LAST WEEK's WEBINAR. "AI's Development Remains Worrisome - Just Ask ChatGPT" Perry Kinkaide - host, interviews ChatGPT about the threats and opportunities envisioned by the development of artificial general intelligence (AGI). The 30-minute interview covers a range of topics including the sources of threats and the envisioned opportunities and options for mitigating the risks. Also addressed is the comparative risk of climate change and benefits of fusion energy. Viewer engagement provides additonal insights and concerns about whether AGI can be expected to be benign or a threat to humanity or the pathway to utopia. To access the YouTube recording of the webinar click here https://youtu.be/5gT67CaSQ_M
OPINION. The Elitism Myth: A Misguided Accusation Against Canadians
Recently, a disturbing narrative has surfaced, indiscriminately branding Canadians as elitist, racist, and privileged. This narrative, driven by generalizations and assumptions, wrongfully accuses Canadians of exhibiting traits typically linked with superiority and exclusion. It emboldens the alleged victims. Suddenly, labels are hurled: white, male, racist, homophobic, intelligent, wealthy, privileged, elite, successful, accomplished, oppressive. This verbal onslaught is more than a personal attack; it's a sweeping indictment of the entire nation's identity.
Central to this argument is the idea that Canadians, owing to their achievements, societal status, and colonial heritage, inherently cause others to feel inferior. The rhetoric is intense: Canadians are told to "just shut up, stand down, and admit you fit the profile," implicating them in various societal issues from racism to homophobia, and suggesting their success and privilege are gained at the expense of others.
However, this narrative is fundamentally flawed and lacks solid evidence. (The subject of Thursday's webinar featuring an interview of Matthew Lau who has researched social justice in the Canadian context.) It is an argument rooted in stereotypes and generalizations, not in a factual analysis or understanding of Canada's diverse population. Canadians are not a monolithic group; they come from a range of ethnicities, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds. To categorize such a diverse populace under a single negative label is not only inaccurate but also unfair.
Furthermore, equating success and achievement with elitism is an extreme simplification. Success in any field – academic, professional, or personal – does not automatically denote elitism or oppression. Many Canadians have worked hard, often overcoming substantial hurdles, to reach their goals. Their achievements are to be applauded, not disparaged.
In conclusion, while acknowledging and addressing privilege and inequality is important, it is equally crucial to steer clear of baseless generalizations. The claim of elitism against Canadians often ignores the nation's diversity and individual stories. It is essential to engage in discussions that recognize these complexities instead of resorting to unfounded accusations that are divisive, hateful, and antagonistic. - Editor@KEInetwork.net
WEBINAR
Accused As Guilty. A Big Social Inustice
4:00PM MST Thursday, December 14th, 2023
COPY https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82390691947
Matthew Lau is a Senior Fellow with the Aristotle Foundation. A financial analyst by trade, his writing covers a wide range of subjects including fiscal policy, economic theory, government regulation, and Canadian politics. His publications are widely distrubuted across Canada including the National Post, Troy Media, Calgary Herald, Toronto Sun. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree with a specialization in finance and economics from the University of Toronto, and is a CFA charterholder. To access a list of his publications including the recent (November 8, 2023) - "More Capitalism and Less Government that's how to reduce racism, visit HERE
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