occasional reflections on culture & politics
New York isn't just a city; it's an emotional haven, transcending personal experiences. Even as a Berliner, its vibrant life, diverse culture, and iconic food create an undeniable pull. On this anniversary of 9/11, the city's resilience shines through, reminding us to embrace diversity and celebrate the life that New York embodies.
The post reflects on the Israel-Gaza conflict and the global protests surrounding it, emphasizing the need for moral clarity and historical awareness. It critiques simplistic narratives that equate both sides, arguing that Israel’s right to exist and defend itself must be acknowledged alongside Palestinian suffering. The analysis warns against ideological extremism and calls for a balanced, humane approach rooted in justice, empathy, and democratic values.
Drawing parallels with Babylon 5, the post reflects on political stagnation, moral fatigue, and the erosion of democratic ideals. It suggests that society is caught in a narrative of decline, where leadership falters and hope dims. Yet, it also hints at the possibility of renewal through vigilance, resistance, and storytelling.
Eighty-five years after Kristallnacht, the post reflects on the enduring lessons of that night of terror. It emphasizes the importance of historical memory in resisting antisemitism and authoritarianism today. The analysis warns against moral relativism and the normalization of hate, arguing that silence and indifference remain complicit. Remembering Kristallnacht is framed as a moral obligation to defend human dignity and democratic values in the face of rising extremism.
Accusations that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza are firmly rejected. The post argues that while civilian suffering is real and tragic, the term “genocide” misrepresents both intent and context. It distinguishes between military action and systematic extermination, warning that misuse of such terms undermines genuine human rights advocacy. The analysis calls for moral precision, historical awareness, and a commitment to truth in evaluating the conflict
The post refutes claims that Israel is a colonial or apartheid state, arguing that such labels distort history and ignore the region’s complex realities. It emphasizes Israel’s democratic structure, diverse population, and existential vulnerability. The analysis warns that misusing these terms undermines legitimate critique and fuels antisemitic narratives.
The post documents and condemns Hamas’s attack on Israel, emphasizing the brutality and ideological extremism behind it. It argues that the assault was not a spontaneous uprising but a calculated act of terror. The analysis calls for solidarity with victims and a rejection of narratives that justify or minimize such violence.
Russia’s war in Ukraine is framed as a campaign of terror with no legitimate strategic aims. The post argues that defeat is necessary to halt its imperial ambitions and restore global stability. It calls for sustained support and moral clarity in resisting authoritarian violence.
Russian public opinion is shaped by propaganda, fear, and historical trauma. The post explores how narratives of victimhood and imperial pride obscure moral responsibility. Understanding this mindset is key to countering authoritarianism and supporting democratic reform.
Opposing Israel’s existence under the guise of anti-Zionism is framed as a form of antisemitism. The post argues that denying Jewish self-determination while accepting it for other groups reflects a double standard. Criticism of Israeli policy is legitimate, but rejection of Israel’s right to exist crosses into bigotry.
Both Israelis and Palestinians have legitimate claims to the land. The post rejects historical absolutism and calls for pragmatic cooperation. A federal or shared governance model is proposed as an alternative to the two-state solution. Peace requires empathy, compromise, and local ownership of the process.
The Capitol riot was a shock, but not a collapse. Institutions held, dissent was protected, and the democratic process resumed. The post argues that the U.S. has survived worse and will endure—if it addresses the roots of discontent and recommits to democratic principles.
Erratic Attempts 