Ray 1. Will Power. Transmitted through Aries, Leo and Capricorn.
As 2023 comes to an end, I’m struggling to make sense of the current world disorder, focusing on three major threats to our survival: Zionism in the Middle East, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and the MAGA movement in the United States. They have one common theme: might makes right. They represent causes out of which other evils, such as (Hamas) terrorism, arise. Which makes me wonder, what is power? How can light, love and power restore God’s Plan on Earth?
In the context of the Capricorn full moon period overlapping Sol Invictus observance this Christmas season, let’s review current thought forms created by humanity on this subject, and how can they can be repurposed for a future of right human relations, goodwill and peace on Earth.
-JB
Two key theories of international relations
Structural realism, also known as neorealism, and human nature realism, often referred to as classical realism, are two key theories within the field of international relations. They share a common premise that states exist in an anarchic international system and that they act primarily out of self-interest. However, they differ significantly in their explanations for why this is the case.
Structural Realism (Neorealism): Structural realism, as articulated by theorists like Kenneth Waltz, posits that the behavior of states is determined by the anarchic structure of the international system1. In this system, there’s no overarching authority above the state, making security a primary concern. States, according to structural realists, are rational actors that seek to survive by maintaining and increasing their power relative to other states. The focus here is on the system, not on the individual state or its leaders2.
Human Nature Realism (Classical Realism): Human nature realism, on the other hand, asserts that the behavior of states is driven primarily by human nature. Classical realists like Hans Morgenthau argue that it’s the inherent flaws in human nature, such as the lust for power, that lead to conflict and competition among states3. This perspective focuses more on the role of leadership, national character, and moral and ethical considerations in shaping a state’s foreign policy4.
In summary, while structural realism emphasizes the anarchic structure of the international system as the determinant of state behavior, human nature realism places more emphasis on the characteristics and behaviors of individuals and groups within the state.
Sources:
Footnotes
- Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy ↩
- International Relations.org ↩
- Britannica ↩
- International Relations.org ↩
Offensive and defensive realism are two key sub-theories within the school of structural realism in international relations. Both theories agree on the anarchic nature of the international system, but they differ significantly in their views on state behavior and security.
Offensive Realism: Proposed by John Mearsheimer, offensive realism postulates that states are power-maximizers1. In an anarchic international system with no overarching authority, states must always be concerned about their security. To ensure survival, they strive to achieve hegemony, as the best guarantee against attack is to be the most powerful state in the system. Offensive realists believe that states should constantly look for opportunities to gain power at the expense of others2.
Defensive Realism: Defensive realism, associated with theorists like Kenneth Waltz and Robert Jervis, suggests that states are security-maximizers3. While acknowledging the anarchic nature of the international system, defensive realists argue that an aggressive foreign policy often proves counterproductive, provoking other states to form balancing coalitions. Therefore, states should maintain a moderate level of power and pursue cooperative security arrangements to mitigate potential threats4.
In summary, while offensive realists see aggression as a necessity for states to secure their survival, defensive realists advocate for a more moderate and cooperative approach to ensure security in the international system.
Sources:
Footnotes
- John Mearsheimer’s “The Tragedy of Great Power Politics” ↩
- Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy ↩
- Kenneth Waltz’s “Theory of International Politics” ↩
- Oxford Research Encyclopedias ↩
Entropy, Anarchy and the Omega Point
Entropy in physics is a fundamental concept that describes the degree of disorder or randomness in a system. In the context of structural realism in international relations, it can be interpreted as the inherent unpredictability and complexity in the international system due to the absence of a central authority1.
Structural realism asserts that the international system is anarchic, and states are primarily driven by their self-interests for survival and power. This could be seen as a state of high entropy where there’s a high degree of uncertainty and disorder. Structural realists argue that this anarchic structure forces states to act in certain predictable ways, such as balancing against threats, which could be seen as attempts to manage or reduce this entropy2.
On the other hand, Teilhard de Chardin’s concept of the Omega Point presents a contrasting view. The Omega Point theory posits that consciousness and evolution are moving towards a maximum point of complexity and consciousness, known as the Omega Point3. This suggests a progression from high entropy (anarchy) to low entropy (hierarchy), driven by the evolution of consciousness.
In contrast to structural realism which views the international system as inherently conflictual and competitive due to its anarchic nature, the Omega Point theory suggests a more optimistic view of the potential for cooperation and integration as consciousness evolves.
In essence, while entropy and structural realism might highlight the disorder and power struggles in the international system, the Omega Point theory offers a perspective on how evolving consciousness could lead to greater order and unity.
Sources:
Footnotes
- Entropy, technology, and warfare — understanding world politics through physics ↩
- Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy ↩
- Teilhard de Chardin’s The Phenomenon of Man ↩
Liberalism in International Relations
Liberalism is a key theory in international relations that offers an optimistic worldview. It posits that international institutions and interactions can overcome the anarchic nature of the international system, leading to a more cooperative and peaceful world order1.
- Democratic Peace Theory: This theory suggests that democracies are less likely to go to war with each other due to shared values, internal constraints, and the transparency of their political systems2. Democratic norms require leaders to resolve disputes through negotiation and compromise, reducing the likelihood of conflict.
- Economic Interdependence: According to liberals, economic interdependence reduces the likelihood of war by increasing the costs of conflict and the benefits of peace3. High levels of trade and investment create mutual benefits and dependencies that both sides would not want to jeopardize through military conflict.
- Institutionalism: Liberals argue that international institutions, such as the United Nations, play a crucial role in promoting peace and cooperation4. Institutions provide forums for dialogue, help enforce international laws, reduce uncertainty about others’ intentions, and make it more difficult for states to renege on their commitments.
While liberalism recognizes that conflicts and power struggles exist among nations, it emphasizes the potential for cooperation, largely driven by democratic governance, economic ties, and institutional mechanisms.
Sources:
Footnotes
- Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy ↩
- Oxford Research Encyclopedias ↩
- Journal of Peace Research ↩
- International Studies Quarterly ↩
Natural Organic Hierarchies
Systems theory posits that systems, whether they are biological ecosystems, social structures, or organizations, are made up of interconnected parts that form a complex whole. This holistic approach emphasizes the interdependence of all system components and their interactions1.
Natural organic hierarchies, as suggested by systems theory, are intrinsic to the organization of many systems in nature. They are characterized by a structure where elements at each level of the hierarchy interact more strongly with each other than with those at different levels2. This hierarchical organization is seen as an inherent property of nature2.
In ecology, for example, the hierarchical structure can be observed in the organization of ecosystems, from individual organisms (lowest level) to populations, communities, ecosystems, and the biosphere (highest level)3. This hierarchy facilitates understanding and analysis of ecological phenomena.
Similarly, in the context of organizations, there are rational, natural, and open systems. Natural systems focus on the human component in organizations, acknowledging that people and their interactions play a crucial role in shaping an organization’s structure and processes4.
The concept of organic hierarchies also extends to areas like organic farming, where systems thinking is reflected in stewardship towards nature, the ethics of animal husbandry, and recycling principles5.
In essence, systems theory’s concept of natural organic hierarchies highlights the interconnectedness and interdependence of elements within a system, facilitating our understanding of complex natural and social phenomena.
Sources:
Footnotes
- Concepts of Systems Thinking ↩
- Hierarchical structure of biological systems – PMC ↩ ↩2
- The Hierarchical Structure of Ecosystems: Connections to Evolution ↩
- Rational, Natural, and Open Systems of Organizations ↩
- Systems Theory as a Scientific Approach towards Organic Farming ↩
Symbols
The symbol of anarchy, also known as the Circle-A, is composed of an “A” and an “O”. The “A” stands for “anarchy”, which means “without rulers”. The “O” represents “order”. Together, they convey the phrase “Anarchy is the mother of Order“, which is a part of a quote attributed to Pierre-Joseph Proudhon, a French philosopher and one of the first self-proclaimed anarchists12.
This symbol is said to represent a French anarchist’s maxim “Anarchy is Order“. It implies that society seeks order, but without the imposition of authority or rulers3.
It’s important to note that anarchism doesn’t signify chaos in all its aspects. Rather, it advocates for a society based on voluntary cooperation of individuals4.
While the anarchy symbol has been associated with various movements and ideas over time, it fundamentally remains a representation of a society seeking order through non-hierarchical and voluntary associations5.
Sources:
Footnotes
There isn’t a universally recognized symbol for hierarchy that contrasts directly with the anarchy symbol. In contrast, hierarchy often manifests in symbols of structures or pyramids, representing rigid levels of authority or power, often imposed.
I propose that Roerich’s Banner of Peace be adopted as a universal symbol of hierarchy. The streams of Light and Love converging into the One (Power) on the Path of Return, restoring the Plan on Earth.
JB
Hierarchy is not coercion, it is the law of the Universe. It is not a threat, but the call of the heart and a fiery admonition directing toward the General Good.
Thus let us cognize the Hierarchy of Light.
https://agniyoga.org/ay_en/Hierarchy.php
The Three Fundamentals
The First Cause may be construed to comprise three fundamentals: Omnipotent Good, Omniscient Beautiful, and Omnipresent Creative Sound of Light.
These three fundamentals manifest in varying degrees in different philosophies and religions. For example, in Hinduism, the Trimurti consists of three deities: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, representing creation, preservation, and destruction, respectively. In Christianity, the Holy Trinity comprises the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Three great energies are focused in Shamballa, the seat of fire:
- The Energy of Purification: This is the power, innate in the manifested universe, which gradually and steadily adapts the substance aspect to the spiritual. It involves the elimination of all that hinders the nature of divinity from full expression.
- The Energy of Destruction: This is a destruction which removes or changes the forms which imprison the inner spiritual life, and hide the inner soul light.
- The Energy of Organization: This is the energy which started the impulse which produced manifestation. The relation of spirit and matter cyclically and under law creates the manifested world as a field for soul development and as an area wherein divine purpose is wrought out through the medium of the Plan.
The Shamballa force therefore focusses the will-to-good, leading to right human relationship, and establishing peace on Earth.
The Shamballa Force • Lucis Trust
Let LIGHT and LOVE and POWER restore the Plan on Earth.
Hierarchical Democracy 