The Commoner

Author: thecomm0ner

Experience Economy: Monetizing Your Skills & Hobbies With Sharing Economy Platforms

 Biker delivering in the neighborhood. Source: VGAJIC / GETTY IMAGES  In recent years, the concept of the “experience economy” has gained significant traction, offering individuals new opportunities to monetize their skills and hobbies through sharing economy platforms like Airbnb Experiences and TaskRabbit. These platforms connect service providers with customers seeking unique experiences or specific services, […]

Big Tech Titans: Building Empires Or Blocking Innovation?

Big Tech Monopolies Source: Rob Dobi, MIT Sloan School We all know them – the tech giants that have woven themselves into the fabric of our daily lives. Google, Apple, Amazon, Facebook – these companies have revolutionized communication, commerce, and entertainment. But with such immense power comes a crucial question: are Big Tech monopolies the […]

The People’s Princess: Princess Diana Ending HIV Stigma, One Hug At A Time

Princess Diana Offers a Hand of Hope Source: Elle.com As the world marks World AIDS Vaccine Day on May 18th, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on the remarkable legacy of Princess Diana, whose compassion and advocacy continue to inspire us in the ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS. A World Grappling with Fear and Stigma In […]

Fiery Skies: How To Survive India’s Deadly Heatwaves

A policeman drinks water on a hot summer day, in Lucknow. Source: PTI As the scorching summer sun bears down on India, heatwaves have become a significant concern, affecting millions of people across the country. Dr. Krishna AchutaRao, Professor and Dean, Centre for Atmospheric Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, says, “The widespread, long-lasting, and […]

The Dark Side Of Wellness Influencers: Unregulated Advice & Misinformation

Misinformation Warning Chat Speech Bubble Source: Getty Images In the digital age, social media has transformed how people access health and wellness information. Wellness influencers, with their curated images of health, fitness, and vitality, have gained immense popularity, wielding significant influence over public health behaviors and beliefs. However, behind the veneer of glowing skin and […]

Medical Marijuana: Debating Legalization & Access

Cannabis Plants Grow Inside A Controlled Environment Source: Konstantinos Tsakalidis/Bloomberg The legalization of medical marijuana is a topic that stirs strong emotions among doctors, scientists, researchers, policymakers, and the public. In India, this debate has been ongoing for years, with various legal, medical, and social implications. Historical Use of Cannabis in India This painting dates from […]

The Science Behind Meditation

Meditation, once confined to spiritual retreats and monasteries, has become a global phenomenon practiced by millions. From Silicon Valley executives to school children, people are turning to meditation to find calm and clarity in a chaotic world. As its popularity grows, so does scientific interest in understanding how meditation affects the mind and body. The […]

The Politics Of International Aid: Helping Hand Or Hidden Agenda?

Introduction International aid has long been a cornerstone of global development efforts, aimed at providing financial and technical assistance to countries in need. While often framed as altruistic, the politics of international aid reveal a complex interplay of strategic, economic, and political motivations behind these contributions. Historical Context Cold War Era During the Cold War, […]

Borrowing Or Belittling? Navigating The Tricky Terrain Of Cultural Appropriation VS. Cultural Exchange

From rocking a dreamcatcher at Coachella to sporting a bindi at a music festival, incorporating elements from other cultures into our daily lives is more common than ever. But when does appreciation turn into appropriation? This line can be blurry, but understanding the key differences is crucial for fostering genuine cultural exchange and avoiding disrespect. […]

Freedom Of Speech VS. Hate Speech: Where Should The Line Be Drawn Globally?

The clash of ideas in a hyper-connected world is no longer a theoretical debate, but a critical issue shaping our societies, argues legal scholar Danielle Keats. With the internet amplifying voices and erasing borders, the question becomes even more urgent: how do we protect free speech, a cornerstone of democracy, while preventing words from becoming […]