Our hearts mourn for the tragic suffering undergone by the people of Gaza and Lebanon. Apocalyptic scenes emerge on a constant basis. These are truly sad times that challenge our humanity. How could such dystopian acts be unfolding in front of our eyes? This is a question many of us struggle with. We are a complicated species. We see good and evil juxtaposed to each … Continue reading The puzzle of our humanity
In the grand tapestry of the universe, every entity possesses a raison d’être, a reason for existing that connects it to a higher purpose. This raison d’etre is the guiding force that bestows direction and harmony upon the entity’s journey through existence. However, a profound challenge arises when there exists a misalignment between the raison d’être as envisioned by the natural order and its interpretation … Continue reading The raison d’être of the republic
“It seems to often do more harm than good to live in resentment and disdain for the world around us. The world we find ourselves in, its past and present, its people, and the rise and fall of its cultures and practices are all the way they are, they are not the way we personally want them to be. When we resist the reality of … Continue reading Amor Fati
Back when I was a kid, a seemingly trivial moment spurred my curiosity to try and understand the driving forces behind humanity. Attending a larger family gathering in Lebanon, I found myself unwittingly caught in the crossfire of a heated dispute between two friends. The two adults debated the state of the Syrian mandate over Lebanon, which had begun since the Taef Agreement in 1989. … Continue reading My quest for universal truths
The theory asserting the superiority of secular political orders over religious ones is a prominent feature within modernist perspectives in the field of sociology. It posits that, over the past five centuries, nations governed by secular systems have exhibited a consistent pattern of greater wealth, prosperity, and social stability. While the data does reveal a correlation between secular governance and societal well-being, the precise mechanisms … Continue reading Are secular orders superior to religious orders?
Introduction: The fallacy of oversimplification occurs when we attempt to render a complex concept or situation more manageable by glossing over pertinent intricacies. While oversimplification is often a necessary cognitive tool, it should be wielded judiciously to ensure a nuanced understanding of reality. This article explores the delicate balance between simplification and complexity in our thought processes, delving into the evolutionary underpinnings of our penchant … Continue reading The art of simplification: balancing complexity and clarity
Humans possess an innate drive for self-preservation, rooted in evolutionary pressures. This drive compels them to invest their energy and resources in pursuits they deem beneficial. Although people define their objectives differently, achieving these goals requires the ability to exercise power. Power, the capacity to shape life outcomes in one’s favor, is not inherently good or bad; its qualities are determined by intent and results. … Continue reading The laws of power
Once upon a time back in 2014, I was visiting New York City and took a taxi ride to go watch a football game.
That same day, a Western coalition of states was threatening to invade Syria following the news of the use of chemical attacks by the regime.
The Greek driver was discussing the situation with me. “It’s all about the power”, he claimed.
What kind of insight could this wise descendant of the great military philosopher Thucydides hold about human nature and conflict? How could humans, the most sophisticated and civilized species on earth, simultaneously hold the ability to participate in the most brutal forms of violence on the planet? Continue reading Why politics always seems so power-centric
Cedars Philosophy extends heartfelt condolences and compassion to all those affected by tragic losses in the human community. We hold firm to the principle of a pacifist universal order, promoting equality among all individuals. We staunchly support the right of every person to safeguard their own lives and pursue self-determination, recognizing self-preservation as a fundamental law of nature. In our ethos, peaceful conflict resolution is … Continue reading Our approach to peace, violence and freedom
Philosophy: In a broad sense, philosophy is the activity people undertake when they seek to understand fundamental truths about themselves, the world they live in and all relationships. It constitutes a systematized, logical, and methodical consideration of reality as a whole and as the combination of individual parts. Our philosophy can best be described as a modern and syncretic philosophy, borrowing from all great philosophies, … Continue reading Our Founding Values
