ACTIVISM
Examining the essence of activism, linking:debate embraces the diverse forms it takes, including protests, petitions, artistic expressions and grassroots initiatives. While we refrain from taking a definitive stance on the efficacy or ethical implications of certain activist activities, we celebrate the creativity, commitment and significance of activism in driving social change.
Drawing examples from organisations like ‘Greenpeace’ and ‘PETA’, Indigenous groups’ agendas, youth-based movements like ‘Fridays for Future’, as well as historical movements such as the ‘Suffragette’ movement and campaigns like ‘Benetton’ AIDS, we acknowledge the varied impacts and complexities of activism.
linking:debate recognises the potential for negative sentiment or harms that arise from activism. Therefore, our primary endorsement is for activism in itself, not the method. Activism that at its core promotes positive change, shapes societal discourse and fosters meaningful progress. linking:debate advocates that it’s the job of society to stand up for causes and actively engage in advocacy efforts aimed at creating a more just and equitable world.
CITIZENSHIP
linking:debate underscores the essence of citizenship as encompassing the collective duties and expectations of individuals towards themselves, others and governing bodies. Central to this concept are the notions of rights and responsibilities, emphasising active participation and reciprocity within local communities, national contexts and the global sphere. linking:debate advocates for an inclusive approach to citizenship, wherein individuals are encouraged to engage meaningfully in civic life and uphold their responsibilities towards society and the planet. Furthermore, linking:debate seeks accountability and transparency from global governments and decision-makers, highlighting the importance of their role in fostering a cohesive and equitable global community. Through this lens, we seek to promote a sense of shared responsibility and collaborative action towards addressing the challenges faced by humanity on a planetary scale.
CLIMATE CHANGE
Recognising the interconnectedness of humanity and the planet, linking:debate underscores the need for collective discussion to address the multifaceted challenges of climate change. From individual to international levels, the impact of climate change permeates every aspect of society, necessitating behavioural and policy shifts on a global scale. Beyond human-centric perspectives, linking:debate advocates that a holistic approach is required, one that acknowledges the importance of multi-species collectiveness and biodiversity in preserving the planet’s health. linking:debate emphasises a transitional need from a mindset of exploitation to one of stewardship, underscoring our responsibility to nurture and protect the Earth for current and future generations. linking:debate advocates for a sustainable relationship between humanity and the natural world, ensuring the preservation of livelihoods, health and the very source of life itself.
HEALTH
Health is a foundation of civilisation, we advocate for global solidarity in addressing urgent challenges facing humanity and its well-being. Emphasising the imperative of equitable access to healthcare, linking:debate acknowledges the stark disparities in health support worldwide. It underscores the necessity of concerted global efforts to combat diseases and conditions that perpetuate ill health, transcending borders to foster a united front against these threats. By highlighting the systemic inequities in access to health facilities and resources, linking:debate aims to debate the inequalities that hamper progress and prosperity for individuals and communities worldwide.
HUMAN RIGHTS
linking:debate believes in the fundamental right of dignity and agency for every individual, regardless of age, gender, sexuality, ethnicity or religious belief. This is the provision of autonomy, mastery, self-determination, transparency and the freedom to express oneself and be heard. These rights extend to all people irrespective of their current location, place of residence, or migratory status.
linking:debate platforms the right to equitable treatment and the ability to participate in the formulation of rules and policies that affect one’s life. linking:debate maintains that every person is valued and empowered to live with dignity and respect.
SCHOLARSHIP
At its core, it embodies the accumulated wisdom and insights gleaned from generations of lived experiences and dedicated study. It acknowledges the continuous evolution of understanding about what it means to exist and thrive. Embracing diverse epistemological perspectives, scholarship in essence fosters a culture of lifelong learning and mutual intellectual growth. It champions knowledge exchange across disciplines, promoting collaboration and innovation through transdisciplinary approaches. Essentially, scholarship serves as a pursuit of knowledge, enriching our understanding of the world and empowering individuals to contribute meaningfully to society.
TECHNOLOGY
linking:debate recognises the pivotal role of technology as the cornerstone for systemic change, emphasising its potential for a positive impact while advocating for cautious and mindful implementation. Understanding both the benefits and pitfalls of technology, linking:debate seeks to foster informed discourse through examples that illustrate its capacity to both assist and impede progress. Amidst the pressing challenges of the anthropocene era, linking:debate seeks to pose crucial questions regarding technology’s role in addressing the intersecting issues whilst mitigating the proliferation of ego-driven digital distractions. Acknowledging the social impact of technology, linking:debate seeks to highlight widening disparities in access and promote socially beneficial technologies. Furthermore, linking:debate emphasises the importance of transparency in recognising the inherent dangers of unchecked technological power. For striving for utopian ideals, linking:debate advocates for a persistent reevaluation of technology utilisation, emphasising the need for responsible and inclusive technological advancement.