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FLOREAT

04. EDITORIAL

10. OUTSIDE THE BINARY

AN INTRODUCTION FROM THE TEAM TO THE

ANNA HULL DISCUSSES THE DAMAGING EFFECTS OF

SECOND EDITION OF FLOREAT MAGAZINE

SOCIETY'S MENTALITY TOWARDS SEX AND GENDER

06. INTELLECTUAL POLITICAL DISCOURSE IS DYING

14. GEN Z: A GENERATION OF OPPORTUNITY

SAMI HAROON ASKS WHAT THIS SAYS FOR

THRIVE IN A NATIONAL LOCKDOWN

DEMOCRACY AS WE KNOW IT

18.

HARRY BEARD (OB) ON WAYS TO SURVIVE AND

YEAR TO DATE MARKET RECAP 'Floreat' magazine created by Bedford School boys Photographs by Bedford School or sourced from Unsplash.com Published by Bedford School. March 2021.

JAMES CUTLER LOOKS BACK ON A TURBULENT 2020 IN THE MARKETS FLOREAT

24. THE ORIGINS OF POLITICS ALFRED WILLCOCKS PROVIDES INSIGHTS INTO THE SIMILARITIES BETWEEN MODERN DAY AND ANTIQUITY LEARNED FROM AN UNDERSTANDING OF THE ORIGINS OF POLITICS

26. HOW MUCH IS YOUR LIFE WORTH? OSCAR CALVERT ON THE VALUE OF A STATISTICAL LIFE IN THE CONTEXT OF A NATIONAL LOCKDOWN

28. THE DANGEROUS GROWTH OF SNOWFLAKISM

34. THE END OF A GOLDEN ERA KARISSA SINGH LOOKS AT THE DECLINE OF BRITAIN'S RELATIONSHIP WITH CHINA

BEN BARNES WARNS OF THE SPECTRE OF SNOW-

38. A CASE AGAINST LOCKDOWN

FLAKISM, HAUNTING SOCIETY TODAY

ORLANDO WILLIAMS ARGUES THE CASE AGAINST A

32. TO ASSUME MAKES AN A** OF YOU AND ME

NATIONAL LOCKDOWN

40. PHARMA-FIDDLE

DAVID ADEYEMI ON DISCRIMINATION FACED BY

OLLY BLAKEMORE WRITES ABOUT HOW

BLACK BARRISTER ALEXANDRA WILSON

PHARMACEUTICAL COMPANIES ARE EXPLOITING THE OUTDATED PATENT SYSTEM TO MAXIMISE PROFITS

44. WHY CAN THE GOVERNMENT TAKE AWAY YOUR FREEDOM? KRISH NAIR ON THE RISE OF ANTI-LOCKDOWN PROTESTS

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E DIT OR IA L It would be fair to say that 2020 was a year unlike

that in the first quarter the GDP will contract (-4%) – miti-

any other. It was a year of unprecendented events that

gating gains made in the fourth quarter of 2020. But

have affected each and every one of us. The most obvious

with an expected rise of 2% in CPI inflation by spring, due

‘event’, being COVID-19, is still tearing through the world

to VAT cuts extended in Rishi Sunak’s budget, growth

affecting everyone – proving our equality, whether or not

is looking likely.

we choose to believe it. The Black Lives Matter movement

Whilst the economy is recovering and the pande-

brought immense awareness to the ongoing racism that

mic is (hopefully) nearing an end, we cannot forget those

plagues our societies and despite the life-threatening

who have lost their lives: at the time of writing, the num-

virus that we have all heard so much about, millions took

ber of UK deaths is upwards of 125,000. A death extre-

to the streets in poignant peaceful protests for equality;

mely close to our community’s heart is that of Captain

typing that now feels ironic, considering we are as equal

Sir Tom Moore. Captain Sir Tom, grandfather of Benjie

as the world has ever been, yet there is still so much that

Ingram-Moore, gave hope, not only to our nation but

needs to be said and done before we can claim true

to the wider world. He also gave us all something to

equality. In the midst of this, we have gone through the

smile about during the pandemic – something hard to

worst recession since records began. Nevertheless, we

do otherwise. I will say, therefore, with confidence that

are fighting our way out: our economy grew by (+15%) in

Captain Tom’s legacy will, rightly so, live on for a very long

the third quarter of 2020, (+4%) in the fourth quarter of

time and continue to inspire millions around the globe.

2020, but the MPC predict in their February 2021 report

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There have been other things to celebrate from the

to lockdown, the future looks to be interesting and exci-

worldwide lockdowns (words I never thought I’d write)

ting. I think I speak on the behalf of us all in saying that

– the effect on climate change, for the better, has been

we need a summer off, a summer to relax and re-esta-

monumentally important, for example. Thanks to the

blish our normal routines, ending 2020, the beginning

reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from cars, car-

of 2021 and seeing off the coronavirus for good.

bon levels have dropped significantly and whilst we

I am pleased now, to welcome you to the second

are still on the brink of no return from the damage we

issue of Floreat; whilst apologising for the long period

have caused our environment, the Great Barrier Reef has

of time it has taken to be released since the last edition.

made a visible recovery. That being said, the Met Office

Some of the articles therefore may already seem slightly

announced in late 2020 that negative temperature days

dated, but hopefully have relevance nonetheless. We

could soon be a thing of the past in the UK. Only time

have worked hard putting this magazine together and

will tell how the easing of lockdowns and the return of

are delighted to say that we have taken submissions

air travel will effect the environment.

both from Bedford Girls’ School, who have two articles

If 2020 brought us one thing, it was excitement. In

in this issue, and Harry Beard OB, (13-18), on his company,

November we saw the fiercely contested US Presidential

Prospect 100, and working with the world’s top innova-

Election come to its conclusion with Joe Biden becoming

ters. With articles on subjects ranging from gender and

the 46th President of the United States, despite Donald

mental health to political discourse, and including an

Trump faring much better than the polls suggested he

extensive summary of the 2020 economic year through

might. Brexit also came to its conclusion, albeit the tran-

to an interesting case against lockdowns, hopefully there

sition period ended and a deal was struck between the

is something for all.

EU and the UK; debates and answers to how Brexit will

And f inally, in the words of Captain Sir Tom,

end however are still being discussed and will be, I’m

"Tomorrow Will Be A Good Day". I hope you enjoy this

sure, for some time. Either way, with the summer loo-

issue of Floreat.

ming and Boris Johnson setting out an ‘irreversible’ end

HARRY HINE, ARUN NANDA AND GABRIEL DAVIS

FLOREAT SCHOLA BEDFORDIENSIS

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PHOTO BY MARKUS SPISKE ON UNSPLASH

INTELLECTUAL POLITICAL DISCOURSE IS DYING. BUT WHAT DOES THIS SAY FOR DEMOCRACY? BY SAMI HAROON

"Will you just shut up, man?" "I was kidding on that." "Do you have any idea what this clown is doing?" "Don’t ever use the word smart with me." These exchanges come not merely as the result of infantile playground argument, but as the manifestation of a political discourse arena in bedlam. Over the last few weeks we have witnessed the horrors of poor political discourse, with two US presidential election debates. Irrespective of one’s political alignment, it is surely a matter of fact, or at the very least, consensus, that both candidates displayed an ability worryingly underqualified for the role of President of the United States; albeit to different extents. This position, POTUS, has long been coveted as being the most powerful on the planet. However, it is not only the USA who is bereft of intellectual political discourse. If one were to traverse

so-called ‘Overton window’ - if it still exists, that is. In addition, far-right movements have been gaining traction in traditionally liberal democracies, such as the rise in popularity of Marine Le-Pen’s ‘National Rally’, in France - formerly known as the ‘National Front’. These political figures often desire the suppression of voter and media freedoms, as seen with India’s Prime Minister Modi, and his military lockdown of the Kashmir region since 5 August 2019. The effects of this political imbroglio are devastating for democracy. In part, this is because political debate has become significantly less important over time, in the eyes of the electorate. So much so that a poll by Monmouth University showed that just 3% of those surveyed (US voters) expressed that they were ‘very likely to hear something that will impact their eventual vote choice.’ Furthermore, Pew Research reports that the percentage of voters who made their mind up after, or during, a debate decreased by 7%, from 00’ to 16’.

the world political scene, they could easily discern the

The growth in appeal to specific majority groups,

rise of populism and authoritarianism trans-natio-

in unified opposition to a particular minority group,

nally. Russia, Brazil and India all attest for this, and it

risks undermining democracy. Whether the appeal

would appear that Antarctica remains the only con-

is to the poor against the rich; the majority religion

tinent free from the extremes and polarities of the

against the minority; or the most populous ethnic

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group against the least, it is without a doubt that poli-

Socrates illuminates this point by hypothesising a

tical discourse, either through suppression or futility, is,

debate between a doctor and a shop-keeper. The shop

as in so much of Greek tragedy, destined to an inesca-

-keeper appeals to the voters by saying “look, this per-

pable fate.

son here has worked many evils on you. He hurts you,

But why is it that rich discourse and debate is so cen-

gives you bitter potions and tells you not to eat and drink

tral to the functioning of the democracy we love? If we

whatever you like. He’ll never serve you feasts of many

reflect on the very foundations of democracy, the reve-

and varied pleasant things like I will.” Socrates explains

rence of dialogue is self-evident. In both the Hellenistic

that it is near impossible for the doctor, the qualified

and Enlightenment eras, political philosophers have

professional, to respond effectively. He says that “I cause

placed particular emphasis on the need for intellectual

you trouble, and go against your desires in order to help

involvement from both the electorate and politicians

you”, the genuine response of the doctor, would “cause

respectively, in order to justify and maintain the state.

an uproar among the voters, don’t you think?”

In fact, the Socratic opposition to democracy was

When considered in the context of contemporary

predicated on this very notion. That is, democracy is ine-

politics, this philosophy seems almost prophetic. The

ffectual if not philosophically, intellectually contested,

dichotomy between New Zealand’s recent election

with the outcome therefore being that which is best

debate and the USA’s illustrates this. Points of differ-

for the people. This is highlighted in Book 6 of Plato’s

ence between the two candidates, Jacinda Ardern and

The Republic, where Socrates’ rationale for rejecting

Judith Collins, included cannabis-use, the legalisation

democracy is presented. His allegory Ship of Fools com-

of euthanasia, the pandemic response and the national

pares the state with a ship at sea. Instead of electing

debt. These issues, due to the polarising absence of intel-

the most-skilled sea-farer to steer the ship to safety, the

lectual discourse, are a matter of ideological warfare in

crew instead decides to stage a de facto popularity con-

the USA. Politicians appeal to emotion, identity and per-

test. As a result, it was he who could appeal most to the

sonal insults to convince their prospective voters that

emotions of the voters, the modern-day populist, who

their stance is best for them.

would be elected to steer the ship, not the best candi-

New Zealand’s approach of calm, affable and intel-

date. Plato advocates for a similar position in his support

ligent debate avoids this, and therefore significantly

for a ‘Philosopher King’, who is not elected, but who is

increases the likelihood that the most able and righteous

objectively the best person for the job.

candidate is indeed shown to be such, and hence elected

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to lead. This goes a long way to undermining Socrates’

On top of this, John Stuart Mill (1806-1873) presents a

fear of democracy resulting in the wrong helmsman

post-modern defence of representative democracy, val-

steering the ship: Ardern has eliminated the virus within

ued dearly so long as there is good advocacy of different

New Zealand and gone on to win a landslide.

ideas. He explains in On Liberty that to not engage in

The Enlightenment’s advocacy of democracy was based on similar principles. Jean Jacques Rousseau (17121778) remains an instrumental figure in political philosophy. Known ubiquitously for his role in inspiring the leaders of the French Revolution, with his principal work ‘On the Social Contract’, he also offered criticisms on the arts, science, education and inequality. He venerated democracy as a ‘social contract’, to reconcile the natural liberty of the individual - ‘every man is born free’ - with the authority of the state. This, to represent and achieve the ‘general will’; the consensus of what

proper debate about these issues is to ‘rob the human race, posterity as well as the existing generation.’ It is clear to see, then, that key political theorists, from Ancient Athens, through the European Enlightenment and into the Postmodern Era, agree, by and large, that intellectual discourse is not only useful, but central to the democracy that has served so many for so long. The recent decline in its value has severe repercussions. We need to converse, meaningfully, with one another, to discern what is truly for the betterment of society. Although

is good, or desired; ‘fraternity’ as it came to be known.

this is important on a local level, it is those at the top,

Rousseau offered that this be achieved by ‘assembling

those in power or who desire to be, that must take the

the people’: a fully representative political discourse,

lead. It is them who must lead by example.

where the common interest would be discussed. References: Website: h t t p s : / / w w w . r e v . c o m / b l o g / t r a n s c r i p t s / donald-trump-joe-biden-1st-presidential-debate-transcript-2020 h t t p s : / / w w w . r e v . c o m / b l o g / t r a n s c r i p t s / donald-trump-joe-biden-final-presidential-debate-transcript-2020 https://w w w.poynter.org/reporting-editing/2020/ do-debates-affect-presidential-elections-notmuch/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ship_of_fools https://edition.cnn.com/2020/10/01/asia/new-zealand-ardern-trump-election-debate-intl-hnk/i Ndex.html https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/mill/ https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/rousseau/#EmerGeneWillProcVirtLegi Video: The School of Life, ‘Why Socrates Hated Democracy’, 28 Nov 2016 Book: Jonathan Wolff, ‘An Introduction To Political Philosophy’ Revised Edition

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OUTSIDE THE BINARY: THE DAMAGING EFFECTS O F O U R M E N TA L I T Y T O W A R D S S E X A N D G E N D E R BY ANNA HULL

Though they have traditionally been seen as synonyms, since the late 20th century the words “sex”

not too willing. If you don’t adhere to this? You’re “nasty”, “bossy,” “bitchy”, “butch”.

and “gender” have acquired different meanings. To avoid

The problem is that these gender roles are an over-

confusion, I will start by defining what they relate to in

simplification, and almost completely arbitrary. Yet they

the context of this issue.

are so ingrained in society that it is difficult to discard

“Sex” refers to the biological and physiological qua-

them. By conforming to them, you are safe and predic-

lities that typically differentiate the males and females

table. They allow people to subconsciously quantify you

of a species. In humans, this includes factors such as our

from only a momentary glance, the either/or aspect of

chromosomes and genitals, as well as hormone levels

the binary providing a comforting simplicity. So, if you

and the distribution of muscle, fat, and body hair.

don’t play along, you’re hemmed in by insults and slurs.

“Gender” is harder to define. Unlike our sex charac-

Notably, the epithets applied to those who transgress

teristics, most of the factors that compose our gender are not inherent to us. Instead, they are the result of how we have been brought up and the cultural ideas that have been instilled into us from an early age. In essence, your gender is what people assume about you and expect from you based on your sex. It also affects how you present yourself to others – for instance how you behave, how you dress, and the interests you have. Notions of gender

the boundaries of their gender role insi-

YOUR GENDER IS WHAT PEOPLE ASSUME

nuate that they are in fact displaying traits associated with the opposite gender, thus reinforcing the binary. The enforcement of gender roles

ABOUT YOU AND

is most apparent towards men, mani-

EXPECT FROM YOU

social stigma attached to boys being

BASED ON YOUR SEX

boy, or being told to “man up” rather

can vary between different societies and

festing in attitudes such as the greater “sissy”, compared to girls being a tomthan displaying vulnerability. This can be incredibly harmful. In 2019, the American

cultures, but due to its association with sex it is traditio-

Psychological Association released a set of guidelines

nally viewed as a binary.

specifically related to male psychology, which highlight

If you’re a man, you must be strong, dominant, con-

how the enculturation of traditionally masculine traits

fident. You can’t show any weakness or emotion – you

can negatively affect men. Most notably, the pressure

need to be tough and competitive. You should be muscu-

to uphold the strong and stoic image of masculinity

lar and athletic, and sexually charged. If you don’t adhere

can lead to men neglecting their physical and emo-

to this? You’re “gay”, “a mama’s boy”, “a wuss”, “a p*ssy”.

tional wellbeing. Men are less likely to acknowledge ill-

If you’re a woman, you must be gentle, sensitive,

ness and seek help from doctors or mental health cou-

dependent. You’re domestic and passive, docile and

nsellors than women are and have a 37% higher risk of

deferential, suited to caring for others and putting their

dying from cancer. Men also comprise 75% of all suici-

needs above your own. You wear dresses and makeup,

des in the UK, with an average of 13 men taking their

you’re slim, you’re willing to receive male attention – but

own lives every day.

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The policing of masculinity also has a more insi-

health services that I needed. So, I played the role.”

dious implication. As a result of the gender binary,

This could explain why a lot of transgender women

telling someone to “man up” doesn’t just contribute to

conform to gender stereotypes that are widely conside-

the unrealistic expectation of strength and resilience

red to be sexist and demeaning, which has led to them

applied to men – it also insinuates that women are inhe-

being criticised by many radical feminist campaigners

rently weak and incapable. This reinforces misogynistic

for presenting an outdated view of womanhood and

beliefs by teaching men to reject and disparage femini-

regressing the cause of female liberation. Angela Ponce,

nity, which can be seen in the phenomenon of “identity

who was crowned “Miss Spain” in 2018 and subsequently

threat”. In a study published in the American Journal

became the first openly transgender “Miss Universe”

of Sociology in 2013, men who were led to believe that

contestant, was lambasted for participating in beauty

they had been perceived as feminine responded by acti-

pageants. Among her detractors was Julie Bindel, who

vely overemphasising their masculinity, which included

stated in an article in the Spectator that: “Angela Ponce

adopting more violent attitudes and being more willing

is claiming that she likes parading around on stage in a

to express sexist and homophobic opinions than men

bikini because she is REALLY a woman who happened to

in a control group.

have been born male. At the same time, ACTUAL women

The perception of traditionally “feminine” traits as being lesser also limits women’s potential. Recently, Thames Water made headlines when it was revealed that they had removed “masculine coded” words such as “competitive”, “confident” and “champion” from a job advertisement for a sewage works technician, replacing them with more neutral alternatives. The percentage of female applicants increased dramatically to 46%, compared to only

are desperately trying to be viewed and treated as equal

THE PERCEPTION OF TRADITIONALLY "FEMININE" TRAITS AS BEING LESSER LIMITS WOMEN'S POTENTIAL

human beings, and not breasts on a stick, mincing around the stage being gawped at by male judges.” It seems that transgender people are trapped in a self-perpetuating ontological cycle. They are pressured into conforming to a hyperfeminine or hypermasculine archetype to achieve social acknowledgement and acceptance. Yet this inevitably makes them complicit in upholding

8% previously. While this may have been

the fixed gender binary that seeks to sha-

a good short-term solution, it still has wor-

ckle them.

rying implications. Why shouldn’t women feel that they

Not only are there social obstacles to overcome to

are just as capable of embodying these “masculine”

affirm gender identity, it also requires a lengthy legal pro-

traits as men are?

cess that has been criticised as overly medicalised and

Perhaps the most conclusive confirmation of the

bureaucratic. Plans to reform the Gender Recognition

performative nature of gender, and the problems asso-

Act 2004 were proposed in 2017 under Theresa May's

ciated with it, is the experiences of transgender indivi-

government, which included the publication of a con-

duals. Ugla Stefanía is a journalist and activist who tran-

sultation to identify how the legal process of gender

sitioned to become female, but now considers themself

reassignment could be facilitated. However, documents

genderfluid. In 2016 they gave a TED Talk, in which they

leaked earlier this summer suggest that the delayed

explained their experience of gender roles: “For the lon-

government response will not be affirmative, and that

gest time I totally conformed to all of the socially cons-

instead greater measures will be taken to safeguard

tructed rules of what we expect women to like, expect

women. This is clearly a dilemma for the government,

them to do, how we expect them to dress, and so on…

since there is understandable concern that self-iden-

I always had this haunting feeling though, that I was

tification – being able to change the gender on your

just fulfilling the stereotype. You see, I wanted to prove

birth certificate without the need for a medical diag-

to everyone that I was in fact a girl, and I actually had

nosis of gender dysphoria – could potentially be exploi-

to prove it to medical professionals in order to get the

ted by sexual predators in order to access female-only

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spaces such as lavatories and changing rooms. Though

the University of Colorado was unable to replicate the

the government has confirmed that it will uphold the

results. The strong objection against Semenya is clearly

terms of the Equality Act 2010, which prohibits discrimi-

because her condition is sex-based, and because she

nation on the basis of gender reassignment while also

does not conform to social expectations of femininity.

protecting spaces for vulnerable women, this has igni-

So how can we solve the various problems posed by the binary perception of sex and gender? The

ted a polarising civil rights debate. One suggested solution has been to make divi-

answer could lie in abandoning gender entirely, but

sions only on the basis of biological sex – but someti-

the ongoing debate about legal recognition and pre-

mes not even this is strictly black and white. “Intersex”

serving female-only spaces suggests that this would

is an umbrella term used to refer to a variety of medi-

pose significant practical issues. Moreover, many peo-

cal conditions that result in someone having a combi-

ple are content to conform to gender stereotypes, and

nation of male and female anatomy. This could include

there is nothing wrong with that. But moving forward,

having internal or external sex organs that differ from

we shouldn’t consider them to be the default condition;

those normally associated with their chromosome pat-

we need to understand the limitations of both mascu-

tern. For instance, they may display female genitals, but

linity and femininity and acknowledge that there are

their chromosomes are XY, or they could have an extra

grey areas between them. In this way, we will gain a far

sex chromosome. Despite the fact that intersex people

more nuanced appreciation of the positive qualities

comprise an estimated 1.7% of the population – rou-

possessed by individuals, and we will be better able to

ghly the same proportion as those who have red hair –

work towards achieving a more equal society.

this tends to be viewed by the medical community as a defect requiring treatment. Many intersex people are subjected to invasive and purely cosmetic surgeries at a young age to “normalise” ambiguous genitals and ensure that they fit into a clear sex category, which can have long-lasting repercussions for their physical and mental health. Furthermore, sex ambiguity can lead to other forms of discrimination, even to the extent of affecting a person’s career. One of the most notable examples of this is double Olympic gold medallist Caster Semenya, who was barred from competing at world athletics championships after her “astoundingly quick performance”, muscular build, and deep voice led to accusations that she was not a woman. Her testosterone levels were found to be higher than average and she was subsequently subjected to further invasive tests to prove her biological sex, before being publicly declared to have a “chromosomal abnormality”. After losing her case against the IAAF in 2019, she is now forced to take testosterone-reducing medication in order to compete as a woman. The link between testosterone and improved athletic performance is tenuous; the main study from which the IAAF drew information for its ruling has been discredited by the British Medical Journal, and an independent study carried out by the Sports Governance Center at

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GEN Z : A G ENER ATI O N O F O P P OR TU NI TY B Y

A R R Y B E ( 0 B 1 3 - 1 8 )

P H O T O

B Y

D A N

B U R T O N

Coronavirus has taken us all by surprise. In January,

O N

U N S P L A S H

always believed that the best aspect to joining Bedford

no one would have believed that 2020 would be the year

as a fourth former is that you have to try everything. My

that it has been. With the outbreak of this deadly disease

previous school, before joining Bedford, students felt

the one benefit we all will have witnessed are the ama-

that for a boy to study art was ‘uncool’, yet I still to this

zing acts of kindness from citizens all around the world.

day believe that the art department at school is the best

Every Bedfordian will know and appreciate this. We have

place to work on campus. So to have to undergo lock-

been fortunate enough to witness the acts of Captain

down where you can't: •

Tom and his grandson Benjie from the local beginnings

Spend time with the most amazing young people from all around the world

of their global movement. As students of Bedford I’m sure •

we have all witnessed incredible acts of kindness from

Pursue your passion with the support of field leaders

others too - Joba Thomas and his board games initiative is just another example of a truly selfless act that was

•

Collaborate with your peers on projects

born out of caring for others during this time of real dif-

•

Compete with students f rom all over the country

ficulty. Firstly, I think we should all really take a moment to appreciate the members of this school and this town’s

That to me was genuinely disheartening.

community. I am almost left unsurprised to be reading

I guess we’re lucky, if there’s something you believe

the school news on social media seeing so many acts

in enough, then you now have access to the tools to fulfil

of goodwill coming from so many young people within

that vision right now, generations gone by haven’t always

both our school and our town. Bedford was named as

had that luxury - particularly at our age. Myself and two

the “most generous town in Britain” and I truly believe

other students from across Europe believed that there

that coronavirus has once again proven this statement

must be an easy way to bring opportunities to young

to be very accurate.

people and inspire them during a period where inspi-

Over the past few months we’ve heard of lots of sto-

ration was low and opportunities are only diminishing.

ries where young people are helping the elderly, but it’s

I particularly feel sorry for young musicians at this time.

the young generation who I personally felt were slightly

Many instruments are owned by schools and so millions

neglected at first, a tremendous amount of sympathy

are left without access to their instruments, recording

should be driven their way. School for me was always

studios, collaborators, and so many other fundamental

about almost everything except the lessons. Bedford is

resources needed in order to pursue passions.

a global school, so to spend every day amongst people

As a group, we went about creating a series of com-

you would never normally meet who have different mind-

petitions called ‘Prospect 100’. We believed we could get

sets and skill sets to you is a super cool opportunity. I’ve

people excited about their field once again. Initially we

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launched a global music competition for young peo-

buy into the public vote and take time to learn about

ple aged 21 and under. After this competition, we laun-

the finalists. These aren’t just 5 random music makers,

ched an innovation competition focussed on technology,

they’re 5 individuals who have made it through 3 rou-

and in the coming days we are launching

nds of celebrity judging for this presti-

a sneaker design competition aimed at

gious competition called ‘Prospect 100’

artists, graphic designers, architects and those who love fashion. Since launching these initiatives I have personally learned a lot. Learning by doing is a great way to develop yourself from both a skill set standpoint but

THINK BIG, THINK EXCITEMENT!

also your confidence too. I’d love to share

and they competed against people from all over the globe. It makes the competition cool. I truly believe that we underestimate how important that cool factor can be. MySpace was a dominant social media, yet a kid from his dorm room was able to take it down with a website he

some key lessons that I learnt from starting these com-

built in a few days because fundamentally he made

petitions which will hopefully encourage more mem-

his platform - Facebook - cooler than theirs. I think this

bers of our community to start their own initiatives and

cool factor is quite easy with music as there’s super sim-

keep the Bedfordian ‘get up and do it’ mentality alive.

ple ways to almost acquire ‘cultural capital’, if you like.

1. Think Big, Think Excitement

Finding a celebrity musician who’s had a big song as a

I think Benjie and Captain Tom have proven that

judge can instantly: make you cool, make the competi-

you can literally take an idea and turn it into the biggest

tion more legitimate and make the talents seem even

movement on the planet in a short period of time. I know

more exciting because they were endorsed by someone

when we started coming up with our competitions we

you know. But with fields like technology that’s not so

wanted to get as many people involved as possible, from

easy. So, using amazing prizes, and giving unparalleled

as many countries as possible - I guess that’s the same

opportunities to young people is crucial.

2. Prioritise Inclusion, Think About Others

with most people starting a new initiative. We all really believed that for something to become

Whatever initiative you’re running, it’s easy to only

popular amongst young people your idea needs to excite.

think for your point of view. At Bedford, we quickly learn

You need to offer something that few others are able to

that not everyone is the same. A fourth former who has

offer. A music competition is quite easy to be exciting,

travelled from Hong Kong to further their education and

it’s all about passion and creativity, but our next compe-

contributing in class whilst speaking a second language

tition, a tech competition… that’s less easy! We wanted

probably has a very different mindset to someone like

to think of ways that would create excitement surroun-

myself who rolls out of bed 5 minutes before tutorial

ding every competition so it would be interesting to be

starts and could walk to school having “forgotten” to pack

involved with whether you’re a participant or as a spec-

Ms Parcell’s history homework. We need to remember

tator. There were 3 ideas that we worked with. These

that everyone is different, and inclusion is so important

might not work for all initiatives but they were our key

with what you’re doing. How can you make what you’re

thoughts for this particular project.

doing more inclusive so everyone has the chance to be

•

involved? With a music competition, for example, there

A brand

are a few barriers:

• Prizes • Celebrities

•

Different genres of music

It’s easy to overlook how important a brand is,

•

Different languages

particularly when you’re running a project just for fun.

•

Mixed ability to record music

But a brand makes what you’re doing seem more legi-

•

Differing levels of ambition

timate, and more legitimate usually leads to greater

We had to think of ways to combat these barriers,

excitement too. To win a music competition is cool, but

but also make our competition as exciting to an aspiring

to win a music competition that feels prestigious and

producer making trap beats as an organ player. We also

incorporates a global talent pool is an even better fee-

need to ensure that the judges do not have bias towards

ling. It creates that excitement to want to participate. It

the more mainstream music. How can we ensure that a

also makes the competition more exciting to follow. You

film scorer wasn’t overlooked because it is easier to “like”

feel like you’re really witnessing the next big thing. You

pop music? We figured that diversity and representation

FLOREAT

were the answer to this.

Instagram DM can also work wonders. We can’t overlook

For us, representation was key. We have judges who:

these opportunities.

are diverse by gender, diverse by race, different nationa-

Since May we have been supported by: Steve

lities, speak different languages, specialise in different

Wozniak (Apple co-founder), Ronnie Wood (The Rolling

genres of music. It was crucial that our judging panel

Stones), Iann Dior, Rico Nasty, Kaiser Chiefs, Jamiroquai,

was close to 50:50 male to female for all competitions

CHIC, Lucas Jagger, Au/Ra, Sean Wotherspoon, Luka

too. This little bit of extra thought led to amazing results.

Sabbat, Sarah Andelman, Ketnipz, Steve Smith (Creative

I was particularly blown away by our participation statis-

Director for Yeezy), Julien MacDonald (ex Creative

tics for the technology competition. Tech is a field that is

Director for Givenchy) and many more.

dominated by men. Companies are often proud if they

Again, we are just 3 kids from: Bedford, Paris, and

have 1 software engineer who is female. Statistically about

Belfast who wanted to do something positive for young

19% of workers in tech are female. Yet we were able to

people. We all wanted to do something cool for young

achieve 51% female participation in our tech competition,

people, to inspire them in a way that no one else really is.

and 55% BAME participation. It really goes to show that

Since May we have ensured 25 young technologists

when you think about “what can I do to make this com-

win mentorship with Steve Wozniak and leading UK

petition accessible and exciting to more people than just

venture capitalists, 5 musicians win mentorship from

myself” you will achieve great results, and for us that led

industry leaders including Michael Jackson’s ex mana-

to uncovering some of the most incredible talents, not

ger, 1000s of young people have won prizes to develop

just the best male talents. If you put even just a little bit

their passion. 100 young people have worked with one

of effort into thinking about the barriers other people

of the world’s biggest charities to solve a real-world pro-

may face, I promise you, you will notice the difference.

blem that they have and their idea is being implemented

3. Why Not?

in a global campaign. We received endorsement from

Earlier I said, ‘You need to offer something that few

the IB, who have promoted us to 100s of schools within

others are able to offer.’ I believe this is really easy to

their network. And importantly, well over 1000 young

do. The vast majority of people fear rejection. The vast

people have been connected to other young talents

majority of people fear failing. The number 1 reason our

who share the same passion and ambition they do so

competitions were so well received and have had over

they can become collaborators and help each other ful-

3 million people exposed to our brand name since May

fil their potential. In short, if you have an idea for a project or initia-

is because we, as a collective, say ‘why not?’ and dared

tive we now have the tools needed to fulfil our vision

to do what no one else was willing to do. Running a music competition is easy. But how many

and ambition in a way that no previous generation has.

people dare to contact the biggest musicians in the world

It’s no coincidence that throughout history Bedford

and ask them to judge/publicly support the competi-

School, and the town itself, we have produced leaders

tion? Very few. As I mentioned before, we have seen so

in proportions that greatly outweighs our expectations.

many generous acts of kindness from people throughout

I wholeheartedly believe that we are part of a commu-

lockdown, so I believe that this is the best time ever to

nity that nurtures leaders and changemakers. You are

ask the most influential people in the world to support

surrounded by other people who are natural innovators

your initiative. We were a group of students who had 0

too. Use this opportunity to work with some of the most

connections in the world of music and technology. We

amazing young people in the world and bring your ideas

had a marketing budget of £0. All we had was a mission

to life. In a worst-case scenario, you will learn a lot from

and a willingness to be told ‘No.’ What you will find is 1

the experience. But, as we all witnessed with Captain

yes often leads to multiple yeses.

Tom and Benjie over this year, you never know when

You have to work hard to get that first yes. You have to email 100s if not 1000s of people, their managers, their

your idea will actually resonate and touch the hearts of millions all around the world!

labels, their colleagues but 1 yes opens so many doors. If your mission and purpose is strong enough I’m really

Floreat Schola Bedfordiensis

confident you will get the support you desire. It’s easier than ever to contact these previously untouchable peo-

Harry Beard, OB 2013-2018, St Peters

ple, often their emails are public on their Instagrams - an

FLOREAT

2020 HAS BEEN BY FAR THE MOST TURBULENT YEAR FOR THE STOCKMARKET, AND THE WIDER ECONOMY, FOR MANY YEARS

FLOREAT

Y E A R T O DATE MARKET RECAP J

In recent years, economic conditions have been

Officially, the crash started on the 20th of February.

far from stable. From the collapse of the global bank-

Global stocks closed down, as the number of coronavi-

ing system in 2008, to the Euro crisis in 2011, to the vol-

rus cases began to rise in the US and Europe. The fol-

atility caused by the Brexit vote in 2016, there are plenty

lowing week, 24th-28th February, global stocks began

of examples from previous years of market turbulence,

to plummet, as investors panicked and offloaded shares

perhaps too many. But 2020 has been by far the most

in companies with close links to China. Major US mar-

turbulent year for the stock market, and the wider econ-

kets had their worst week since October 2008, with the

omy, for many years. Traders have seen record highs,

DJIA dropping more than 12%. Elsewhere, European

record falls, record volatility and record recoveries. Certain

markets also fell, with the FTSE 100 falling more than

industries have had one of their most successful years

11%, shedding more than £200bn in a single week, with

on record, others have faltered, and some have been

airlines and hotel chains amongst those affected the

completely changed forever. Following the stock mar-

worst. The week’s drama was plain for everyone to see;

ket is never smooth, but this year has been especially

the best performing company on the DJIA that week,

difficult, even by recent standards.

3M, fell by almost 5%. That statistic alone was enough

It is often forgotten, given what it preceded, but the start of 2020 was incredibly positive for global markets,

of a prediction for many, of what might happen if the virus continued to spiral out of control.

especially in America. The main three American indices

Further to fears surrounding Covid-19, a growing

(Dow Jones Industrial Average, Nasdaq 100, S&P 500)

dispute between Saudi Arabia and Russia over oil sup-

all hit record highs in Mid-February, after seeing steady

ply, leading to Saudi Arabia announcing on the 8th of

growth throughout January and February. On the 12th

March that it would flood the market with discounted

of February, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA), an

oil to customers in the US, increased concerns about the

index comprising 30 large companies that are listed in

price of crude oil. In terms of the oil market, it was the

the US, closed at 29,551 points, a record high in its 124-year

perfect storm. As former energy policy advisor to George

history. Exactly one week later, the S&P 500, a broader

W. Bush, Bob McNally, observed, ‘This is the first time

index that covers the 500 largest companies that are

since 1930 that a massive negative demand shock has

listed in the US, closed at its all-time high, 3,386 points.

coincided with a supply shock.’ The crisis with oil pro-

Neither index had seen significant levels of growth in the

vided the trigger for the latest burst of investor panic on

new year, but the small gains made were largely due to

Monday 9th of March, a day that would later become

the decision to maintain low interest rates and positive

known as Black Monday I.

forecasts for 2020 from major companies, such as Apple

Black Monday I was the worst day on Wall Street

and Tesla, that encouraged investors that 2020 could be

since 1987. Ever-growing fears surrounding the coronavi-

another strong year for the market. The record highs

rus, combined with the oil price war, led to equity prices

occurred just as the world was beginning the grapple

plummeting. The DJIA dropped almost 2,500 points (10%)

with the idea of the novel coronavirus, that was wreaking

in what was described as the ‘biggest ever fall in intra-

havoc within China. However, this still seemed unlikely to

day trading.’ The S&P 500 did not perform much better,

reach western economies, and cause market disruption,

closing down 7.6%. The crash was led by big oil compa-

and so investors remained optimistic. This fragile state

nies such as Chevron and ExxonMobil, which both fell

of positivity could not last forever, and indeed, it did not.

around 15% as oil prices crashed by 22%. The yields on US

FLOREAT

Treasury bonds fell to all-time lows, as investors rushed

the world announcing stimulus programmes to sup-

to put money in these safer investments. The panic also

port their failing economies, markets continued to fall.

saw the price of gold rise above $1,700 per ounce for the

On the 16th of March (later known as Black Monday II),

first time in seven years, as demand soared for the safe

despite the announcement of a $700 billion quantita-

haven metal. In Europe, the picture was not much better.

tive easing programme from the Federal Reserve over

The FTSE 100 fell 7.7%, its worst fall since October 2008.

the preceding weekend, American markets fell signif-

Circuit breakers were broken and billions of pounds were

icantly, as cases of Covid-19 began to rise. The S&P 500

shed. At the end of the day, nobody quite knew what

set a one-day record fall of 9.7%, the DJIA again eclipsed

would happen next.

its record points drop in a single day, this time shedding

Investors did not have to wait long for the next

2,997 points, a drop of around 13%.

big event. Three days, to be precise. On the night of

Markets continued to fall as case numbers contin-

Wednesday 11th of March, President of the United States,

ued to rise. Both US and UK markets finally hit the bot-

Donald Trump, announced a travel ban on visitors from

tom on the 23rd of March, the day that Boris Johnson

the Schengen Area. Any investors who still had any con-

announced a nationwide lockdown for the whole of the

fidence in the American and British markets caved, and

United Kingdom. The Dow Jones Industrial Average

the market proceeded to crash once again. The Dow

closed at 18,592 points, almost wiping out all gains made

Jones Industrial Average broke the record set just three

in the previous four years, a 37% decrease from the record

days previously, falling more than 10.5%; European stock

highs posted in mid-February. The FTSE 100 finished the

markets closed down more than 11%; oil prices continued

day at 4,994 points, a drop of 31% since the start of 2020.

to fall. This was the official end of the longest bull market

For both benchmarks, this was their lowest point in the

in market history, as indices had fallen more than 20%

crash, as both countries went into lockdown and their

from their recent highs, which had been achieved only

governments started to roll out stimulus packages. In

four weeks prior. The crash was made official.

the eyes of the stock market at least, we were through

Despite governments and central banks across

the worst of it, and things could only improve from here.

F I G U R E 1 : B L A C K M O N D AY I I , M O N D AY 1 6 M A R C H 2 0 2 0 S O U R C E : C N B C

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FIGURE 2: BIG TECH'S DOMINANCE IN 2020 SOURCE: BUSINESS INSIDER

April and May saw steady, uninterrupted market

the other 495 companies listed on the index, is simply

growth. Following their worst month since October 2008,

remarkable. As shown in the figure below, the remain-

both US and European markets bounced back strongly.

ing 495 companies had shed $1.61 trillion of their market

Despite warnings of a wave of mass unemployment and

capitalisation, since the start of 2020.

a significant downturn in economic growth, the S&P

Figure 3 illustrates the trend seen across the world,

500 recorded its strongest rally in 30 years, rising 12.7%

as the biggest technology companies saw revenues sky-

in April and 4.5% in May. Similarly, the FTSE 100 had a

rocket, due to the shift to working from home, whilst

strong start to the second quarter. April was its sec-

many traditional stock market powerhouses, such as

ond-best month for a decade, with a monthly return of

the oil and travel industries, saw their stock prices crum-

over 4%. Investors were buoyed by government stimulus

ble. This trend is reflected in the performance of the

programmes and the relaxing of lockdowns worldwide. But not every company enjoyed the success of a quick recovery. Yields varied drastically from sector to sector. One sector that was booming was Big Tech. Bespoke Investment Group calculated that, by the end of July, the five biggest companies listed on the S&P 500, Apple, Amazon, Facebook, Alphabet and Microsoft, had added $1.66 trillion to their market capitalisation. This achievement alone was impressive, but when compared with the performance of

F I G U R E 3 : S & P C H A N G E I N M A R K E T C A P I TA L I S AT I O N , Y E A R -T O - D AT E

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SOURCE: CNBC

tech-heavy, Nasdaq 100 index, which has produced a

between the stock market and the wider economy.

year-to-date return of 28%, compared with 6% for the S&P 500, further illustrating tech’s rise to the top.

Perhaps it was this confusion that led to a market correction in September. The S&P fell 3.9%, reflecting

For US equities, the remainder of the summer saw

concerns about the failure of Congress and the Federal

more continued, steady growth. The S&P 500 and DJIA

Government to agree on a new stimulus plan for the

finished the second quarter with modest gains in June,

economy. Furthermore, there was a large sell-off on tech

1.8% and 1.7% respectively, rounding off the most suc-

stocks, whose strong performances in 2020 had driven

cessful quarter for US equities since the fourth quarter

the recovery from the bear market. The general consen-

of 1998. The S&P 500 recorded a quarterly return of 20%,

sus was that these stocks were substantially overpriced,

with the Dow not far behind. Both indices were on track

and the subsequent correction showed the influx of new

to complete their recovery in record time.

investors that share prices do not always go up.

As lockdowns continued to be lifted, fears of a sec-

Despite September ending a five-month winning

ond wave were brushed aside, as investor confidence

streak for indices, the third quarter was positive for US

continued to drive the recovery. July saw returns of 5.5%

equities, with the Dow gaining 7.6%, the S&P 500 gain-

for the S&P 500, driven largely by big gains made by the

ing 8.5%, and the Nasdaq gaining 11% over the three

big five tech firms, 2.3% for the Dow, and 6.8% for the

months. 10 out of 11 sectors had positive returns, with

Nasdaq Composite.

Energy being the only exception (shedding another 20%

August was even better, with the S&P rising by 7%,

in total). The third quarter was certainly much more suc-

slightly behind the Dow, which rallied by 7.6% for the

cessful for the US market, than it was for the UK market.

month. August was a landmark month for the S&P 500,

In the UK, a range of different factors, including fears

as it officially completed its fastest ever recovery. On

about Brexit, a resurgence in Covid-19, and weak eco-

Tuesday 18th of August, 126 trading days since its last

nomic data showing that the economy was not making

peak, the index reached a new record high, closing at

the swift recovery that many economists had hoped for.

3,390. Bullish investors had driven the market to all-time

All this meant that the FTSE 100 was fairly flat throughout

highs, again, choosing to ignore the grim economic

the entire third quarter, with no significant gains or losses

reality and focus on potentially overvalued, booming

in the months of July, August, and September. Overall,

tech-stocks that had driven the market to the top, at an

the index fell by 0.6% for the quarter. This flatlining was in

unprecedented pace. Aside from the feelings of eupho-

stark contrast to US markets and illustrated that the two

ria, there was genuine confusion, amongst both investors

countries were not making the same economic recovery,

and the general public, over the apparent disconnect

with the UK lagging behind its transatlantic partner. For

F I G U R E 4 : S & P 5 0 0 V S F T S E 1 0 0 P E R F O R M A N C E , Y E A R T O D AT E S O U R C E : T R A D I N G E C O N O M I C S

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British investors, the outlook was considerably gloomier than it was for their American counterparts. 2020 has not been straightforward for the stock market. At times, it has seemed almost ludicrous. But as we approach the end of the year and reflect, there are plenty of things to think about, aside from the general crash and recovery, and the record-breaking nature of both. The market has seen a big shake-up, with Big Tech staking its claim as the new dominant power, Big Oil fading, renewable energy beginning to take off, and a shake-up of the retail, travel, and leisure sectors. These are not all positives, many have lost jobs in those sectors hardest hit, but they all represent the facts, and investors have to adapt to new market conditions. 2020 has been an incredibly significant year for the stock market; its impacts will be felt for many years to come. In the UK, market forces have caused share prices to flatline over the summer, perhaps representing problems with the wider economy and within the political establishment. In the US, stocks have rallied incredibly, pulling off the fastest recovery since records began, but underlying concerns surrounding the robustness of the market, combined with ever-growing political chaos, mean that the threat of another correction, or worse, remains a frightening possibility. What will the future bring for the stock market? Well, if 2020 is anything to go by, there is no way of really knowing.

Sources: 1. Financial Times: https://www.ft.com/markets Wall Street Journal: https://www.wsj.com/news/markets The Economist: https://www.economist.com/markets-data BBC News: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business CNBC: https://www.cnbc.com/markets/ https://am.jpmorgan.com/gb/en/asset-management/adv/insights/market-insights/ https://www.schroders.com/en/mt/professional-investor/insights/

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22 33

T HE O RI GINS OF P OL ITIC S BY A LF R E D W I LLCOC KS

FLOREAT

PHOTO BY JAVIER QUIROGA ON UNSPLASH

Classical antiquity was a patchwork of political sys-

became more equally distributed within the city and citi-

tems; very rarely would so many states have conformed

zenship became a gift that was sought after, rather than

to a singular arrangement as the world does today with

taken for granted. On the point of citizenship, it is impor-

democracy being the clear top seed. Athens, which is

tant to mention a very unequivocal distinction from the

often regarded as the birthplace of democracy, was

present day; only Athenian men, with Athenian parents

fraught with attempted coups d’etat, some of which

could be classed as a citizen. Women, children, slaves,

were highly beneficial for the city. With the constant

and those from outside of Athens were ineligible for a

apprehension and speculation regarding world politics

citizenship, which apart from just politics, barred them

currently, I believe it would be most beneficial to take a

from most public events, such as festivals and plays. An unmissable feature to mention is how the offi-

step back and sojourn the origins of our political system,

cials were elected, an aspect which I believe determi-

along with the digressions that accompany it. To truly gain an insight into the beginnings of demo-

nes the true extent of democracy. Almost every position

cracy, one must go back to the 6th century in Athens; at

in Athens was elected through a vote or by sortition,

the time, the city was controlled by the eupatridai (noble

both with their own caveats to protect against corrup-

men). One can view the eupatridai as a ruling elite- they

tion. Every vote had a quota; a minimum number of citi-

favoured the city when they held the power and were

zens must be involved in the vote for it to be legitimate.

not supporters of the distribution of power that demo-

Typically, this quota was around 6,000 men, a number

cracy brought. Democracy (demokratia) itself is com-

which was too large for a bribe, but was small enough

prised of two Greek words, demos meaning people and

to be feasibly attained. Quotas varied depending on the

kratos meaning power; so, in this way, it is evident that

importance of the vote, but they were always in place.

the goal of democracy was to involve as much of the

Similarly, sortition was virtually impartial; the names of

population as possible in running the city.

citizens were written on tokens (pinakia) and were pla-

There are two main men that I would credit with the introduction of democracy, Solon and Cleisthenes, both of whom introduced a set of reforms that made gradual changes within the city and promoted a more constitutional way of ruling. Solon lived in a time that was dominated by tyrants and oligarchs, which continued to be the most antagonistic threat to democratic rule for centuries to come. Solon’s reforms focused on three main affairs- the economic, political, and legal state of Athens; these reforms combatted tyranny through deeds, such as the abolishment of slavery and rearranging the class system on wealth rather than birth. While not perfect and not immediately accepted, Solon was able to lay the foundations for democracy with these reforms and pave the way for others to develop upon his ideas. Cleisthenes, nicknamed the father of democracy, was given the title as his reforms can be viewed as the greatest step towards a system that a modern reader might label as a democracy. The bulk of these reforms were centred around what it meant to be an Athenian citizen and the gravitas that surrounded it. Cleisthenes split the city into different political constituencies, called demes, that became the way in which a citizen was identified, rather than his name. The demes were also portioned into tribes, the primary system used to elect

ced in the kleroterion, a randomized sortition machine that was used until the requisite number of citizens were selected. Both had their disadvantages, such as the human element of a vote or the fact that even the most unqualified man could be chosen through sortition, but both were seen as superior choices over an oligarchy. A great question to ask is “why?”. What is the point of knowing the origins of the most common political system? While there is no definitive answer, I believe it is useful to understand and appreciate the background, on which so many nations are built, as it serves to be a great reminder of why democracy was established in the first place; many even view the right to vote and take part in politics as a compelling factor behind freedom. If I were to summarise, I would use this quotation by Lailah Gifty Akita; “the present defines the future. The future builds on the foundation of the past.” While an understanding of ancient politics may not necessarily help one to understand the turmoil of contemporary affairs, it provides a brilliant insight into the similarities between antiquity and modern day, as well as the benefits it provided to both those in the past in order to be so distinguished 2,500 years after it was established and how we can best utilise it today in order to improve the lives of many.

state officials, which gave a much better representation of citizens from across Athens. Henceforth, power

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HOW MUCH IS YOUR LIFE WORTH? BY O SC AR CA L VERT In the ancient Egyptian underworld, the heart of the

VSL is more of an estimate of willingness to pay for small

deceased was weighed against the feather of Maat, the

reductions in mortality risks rather than how much a

goddess of truth and virtue. If it was heavier, the fate of

human life is worth.

the condemned would be decided and their soul would

Although many would argue that the value they

be destroyed. Economics uses slightly more sophisti-

place on their life is infinite, our personal decisions reveal

cated means to determine someone's fate, putting the

that this is not the case. There are limits to the amount

value of a life into pounds and pence. Don’t worry, I won't

we would pay for marginal increases in safety (for exam-

attempt to solve the complex philosophical and ethical

ple, expensive safety features in cars), and increases

questions surrounding this topic, just the way it is treated in economics and government policy. The concept of placing a monetary value on a life is not new; old Anglo-Saxon law described the ‘wergild’ or ‘bode’ - a sum of money which was to be paid to the family of a murder victim by the perpetrator. A person’s ‘wergild’ was based on their wealth and would therefore increase throughout the lifetime of an individual as they gained land and possessions. If the perpetrator was unable to afford this sum, then they were sold into slavery or sent into exile. Both the Bible and Koran include similar concepts on compensation to be paid to family members of those murdered. The leading measure in use now is called the value of a statistical life (VSL). It is calculated through a revealed preference approach, which finds the price people are willing to pay to reduce a certain risk. For example, suppose 1000 people are asked what they would pay to reduce their chance of death by 1 in 1000 (0.1%) over the next year. This reduction in risk would mean that, by the next year, there would be 1 fewer death amongst the group. The value of the statistical life is the total amount the group would be willing to pay. In short, the

22 66 2 6

in occupational risk of death are often accepted if the monetary compensation is enough (evidenced in the existence of hazard pay). So, what is the value of a VSL? The truth is: it varies massively. According to the US Department of Transportation, it is $9.6 million, this is similar to the US Environmental Protection Agency estimate of $9.1 million. In the UK, studies have shown the value to be around £7-13 million ($9.05-$16.8 million). However, the variety comes in countries of different income levels: a 2000 literature review found that VSL had an income elasticity of 0.6, meaning that it increases and decreases with income, for instance, Turkey (a developing country) has a VSL of $500,000 (PPP). The VSL has wide reaching applications, particularly surrounding the appraisal of the benefits added due to a new policy or act passed by the government. For example, a 1990 US study used cost benefit analysis to discuss whether the 1970 Clean Air Act had been worth the cost it had imposed on the government and businesses. Public health experts and economists calculated the estimated deaths and disabilities which would have taken place if action had not been taken, and the

FLOREAT

cost on the economy. The result was pretty indisputa-

NICE does impose limits. And cancer drugs, in particu-

ble: the benefits of $5.6 to $49.4 trillion vastly outwei-

lar, often cost much more than that and so get refused

ghed the economic costs of $523 billion.

by NICE for being too expensive. 55,000 cancer patients

This technique is being used to assess the effectiveness of COVID-19 lockdowns. At the start of the pan-

have been forced to buy their own cancer drugs, and this number is only increasing.

demic, experts estimated 500 thousand deaths in the

How does the use of QALYs affect our gauge of

UK if nothing was done. Assuming 1 VSL = £10 million,

lockdown effectiveness? A Department of Health and

then if an economic lockdown in the UK saves most of

Social Care study claims that by March 2021, the direct

these lives, and costs less than £5 trillion, then it would

loss of life from COVID-19 despite lockdown will amount

seem to be value for money. However, most of those

to 530,000 QALYs. It also claims that a reduction of road

who would die of COVID would be elderly people: and

accidents during lockdown saved 30,000 QALYs, and

a VSL is worth less for older people. This is where a new

that the adoption of healthier lifestyles will save another

measure comes in: the QALY.

30,000 QALYs. However, reduced access to A&E services,

The QALY (Quality Adjusted Life Year) is the maxi-

it estimates, will cost 41,000 QALYs, and early discharge

mum cost that a medical provider is willing to pay for

from hospital, as well as reduced access to elective sur-

a theoretical year of perfect health. The utility value of

gery, GPs services and so on will cost another 73,000

1 QALY is scored from 0 to 1, 1 being perfect health and

QALYs. In the longer term, the postponement of non-ur-

0 being dead (negative QALYs are sometimes used to

gent medical care will cost 45,000 QALYs, the effects of

reflect health states deemed ‘worse than dead.’). Medical

recession will take 157,000 QALYs and increased depri-

providers then work out a £/QALY and multiply utility

vation, as a result of a smaller economy, 294,000 QALYs.

value by years lived in that state and by £/QALY. This

This seems pretty devastating. However, the study also

value is used to develop a cost-effectiveness analysis of

provides an estimate for a ‘non-mitigation’ scenario, in

any treatment, which informs the NHS on whether they

which there was no lockdown. In this case, it claims, there

can afford to give a treatment in a specific case. This has

would have been 3,000,000 QALYs lost from COVID-19

led to debates over drug purchasing decisions, speci-

plus a further 7,400,000 QALYs lost from other causes

fically cancer drugs. NICE (National Institute for Health

due to the NHS being overwhelmed. From this, you

and Care Excellence) aims to spend less than £20,000

can see that lockdown will save 9,320,000 QALYs. This

to £30,000 per QALY. That is not a hard limit; it will go

shows that although the health impacts from a lock-

almost twice as high for end-of-life drugs. NICE accepts

down and lockdown induced recession are greater in

that, at the very end, a small amount of extra time can

terms of QALYs than the direct COVID-19 deaths, the

seem to be worth a lot more to patients and families. But

cost of doing nothing would be far greater.

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2727

P H O T O B Y N I J WA M S WA R G I A R Y O N U N S P L A S H

FLOREAT

THE D AN G E R O U S G R O WT H O F SN O WFL A K I S M BY BEN BARNES

A spectre is haunting society the spectre of snowflakism. And it is dangerous. Really dangerous.

how virtuous they were and less about eradicating holocaust denial from society, the snowflakes got what they wanted. Holocaust denial was sent underground, where it may flourish no longer held to account by the intellectuals of our nation’s finest institution.

It may be a cliché to draw on the ancient wisdom

Believing someone’s views to be wrong is never a

of Voltaire, who was said to have written the line ‘I may

good reason for silencing them. As founding father of

disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the

liberal democracy J.S. Mill wrote ‘Either the person is

death your right to say it!’. But, never has such a quip

not wrong, in which case silencing them deprives you of

seemed so relevant. The recent rise of the ‘snowflake’ -

the opportunity to exchange error for truth, or they are

the hypersensitive individual who insists on silencing,

wrong, in which case your opinion will be strengthened

cancelling or de-platforming those who differ in opi-

by its collision with error.’ (Page 19, On Liberty, 1859). The

nion - alarms me as a supporter of liberal democracy,

moment we decide that we are going to show why a

and I feel it is necessary to explain why.

particular view is wrong, rather than suppress and cen-

The first point that must be made is that snow-

sor it, the world begins to cleanse itself of viewpoints

flakism allows unfounded and bigoted viewpoints to

that are not founded on reason. Take the example of

fester. By silencing offensive, prejudice, or racist indi-

Nick Griffin. In 2009, the then-leader of the far-right

viduals, we devoid ourselves of the opportunity to take

British National Party (BNP) was invited to appear on

apart such views and show why they are not based on

the BBC’s debating infamous show ‘Question Time’.

reason. In November 2007, Holocaust denier David Irving

This was a controversial decision at the time; Griffin had

was controversially invited to speak to the Oxford Union.

a history of racist remarks, holocaust denial, and had

This was a perfect opportunity to subject his pseudo-

claimed he was proud to be associated with the fascist

-historical theories to meticulous scrutiny; a room full of

Oswald Mosely. Hence, over 500 people stood outside

Oxford undergraduates and academics sat waiting to

the BBC TV Centre, protesting his appearance. They

pick them apart. Instead, this golden ticket was inter-

argued that by giving him a platform, the BBC were

rupted by a group of snowflake protesters who insis-

legitimizing his bigoted views, which would lead to a

ted on sticking their fingers in their ears and throwing

surge in support for them. Did the snowflake mob get

Irving out of the Union. Caring more about signalling

it right in their predictions?

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In shorthand; No. The BBC stood by their decision to

form of oppression poses a perilous threat to students

invite him onto the show, faithful that the panel, David

alike. Shielded in an echo-chamber of ideological ortho-

Dimbleby, and other members of the audience would

doxy, they risk growing up without ever having been

expose his backward views for the toxic nonsense that

exposed to views they may find upsetting. This is shown

they were. Indeed, the BBC got it right - and support

to have detrimental effects on their mental health, as

for Griffin and the BNP nosedived after the debate.

Jonathan Haidt and Greg Lukianoff point out in The

Beforehand, the BNP had been on the ascendant; it had

Coddling of the American Mind (2018); ‘robust mental

just got 2 MEPs elected to the European Parliament and

health depends upon learning to deal with challenge

it had 55 local councillors. After Griffin’s appearance on

and conflict and becoming resilient in the face of oppo-

Question Time - after people had had the opportunity

sition’. Hence, it is essential to student well-being that

to cross-examine and expose his views to the disinfec-

we continue to provide them with viewpoints that will

tant of human reason - this support base crumbled. In

challenge and stimulate their intellect; and we must

the next Local County Elections in 2013, the BNP were

make an active effort to not let our rampant desire to

left with a grand total of 2 borough councils in England

signal our wokeness get in the way of their cognitive

- and in the 2014 election it lost both its seats. What

development.

this shows is that, by giving a platform to those whose

We should also remember that today’s heresy

views we disagree with or find offensive, we are able

can become tomorrow’s credo. How fortunate we are

to defeat them. Silencing them is simply not the way

that the Wilberforces, the Pankhursts, and the Martin

forward; Snowflakism is simply not the answer.

Luther-Kings of this world were not silenced by snow-

A further danger of snowflakism is that it creates

flakes because they offended the society of their time.

a generation who value emotion over reason. By prea-

There appears to be a certain naivety amongst those

ching the notion that intellectuals are wrong simply

on the left that, because it is mostly those who sit on

because their views may be emotionally upsetting or

the right ideologically who fall victim to snowflakism, it

offensive to some, we are inadvertently instilling a desire

is not necessary to defend this fundamental right. Yet,

to value emotion over reason in society. The impact

we must remember how quickly the winds of change

this may have on our generation is massively concer-

in public opinion can blow. In due course - when the

ning. Take the case of bioethicist Peter Singer. After an

fortune wheel turns - the left may find themselves a

array of snowflakism infiltrated the universities of New

silenced victim of this very snowflake culture. In fact,

Zealand, Singer became a victim of this cancel-cultu-

this has already started to happen, as many social jus-

re-craze and was ‘no-platformed’ on a number of occa-

tice warriors begin to silence gender-critical progres-

sions following his philosophical writings on euthanasia,

sives like Germaine Greer - one of the major voices in

abortion and new born infanticide. Rather than seek to

the radical feminist movement of the late 20th century.

subject his views to meticulous rational scrutiny, stu-

Hence, it does not matter where you fall on the politi-

dents were taught to value their emotional response

cal spectrum, you must continue to support our fun-

to ideas over their faculty of human reason. Indeed, the

damental right to free speech and not let snowflakism

result of this shift in value system is already starting to

grow any further.

corrode society, as many begin to behave just as their

In essence, my solution is that we must stop ‘calling-

institutions have taught them. Singer himself has since

-out’ and start ‘calling-in’. Next time you hear a particular

experienced a number of death threats, and was even

viewpoint that you dislike, do not silence it. Defeat it. Try

physically assaulted on stage while trying to give a lec-

to the best of your ability - using your intellect and rea-

ture in Germany. The cure to this illness stands evident

son - to think about where the flaw lies in that opinion.

before us; we must return to the age where students

Because we do not live in Maoist China, we do not live

were taught to tackle new ideas using their brain, and

in the Orwellian Oceania, and the clocks do not strike

not their heart. As the father of European Enlightenment

Thirteen. Perhaps you do not like a certain viewpoint

Immanuel Kant put it: ‘life without reason and mora-

expressed in this magazine - if that is the case, write to

lity has no value’.

the Editor explaining why. Be grateful that this maga-

It is not only the academics like Singer who will suffer at the hands of snowflakism. Rather, this all-pervasive

zine is not entitled Pravda, and indulge in all the luxuries available in our tolerant liberal society.

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P H O T O B Y M I T YA I VA N O V O N U N S P L A S H

PHOTO BY UNSEEN HISTORIES ON UNSPLASH

F L FOLROERAETA T

TO AS S U ME MA KES AN A* * O UT O F U AND ME B Y

D A V I D

A D E Y E M I

Surprised? No. Frustrated? Meh. Encouraged? Yes. The preceding was my reaction

her client.

to reading about Alexandra Wilson: a black barrister,

taken for a defendant, Alexandra was presumed to be a

who was mistaken for a defendant three times in one

journalist by a member of the public, who told her that

day at court.

“only lawyers can go in'' the courtroom. She was misre-

Sad to say, I was not surprised when reading about

Further to the three incidents where she was mis-

cognised by professionals (i.e. the lawyer and clerk), and non-professionals alike.

the occurrence.

On tweeting about her

Alexandra Wilson,

experience, while she did

an Oxford University

receive lots of support from

graduate, now barris-

people across the profession,

ter, recently received

her account was scrutinised.

an apology from court

One contention was

off icials, having been

whether her race was the only

mistaken for a defen-

thing which differentiated her

dant three times in one

from others. This is a fair point

day. Upon arrival at the

to raise. After all, not all racial

Magistrates’ Court, she

differences are as a result of

was asked by a security

racism. However, Alexandra

officer for her name, so

notes that there were white

that he could tick her off the list of defendants. She explained that she was a barrister. He apologised and guided her through security. Next, having met with her client, Alexandra went into the courtroom, to discuss the case with the prosecutor. She was told by a lawyer to get out and to wait, and sign in for her case with the usher. Again, she explained that she was the barrister, to which the lawyer responded “I see” and looked away - embarrassed. As she began to walk towards the prosecutor, she was shouted at by the clerk (who advises the magistrate on the law). Alexandra was ordered to wait for her case to come on. Yet again, she explained that she was the barrister. The clerk nodded and turned her head back to her computer. At the end of this all, Alexandra said that she was “absolutely exhausted”. Notwithstanding this, she had to represent

men and women, young and old, who walked freely, in and out of the court. In fact, as magistrates’ courts are where the least serious crimes are usually heard, it is common to see young lawyers. Another potential argument was with regards to her appearance. The stereotypical image of a lawyer assumes a formal dress code including a wig and gown. Hence, one of the points people raised against this being a case of racism, was that she was not wearing a wig or gown. However, this case occurred at a magistrates’ court. At such courts, barristers’ traditional gowns and wigs are not typically worn. Moreover, there were clear signs that she was a legal representative, such as her black suit and her laptop (which was sticking out of her handbag). In her own words “There MUST be something about my face

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that says “not a barrister” because I am literally wearing a black suit like everyone else.”

Perhaps another reason I was not frustrated was a resentment of ‘the victim mentality’. Someone once

Therefore, the facts strongly suggest that this was

said that the easiest way to enslave someone, is to teach

a string of multiple, racist incidents born from prejudi-

them that they are a victim. I think this holds true. When

cial bias.

someone believes they are a victim, they have an excuse

Her Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service said that this was “totally unacceptable behaviour”.

anytime something does not work out. Such a mentality is dangerous. It is important to recognise injustices, no

For Alexandra, she is less concerned about not being recognised as a barrister. The crux of the matter is that

question. However, we should not allow them to define and dictate our lives.

she, because of her skin colour, was consistently assu-

As an aspiring lawyer myself, I am encouraged.

med as a defendant - as a criminal. She has experienced

I am encouraged to see more people speaking up

similar incidents, numerous times before. For example,

about the issue. Not long ago, such discrimination would

there have been times when her white clients have been

be kept in the dark. But now there seems to be a grea-

approached and assumed as the barrister. She tweeted

ter awareness of prejudices. Individuals and institutions

on this occasion, because it occurred so many times on

are more open to discussions and we are more willing

the same day.

to educate ourselves.

“The fact that other black people in my profession

"For me it's not about these people being punished

weren’t surprised by my experience after I shared it on

or told off, or sanctioned at work," said Ms Wilson. "What's

Twitter last week highlights how much of a systemic issue

more important is that people learn from these expe-

this is. The problem is they’re seeing the same group of

riences... because I don't think this is about three indivi-

people coming into the court all day, every day.”

duals going out of their way to be malicious." There is limited benefit in chastising those who

Whilst the incident was certainly irksome, I would

make assumptions. Not only because we all do it, but

not say that I was frustrated. We know that it is important to talk about issues: to ‘get them off your chest’. However, it is also healthy and

also because it ostracises those who are in need of education the most.

at times advisable, to take your mind off such issues: to

On that day, there was one person who did believe

‘clear your head’. Unfortunately, racial microaggressions

Alexandra could be the barrister. An usher told her to

can have a macro impact. If they are allowed to get to

ignore the member of the public who said that she could

you, a transition from disappointment to anger can take

not enter the courtroom. It is ironic that the court per-

place. There is so much more to people than their skin

sonnel with the least power, showed the most humanity.

colour. People are more nuanced than the oversimpli-

Following the event, Alexandra Wilson hopes that

fications and labels attached to them. There are funda-

there will be “real change”.

mental facets of a human being that have much more

"Real change" is a communal responsibility. It requi-

worth than the superficialities of their skin. As much as

res us all to question our actions. Rather than making

possible, it is preferable to shed light on these.

assumptions about people, why not just ask?

FLOREAT

THE END OF A GOLDEN ERA:

EX AMI N ING BR I TA I N' S R EL AT ION S W IT H C H IN A BY KARISSA SING H

For many years, China’s impact on the UK’s economy has reaped strong relations and successful trade deals,

allowed the tech company to supply 35% of the UK's 5G equipment.

with China being the UK’s sixth largest export market,

The UK made the decision that Huawei will be

and an estimated £1.7bn being added to the British eco-

banned from its 5G networks by 2027, and that no new

nomy from Chinese students’ tuition fees. These figures

Huawei 5G kits can be bought after 31st December 2020.

were a testament to the period of strong and construc-

Britain’s actions followed the lead of President Trump’s

tive relations between the two countries, and even led to

decision to ban Huawei on suspicion that Huawei’s 5G

George Osbourne - chancellor of the exchequer in 2015

equipment and technological presence in the Q

- hailing the period as “the golden decade”.

West was being used by the Chinese Communist

Little did anyone know how drastically things were going to change.

Party as a means of spying, thus posing a serious security risk to the US. From May 2020, the US imposed

Britain’s relationship with China has since slumped;

heavy sanctions on the company, preventing it from

Boris Johnson’s government has taken a much harder

using microchips from US suppliers. Subsequently, the

approach towards China and its policies. In particular,

National Security Centre - part of the spy agency GCHQ

the pressing conflicts emerging from the controversial

- was asked by the UK government to analyse Huawei’s

ban of Huawei - a Chinese technological company that

security. The results were game-changing for British-

sells equipment, telecommunications and consumer

Chinese trade relations: Huawei’s equipment could not

electronics - aiding the building of the UK’s 5G network,

be considered safe if reliant on non-US components.

and the ongoing crisis in Hong Kong, have increased

The resulting ban not only sparked conflict between the

hostility between the two countries.

company and Britain, but was also met with criticism,

On Tuesday 14th July 2020, Britain announced that

with some MPs asking for stricter actions to be made.

it would ban Huawei from its 5G equipment and mobile

Rebel leader Ian Duncan-Smith MP questioned “...why

services in the UK - a move that shocked China, as it was

are there not risks [with Huawei] generally?” and claimed

a stark U-turn from a previous plan which would have

that the entire company should be banned from the UK

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- an opinion that is currently held by roughly 60 MPs. In

in the slow lane...and deepen the digital divide”. In fact,

response to the UK’s decision, President Trump’s natio-

an estimated £2bn cost would be expected to burden

nal security advisor, Robert O’Brien, hailed his appro-

consumers. Although China has rejected claims of spying

val stating “the reported UK action reflects a growing

via Huawei equipment, it will be unlikely that any chan-

international consensus that Huawei and other untrus-

ges to the sanctions imposed on the tech company will

ted vendors pose a threat to national security, as they

be made.

remain beholden to the Chinese Communist party. We

Conversely, some MPs view the decisions against

look forward to working with the UK… to spur innovation,

China as signs of Sinophobia within Parliament, stating

promote vendor diversity in the 5G supply chain, and

that their colleagues “don’t really understand China”.

ensure 5G security free from dangerous manipulations.”

They argue that the attitudes of the US parties from the

Nevertheless, the banning of Huawei 5G could put

latest elections are beginning to infect British politics

Britain in the firing line for retaliation and cyber-attacks,

and that many people are trying to use China as a sca-

further increasing tensions between Britain and China.

pegoat just as the EU “had been a scapegoat in recent

The ban appeared to be a display of the UK and US’ lack

years”, as proclaimed by Robert Graham, chairman MP

of trust in China, despite their strong trade relations, and

of the All-Party Parliamentary China Group.

was condemned by Liu Xiaoming, China’s ambassador

The Huawei ban may be viewed by some as a mas-

to the UK, who stated it was a “disappointing and wrong

sive yet necessary blow to relations, yet more issues that

decision by the UK on Huawei. It has become questiona-

would be detrimental to Sino-British relations were still

ble whether the UK can provide an open, fair and non-

to come.

-discriminatory business environment for companies

One of the greatest points of deterioration followed

from other countries.” Whilst also causing relations to

as a result of the Hong Kong extradition bill that propo-

plummet, the Huawei ban is a decision feared by many

sed the allowance of extradition to mainland China, as

to cause added pressure upon the UK economy, with a

well as China’s proposal of a new national security law. In

local spokesman commenting that it will push “Britain

simple terms, extradition is the process by which a state

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can send a suspected criminal back to the requesting

criminal suspected of committing a crime in the UK, and

state for breaking one of the country’s laws, even if the

vice versa, but China’s proposed security law meant that

crime was committed outside of the criminal’s state of

suspects could be sent to China where they could face

refuge. The changes to the bill allowed the Hong Kong

stringent judicial measures such as life-sentences being

government to consider extradition requests from any

imposed on pro-democracy protestors. Additionally,

country, meaning that many criminals could be sent

Boris Johnson’s decision to offer settlement and oppor-

to mainland China for trials. Despite the government

tunities for citizenship to 2.6 million Hongkongers and

erasing certain offences such as tax evasion, to prevent

330,000 British National Overseas (BNO) passport hol-

destabilisation within the business community, critics

ders - an attempt to provide safety amidst the threat

warned that the bill could expose numerous Hong Kong

from the national security law - made it appear that the

citizens to flawed and unfair trials and treatment by the

UK was actively disapproving of and opposing China’s

Chinese state judicial system, thus crippling Hong Kong’s

policies by meddling in their affairs, adding more ten-

autonomy. The looming concern was that China would

sion to relations.

have greater influence and control over Hong Kong,

Britain’s offer applies to all BNO passport holders and

and it would cause difficulties for many Hongkongers

their dependents, and was commented on by Foreign

working in mainland China.

Secretary Dominic Raab as “a special, bespoke, set of

It was for this reason that, from April 2019, millions of

arrangements developed for the unique circumstances

protestors gathered together, equipped with gasmasks,

we face in light of our historic commitment to the peo-

lasers and even petrol bombs. After violent months of

ple of Hong Kong”. Mr Raab continued saying he wan-

protest including a policeman shooting a man in the

ted a positive relationship with China, but Beijing had

chest and a stand-off between police and students on

broken its promise to the people of Hong Kong through

the campus of Hong Kong Polytechnic University, the

its ‘flagrant assault’ on freedom of speech and right of

bill was suspended in September that year. Yet the pro-

peaceful assembly. The Chinese government strongly

testing didn’t stop, people wanted freedom - complete

condemned Britain’s actions, deeming it had no right

freedom, without the fear of the bill being reinstated.

or sovereignty over Hong Kong, and stated that Britain

Not only this, but protesters wanted universal suffrage

will have to bear the consequences of its “irresponsible

for their citizens as well as amnesty for those who were

remarks” and actions regarding Hong Kong. China’s

arrested during some of the largest protests that have

ambassador to the UK, Liu Xiaming, remarked that gran-

occurred since Hong Kong was handed over to China

ting residency was a violation of agreement between

in 1997. It was evident that Hong Kong did not want to

China and the UK; China’s response was a clear indica-

be under the control of China’s legal system. Following

tion of disapproval and crumbling relations. Though it

concerns not only from protesters and citizens, but also

is not exactly clear as to what countermeasures China

organisations such as a US congressional commission

will impose on the UK, there is no doubt that the short-

and the European Union, Carrie Lam - current leader

-lived Golden Era of Anglo-Chinese relations has come

of Hong Kong - regarded the bill as ‘dead’ and later it

to an end.

was scrapped by LegCo (the legislative council of Hong Kong) in October 2019.

Whilst it is undeniable that relations between the two countries have worsened, who is to blame? Could

But how does this affect Sino-British relations?

Britain's actions on Hong Kong and Huawei be seen as

From the handing over of Hong Kong - a former

a gross interference and mistrust for China’s handling of

British colony - to China in 1997, both countries made an

affairs, or simply as pragmatic decisions that had to be

agreement to regard Hong Kong as ‘one country, two

taken to protect their best interests? And although the

systems’: Hong Kong could have its own legal system,

Huawei ban and the Hong Kong bill play major roles in

borders, and freedoms of press and speech. This agree-

worsening British-Chinese relations, these are only two

ment is known as the Joint Declaration and was set to

out of many grave situations which both countries have

last until 2047. However, the new security law enforced

had to face over the past year. Britain and China may not

by China was seen as a violation of this agreement, but

agree with many policies and decisions taken by each

more significantly, it opposed the UK's decision to ban

other, but will they be able to reach an agreement to

its extradition treaty with Hong Kong. Currently, the UK

improve relations and stabilise them once again?

authorities can ask Hong Kong authorities to hand over a

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33 7

A C AS E AG AIN S T LO CK D O W N B Y O R L A N D O W I L L I A M S President Trump recently tweeted: “Don’t be afraid

worried about contracting the virus. However I believe

of Covid! Don’t let it dominate your life.” By the time

that this sharp rise of fear in little over one month has

you finish this article and whether or not you agree

something to do with media scaremongering.

with me or with Trump, I would like everyone to take away this message of optimism.

Leaked worst-case scenario data by the media and taken out of context by yellow press does not do the public any good. Before the March lockdown, Imperial

During my soporific summer holidays, I gained a

College London’s (ICL) ‘Report 9’ modelled 500,000

new appreciation for politics and remember one ques-

deaths without any action taken and 250,000 deaths

tion in particular: “Should we question all authority?”

without further restrictions put in place. Even the US, at

This led me to question the legitimacy of lockdowns.

the time of writing this, has not surpassed these num-

Shortly before finishing this piece, Boris Johnson annou-

bers, despite not all states locking down and having a

nced a four week long national lockdown making this

significantly larger population than the UK. To be clear, I

topic all the more relevant. I will try to describe my thou-

am not criticising the statisticians. Speculatory ‘informa-

ghts on the current situation and what should happen.

tion’, especially at the early stages of a pandemic should

In my view, instead of lockdowns, there should be a

not be available for the public eye. In fact, there are so

shielding system like the one that ‘The Great Barrington

many examples of these blunders, that The Spectator

Declaration’ suggests. The March lockdown clearly did

published a ‘Top Ten Worst Covid Data Failures’.

not completely extinguish the virus. With the govern-

There has been notable vocal opposition in the US,

ment seemingly unwilling to implement a short dra-

Elon Musk, for example, defiantly reopened his Tesla

conian lockdown to extinguish the virus like many East

plant in California. Likewise, a now political campaign

Asian countries, my view is that a second meretricious

by a local gym owner to keep his business open is figh-

lockdown would cause more harm than benefit. What

ting fines of $15,000 a day. It would be iniquitous for any

I have noticed during these past few months during

government to impose restrictions on those busines-

the pandemic is a general acceptance of this situation.

ses willing to take the necessary precautions. Instead

Despite a few deceptively loud voices and some gene-

governments should set recommendations. The busi-

ral querulous Tory bashing on social media, a surprising

nesses that are not willing to comply will then face the

majority of Britons support lockdowns. 78% of people in

economic consequences of a drop in customers and

a YouGov survey supported the lockdowns with 44% of

therefore revenues. Recently, Dr David Nabarro from

people strongly supporting it. Contrast this to America

the World Health Organisation spoke clearly on the

where support for and against lockdowns are roughly

issue and appealed to governments across the world to

even and of course, wavering on party lines. I believe

stop relying on lockdowns. He emphasised the impact

that this support for lockdowns is partly due to a level

it would have on world poverty levels. Despite having

of ‘covidphobia’.

scepticism for the World Health Organisation, I believe

Throughout this pandemic, we have been bom-

that he is absolutely right.

barded with everything ‘coronavirus’, even to the point

Lockdowns have also been terrible for the natio-

where Brexit was a forgotten matter. It is hard to read

nal economy. A Harvard study found that Covid-19 and

the papers without seeing the word ‘coronavirus’. This

the associated lockdowns in the U.S. will cost over $16

blitz from the media has not done us any good. In a

trillion. This is over “twice the monetary outlay for all

survey in March, only 24% of adults surveyed feared

the wars the US has fought since 9/11 including those in

contracting the virus. However, by the end of April, 56%

Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria.” Meanwhile the UK govern-

were scared. Of course, everyone has the right to be

ment debt has hit a record £2.024 trillion. Government

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stimulus money and furlough support schemes have minimised the large impact Covid-19 has had on people. However, this cannot continue forever. Cycles of lockdowns and huge government spending and borrowing cannot be the new normal. The first lockdown has likely caused drastic effects on the academic progress of children. A Harvard University & Brown University joint study of 800,000 American students using an online math program before and after schools closed noted a 50% drop in progress in low-income areas. The average student in these areas could fall back seven months. Given this, I am glad that for the second lockdown, the UK government has decided to keep schools open. This decision will also undoubtedly help the youth with mental health and abuse problems. A U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) report found that (in the U.S.) over 20% of child abuse cases were reported by teachers. This roughly aligns with National Police Chiefs Council data where there was a 25% reduction in abuse reports. Adults have also been adversely affected and unfortunately will continue to be. A quarter of adults felt loneliness compared to the 10% shortly before lockdowns. Counterintuitively, those aged 55 or above felt less lonely than young adults. In the US, the death rates have dropped 85% since the start of the pandemic. This is mainly due to better understanding of the virus and the use of the correct drugs. This gives an average infected person a 99% chance of survival. Given that younger people have minimal risk of being adversely affected, it would be immoral to impose restrictions on those who are willing to work and take the risk. In the US, 42% of deaths up to July were linked to nursing homes which house 0.6% of the population. This goes back to my support for a shielding orientated approach. With government resources and focus on protecting the vulnerable, deaths and the number of people in NHS intensive care wards would dramatically decrease. Which would lead to a faster bounce back for the economy and would be a step in the way towards ‘normality’.

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HOW PHARMACEUTICAL C OUTDATED PATENT SYSTE BY OLLY BLAKEMORE Every year 8 % of Americans are unable to buy life-

by issuing the inventor a license giving them exclusive

saving drugs that they have been prescribed by their

rights to make and sell an invention. However, this was

doctors due to the often extortionate price attached

only for a limited period of time. For a successful patent

to these drugs by pharmaceutical companies. This has

application, it must pass the following requirements:

led to people either dying not from an illness that does

it has to be made by humans, this could be a process,

have a cure, but because they cannot afford to buy the

machine, or composition. – anything that is the result of

medication themselves they go bankrupt and lose their

nature or is an abstract thought is ineligible to be paten-

home leading to them becoming homeless; or resor-

ted. The invention must be credited as something useful

ting to crowdfunding to pay for their medical treatment.

and have some clear benefit to the consumer. Crucially,

Pharmaceutical companies exploit the patent system

the invention must be something new and original. So,

by having teams of lawyers and lobbyists work solely to

if a product has previously been patented or two people

extend patent protection on already existing drugs to

try and patent the same product at the same time the

block competition.

product will also be ineligible to be patented.

An investigation into the top 10 bestselling drugs

But before I divulge further into this matter, I would

shows that on average they have 125 patents each and

like to say that I am not anti-pharma and believe that

that 8 out of 10 patents for the drugs were for already

pharmaceutical companies who invest in developing

existing drugs: giving companies a monopoly over a

new drugs and treatments should be financially rewar-

drug that is protected by patent law enabling them to

ded by being given patents. This is because pharma-

control the supply of a drug. Due to a lack of competition

ceutical companies invest multiple billions of pounds

for the production of a drug, the pharmaceutical com-

into researching and developing new drugs and medi-

panies have the ability to set the price of their drugs as

cations. They also have to spend years jumping through

they please and due the drugs often being life-saving

hoops before being approved to take the drug to market.

medication, people are prepared to pay, often, at wha-

All that time, losing money, as they aren’t able to make

tever cost.

any without the drug being approved. After waiting for

The patent system was first seen in Italy in the 15th

approval from supervisory agencies, successful clinical

Century and was designed to reward inventors finan-

trials and medical tests, companies should be rewarded

cially for inventing something new. This was achieved

for their investment.

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OMPANIES EXPLOIT THE EM TO MAXIMISE PROFITS Over the last 20 years, there has been an explosion in the number of patents that have been issued. It took 155 years for the US patent office to issue 5 million patents, it took only 27 years to issue the following 5 million. Exploiting this system by applying multiple patents to the same drug for minor changes, such as changing the delivery system into the body or changing the dosage of the drug, serve no other purpose than to increase the time under patent protection, and block competition. Ethically, this is wrong, as the patents do not benefit the patient in any way, considering the patent does not improve the drug, but has the purpose of extending the time the company can be the sole producer of the drug and therefore the price setter, due to having a complete monopoly in the market. However, it is not all doom and gloom. This system can be changed through modifications to legislation, by changing the requirements needed for a patent and by not granting new patents on previously patented drugs, unless they increase the effectiveness of the drug substantially for the consumer. This way, drugs will still be patented but for shorter periods of time, meaning competition in producing drugs inevitably lead to the decrease of cost for drugs as the supply and competition increases, whilst demand stays the same. Therefore, fewer people will die from curable illnesses due to the newfound accessibility of drugs and medicines.

PHOTO BY NASTYA DULHIIER ON UNSPL ASH

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W H Y CAN TH E GO VERNME NT TA K E AWAY YO UR FRE E DO M? BY KRISH NAIR

Across the country, another lockdown has stirred up

this may seem extreme, it’s worth considering. After all,

chaos. Thousands have attended anti-lockdown protests

why shouldn’t the government be abolished? Many peo-

in London, Manchester and Liverpool and police have

ple argue that they didn’t sign up for the government

attempted to enforce social distancing. It has become

in the first place, so why should it be allowed to enforce

something of a hobby of mine to scroll through the com-

laws on them? In this article, I will examine a few argu-

ments on any YouTube video relating to the lockdown

ments for and against a government and discuss what

and view the vast swathes of angry comments- some

type of government might be viable.

with more credibility than others. Some people find the

First of all, what would life be like without any gover-

police to be overly violent and hypocrites, after all they

nment at all? This is a much-debated topic, as some do

didn’t enforce the law this much when it came to BLM or

not believe life without a government is plausible. If we

Extinction Rebellion, did they? Others, however, believe

define a government or state as simply a person/group

there is something more sinister going on. A comment

of people that enforce laws and rules on others it could

under the YouTube video ‘London has fallen’ with 64

be that it is impossible for there not to be any form of

likes shared its view on the situation:

government in the world at all. After all, even primitive tribes may have leaders. Nonetheless, postulating on

The pandemic Covid means certificate of vaccine ID

what life without a government would look like could

So a virus is created to give us a vaccine to treat us

still prove to be a useful way to try and justify the gover-

as cattle

nment in the first place. One view immediately springs to my mind when

Sorry sheep Hence the mask

thinking of life without a government. Chaos. This is what

Then the social distancing

Thomas Hobbes believed, as expressed in his greatest

Then more and more

work, Leviathan, in which he gives arguments for the

We are being jailed in our own homes

state. Hobbes believed that human nature would lead

Wake up sheep

people into inevitable conflict without a set of rules and laws in place. His belief on human nature was that peo-

While it may be easy to laugh at people like this and

ple are motivated to act by their desires, and that these

dismiss the whole movement as a bunch of silly peo-

desires would never end. Once you get one thing, you

ple making wild conspiracy theories, this seems to be

move onto the next, and this will continue until you die.

rather arrogant. Many people in the comments call for

Inevitably, due to the scarcity of goods, when two peo-

a complete abolishment of the government, and while

ple want one thing there will be conflict, and this means

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P H OT O BY SI M ON M A O N UN S P L ASH

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constant chaos. However, this is not to say that humans seek out violence. In fact, Hobbes believed that one of man’s greatest desires was peace. Then, why would people fight? There are many reasons. Sometimes people will simply attack as a pre-emptive strike, even when they do not want to fight. This may be to show that they are strong, as pacifism may lead others to view you as weak, and then to attack you. The only solution to this would be a set of laws that people must follow, laws that would be put in place by a state. I find Hobbes’ view compelling and tend to agree with it. However, there can be some points made against it. One problem is that unfortunately, violence continues with a state, arguably to a greater extent in war. Without a state these large conflicts would not work, and so it could be possible that there would be overall less suffering in a world without a state. This point is tricky, as whether or not there would be more or less suffering in a world without a state is up to interpretation. Additionally, who decides which laws to implement and which not to? This problem is also troublesome, as people’s views differ greatly on this too. I will not cover it in this article; however, some views range from Philosopher Kings to democracies in which every single issue is voted on. Even if we decide a state is justified, choosing what type of government is at best not an easy matter. Perhaps the protestors believe that a world without a state would be more peaceful? John Locke seemed to believe that it could be possible, and that order could still be attainable. If a wrongdoer emerged in society, it would not be the government or police that punished them but instead...everyone. Locke believed that everyone had an inherent right to punish, and that they could all band together and punish a wrongdoer if he so emerged. But according to Hobbes, these wrongdoers would emerge everywhere due to human nature and scarcity of goods. This is where Locke disagrees; he does not believe in a scarcity of goods. He believed that there are enough goods on this planet to sustain everyone, and that when a wrongdoer does emerge the natural right to punish can easily be used to bring order back. But there are a few problems with this that lead me to believe Locke’s argument is lacking. For one, it relies on the fact that people already have a distinct drive to enforce the moral code through group punishment. It seems very plausible to me that a group of selfish people could easily team up and bully people into doing what they want. However, Locke’s argument to this would be that it is equally implausible for a state to impose laws

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on others. This then goes back to the question of what an ideal state would be that had the group interests of the people in mind. It could be possible for an unjust and selfish state to be worse than no state in this way. Another problem I have is that if life without a state was so good, why did we leave it? Locke’s answer here is that the creation of money led people to produce more than they needed so that they could profit from keeping more than they needed. This inevitably led to conflict, which is why we formed a state. However, money may always emerge in societies and so I do not know whether this means life without a state would simply lead to money which would lead to conflict and suffering anyway. Locke’s view still leads to mass suffering in this case, which is why I believe it also leads to the conclusion that a state could be better. Many anarchists have also proposed an idea where you can voluntarily opt in and out of a state. After all, in big events, large groups binding together is sometimes very useful - as could be seen in the case of a virus, or climate change. However, the problem with this is the voluntary part. When it comes to these big events, if people don’t participate, they might just not work. Take the case of climate change. Although it may benefit the community as a whole to use less carbon, individually people have no real obligation to use less carbon. The effects are definitely not obvious to them, and they may suffer no real consequences for using cheap gas. However, if everyone begins to think like this, climate change will not be solved. So, then the inevitable conclusion is that the state would simply have to force everyone to join in. But then this is no different from an ordinary state, and the movement does not work. The debate over whether the state is justified or not is more extensive than I have shown here, however, I still believe that life without a state would be worse than life with one. Answers to this question will inevitably differ between people of different backgrounds, as some who have suffered at the hands of an oppressive government will inevitably have different opinions on others who have lived a relatively sheltered lifestyle. This is why anarchists and people who believe in no government should not be brushed aside - oftentimes their input on why the state should be abolished could provide useful information on the downsides of the state. Even the anti-lockdown protestors have some genuine grievances. Many of their jobs have been lost and this may have led them to take desperate actions. I do not agree with them, though I do understand them.

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ILLUSTRATIONS BY BENEDICT SIOW