Reducing War and Fear: Ethical Choices, Arms Industry, and Productivity for a Peaceful 2025

Reducing War and Fear: Ethical Choices, Arms Industry, and Productivity for a Peaceful 2025

The constant fear of war, driven by geopolitical tensions and the arms industry's profits, deeply affects productivity, creativity, and human well-being. Small families, overpopulation, and automation complicate global dynamics, while media amplifies fear. To reduce conflict, we must reject arms investments and prioritize ethical choices. A peaceful 2025 is possible through cooperation, not violence.

Are you also afraid of the world war that is approaching us? The world war that seriously stands in the way of a beautiful 2025 for many inhabitants of our "modern" world? When I listen to the stories that many people tell around me, this fear is the cause of many sleep problems in our fellow man. Lying awake often also means performing poorly during the day. In my opinion, the productivity of these people and the companies they work for is seriously jeopardized by this. In many cases, in my view, these less productive companies will have to switch back to the authoritarian leadership system.In this system, people are offered less space and creativity. This is partly because in the present time, especially in Europe, there is a shortage of manpower. This is mainly due to the "aging" population. Which is a direct result of the massacres that took place on this continent in the Second World War, and the birth restrictions that arose afterwards.

Do smaller families mean less aggression, and therefore less war?

In my opinion, the ever-shrinking families in the world could lead to less productivity (less labor) in the world, but automation and ICT facilities, according to many, should have eliminated this gap long ago, and or, filled it. As I wrote before, in my opinion being "human" is increasingly in danger. Fewer large families in parts of Europe, and overpopulation in other parts of our world. You know that I think everything is fine, except for the wars in the world. I just read in my newspaper on the internet: "Robot war comes eerily close due to battlefield Ukraine: "battle of Lypti could be a milestone in history." With the subtitle: "Ukraine has been acting as a bloody laboratory for new war techniques for almost three years, in which drones and even robot dogs can be used."

What idiot keeps inventing this new weapon of war for defense?

Why are we constantly frightened? Why do we have to arm ourselves? Why is there always a "threat of war" in the air? Who creates and publishes all these messages over and over again through the countless media, which then feast on them again, because we humans don't want to stand at the back of the queue with our fears? Is it still not dawning on all of you that with our fears we are only creating new and worse fears, and making the shareholders of the war industry ever richer and more powerful?

In fear, the attack remains the best defense, right?

Do you agree with me that many people choose to attack out of fear, and that is why they keep supplies of food and weapons ready? Isn't that fear something that is revived again and again? When things get peaceful in the world around us, suddenly all kinds of things are published that frighten many people or incite them to defense.  Again and again, in my opinion, the arms producers and shareholders in the arms industry are looking for areas in the world where people can be played off against each other in a "simple" way, and a war can be provoked, many "legal investors" like to listen to these people, and like to speculate on more weapons and more wars! I can't keep a quote from the Financial Investigator, from 04-06-2024: 'Geopolitical tensions infuse Dutch defense industry', the NOS reported on May 28, 2024. Many institutional investors usually excluded arms manufacturers from their sustainability policy. Has that changed since the moment aggressor Russia invaded Ukraine in early 2022?

Do you think long and hard about the probability of the answer to this question?

Read the article on the internet, google will probably translate it for you. And take a look around your family and/or circle of acquaintances. For me, it is now clear that there is only a very thin line between ethical and unethical within all of humanity. Many unethical people often know how to hide good things, and often don't eat a bite less, and don't feel shame in their actions. I think that we as ethical people should ensure that investing in the arms industry is banned, bet that the wars in our world will also decrease? If no more money is made from war, then in my opinion the wars will die out by themselves. There will always be strife, just read the history of the fifteenth century in Europe, when there was much more war. But then there were also many more countries on this continent, and people didn't know what we do know now, or are you still questioning your intelligence? Let's go together for an ever-developing peaceful world in 2025, The weapons not man, but man makes the weapons!

The Unsung Heroes: The Role of Volunteers in Modern Society

Discover the crucial role and impact of volunteers in society, the importance of their commitment, and the financial implications of volunteer work in the Netherlands and beyond. Explore the ethical considerations and how a organization can better support these unsung heroes.

Image: Sports Schotland

The Unsung Heroes: The Role and Impact of Volunteers in Modern Society

Volunteering is a noble endeavor embraced by countless individuals worldwide, each driven by unique motivations. Whether it's retired individuals seeking continued societal engagement, people desiring a sense of belonging, or those passionate about improving the lives of the elderly or assisting the homeless, the reasons for volunteering are as diverse as the volunteers themselves. Many contribute by helping at sports canteens or engaging in other community-beneficial activities.

Is Volunteering Truly Non-committal?

The notion that volunteering is non-committal is a misconception. In reality, much volunteer work comes with significant obligations. Volunteers are often expected to adhere to schedules and perform assigned tasks diligently. From my observations, many volunteers approach their roles with the seriousness and commitment akin to a profession. They prioritize punctuality and operate under the principle of "doing what you say and saying what you do." Their dedication is widely appreciated, although there are occasional complaints about overly zealous volunteers whose fervor might overwhelm the beneficiaries.

The Growing Importance of Volunteers in Europe

Recently, I have been intrigued by the evolving roles and responsibilities of volunteers in our society. It is apparent that people take pride in contributing to their communities and often embrace additional challenging or responsible tasks. This trend is reflected in the increasing number of volunteers who are taking on more critical and responsible roles. Have you noticed this phenomenon too?

The Netherlands: Leading in Volunteering

To my surprise, I discovered that the Netherlands leads the European Economic Community (EEC) in the number of volunteers. These volunteers are genuine, giving much and taking little in return. This raises a pertinent question: How many paid positions have been replaced by volunteer roles in the Netherlands and globally, and who benefits from this shift? It's important to distinguish between the beneficiaries of volunteer services and those managing or owning the associated organizations.

Financial Implications for Organizations

In many cultural and healthcare institutions, volunteers play crucial roles, often resulting in significant cost savings. However, these savings are sometimes reallocated to the salaries of voluntary management boards. It seems paradoxical that directors' salaries continue to rise when their workforce consists mainly of volunteers. This situation prompts a critical question: Is there a limit to the deployment of volunteers, and who determines this?

Are Volunteers the Modern-Day Slaves?

The comparison may seem harsh, but it prompts necessary reflection: Are volunteers being exploited? While they are not subjected to the harsh conditions of historical slavery, it is crucial to consider where to draw the line. Many foundations and charitable institutions, not just in the Netherlands but globally, have private limited companies in their supply chain. These companies often siphon off profits quietly, despite foundations being legally prohibited from making a profit. Directors of such foundations are often employed by profit-allowed entities, sometimes owned by the directors themselves, leading to ethical and financial concerns.

Financial Discrepancies Affecting the Needy

One cannot ignore the substantial financial resources bypassing those in dire need due to these financial structures. This issue deserves serious consideration and action. Financial malpractices at various levels, from municipal assistance programs to broader economic policies, often divert funds intended for the vulnerable. Ensuring proper allocation and utilization of these funds is paramount.

The Impact of Budget Deficits

Every election cycle, budget deficits dominate discussions, evoking sympathy for government officials. However, much of the missing money likely exists within the system, misallocated or misused. Consider everyday instances of traffic violations, benefit fraud, or financial scams. The pervasive culture of overstatement of responsibilities to justify higher earnings exacerbates the issue. Do we scrutinize these actions, or do we look the other way?

Conclusion: Reflecting on the Role and Treatment of Volunteers

Volunteers are indispensable to our society, providing essential services and support. However, it is crucial to address the financial and ethical issues surrounding volunteer work. Organizations must ensure fair treatment and proper acknowledgment of volunteers' contributions, avoiding exploitation. By reflecting on these issues, we can better appreciate and support the vital role volunteers play, ensuring that their efforts benefit society as intended.