Author: Awareness News

Are Industry Plants that bad? 

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The term Industry Plant is not new, and more and more artists are getting accused of being one, examples include Jack Harlow, Adele, Ice-Spice, Lorde, Lil Nas X, Cardi B, Bobbi Althoff from the overly awkward interviews with various celebrities, Chance the Rapper, and even Billie Eilish. However, what is this concept? In this article, I will delve into the ambiguous definition of Industry Plants, analyze some questions that arise when we try to define this notion, and briefly explore the dynamics of the music industry and why these phenomena appear. 

Is it a definable concept? 

The sources for the definition are far from scientific or academically reviewed, however since it is a term not commonly used by sociologists or scholars of the matter, I’ll have to rely on these ‘underground’ sources. According to Urban Dictionary, an Industry Plant is ‘an artist who has major/indie label backing their movement but presents themselves as a “home-grown start-up” label to create a pseudo-organic following. They act as if things miraculously happened for them based on their talent. The reality is a low-risk/high-reward situation for labels looking to build the next “new star”’. We need to break this definition down into two parts: Why does the consumer feel so strongly that they have been deceived? And how is this strategy beneficial for big labels? 

Firstly, why do consumers immediately categorize some artists as industry plants when they, the artists, gain overnight success? Is virality not a thing anymore? In show business, especially in music, we gravitate to personalities that feel authentic, and we want to support them due to factual situations that they have been through. We feel some type of comfort when we see that an artist’s setback or struggle has, however small it may be, a connection with yourself, if you think about it, most likely, this relationship is present in your favorite artists. Since this connection with an artist takes time when people cannot pinpoint the moment when they saw the artist finally getting some recognition from other people or the industry, the notion of an Industry Plant appears. 

By following this logic, an artist that has gone viral overnight is not credible and not even worth consuming? Noah Callahan-Bever, founder of Idea Generation, and a music industry icon, states that ‘Before you had the internet, it almost felt like artists came out of nowhere (…) All of a sudden they’re in The Source every month for three months in a row (…) unless you were super plugged into the industry, it was always like, “Who is this new person?”’.  

The concept of virality is much more difficult to achieve nowadays, in part because of the high exposure to content we have through various platforms but also due to the high amounts of content being created and uploaded daily to those platforms. Therefore, it seems fair for suspicion to be raised when out of a sudden Bobbi Althoff, the previously mentioned podcaster, has Drake on her fourth episode. People believe this only happens with backing from large corporations, these being management agencies or music labels. A clear example of this is Coi Leray, who was featured on big playlists, which always brings a lot of exposure, performed at big, televised award shows but only managed to sell 10k copies of her sophomore album in the first week.  

A very recent example of an artist being accused of an Industry Plant is R&B singer 4Batz. With only 3 released songs, the 22-year-old artist from Dallas, Texas, has quickly amassed a considerable amount of streams on DSPs (Digital Streaming Platforms) and a remix with Toronto’s very own, Drake. Its rough public image deceives consumers into thinking the sound of the artist will resemble something like a NLE Choppa, who raps about violence and firearms, however, the presence of a high-pitched voice creates a certain “wow” factor and seems to attract people, at least for now. What seems to be bothering some music fans is the fact that affiliations with big labels are present, with its manager being the lead creative director of RCA Records (owned by Sony Music), Amber Baker. Although all of its music is independently distributed, 4Batz’s affiliation with Amber supports the argument that there is an involvement of big labels in this, allegedly, fully independent artist.  

Coming back to the idea of authenticity, modern audiences are captivated, more than ever, by personalities who present to them an idea of a spectacular journey that started from an ordinary beginning, in Hip-Hop especially. However, what big music labels seem to fail to understand is a fundamental aspect of Hip-Hop as a cultural movement, the artist’s growth not only in their art but as an individual and the duality of their past and present living conditions is more important than rapping or singing about “cool stuff” in trendy instrumentals. When Notorious B.I.G, Future, Kanye, Drake, and others, ‘flex’ on their, sometimes considered, shallow lifestyle is not to show that they have all these possessions per se but to demonstrate how they went from living in the Southside of Chicago to designing couture with head designers of famous French fashion houses, in the case of Kanye West. More specifically, it’s the journey of flipping the odds and overcoming the hardships of life that attracts people, and when commercial interests, generally of big labels overpower the need for authenticity, a discontentment among Hip-Hop fans arises.  

Is the development of Industry Plants a good business opportunity for big labels? 

On superficial analysis, we quickly realize that it is much cheaper for labels to develop an artist from the ground up since signing them has less demand from competitors, and bidding wars between labels are less likely to happen. Not to mention, the investment that happens when labels sign an already established artist. During the Soundcloud era, labels would say an artist gained a following on the platform, but they were signed to a label before that. In theory, this is a great way of labels making a buck, but in reality, it is not that simple. The public normally realizes when they are being ‘fed’ a manufactured act. According to an article by Billboard Pro, outside of Olivia Rodrigo and Ice Spice, there are no artists to break through the industry. However, this is not because they developed artists in the past, the causes are much more worrying, as previously explored. 

Conclusion 

From all the examples given and the nuances analyzed, I can conclude that, regarding the accusations of artists being Industry Plants, if the success of the artist is documented, people do not seem to care as much about authenticity, however, if it appears out of nowhere, the relevancy of the artist itself is put into question. That is one of the reasons why labels do not just manufacture artists to cater to the market needs, as we have seen in the case of Hip-Hop with its growth as a genre in the 2000s, but a recent decline, in part, because of a ‘dumping effect’ of music, but also a lack of authenticity in the artists being pushed and backed by labels.  

Francisco Agostinho

Foreign Aid: A curse or a blessing? 

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Reading time: 9 minutes

So, what is a poverty trap? At first glance, we can perceive that it associates a notion of persistency or inevitability with poverty. Well, a trap is, in fact, a situation in which one gets into, and from which it is difficult or even impossible to escape. So, to put it in a simple manner, let us use the case of the “nutrition-based poverty trap,” originally portrayed in the Dasgupta and Ray paper.  

The common person will need food to perform their daily tasks and earn money, which, in turn, allows them to sustain their own existence. Take the case of a person with no energy or nutrients left in their body; certainly, the first few calories they ingest are going to be consumed by their body just to survive: they will not make her strong! Once the person starts to eat enough to survive, the following calories ingested will give her strength and energy to perform other activities. Thus, someone in poverty may not have enough to eat to become very productive, but if she could eat more, she would.  

This portrays exactly the notion of the poverty trap, understood as self-reinforcing mechanisms whereby poor individuals or countries remain poor. Departing from the observation that poverty begets poverty, in such ways that current poverty can itself be a direct cause of poverty in the future. 

But, why care about poverty traps? Because being in the presence of a poverty trap opens the possibility for a “Big Push”: a single push that could have disproportionately big benefits. Some examples, that have materialized, are the distribution of free bed nets, which carry massive health benefits regarding disease spread, namely malaria prevention; And the increased productivity gains for a community that a single season of free fertilization of fields can bring. However, it is necessary to understand that if we are not in the presence of a poverty trap, then providing help to those in poverty in this way will become a form of redistribution, but it won’t produce efficiency gains.  

As bluntly put by Aart Kraay and David McKenzie, the idea of a poverty trap is very compelling in terms of motivating policy, because it suggests that people and countries may not only be unable to climb out of poverty on their own. But also, that much poverty is needless in the sense that a different equilibrium is possible at a much higher level of income and that one-time policy efforts may have lasting effects. 

Let’s move now to the concept of Foreign Aid. The Development Assistance Committee (DAC) of OECD defines Official Development Assistance (ODA) as: “The flows provided by official agencies, including state and local governments, or by their executive agencies, to countries and multilateral institutions, that are administered with the objective of promoting economic development and welfare of developing countries.” 

The aid debate: Context  

To better understand the debate around Aid, one should first examine its origins, or better yet, the context in which it occurred. 

The Aid legitimacy crisis in the 90s emerged because of significant shifts in the international landscape. Following the end of the Cold War, the political foundation of bilateral aid underwent a profound transformation as the focus shifted towards aid’s economic effectiveness. Moreover, the 90s saw donor countries grappling with economic crises and strong budgetary constraints, particularly EU countries, which led to a sharp fall in aid flows. At the same time, recipient countries started to face increasing debt burdens and financial crises of their own. This sparked the broader debate over the need to reform the international aid architecture, particularly reshaping the role played by multilateral institutions in addressing the root causes of instability in recipient countries.  

Positions: Is Aid Effective? 

The 90s marked the beginning of a period where questions arose about the efficacy of the existing aid mechanisms and three main positions on the role of Aid emerged: 

  1. AID ENTHUSIAST 

The first position, by the American economist Jeffrey Sachs, emphasizes how poverty stems from a lack of six crucial types of capital: Natural, Human, Infrastructure, Public institutional, and Knowledge capital. Sachs argues that governments should offer extensive Aid to these areas because of the existence of natural monopolies in essential services, like power and transportation, public goods that benefit everyone without depleting resources, externalities, such as disease prevention and education, that have widespread benefits and that societies worldwide aspire to ensure universal access to critical goods and services as a fundamental right.   

One example of a successful large-scale policy was “The Green Revolution”: when the Rockefeller Foundation promoted high-yield varieties, of staple crops, fearing a massive hunger in more rural populations. Mexico went from a large net importer of grain to a large net exporter in just 20 years and India followed in its footsteps, going from 11m tons of wheat production in 1960 to 55m tons in 1990. 

Sachs proposes the Millenium Development Goals as the solution. The programme establishes that poor countries have no guaranteed right to receive assistance from rich countries to meet the MDGs, with this right conditional on countries’ commitment to good governance. However, the biggest problem today is not that poorly governed countries get too much help, but that the well-governed ones get far too little. 

  1. THE DEATH OF AID 

The second position, developed by the Zambian economist Dambisa Moyo, identifies aid dependency as the major obstacle to progress. She notes how, despite African countries having received over US$300 billion in development assistance since 1970, aid-dependent countries have experienced negative economic growth, and poverty rates have skyrocketed up to 60% in the same period, up until 1998. Moyo contends that aid inflows exacerbate problems in African nations by reducing government accountability to taxpayers, discouraging entrepreneurship and innovation, and fuelling corruption and conflict.  

Figure 2- The impact of remittances. 

Contrasting the African landscape with the success of Asian emerging markets, Moyo suggests as alternative strategies the access to international bond markets, and the attraction of large-scale direct investment in infrastructure, such as the Chinese investment policies. Moyo also advocates for genuine free trade in agricultural products, by ending farmer subsidies in major economies like the US, EU, and Japan and the promotion of financial intermediation, fostering the spread of microfinance institutions, granting legal titles to property for use as collateral, and facilitating remittances.  

  1. AID BACK IN THE POLICY MENU 

The third and final perspective is presented by the British economist Paul Collier, who views aid as a fundamental part of a broader strategy for addressing global challenges. Directly advising policymakers on the issues concerning the “Bottom Billion”, Collier identifies 4 Traps that hinder development:  

1. “The conflict trap”: Many of the world’s poorest countries are trapped in cycles of violence and conflict, which disrupt economic development and perpetuate poverty. “73% of people in the societies of the bottom billion have recently been through a civil war or are still in one”. 2. “The natural resource trap”: Countries rich in natural resources often suffer from commodity price volatility, political checks, and deteriorated balances as accountability deteriorates. 3. “The Landlocked trap”: countries that are landlocked face significant challenges in accessing global markets, which hinders their ability to trade and grow economically. “While in the World as a whole only 1% live in landlocked resource-scarce areas, in Africa, that same percentage goes up to 30%”. 4. The trap of bad governance in small countries, as in small countries, the government necessarily plays a larger role in guiding economic development. 

To address these same challenges, Collier suggests four main tools:  

1. Targeted aid programmes to help alleviate poverty and address the root causes of underdevelopment. 2. Military intervention, is necessary for maintaining peace in post-conflict situations and preventing coups. 3. International agreements and legal frameworks that can help address issues such as corruption, resource management, and governance. Examples include the Kimberley Process for diamond certification, aimed at curbing the trade in conflict diamonds. 4. Reforming trade policies in the West (“Rich countries’ trade policies” include agricultural subsidies to their own sectors and higher tariffs for processed materials) and Improving access to global markets. 

Is Aid effectiveness supported by the data? 

Although relevant, these three positions are simply the theories of their authors. Thus, to have a more comprehensive understanding of the issue around aid, one must observe what the real data reveals. Many studies have been developed regarding the effectiveness of Foreign Aid. In this article, only the Rajan and Subramanian paper on Aid and Growth will be referred to as its data gives comprehensive coverage of all variations of the aid-growth relationship. 

One of the key findings of their analysis was that the relationship between aid and economic growth is complex and context-dependent: there is evidence that aid works better in better policy or geographical environments, and that certain forms of aid work better than others. This brings out the need to move away from one-size-fits-all approaches to foreign aid and instead tailor interventions to the specific context and needs of each country. Rajan and Subramanian also observe little robust evidence of a positive relationship between ODA inflows into a country and its economic growth. Thus, empirically, no conclusions can be made regarding the relationship between both variables.  

Overall, diverging political views on the role of aid bring dynamism to the Foreign Aid debate. Although one position is yet to be selected as “the right one”, it is easy to see how they can be complementary to each other. They have inclusively been the root of many projects that have already improved people’s lives, with Sachs’s preferred example remaining “The Green Revolution”. So, before deciding whether Aid carries efficiency gains and other benefits for developing economies, keep in mind, as prize winner Esther Duflo once said: “Innovation often comes from unexpected sources; we should be open to diverse perspectives and ideas.” 

Sources: Duflo, Esther, and Abhijit Banerjee. Poor economics. Vol. 619. New York: Public Affairs, 2011. Kraay, Aart, and David McKenzie. “Policy Research Working Paper 6835.” Policy (2014). Dasgupta, Partha, and Debraj Ray. “Inequality as a determinant of malnutrition and unemployment: Theory.” The Economic Journal 96, no. 384 (1986): 1011-1034. Collier, Paul. The bottom billion: Why the poorest countries are failing and what can be done about it. Oxford University Press, USA, 2008. Rajan, Raghuram G., and Arvind Subramanian. “Aid and growth: What does the cross-country evidence really show?” The Review of economics and Statistics 90, no. 4 (2008): 643-665. This article was built on slides by Victoire Girard. 

Catarina Ribeiro 

The Tulip Mania: Insights into Speculative Behaviour and Market Dynamics

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Reading time: 6 minutes

Exploring Tulip Mania

The Tulip Mania of the 17th century in the Netherlands persists as an enigmatic chapter in financial history, characterized by a fervent obsession with tulip bulbs that escalated into a speculative frenzy of unprecedented proportions, often considered the first speculative bubble. Against the backdrop of the Dutch Golden Age, marked by economic prosperity and cultural flourishing, the saga of Tulip Mania unfolds as a complex interplay of socio-economic dynamics and speculative behavior. This research article aspires to dissect the phenomenon of Tulip Mania, examining its origins, the socio-economic landscape of the Dutch Republic, the mechanisms of tulip speculation, modern reinterpretations of the event, and its enduring significance.

Netherlands Economy at the 17th Century

In the 17th century, the Dutch Republic emerged as a formidable economic powerhouse, propelled by thriving trade routes facilitated by the Dutch East India Company. The Netherlands enjoyed unparalleled wealth and prosperity, powered by commercial ventures that span the world. Amsterdam, in particular, emerged as a bustling hub of finance and commerce, attracting merchants and investors from across Europe. The city’s stock exchange, established in 1602, facilitated the trading of shares in various enterprises, further fuelling economic growth.

Moreover, the Dutch were pioneers in industries such as shipbuilding, textiles, and banking, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. Their mastery of water management and land reclamation enabled the cultivation of vast agricultural lands, enhancing food production and bolstering the economy.

The Dutch Golden Age, as it came to be known, was characterized not only by economic prosperity but also by the flourishing of arts, sciences, and philosophy. The patronage of wealthy merchants and civic leaders fuelled a cultural renaissance, producing masterpieces by renowned painters like Rembrandt and Vermeer.

Tulip Mania: Insights and Analysis

The phenomenon of Tulip Mania traces its origins to the introduction of tulip bulbs from the Ottoman Empire to the Dutch Republic during the early 17th century. These bulbs, admired for their rich colors and intricate designs, were initially seen as exotic novelties. However, their fascination quickly spread among the Dutch upper class, igniting a growing fascination.

Picture 1: Tulips in Netherlands

What began as a mere curiosity for rare tulip varieties gradually transformed into a thriving speculative market. The escalating demand for these bulbs, coupled with the introduction of innovative trading methods such as futures contracts and options, contributed to the rapid expansion of tulip speculation. This combination of factors led to a frenzy of buying and selling, driving prices to unprecedented heights, and ultimately culminating in the infamous Tulip Mania.

By 1636, speculative fervor surrounding tulip bulbs had reached fever pitch, driven by a combination of factors including the novelty of tulips, their limited supply, and the allure of potential profits. Traders, both seasoned investors and novices alike, became increasingly caught up in the excitement, fuelling a frenzy of buying and selling.

The introduction of futures contracts revolutionized the tulip market, enabling traders to speculate on the future value of bulbs that had not yet bloomed. This innovation not only expanded the scope of tulip trading but also intensified speculation, as traders leveraged their positions in the hope of securing substantial profits.

Prices surged to unprecedented levels, with some rare tulip bulbs fetching exorbitant sums that far exceeded the value of even the most prestigious real estate properties. The rapid escalation of prices only served to attract more participants to the market, including individuals from all levels of society who were enticed by the prospect of quick riches.

However, the euphoria of Tulip Mania was short-lived. In February 1637, the market sentiment abruptly shifted, triggering a sudden and catastrophic collapse in tulip prices. This loss of confidence is believed to have been fuelled by various factors, including concerns about the sustainability of the speculative bubble and a realization of the inflated nature of tulip prices.

Graph 1: The Evolution of Tulip Price (Source: Genuine Impact)

The collapse of the tulip market served as a sobering lesson about the dangers of speculative excess and the inherent instability of asset bubbles. Nevertheless, Tulip Mania remains a compelling case study in financial history, offering valuable insights into the dynamics of speculative markets and the psychology of investor behaviour.

Tulip Mania: Contemporary Perspectives

Recent research has offered compelling challenges to conventional narratives surrounding Tulip Mania, providing nuanced insights into the socio-economic realities of the period. Anne Goldgar’s meticulous examination, in particular, has reshaped our understanding of Tulip Mania, emphasizing the limited scope of the speculative frenzy and its relatively contained economic repercussions.

Contrary to sensationalized portrayals of widespread financial ruin, Goldgar’s analysis suggests that Tulip Mania primarily affected a small segment of Dutch society. The resilience of the Dutch economy and the absence of widespread bankruptcy among speculators challenge simplistic interpretations of Tulip Mania as an economic catastrophe.

Picture 2: Anne Goldgar (historian specialized in seventeenth and eighteenth-century European history)

Furthermore, modern economists propose alternative explanations for the fluctuations in tulip prices. One aspect that economists highlight is the role of geopolitical events in influencing tulip prices. The Dutch Republic was a major player in international trade during the 17th century, and fluctuations in political relations with other countries could have ripple effects on the tulip market. For example, conflicts or alliances with tulip-producing regions could impact the supply chain, leading to price fluctuations.

Additionally, economists emphasize the natural volatility inherent in markets, especially those dealing with novel or exotic goods like tulips. The tulip trade was still relatively new during Tulip Mania, and market participants were navigating uncharted territory. As a result, price swings could occur due to factors such as changes in consumer preferences, variations in weather affecting bulb growth, or shifts in demand from domestic or international buyers.

By re-evaluating the historical context and economic realities of Tulip Mania, recent research prompts a more nuanced understanding of this episode in financial history, offering valuable insights into the complexities of Dutch economic expansion and cultural development during the 17th century.

Conclusion

The Dutch Tulip Mania of the 17th century serves as a cautionary tale about excessive speculation and societal fascination. Against a backdrop of economic prosperity and cultural refinement, tulip bulbs became incredibly popular in Dutch society, leading to an unprecedented speculative frenzy. However, the subsequent market crash showed how fragile speculative bubbles can be, highlighting the importance of being cautious and rational in financial decision-making.

Anne Goldgar’s research has provided valuable insights into Tulip Mania, revealing that it primarily affected a small segment of Dutch society, challenging the notion of widespread financial ruin. Economists also suggest that geopolitical events and market volatility played significant roles in the rise and fall of tulip prices, emphasizing the complexities of market dynamics. Despite occurring centuries ago, Tulip Mania remains relevant today, serving as a reminder to approach financial markets with prudence and awareness of the risks associated with speculative behavior.

Sources: History, Amsterdam Tulip Museum, Genuine Impact

Beatriz Gomes

Police brutality in Portugal 

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When you think of police brutality, your mind probably tends to think of the United States. Indeed, this topic has been put in the spotlight throughout the past decade and is being more and more publicly debated, especially in relation with the growth of the Black Lives Matter movement. Although they are vital, the talk against police brutality can give the impression that it is something that happens significantly more in the United States. This is inaccurate and stems from the fact that cases of it from the US are much more mediatized than ones from other countries. Accusations and cases of violence from the police, some of which accusations of racist violence, have been occurring for the past decades in Portugal. The police are essential in protecting the population and preventing crime. However, with any position of power can come abuse, which is why some of their actions can spark debate. 

How to navigate public protesting?  

Firstly, on a more general scale, the excessive use of force by the Portuguese police, specifically PSP and GNR, has been called out on multiple occasions. During protests, police intervention tends to stir up the public. For instance, in December of 2023, the non-profit association for sustainability “Academia Cidadã” gathered sixteen other associations related to the fight against climate change, to write an open letter, addressed to the Portuguese President and to the deputies of the Republican Assembly, denouncing the “repression of climate activists by the police”. In the letter, they asked for the cessation of the arbitrary detention of activists as well as of “intimidating tactics and physical violence” and even police repression inside universities, claiming that the activists were merely exercising their right to non-violent protesting. The young climate activists had caused moments of disruption throughout the end of the year, especially in Lisbon, by painting building facades, interrupting initiatives, hitting ministers with paint or cutting off streets in their protests against insufficient environmental action from the government. More than two dozen had already been detained. The authors of the letter argued that the acts of violence from the police were a “threat to the existence of democracy, freedom of speech and the right to protest”. The letter was posted on Academia Cidadã’s website and has received no answer from the president, although he had stated, after climate activists had hit Minister of Finances Fernando Medina with green paint, that these attacks were not efficient: “If the goal is to attack the Portuguese environmental policy, it is very ineffective”, said Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa to journalists, on the sidelines of the 25th anniversary Congress of Family Businesses on the 20th of October of 2023. Furthermore, the actions of climate activists tend to divide public opinion. Many civilians not only defend the need for police intervention but take action themselves. This was the case when protesters blocking the entry in Lisbon on Viaduto Duarte Pacheco on the 14th of December of 2023 by sitting on the road, were dragged away by some of the drivers before the arrival of the police. 

An International Angle on the police 

On a more official note, the Department of State of the United States highlighted in its 2022 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices the growth of complaints relative to the excessive use of force by the police in Portugal. The report states: “While the constitution and law prohibit torture and other cruel, degrading, or inhuman treatment or punishment, there were credible reports of excessive use of force by police and of mistreatment and other forms of abuse of prisoners by prison guards.” This observation is based on the Inspectorate General of Internal Administration (IGAI) that indicated 1.174 accusations of mistreatment and abuse by the police in 2021, including slaps, punches, and kicks to the body and head as well as beatings with batons. This number has grown during the past decade and continued to do so after the report: there were 772 accusations in 2017 and 1.436 in 2022, the highest number in a period of 6 years and 22,3% higher than in 2021.  

The European Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT), an organization from the European Council has also been addressing the topic of police brutality in Portugal for the past years. In 2016, Julia Kozma, attorney responsible for the delegation of the Committee that visited Portugal in 2016, claimed that the country was at the top of West European countries in terms of cases of police violence, also stating that Afro-descendent people were more at risk of this violence. The Committee called for an investigation on this topic by the Ministry of Internal Investigation (MAI), who, after being asked about the CPT’s report by the newspaper Publico, stated that “police training incorporates the priority given to human rights and firm opposition to any xenophobic or racist practices, contributing to the good evaluation of Portugal as an inclusive and tolerant country” and that “violations of the law are investigated by the security forces themselves, by IGAI and immediately transmitted to the Public Prosecutor’s Office”. Towards the end of 2020, Hugh Chetwynd, member of the CPT stated in an interview for newspaper Expresso that he considered that the issue of violence at the hands of police in the country is “deeper” than people think and that in a report from the Committee that gathered data from 2019 indicates that the mistreatment of civilians by police officers is a “reality” and not just a panoply of isolated incidents. Moreover, the report again states that a considerable number of the civilians that endured mistreatment from the police were foreign and, mostly, Afro-descendent. In December of 2023, the Committee published another report to highlight “once again” the necessity for Portuguese authorities to implement an efficient system to investigate mistreatment at the hands of police. However, in its reports, the CPT does not include quantitative data. 

Some perspective on mainstream cases 

Finally, a number of accusations of police brutality do stem from people of colour, many of which from peripheral neighbourhoods such as Cova da Moura, Quinta do Mocho, Quinta da Fonte, Quinta da Princesa and Bela Vista. Here are some examples: 

On the 5th of february of 2015, police arrested young Bruno Lopes during a random search operation after he allegedly threw a rock at their vehicle, witnesses denied this. Bruno’s neighbours later claimed in the trial that the arrest was done in a violent manner and that the police dispersed whoever was on the street with rubber bullets. Later, five young men, some of whom were directors of the Cultural Association Moinho da Juventude, went to the Alfragide police station to get information on Bruno’s arrest. One of the men, Celso Lopes, retells the events of that day in an interview with Fumaça linked below. According to him, while attempting to get information from the police right outside the station, they were cornered and beaten by a group of around 15 officers who proceeded to take them inside the station and assault them again. The men also said that the officers directed racist insults at them throughout the assaults. The group, including Bruno Lopes, was released 48 hours later: one of them had been shot twice in the leg with rubber bullets, two of them had broken teeth and all five of them were riddled with bruises. At first, after the events, newspapers headlines spoke of an attempt of “invasion of the police station”, painting the Amadora residents as the perpetrators of the assaults. However, 5 days later, the High Commission for Migration released a statement indicating that the events suggested an “eventual practice of acts of racial violence”. Some of the agents involved were suspended and the  Public Prosecution Service pressed charges on 18 PSP officers, followed by a trial. The agents were charged with slanderous denunciation, defamation, kidnapping, attacks on qualified physical integrity, torture, false testimony and falsification of documents, all aggravated by racial hatred. More than four years later, on May 20th, 2019, the panel of judges acquitted nine police officers, sentenced seven to suspended sentences (from two months to five years) and one to an effective sentence of one year and six months. It should be noted, however, that by these convictions, the Public Prosecutor’s Office had withdrawn the accusations of torture and racism. 

Another example is the ongoing case of Claudia Simões. On the 19th of January of 2020, forty-two year old Claudia Simões was riding a bus in Amadora with her 8 year old daughter when the driver allegedly called out the fact that the little girl did not have a bus pass. Although children under 12 are allowed to travel by bus without paying, the driver got out of the bus to approach a police officer when the bus reached Simões’ stop. According to Simões’ testimony as well as her partner who was present at the scene, the officer who was approached, Carlos Canha, proceeded to violently assault her, leaving her completely disfigured. The officer claims that Claudia Simões was being aggressive and that he responded accordingly. She was then arrested and put in a police car where she tells was assaulted again and subjected to racist insults while handcuffed. Before going to the station, she had to be taken to the hospital due to the seriousness of her injuries. Canha has also stated that Simões retained her injuries by resisting being handcuffed and by throwing herself on the floor after reaching the station. Another officer who was in the car denied this alleged fall and told that he escorted Simões out of the car and into the station himself. The case went to trial in the Tribunal of Sintra  almost four years later, at the end of 2023 and is still ongoing with the 6th session being held today (March 6th at 13h30). Carlos Canha is accused of three crimes of harm to qualified physical integrity, three of aggravated kidnapping, one of aggravated injury and one of abuse of power. Claudia Simões is also being charged of harm to qualified physical integrity for biting him which, she says was in self defence: “Se eu não mordesse o braço dele, eu morria” (“If I hadn’t bit him, I would have died”). The trial is open to the public. 

There are more examples of accusations of prejudicial violence, however, few cases end in convictions. Furthermore, the subject of police brutality is delicate and gives way to a lot of grey areas as most of the accusations of brutality are based on witness testimonies.  

Sources:  

Plataforma Gueto_Violência Policial e Racismo: O caso do Kuku (Teaser do Doc) 

Celso Lopes sobre como foi vítima de violência policial na Cova da Moura (Entrevista) 

https://expresso.pt/sociedade/2021-02-23-Os-maus-tratos-policiais-em-Portugal-sao-uma-preocupacao-seria-diz-membro-do-Comite-Europeu-para-a-Prevencao-da-Tortura

Carta aberta subscrita por 16 organizações repudia repressão policial contra ativistas climáticos
Direitos humanos. Departamento de Estado dos EUA destaca “relatos credíveis” de violência policial em Portugal

https://www.rtp.pt/noticias/mundo/violencia-policial-comite-europeu-pede-investigacoes-a-portugal_v1536444

Marta Nascimento

Movie Recommendations According to Your Favorite Books 

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Explore the cinematic translation of your favorite books, from page to screen, as we recommend two movies that align with their style and core content! 

George Orwell, 1984 – Children of Men and Snowpiecer 

For lovers of the 1984 novel, the movie Children of Men (2006) offers a dystopian vision of world chaos, exploring societal control and an upsetting perspective of the future, aligning itself with the novel’s core themes. Snowpiercer (2013) also questions the class struggles of a forcefully confined society and resonates with matters of oppressive regimes and resistance. 

Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice – Jane Eyre and Atonement 

If one is into period dramas, Jane Eyre (2011) and Atonement (2007) are nice suggestions. The intertwining themes of love and morality are a common aspect between all the pieces. Much like in Jane Austen’s novels, a vocal point of the films is their portrayal of a happy ending and its significance. 

Sally Rooney, Normal People – The Worst Person in The World and Before Sunrise 

The contemporary bestseller Normal People delves into the complexity of relationships, with recurrent themes as intimacy and growth. The Worst Person in the World (2021) and Before Sunrise (1995) are strongly suited to those who enjoyed the book. 

Gale Honeyman, Eleanor Oliphant is completely fine – Silver Linings Playbook and Lost in Translation 

For enthusiasts of Honeyman’s romance, Eleanor Oliphant is completely fine, which delves into mental health and unconventional connections, the movie Silver Linings Playbook (2012), is a striking movie choice for a cozy night in. Lost in Translation (2003) is another alternative which beautifully captures instances of loneliness and unexpectedly powerful connections, complementing the book’s themes of personal growth and the impact of human relationships. 

Jeff Vandermeer, Annihilation – Solaris and Blade Runner 

The mind-bending world of sci-fi classic, Solaris (1972) will tastefully suit the favoured characteristics of the 2014 novel Annihilation, which could also be associated with themes of self-destruction and the way one’s past shapes the present. A dive into the visually stunning landscapes of Blade Runner (1982) echoes the themes of identity and existential questioning inherent to the novel.  

Hanya Yanagihara, A Little Life – Aftersun and Blue Valentine 

A Little Life is considered by many one of the saddest contemporary pieces of literature. If in a mood for a good cry, Aftersun (2022) and Blue Valentine (2010) are a way to go. Aftersun dives into the memory lane of a father-daughter vacation, while he was struggling mentally. Blue Valentine depicts the impact of the past on relationships.   

Oscar Wilde, The Picture of Dorian Gray – Portrait of a Lady on Fire and The Prestige 

Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019) resembles The Picture of Dorian Gray through the great emphasis both pieces put into art and the thematic of the artist and the muse. On the other hand, The Prestige (2006) scrutinizes topics such as obsession and jealousy, also very much present in the novel. 

Joël Dicker, The Baltimore Boys – Dead Poets Society and Stand by Me 

The Dead Poets Society (1989) resonates with themes of self-discovery and the impact of literature, which are ever-present within the novel, with both culminating in a tragic aftermath. The movie Stand by Me (1986) is also an astounding watch for keen readers of the Swiss writer’s novels, as it focuses on the power of childhood bonds and characters’ journeys to accomplish self-actualization. 

Francisca Pereira

Madalena Zarco

Navigating Nuclear Dilemmas 

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The Unfolding Debate Amid Russia-Ukraine Tensions 

The nuclear weapons debate has seen a resurgence amid Russia-Ukraine tensions, with Vladimir Putin pressuring to test atomic bombs, ultimately heightening Western concerns. The international community, including the US, UK, France, and even China, has expressed concern and warned against the use of nuclear weapons in the conflict, and there has been a clear shift in Russia’s approach to nuclear deterrence.  

As these problems arise in the landscape of international security, the enduring debate on whether to develop nuclear weapons, and what protects the international status-quo, remains. 

International Relations Background 

In the relentless pursuit of military superiority, nations have historically engaged in continuous innovation to develop advanced weapons capable of overcoming adversaries during times of conflict. However, the advent of nuclear weapons marked a paradigm shift in warfare, distinguishing them from conventional tools of combat. As observed by Bernard Brodie, one of the first military theorists of the atomic age: 

“Thus far the chief purpose of our military establishment has been to win wars. From now on its chief purpose must be to avert them. It can have almost no other useful purpose”. 

This statement encapsulates the paradoxical nature at the heart of the nuclear revolution.  

Nuclear weapons as deterrence 

In the post-Cold War era, multiple nations have acquired nuclear capabilities. In this scenario, the concept of Mutual Assured Destruction (MAD) renders it challenging to justify or comprehend the meaningful purpose behind engaging in an all-encompassing nuclear conflict, or even a “limited” one. 

Mutual Assured Destruction 

In that case, if nuclear weapons are not useful as “instruments of war”, what is their purpose? The simple answer would be deterrence. In this hypothesis, states use the threat of possible nuclear retaliation to deter other states from attacking them.  

Nuclear Proliferation: More is better or worse? 

In his 1981 publication, “The Spread of Nuclear Weapons: More May Be Better”, political scientist and international relations scholar, Kenneth Waltz, argued that nuclear proliferation could foster peace and stability as a deterrent. He contended that possessing nuclear power would heighten a nation’s awareness of the catastrophic consequences of a nuclear war, prompting caution and responsibility among nuclear-armed states. Would the Bush administration have invaded Iraq, in 2003, if Saddam Hussein had even a small number of nuclear weapons? He asserted that the presence of nuclear weapons would have led the United States to reconsider its actions, given the risk of a retaliatory strike.  

Waltz also addresses a Western bias regarding nuclear-armed Iran or North Korea, challenging the perception that these nations would act irresponsibly. He cites China as a precedent: despite being deemed revolutionary in the 1950s and 1960s for acquiring nuclear weapons, China has maintained responsibility, refraining from their use. Today, it could hardly be defined as an “irresponsible state”, defying initial concerns. 

On the other hand, renowned scholar Scott Sagan, specialized in nuclear weapons policy and disarmament, contends that nuclear proliferation heightens global instability: “More will be worse”, emphasizing that new nuclear states lack robust organizational structures for secure weapon control. Sagan challenges Waltz, pointing out the unpredictability of leaders and governments acquiring nuclear arms, especially in states lacking stable, civilian-run governments, amplifying dangerous circumstances: nuclear weapons are controlled by “imperfect human beings in imperfect organisations”. 

He argues that deterrence depends on the state’s second strike capabilities, this is, the capabilities of that state to inflict unacceptable damage on an adversary, even after the adversary hits first with its best nuclear attack. Lastly, he also mentions the possibility of a nuclear accident, which increases with the nuclear proliferation: 

“Common biases, rigid routines, and parochial interests of military organizations will lead to deterrence failures and accidental uses of nuclear weapons despite national interests to the contrary.” 

Vladimir Putin’s Nuclear Rhetoric 

Vladimir Putin (Source: Financial Times) 

While Putin has dialled down on explicit nuclear threats, recent simulations of a massive retaliatory strike and other manoeuvres serve as reminders of Russia’s nuclear capabilities. Western analysts caution that despite toned-down rhetoric, the nuclear threat persists.  

Rather than overt threats, Russia has explored other ways to use its nuclear arsenal as a deterrent. This includes revoking the ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT), conducting tests on new missiles with potentially unlimited range, deploying tactical nuclear weapons to neighbouring Belarus, and suspending participation in the New Start Treaty. Podvig, a senior researcher at the UN Institute for Disarmament Research in Geneva, said: 

“There was an understanding that Russia won’t gain any friends by putting emphasis on its nuclear weapons, so the de-ratification of CTBT was a kind of compromise, if you will, between those who want a strong stick and those who realise it would be counterproductive.” 

Within Russia, there are differing views on the use of nuclear weapons, with this internal debate reflecting concerns about Russia appearing weak without a credible atomic threat. While some suggest that Russia might consider heightened nuclear containment as part of its overall strategy in the conflict, others advocate for pre-emptive nuclear strikes as a means to halt Western support for Ukraine, with a few figures within Russia’s propaganda machine going as far as suggesting extreme measures such as detonating a thermonuclear weapon in the atmosphere, amplifying nuclear rhetoric: “Less talk, more action”, asserted Dmitry Trenin, a prominent foreign policy academic who supports nuclear sabre-rattling as a strategy to “bring back fear” to Western capitals. 

Conclusion 

While nuclear weapons offer a stabilizing effect through deterrence, the prospect of other states obtaining these weapons raises concerns about potential escalation into devastating conflicts. While these weapons may reduce the likelihood of war, they also amplify the potential for unparalleled destruction.  

It is important to note the intricate dynamics involving nuclear weapons in the ongoing conflict and the potential impact on the geopolitical landscape, especially in Europe. The situation remains complex, and ongoing developments should be closely monitored to understand the evolving nature of the conflict and its broader implications.  

The ongoing discourse on nuclear proliferation and deterrence remains crucial, aided by insights from international relations to enhance our understanding of this complex issue. 

Sources: UN News; The Autralian; Financial Times; “Introduction to International Relations” Joseph Grieca, G.John Ikenberry, Michael Mastanduno 

Catarina Franco

A Summarised History of Jazz 

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Reading time: 5 minutes

While jazz became popular in the 1920s, its beginnings actually date back to the early 19th century! A bit before 1820, slaves would gather in the Congo Square, New Orleans, to play music. This was only possible in the state of Louisiana where the Code Noir, a rule book outlining the treatment of slaves, included a clause that allowed some slaves to have a day of rest.

The Congo Square 

Over time, New Orleans would become a “melting pot” of culture, partially due to slave trade: African Americans, descendants of slaves from the Caribbean, Creoles and European immigrants were part of the bustling population of the city. This diversity impacted the evolution of music: the blending of African and Caribbean music, slave songs, and church hymns was joined by marching band instruments, very popular during the Civil War, forming the genre known as ragtime. Then, spiritual music joined the mix, followed by the blues. This progressive build up led to the creation of jazz.  

The cornetist Buddy Bolden is often considered the first jazz musician: he assembled The Bolden Band, in 1895, that would play at dances and street parades. 

Jazz is an extremely unique and colourful genre: it embodies musical freedom. Indeed, some of its characteristics include improvisation, solos, and irregular rhythms spread over many subgenres such as modern and free jazz, bebop and swing. 

Ella Fitzgerald

Since jazz initially gained widespread popularity in the US and Europe in the 1920s, many people view this period as the beginning of the Jazz Age. The genre rose during the Roaring Twenties, a time of speakeasies in The Prohibition Era, flappers, and music. Artists and great voices like Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Count Basie and Ella Fitzgerald became famous almost overnight. Subsequently, despite losing its place at the top of the musical pyramid during the Great Depression, jazz has continued to echo throughout time, influencing pop culture, even as new styles and subgenres emerged in music.

Louis Armstrong

Unfortunately, the genre has become widely associated with background or “elevator” music, undermining its complexity and beauty, which is why it is important to spread its history. Jazz, with its extensive range of sounds, can truly captivate your senses and immerse you in an exquisite musical universe. So, grab your headphones and put on some Louis Armstrong, Chet Baker or Ella Fitzgerald! 

Sources: Jazzobserver, The History of Jazz by Ted Giogia

Marta Nascimento

Normal People, by Sally Rooney  

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Sally Rooney’s novel, Normal People, develops a raw and intense representation of human relationships and behaviour, navigating through the complexities of intimacy, morality, and desire. 

The plot revolves around two Irish teenagers, Connell and Marianne, who come from different social and economic backgrounds, yet find themselves entangled in a deep and complicated connection, as the narrative unfolds through different points of their lives. 

During high school, Connell and Marianne only exist on the periphery of each other’s worlds. Despite their shared academic excellence, their portraits are total opposites: Marianne is an outcast with a sharp wit and a semblance of a confident character, standing in contrast with Connell, who is popular and athletic, yet more reserved and self-conscious. What ends up bringing them closer is their economic positions, since Connell’s mum works as a maid for Marianne’s family. 

As they journey through university life, their roles in society reverse, affecting them individually and as a couple. Therefore, Marianne and Connell circle one another, straying toward other people and possibilities but always magnetically drawn back together. As we dig deeper into the fluctuating power dynamics in their relationship, concerns of class, power, and social dynamics arise, while the growth, flaws, and vulnerabilities of the characters are explored. 

Sally Rooney’s writing is incredibly effective, evasive, and direct (não é um bocado uma contradiction?), enabling readers to get inside the protagonists’ minds and understand their thoughts, feelings, and vulnerabilities. Also, the third-person narrative, alternating between Marianne and Connell’s perspectives, bridges the gap between their individual experiences and gives a more realistic representation of their lives. 

While reading, it becomes impossible not to feel drawn to the tension between the characters, leaving a perpetual curiosity about the outcome of their relationship. In this context, the story fosters an emotional connection between the reader and the character, as we face the struggles of two people trying to find their place in the world. 

In conclusion, Normal People encourages people to question the concept of normality, by exploring different characters and weird relationships, according to social norms. Ultimately, we are reminded that even seemingly “normal” people are multifaceted and marked by their own unique experiences. 

Catarina Fernandes

AI and the Job Market: is there Compatibility? 

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Reading time: 6 minutes

Artificial Intelligence, AI, has changed many aspects of our lives over the past few decades, with global economic and social repercussions. Even though companies have always sought efficiency, innovation, and competitive advantage, nowadays AI tools play a fundamental role in their strategies, from automating repetitive tasks to enabling data-driven decision-making. 

Job Market and Management Approaches 

Inevitably, evolution brings opportunities and challenges, and the need to redefine the nature of work arises. New technologies create both winners and losers in the job market, effectively changing the current occupation demand, requiring adaptability and the re-evaluation of the workers’ essential skills. 

Estimated net job creation due to AI, 2017-2037 (Source: PwC) 

As expected, there is a rising need for experts in a variety of sectors, especially the ones dedicated to AI development, data science, cybersecurity, and E-commerce, being  AI and machine learning specialists the fastest-growing job fields. The same happens with jobs that can difficultly be replaced by AI, namely within the health sector. However, in other cases—particularly in physical labour and services— technology is replacing labour rather than enhancing it. According to a McKinsey Global Institute study, by 2030, at least 14% of jobs in OECD countries will be easily automatable, forcing the workers to pursue a new career, while 32% could face substantial changes. 

The Positive Symbiotic Relationship between AI and Company Functionality 

Despite the threat that AI poses to jobs, there is also the potential for business to successfully integrate it into their operations to create a cooperative relationship between technology and human expertise, as machines excel at handling repetitive tasks and data analysis, while humans bring creativity, emotional intelligence, and complex problem-solving skills to the table. 

As a matter of fact, AI reduces human error and boosts operational efficiency by automating repetitive operations and processes, completing them faster and more accurately, thus allowing workers to concentrate on more strategic and value-added work. Indeed, the European Parliament estimated an increase of 11-37% in labour productivity related to AI by 2035. 

In the realm of logistics and supply chain management, AI optimizes operations by predicting demand, helping companies improve their supply chains and reduce costs. For example, in transportation, autonomous systems in driverless transport are reshaping logistics. Also, AI simplifies data analysis and customer service, improving productivity and cost-effectiveness levels. Through machine learning algorithms companies promptly assess trends and anticipate patterns in consumer behaviour to create more accurate strategic planning and enhance competitiveness. AI technologies further enable businesses to offer personalized experiences to their customers and instant support through chatbots, improving customer interactions and satisfaction. 

Additionally, AI is progressively making a pronounced appearance in the decision-making processes of managers and CEOs, from who these figures should hire or promote, to what the establishment of job evaluation standards.  

On another note, as companies deal with more complex cyber threats, AI has become a crucial asset in fortifying cybersecurity defenses. Algorithms recognize patterns, spot security lapses, and react instantly to online attacks. By taking a proactive stance when it comes to cybersecurity, businesses can better protect their data and maintain stakeholders’ trust. 

Machine learning, with its situation-specific adaptive capabilities, is unlocking new possibilities for controlling processes and predicting issues in production and utilization of resources. Thus, through advanced algorithms and data analysis, organizations can optimize resource usage, reduce waste, and implement eco-friendly practices.  

Historically, context-dependent learning processes posed significant challenges to automation due to a reliance on implicit knowledge and tasks lacking explicit rules of action. However, a paradigm shift is taking place: individuals are no longer just intelligent learning beings but are also assisted by AI, forming a symbiotic relationship that enhances human potential. 

AI’s Duality: a Boost to the Economy or a Destabilizer of the Job Market? 

The field of artificial intelligence is subject to cycles of intense interest – AI summers – and periods of skepticism and disappointment with its development – AI winters. Currently, the prolonged summer we are experiencing is characterized by significant funding and widespread adoption within the business world, with companies such as Google testing virtual try-ons that utilize their generative AI exemplifying how AI is reshaping operational structures, driving innovation, and providing new services.  

With this being the most preponderant summer yet, what does this mean for the economy? 

Many have grand expectations, with studies carried out by Goldman Sachs pointing out to the fact that “widespread AI adoption could eventually drive a 7% or almost $7trn increase in annual global GDP over a ten-year period.”, referring also to a three-percentage-point rise in annual labour-productivity growth in firms that adopt the technology, representing a huge uplift in income compounded over the years. In addition, a study published in 2021 by Tom Davidson of Open Philanthropy talks about a more than 10% chance of “explosive growth”, that being an increase of at least 30% in global output, sometime this century.  

Nevertheless, in tandem with the rise in the positive overview that AI may bring to the economy, concerns about job displacement and the future of many career paths persist, giving rise to an overall sense of uncertainty. In a recent publication, Tyna Eloundou of OpenAI has stated that “around 80% of the US workforce could have at least 10% of their work tasks affected by the introduction of LLMs [Large Language Models]”.  

Furthermore, The Economist’s coverage of the unpreparedness of employers for AI and Timnit Gebru’s advocacy for responsible AI development highlight the ethical considerations that should underpin the development of AI technologies. All in all, defining ethical boundaries in AI should involve transparency policies and accountability for decision-making within companies that inevitably adopt the tool, so as to ensure that AI is developed and used responsibly without perpetuating bias or harm.  

The future of the job market, therefore, requires a delicate balance between innovation and ethical considerations to foster a work environment that prioritizes both technological progress and human well-being. The most prevalent concern is the rapid adoption of AI eventually leading to the destruction of jobs at a pace surpassing their creation, as barriers to entry, particularly related to owning and generating vast amounts of data could potentially stifle competition and innovation. Thereby, the dual nature of AI, as both a source of optimism and anxiety, underscores the need for thoughtful consideration and strategic planning as businesses navigate this transformative technological landscape. 

Conclusion: the Future of the Job Market 

As we traverse this dynamic landscape, one central theme emerges: the future of employment relations hinges on achieving a harmonious coexistence between human ingenuity and the technological prowess of AI. The synergy between human skills and AI capabilities stands as the cornerstone for unlocking the full potential of this transformative partnership. 

There is also to say that, despite the ongoing debate, academic evidence on whether AI and industrial robots harm employment remains inconclusive. This uncertainty underscores the importance of continued research and vigilance in monitoring the impact of AI on the job market. 

It can be established that the transformative wave of AI in employment relations has the potential to be both an opportunity and a challenge. The pivotal point is to enhance transparency in AI development, coupled with accountability for its ethics. Striking this balance is crucial for fostering a job market that not only benefits businesses but also safeguards the well-being of employees. 

Sources: The Wall Street Journal, World Economic Forum, European Parliament, The Economist, Vogue Business, BBC, The New York Times, Nexford University, Griffiths, Paul & Nowshade, Mitt. 2019. “European Conference on the Impact of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics”. EM-Normandie Business School, Oxford, UK, White House, European Commission. 2022. “The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Future of Workforces in the European Union and the United States of America 

Madalena Zarco 

Catarina Fernandes 

James Baldwin: a powerful writer and a pillar of the Civil Rights Movement 

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Reading time: 6 minutes

James Baldwin was an American writer and civil rights activist best known for his semi-autobiographical novels and essays dealing with the topics of race, politics, and sexuality. He was not only an important pioneer of the Civil Rights Movement but also one of the first writers to openly discuss these issues in the deeply conservative mid-20th century American society. Baldwin successfully intertwined the complex themes of identity, race, sexuality, and oppression in his raw and honest portrayals of society and in his beautifully tragic pieces, bringing awareness to them while defending values that are crucial, even today.  

His life and relation with the American Civil Rights Movement 

James Baldwin was born in Harlem, New York, in 1924 where he grew up in a Catholic family and developed an interest in writing in high school. In 1948, he moved to France as a way to evade the racism and homophobia he faced in his birth country and fully explore his art. There, he was able to separate himself from the segregated American society and, from an outside perspective, better write about his experience in this culture. During this time, he wrote some of his most famous novels and essays, including Go Tell It on the Mountain – inspired in his own childhood, portraying a young black boy’s experience trying to find his identity in a religious family and racist country -, Giovanni’s Room  – that deals directly with homophobia as the protagonist struggles to accept himself and to commit to a passionate relationship -, Notes of a Native Son – Baldwin’s honest reflection on his relationship with his father among racial oppression – and The Fire Next Time – a powerful essay on race, power and justice that focuses specifically on the Civil Rights Movement.  

Baldwin became very active in the American Civil Rights Movement, often visiting America and becoming close friends with Martin Luther King Jr, Malcolm X, Nina Simone, among many other of its important figures. At this time, he branched out into other forms of expression, such as writing poetry and screenplays and giving speeches about his views on discrimination and freedom. While back in the United States, he worked as a college professor at the University of Massachusetts. 

Baldwin died at the age of 63 of stomach cancer, in his home in Saint Paul de Vence, France, on December 1st, 1987. He left unfinished a manuscript, Remember This House, which would later inspire the critically acclaimed 2016 Raoul Peck film, I Am Not Your Negro. 

Zooming into some of the themes explored in his works  

As previously mentioned, one of the main themes he explored in depth in a panoply of his work was racial discrimination. He not only wrote from personal experience, but was also able to convey from an objective point of view, developing constructed arguments in his essays. For instance, in Go Tell it on the Mountain, his semi-autobiographical novel, Baldwin writes from the perspective of a young black boy, based on himself, but also about the members of his family and their lives in a profoundly prejudicial country, whereas in The Fire Next Time, the author objectively exposes the successes and failures of the Civil Rights Movement and the relations of power and race in the United States. 

Furthermore, Baldwin was one of the first authors to write about homosexuality very openly. Indeed, in the 20th century, queer people were still extremely discriminated both legally and socially, having to hide in order not to suffer violent backlash. In this context, Baldwin’s novel Giovanni’s Room, published in 1956, was extremely controversial as it revolves around homosexuality and the stigma around it.  

Finally, all of the themes present in Baldwin’s work come back to the notion of identity. Indeed, one of the particularities of his writing style was his ability to put inner turmoils into words. Go Tell it on the Mountain and Giovanni’s room are both illustrations of this, as they depict characters who are torn and struggling to find themselves in a world where parts of them are rejected. These deeply personal, human and raw representations of issues like racism and homophobia add depth and impact to the political dimension of his essays. 

His impact in literature 

James Baldwin was a trailblazer, being one of the first to openly discuss the social and political issues of the time without apprehension of backlash. His works started discussions on topics that were often considered taboo and inspired other artists to use their voice to bring forth awareness. As such, he is largely considered a pillar of African-American literature, being one of the first African American artists to have such an impact and becoming a representative for marginalized communities.  

On top of this, he was a crucial actor in the Civil Rights Movement through his writing and speeches. This movement truly shook the status quo, and, without it, society would not have evolved the way it did. In his involvement with the movement, Baldwin took a pacifist standpoint on all the issues he discussed and rooted, above all, for justice, freedom and brotherhood: he took a clear stance against racial prejudice suffered by African American citizens, but also distanced himself from his friend Malcom X’s more radical ideas. Indeed, whereas the Nation of Islam was a separatist movement that deemed white people as immune to virtue, Baldwin stood for equality – “The dream, the sentiment is old (…) Only the color is new.”-, as he once wrote. Through his works, Baldwin impacted the artistic and intellectual traditions in American society and the simple but vital values he defended are still relevant in today’s society. 

Conclusion 

James Baldwin was one of a kind. He was not only a praised writer, with a lyrical, raw, and realistic style, but also a pioneer in African American culture and in the revolutionary Civil Rights Movement. His works had an immense impact on society at the time and represent an extremely valuable legacy.  

Sources  

  • Go Tell It on a Mountain, Giovanni’s room and The Fire Next Time, by James Baldwin, Discourse Magazine, National Museum of African American History and Culture , USA Today 

Marta Nascimento