Economic Alternatives: Market Systems Without Capitalism
Designing a Non-Capitalist Market Economy
Yes, it is possible to imagine a market economy that is not capitalist, although implementing it in practice poses a complex challenge. To answer this properly, it is important to distinguish between market economy and capitalism—terms often confused but not synonymous.
Market Economy vs. Capitalism: Key Distinctions
- Market Economy: Based on the free interaction between supply and demand, where prices are set by the market and economic agents operate with
Participatory vs. Pluralistic Democratic Models
The Participatory Democratic Model
The basic principle of the modern reinterpretation of the participatory democratic model is that defining democracy solely around the protection of individual interests is insufficient. This idea must be balanced with the need for public participation. Such participation serves to ensure collective self-government and succeeds in creating a citizenry that is informed and committed to the public good. Collective deliberation on public affairs and civic self-government
Read MoreLanguage Learning Strategies: Techniques for Mastery
Direct Language Learning Strategies
I. Memory Strategies
A. Creating Mental Linkages
- Grouping (LR)
- Associating/Elaborating (LR)
- Placing new words into a context (A)
B. Applying Images and Sounds
- Using Imagery (LR)
- Semantic Mapping (LR)
- Using Keywords (LR)
- Representing Sounds in Memory (LRS)
C. Reviewing Well
- Structured Reviewing (A)
D. Employing Action
- Using physical response or sensation (LR)
- Using mechanical techniques (LRW)
II. Cognitive Strategies
A. Practicing
- Repeating (A)
- Formally practicing with sounds and
India’s Five-Year Plans: Economic Growth & Development
Objectives of Five-Year Plans
a. Growth or Increase in GDP
William Blake: Visionary Poet, Artist, and Engraver
William Blake: Poet, Artist, and Visionary
William Blake (born Nov. 28, 1757, London, Eng.—died Aug. 12, 1827, London) was an English engraver, artist, poet, and visionary.
Early Life and Divine Inspiration
Blake was born over his father’s modest hosiery shop at 28 Broad Street, Golden Square, London. His life and work were profoundly influenced by his spiritual beliefs.
In 1802, Blake wrote to his patron William Hayley, “I am under the direction of Messengers from Heaven Daily & Nightly.”
Read MoreCatholic Social Teaching: Foundations, History, and Application
What is Catholic Social Teaching (CST)?
Catholic Social Teaching (CST) is a set of reflections in modern times embracing different aspects of social life. It emerged in 1891 with the encyclical Rerum Novarum by Pope Leo XIII. It is a teaching also addressed to non-believers.
Doctrine and Texts
CST has two realities:
- Doctrine: The set of teachings that the Church reflects upon.
- Texts: Written documents that religious institutions create to spread the Word (the Gospel and Church teachings).
Sources of Catholic
Read MoreBiotechnology Fundamentals: Genetics, Recombinant DNA, and Therapeutics
Biotechnology: Definitions and Core Concepts
Definition: Biotechnology uses living organisms or their products to solve problems or create useful items.
Historical and Modern Techniques
Historical Uses
- Fermentation
- Selective breeding
- Antibiotics
Modern Techniques
- Gene cloning
- Genetic engineering
- Recombinant DNA
- CRISPR-Cas (Gene Editing)
- Synthetic genomes
Disciplines Involved
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Computer science and Bioinformatics
- Engineering
Applications of Biotechnology
- Disease-resistant crops
- Golden
Quality Management Fundamentals: Juran’s Spheres and Deming’s 14 Points
Foundational Concepts in Quality Management
Defining Quality
Quality is the totality of features and characteristics of a product or service that bears on its ability to satisfy stated or implied needs.
Approaches to Quality Definition
- User-Based Approach: Related to users defining the features and attributes they consider important.
- Manufacturing-Based Approach: Relates to meeting engineering specifications in order to meet quality standards. This is generally the most comfortable definition for engineers
Canadian Retirement Planning: RRSP, CPP, OAS, and Tax Rules
RRSP Contribution Rules and Limits
Calculating the RRSP Limit
The RRSP Limit is calculated as: Lesser of (18% of earned income, RRSP dollar limit) minus Pension Adjustment (PA) plus Unused RRSP Room.
The RRSP Dollar Limit for 2023 is $30,780.
Earned Income vs. Excluded Income
Earned Income includes:
- Employment income
- Net business income
- Net rental income
- Taxable alimony
- CPP disability benefits
Excluded Income includes:
- Investment income
- Pension income
- Severance pay
Pension Adjustment (PA)
The Pension Adjustment
Read MoreFoundations and Theories of Public International Law
History of International Law
Origins of International Law
International law does not exist in a vacuum – shaped by historical context and key events.
Early interactions between communities (trade, war) created customary rules.
Ancient traces: Mesopotamia, Egypt, India, China, Greece.
Foundational Thinkers (15th–17th C.)
Francisco de Vitoria – Indigenous peoples’ inherent sovereignty and property rights.
Francisco Suarez – Jus gentium (law of nations); right to rebellion.
Alberico Gentili – Secularized