While much of the world wrestles with what looks like a binary choice between the relentless march of globalisation and the regressive reflex of nationalism, we may have missed a third option. Localism, writes Kevin Albertson, can bring out the best in us. The right funding and policy choices could build economies where people have as big a stake as the owners of international capital.
Elsewhere, catch up with our experts as they explore the submerged history of Micronesia, the royal power struggle in Saudi Arabia, and the rise of vigilante security services in Nigeria.
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Kevin Albertson, Manchester Metropolitan University
Putting money into the hands of local communities will be a more useful antidote to the whims of world capitalism.
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Environment + Energy
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Patrick D. Nunn, University of the Sunshine Coast
In1850, the Micronesian island of Nahlapenlohd was the scene of Pohnpei state's first battle involving cannons and muskets. Less than two centuries later, it has sunk beneath the waves.
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Health + Medicine
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Stephen Ojiambo Wandera, Makerere University
Uganda's primary healthcare system needs to be strengthened to provide long term care for older people with chronic conditions.
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Politics + Society
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Ben Rich, Curtin University
The latest arrests of princes, ministers and military officials in Saudi Arabia might be in the name of anti-corruption but it also serves to bolster the Saudi royal family's power.
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Leighann Spencer, Charles Sturt University
Inefficient policing in Nigeria has forced many communities to rely on vigilante groups for security. Despite using force and violence, many groups even have support from authorities.
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Balawyn Jones, University of Melbourne
Australian and Indonesian women's rights advocates should explore opportunities for grassroots collaboration to learn from each other in combating domestic violence.
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Science + Technology
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Andrea Saltelli, University of Bergen
We are observing two new phenomena. On one hand doubt is shed on the quality of entire scientific fields or sub-fields. On the other this doubt is played out in the open, in the media and blogosphere.
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Marc-Antoine Fardin, Université Paris Diderot – USPC
Ig Nobels reward research that first makes you laugh and then makes you think. Investigating the internet meme of fluid felines fits the bill – and adds to the physics field of rheology.
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