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Who Controls Intelligence? The Global Race for AI Dominance

Who Controls Intelligence? The Global Race for AI Dominance By Aabha Ghimire Artificial Intelligence (AI) Artificial intelligence (AI) is the ability of a digital computer or computer-controlled robot to perform tasks commonly associated with intelligent beings. The incorporation of AI into our daily lives is undeniable—it ranges from content creation to major autonomous systems. In today’s world, artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as the next great source of influence. Governments are investing billions in AI research, technology companies are competing to build the most advanced systems, and militaries are exploring AI-powered defense capabilities. Along with its advantages, it raises a new concern: is AI only empowering societal development, or is it creating a new intelligence monopoly that reshapes global power and control? Corporate Power and AI The advancement of AI is largely controlled by multi-billion-dollar companies constantly pushing for authority over this new tool....

Fine Print and Its Consequences

Fine Print and Its Consequences By Aabha Ghimire What is Fine Print? Fine print refers to text in a formal agreement that is printed in a smaller font than the rest of the document, often containing contract terms, conditions, and disclosures. Often referred to as small print or mouse print , these are agreements that users are asked to accept before using an app or online service. They often contain obscure details that dictate your legal rights, financial obligations, and what happens if things go wrong. Examples of information commonly found in fine print include: Limitations and Exclusions: Specific conditions under which a guarantee is voided, or items that are not eligible for a discount or promotion. Fees and Penalties: Hidden costs, recurring subscription charges, cancellation fees, or late-payment penalties. Deadlines: Exact expiration dates for offers, validity periods for coupons, or time limits for returning purchases. Liability Clauses: Terms that limit a company'...

The Intelligence Monopoly: How AI Is Rapidly Becoming the Defining Tool of Geopolitical, Corporate, and Military Control

  The Intelligence Monopoly: How AI Is Rapidly Becoming the Defining Tool of Geopolitical, Corporate, and Military Control by Vartika Chaudhari Introduction: The New Race for Power Throughout history, power has belonged to those who controlled the most valuable resource of their era. Empires fought over land, nations competed for oil, and corporations battled for data. Today, a new resource has emerged that may surpass them all: intelligence itself. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a technological innovation. It is becoming the engine that drives economic growth, military superiority, political influence, and corporate dominance. As AI systems grow more powerful, a critical question arises: What happens when intelligence becomes concentrated in the hands of a few governments, corporations, and military organizations? The answer may help define the future of humanity. The Rise of the Intelligence Economy For centuries, intelligence was limited by human capabilities. De...

The World's Most Powerful Weapon Doesn't Fire Bullets

  The World's Most Powerful Weapon Doesn't Fire Bullets By Mobina Shaikh "The real danger is not that computers will begin to think like humans, but that humans will begin to think like computers." — Sydney J. Harris A few decades ago, if someone had told us that wars could be influenced by algorithms, that billion-dollar companies would compete for data instead of oil, or that machines would one day help decide what we see, believe, and even create, it would have sounded like science fiction. Today, it sounds like the news. Artificial Intelligence has quietly moved beyond being just another technological advancement. It writes essays, diagnoses diseases, recommends what we watch, predicts what we buy, and increasingly influences decisions that affect millions of lives. What makes AI so powerful is not simply what it can do, but who controls it. For most of history, power belonged to those who controlled land, resources, and armies. In the twenty-first century, power ...

Are We Users or Products?

  Are We Users or Products? By Mobina Shaikh “If you are not paying for the product, then you are the product.” — Andrew Lewis Every day, millions of people click “I Agree” without reading a single word of what they are accepting. From social media platforms and shopping apps to games and productivity tools, terms and conditions have become a routine part of digital life—something quickly skipped in exchange for convenience. But behind that simple click lies a powerful legal agreement that quietly shapes how our data, privacy, and online behaviour are controlled. Most apps are legally required to provide policies explaining how user data is collected, stored, and used. These agreements often include information about location tracking, contact access, browsing activity, purchasing habits, and personal preferences. While these policies are intended to promote transparency, they are frequently written in lengthy and complex legal language that many users never fully read or understan...

Do Young People Really Know Their Rights?

  Do Young People Really Know Their Rights? By Mobina Shaikh “Rights are not just given; they must be known, understood, and exercised.” In a world where laws exist to protect individuals, a crucial question remains: how many young people are actually aware of the rights they hold? From the right to education and freedom of expression to protection from exploitation and discrimination, legal systems around the world recognize and safeguard the rights of young people. Yet awareness of these rights often remains limited. Many young individuals grow up within systems governed by laws they do not fully understand, leaving them unable to recognize when their rights are being protected—or when they are being violated. One of the clearest examples of this gap can be seen in education. In India, the Right to Education Act of 2009 guarantees free and compulsory education for children between the ages of six and fourteen. While the law has significantly increased school enrollment, many stud...

How Political Debates Influence Public Opinion

  How Political Debates Influence Public Opinion By Mobina Shaikh “The great enemy of truth is very often not the lie—deliberate, contrived, and dishonest—but the myth—persistent, persuasive, and unrealistic.” — John F. Kennedy In today's world, political debates often help shape these "myths"—powerful narratives that sound convincing and are repeated so frequently that they begin to feel like truth. As a result, debates influence how people think, what they believe, and how they engage with political issues. Political debates are often viewed as platforms where leaders exchange ideas and defend their positions. However, their influence extends far beyond discussion. They shape public opinion, influence voting behavior, and affect public trust in democratic institutions. Research shows that debates can significantly increase political awareness and accountability. A study conducted by the International Growth Centre found that election debates in several countries helped ...