies and a tool for scammers," highlighting the urgent need for protective measures.
Despite broad political support, the legislation has faced criticism from various quarters. Some child welfare advocates argue that the ban could isolate young people who rely on these platforms for social support and connection. Critics also express concerns about privacy implications and the feasibility of enforcing age restrictions effectively.
The law will not take effect immediately; companies will have a year to implement necessary changes before penalties are enforced. As Australia moves forward with this pioneering legislation, it sets a precedent that could influence global discussions on youth safety in the digital age.
The Sunday Brew by The Percolator brings to you curated news on tech, business & entrepreneurship, from across the internet to give your week a perfect start.
Share your thoughts and opinions on the topics covered in this newsletter by leaving a comment and joining the conversation.