American strikes in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen show resolve without escalating conflict. Philanthropists embrace a new approach of handing over cash and stepping aside. Cuteness becomes a serious subject of study and is explored in an art exhibition.
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Quick takeaways
A new model of philanthropy called No Strings Giving allows donors to make large donations to trusted organizations and let them decide how to spend the funds, bypassing bureaucratic processes and increasing the immediacy of impact.
Cuteness has transformed from a trivial concept to a serious subject of study, with fields like Cute Studies exploring the neurological and cultural aspects of cuteness, demonstrating its significance in art, fashion, and popular culture.
Deep dives
No Strings Giving: A New Approach to Philanthropy
In the world of philanthropy, there has been a shift towards a new model called No Strings Giving. Donors, like Mackenzie Scott, are simplifying the process by making large donations to trusted organizations and then allowing them to decide how to spend the funds. This approach bypasses the technocratic model that often slows down giving and stifles its impact. By outsourcing the management of funds and removing reporting requirements, donors can streamline the giving process and make a more immediate impact. Critics argue that this approach poses risks and lacks the necessary accountability, but supporters assert that it allows for urgent and flexible giving to address pressing issues.
The Rise of Cuteness and Its Influence on Culture
Cuteness has transitioned from being perceived as trivial or frivolous to becoming the subject of serious academic inquiry. The ubiquity of cute content, from adorable videos on social media to corporate branding, has captured public attention. Cute Studies is a field that delves into the impact and fascination with cuteness. Neuroscientists study how cute things affect the brain, while cultural researchers explore the role of cuteness in consumer culture. An exhibition at Somerset House examines the various aspects of cuteness in art, fashion, and popular culture. The exhibition highlights the societal appeal and significance of cuteness in modern society.
The Recent Retaliatory Strikes and the Complex Dynamics in the Middle East
The recent retaliatory strikes by the US in Iraq and Syria against Iranian-backed militias have further complicated the volatile situation in the Middle East. These strikes were a response to the deaths of American soldiers at an outpost in Jordan. The US targets both Iranian proxies and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. However, the strikes have limited impact in terms of killing high-level targets or significantly damaging these militias. The situation is intertwined with Israel's war in Gaza, and it highlights the ongoing tensions and conflicts between various factions in the region. The complexity of the situation presents challenges for the US in achieving its objectives while avoiding escalation and a wider war in the Middle East.
Dozens of air strikes in Iraq, Syria and Yemen were designed to show American resolve without themselves provoking a deeper conflict. We ask what happens next. Philanthropists are increasingly doing things differently: handing over the cash and getting out of the way (11:01). And cuteness has wriggled into every facet of culture—and along the way became a serious subject of study (18:47).
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