About me
Hi, I am JB, a politically minded student living in the UK with a keen interest in ideas. This extends from the abstract philosophical realm, all the way to the more physical realities of current affairs. In this polarised climate of intellectual discourse, it sometimes seems mandatory that one picks a side, and declares their allegiance to be a matter of morality rather than opinion. The other side being branded as the enemy not worthy of engaging with. This is what I seek to avoid; I believe that honest, open dialogue with those we disagree with is the essence of progress, and that no idea or position should be considered beyond the pale when it comes to debate. That said, like everyone I have my own particular beliefs and positions which will inform my work and views on different issues. In short, my politics is firmly libertarian, meaning I hold the government in perpetual suspicion, and would, given the chance, severely reduce its ability to impact the lives of those in this country. My philosophy, although more of a work in progress, leans in an empiricist direction, holding figures such as Aristotle and Locke in very high regard. In addition, my morality is heavily influenced by the – admittedly controversial – philosopher Ayn Rand, and her philosophy of objectivism. With these as my academic influences, I am an ardent proponent of individualism and the rights of human beings to live free from coercion.
This site
On this site you will find my thoughts, perspectives, and opinions on a wide variety of topics. Some articles will tackle current, and developing issues, while some will be my take on long standing problems of philosophy and politics.