MORITURI SALUTAMUS

21 October 2024

Morituri Salutamus

 

AVĒ IMPERĀTOR, MORITŪRĪ TĒ SALŪTANT

The last words of the gladiator. A rather long but encouraging poem about old age. 

It's a wonderful poem and very inspiring. It tells us that so long as the heart keeps beating, curiosity and perseverance will continue to drive us forward and we can and will and should enjoy our life. By implication, if it helps we should encourage and inspire, guide and lead those for whom we have responsibilities. So this poem is worth a read.

Within the poem, there is a story of the fickle finger of fate pointing to the door to an underground room. The room is filled with peoples and things from our past, roads travelled, decisions taken, and we have the opportunity to reflect and draw lessons.

"Long at the scene, bewildered and amazed

The trembling clerk in speechless wonder gazed;

Then from the table, by his greed made bold,

He seized a goblet and a knife of gold,

And suddenly from their seats the guests upsprang,

The vaulted ceiling with loud clamours rang,

The archer sped his arrow, at their call,

Shattering the lambent jewel on the wall,

And all was dark around and overhead;--

Stark on the floor the luckless clerk lay dead!"

All the same, the last four lines really appealed.

Here's a link and here are the last lines that can be my tribute.

Morituri Salutamus

For age is opportunity no less

Than youth itself, though in another dress,

And as the evening twilight fades away

The sky is filled with stars, invisible by day.

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ALT_CHIANGMAI

21 October 2024

Alt_ChiangMai est un espace de co-living et de co-working conçu pour les nomades digitaux et les travailleurs à distance. Il se trouve au cœur de la vieille ville de Chiang Mai, à l'adresse 129, 1 Intrawarorot Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai. 

Ce lieu propose 27 chambres avec salle de bain privée, parfaites pour un séjour confortable. Les chambres mesurent en moyenne 17 à 20 mètres carrés, avec tout le nécessaire : lit queen-size, salle de bain privée, Wi-Fi haut débit et espaces de travail partagés.

À Alt_ChiangMai, vous trouverez une communauté dynamique avec des événements réguliers comme du yoga, des bains glacés et des sorties sociales. Il y a aussi un café sur place qui sert du café local, et les résidents bénéficient de services pratiques comme le ménage hebdomadaire, du matériel de fitness et un accès 24h/24.

La localisation est idéale, entourée de nombreuses facilités :

Restaurants et cafés : Vous trouverez une grande variété de choix, de la cuisine de rue thaïlandaise aux cafés modernes.

Commerces : Des supérettes comme 7-Eleven sont à quelques minutes pour vos courses rapides.

Temples : Des temples célèbres comme Wat Chedi Luang et Wat Phra Singh sont tout proches pour des visites culturelles.

Marchés : Le Sunday Walking Street Market est également à proximité, parfait pour découvrir l'artisanat local et la cuisine de rue.

En bref, Alt_ChiangMai est un lieu idéal pour travailler tout en profitant de la richesse culturelle de Chiang Mai, avec tout à portée de main.

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Here is the translation:

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21 October 2024

Alt_ChiangMai is a co-living and co-working space designed for digital nomads and remote workers. It is located in the heart of Chiang Mai’s old city at 129, 1 Intrawarorot Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai.

This place offers 27 rooms with private bathrooms, perfect for a comfortable stay. The rooms measure around 17 to 20 square meters, with all essentials: queen-size bed, private bathroom, high-speed Wi-Fi, and shared workspaces.

At Alt_ChiangMai, you'll find a vibrant community with regular events like yoga, ice baths, and social outings. There's also an on-site café serving local coffee, and residents benefit from practical services such as weekly cleaning, fitness equipment, and 24/7 access.

The location is ideal, surrounded by many facilities:

Restaurants and cafés: A variety of options, from Thai street food to modern cafés.

Shops: Convenience stores like 7-Eleven are just minutes away for quick purchases.

Temples: Famous temples like Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh are nearby for cultural visits.

Markets: The Sunday Walking Street Market is also close by, perfect for discovering local crafts and street food.

In summary, Alt_ChiangMai is an ideal place to work while enjoying the cultural richness of Chiang Mai, with everything at your fingertips.

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CM TOP TEN MEDIUM PRICE RESTAURANTS - W, W/O ALCOHOL, HALAL

20 October 2024

WITH, WITHOUT & HALAL

Here are ten excellent medium-priced restaurants in Chiang Mai, offering a mix of local and international flavours, mostly with:

WITH

1. Tong Tem Toh

Famous for its Northern Thai cuisine, Tong Tem Toh is located in the trendy Nimman area. Popular dishes include sai oua (northern Thai sausage) and nam prik noom (chili dip). The restaurant is known for its vibrant atmosphere and quality food at affordable prices.

2. Cherng Doi Roast Chicken

This restaurant is a top spot for kai yang (grilled chicken), a classic Isan dish. Located in the Nimman area, it serves tender, juicy roast chicken accompanied by som tam (papaya salad) and sticky rice.

3. SP Chicken

Known for its unique roasting technique, SP Chicken is a favourite for roast chicken lovers. It offers moist, flavourful kai yang served with fresh papaya salad. This spot in the Old City is beloved by both locals and tourists.

4. Mitr.

A relaxed restaurant offering a variety of Thai and international dishes. It’s perfect for gatherings, with a warm atmosphere and a well-priced sharing menu.

5. Grill of India

For those in the mood for Indian cuisine, Grill of India offers a genuine experience with dishes like butter chicken, tikka masala, and prawn korma. Located on Prapokkloa Road, it’s a great spot for quality Indian food at reasonable prices.

6. Moreganic Restaurant

A vegan Thai-fusion restaurant focusing on organic ingredients and sustainability. Located in Away Thapae Resort, it offers an array of healthy, flavourful dishes in a relaxing setting.

7. Roummit 2

This halal restaurant serves a variety of Chinese-Yunnan dishes, including their signature fried fish with herbs. It’s located near the Night Bazaar and is known for its organic vegetables.

8. Xon Earth

A vegan international restaurant located in the Amaravati Wellness Center. The focus is on health and wellness, offering a unique dining experience with dishes crafted to balance the five flavours: sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and astringent.

9. Thapae Grill

Recently opened, this restaurant specialises in spicy Chinese mala barbecue, paired with beers and a rooftop view over the Thapae Gate Walking Street. A popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

10. Khao Soi Khun Yai

This simple but highly regarded spot serves the iconic northern Thai dish, khao soi. Located near Sri Poom 8 Alley, it’s a local favourite for affordable and authentic Chiang Mai cuisine.

These restaurants offer a great variety of flavours and dining experiences, providing both locals and visitors with quality food at medium prices.

WITHOUT

Here are 10 medium-priced restaurants in Chiang Mai where it is possible to enjoy a meal without drinking alcohol:

1. Moreganic Restaurant

A vegan Thai-fusion restaurant located at Away Thapae Resort, Moreganic focuses on organic and plant-based dishes, offering a relaxing and alcohol-free dining experience.

2. Anchan Vegetarian Restaurant

Located near Nimmanhaemin Road, this restaurant offers delicious vegetarian Thai food. Anchan is known for its creative dishes and serves only non-alcoholic drinks.

3. Reform Kafé

Part of the Green Tiger House, Reform Kafé specialises in vegan and vegetarian dishes, making it a great choice for those looking to avoid alcohol. The peaceful atmosphere encourages mindfulness and healthy eating.

4. Pun Pun Vegetarian Restaurant

A well-known vegetarian restaurant in Chiang Mai offering affordable, organic food. With its emphasis on sustainability, Pun Pun avoids serving alcohol, focusing instead on fresh, healthy meals.

5. Khao Soi Khun Yai

A classic spot for Chiang Mai’s famous khao soi (curry noodles). This local favourite is a simple, no-frills eatery where alcohol is not on the menu.

6. Cherng Doi Roast Chicken

This restaurant serves traditional kai yang (roast chicken) along with som tam and sticky rice. Alcohol is not a focus here, and the emphasis is on good food.

7. Taste from Heaven

This vegetarian restaurant, popular with both locals and tourists, offers a range of Thai and international dishes without alcohol. It is located in the Old City and offers healthy meals.

8. Goodsouls Kitchen

Another vegan and vegetarian spot in Chiang Mai, Goodsouls Kitchen offers hearty and healthy meals without any alcohol, making it a great choice for clean eating.

9. Imm Aim Vegetarian and Bike Café

Located in the Santitham area, Imm Aim is a cosy vegetarian café serving nutritious, meat-free meals. The café has a chill vibe and no alcohol is served.

10. Free Bird Café

An eco-conscious vegetarian café supporting social causes, Free Bird Café serves dishes from Thailand and Myanmar. It’s an alcohol-free environment focused on healthy, sustainable living.

These restaurants offer a variety of delicious and healthy meals in an alcohol-free environment, catering to those looking for a mindful dining experience.

HALAL

Here are ten great halal restaurants in Chiang Mai, offering a range of delicious halal-certified dishes:

1. Yasmin Restaurant

Located in the Night Bazaar area, Yasmin serves a variety of Middle Eastern and Thai halal dishes. It’s a favourite among locals and tourists for its affordable, authentic flavours.

2. Arabian Restaurant

Also situated near the Night Bazaar, this restaurant offers a mix of Arabic and Thai halal dishes, including grilled meats and traditional rice dishes.

3. Shere Shiraz Halal Indian Restaurant

Specialising in Indian cuisine, Shere Shiraz is a popular halal restaurant offering curries, naan, and other Indian favourites. It's located close to the Night Bazaar.

4. Le Spice Restaurant

This Indian and Middle Eastern halal restaurant offers a diverse menu of curries, biryanis, and kebabs. The restaurant is located in the Old City and provides a relaxing dining experience.

5. Al-Rahmat Muslim Restaurant

This simple eatery serves classic halal Thai dishes, such as chicken fried rice, khao soi, and other local specialties. It's a great option for those seeking affordable halal food in Chiang Mai.

6. Ruammit 1 & 2 Halal Restaurants

Ruammit is well known for its halal Chinese and Yunnan cuisine. Ruammit 2, located near the Night Bazaar, offers a variety of dishes made with organic vegetables.

See also in the above lists.

7. Kabab Bar

Offering Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes like kebabs, falafel, and shawarma, Kabab Bar is a small but popular halal restaurant in the Old City.

8. Sara Restaurant

Located within the Chiang Mai Halal Hotel, Sara serves an array of halal Thai and international dishes. The atmosphere is family-friendly, and it's a great place for a more upscale halal dining experience.

9. Al-Fahham Halal Food

Located near the Old City, Al-Fahham is famous for its grilled halal chicken, biryani, and other Thai dishes. It's a casual spot offering good value.

10. The Duke’s Halal

Though primarily known for Western-style dishes like burgers and steaks, The Duke's has a halal-certified branch that caters to those looking for American-style food in a halal environment.

These restaurants offer a variety of halal options, from Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine to local Thai dishes, ensuring a diverse and satisfying dining experience in Chiang Mai.

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THE FUTURE UNDER TRUMP

20 October 2024

The day of the Donald - how America ducked oblivion

Europe

Sean Foo in his prog this week, states the blimmin obvious: the only way europe can survive is if it turns back on the nordstream pipelines.

He goes on to say, rather optimistically, that this would have as a consequence a rise in the energy costs for china and thus bring european goods, relatively speaking, into a more competitive position.

Hmmmmm ... first of all, try persuading russia to undo all its re-architecturing, and in the face of what must be extreme bitterness towards the EU, start re-supplying europe with cheap energy. 

I don't think so.

America

America, on the other hand, looks like under trump might concentrate on increasing the output of its manufacturing sectors, ie rebalance away from financials, which did well over twenty years of cheap money, into production of goods. 

How did China lift those hundreds of millions out of poverty? 

Nixon's 1972 visit to China re-opened diplomatic channels. Then it was under Carter in 1979 that Deng Xiaoping got agreements for economic cooperation between US and China.

The deal was that corporate america could invest in china, where labour costs were very much lower, and in return, china could sell to the american middle class. (China also insisted that foreign companies had to partner with a local and that there must be technology transfer.)

The result was that America lost its manufacturing base, gained the deplorables, switched into consumerism and financials, and lost its IP advantage 

An American recovery

And now under trump will hack the problem with massive tariffs, to encourage the outsourced to in-source back into american manufacturing, if they want to sell to the world's greatest consumer market.

So this might be the way that america retains its top spot as World No. 1 Hegemon, leaving europe and china in its wake, not in physical ruin by war this time,  but in financial ruin by tariffs. (Trump doesn't like making war, it's so bad; he prefers to ruin competitors by making deals, it's so good).

Trump, grandpa of the nation

This article takes absolutely no account of the rise of the BRICS. Doesn't look at the effects of a trump win or massive sanctions on the markets. Doesn't consider the situation where america has lost its top spot, but will not be replaced by china alone, but rather a West v. The Rest; or a more pluralistic world Order with no dominant grouping..

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RECENT FLOODING IN S E ASIA

20 December 2024

Voir version française en bas

1. Extent and General Causes of the Flooding

In recent weeks, widespread flooding has affected large parts of Thailand and neighbouring countries. The floods were the result of several interrelated factors, including unusually heavy monsoon rains, tropical storms, and the overflow of major rivers. While the Mekong River played a role in some regions, the flooding was not solely caused by the river bursting its banks. Other rivers, such as the Ping, Wang, Yom, and Nan, contributed to severe flooding in different parts of Thailand.

The impact of this flooding extended beyond Thailand, with countries like Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia also experiencing significant flooding due to shared weather systems and river networks, particularly the Mekong. In Thailand, both urban and rural areas were affected, from the mountainous northern provinces to the low-lying central plains, with the country’s infrastructure and drainage systems being overwhelmed.

2. Causes of Flooding in Thailand

The primary causes of the flooding were:

Heavy Monsoon Rains: The rainy season in Thailand typically lasts from May to October, but this year saw prolonged and intense downpours. These rains overwhelmed rivers and drainage systems across the country, particularly in northern and central Thailand.

Tropical Storms: Several tropical storms that formed in the South China Sea moved across Southeast Asia, bringing torrential rain and strong winds. These storms significantly exacerbated flooding in areas already saturated by monsoon rains.

River Overflows: Major rivers such as the Ping, Yom, and Nan swelled with the increased rainfall, flooding surrounding areas. While the Mekong River also rose, contributing to flooding in northeastern Thailand and parts of Laos and Cambodia, it was not the sole cause of the widespread flooding across the region.

3. Focus on Northern Thailand

Northern Thailand was one of the hardest-hit areas, experiencing flash floods, river overflows, and landslides. This region is characterised by mountainous terrain, where water flows rapidly into valleys and urban areas, leading to destructive floods.

Chiang Mai Province:

Chiang Mai, one of the largest cities in northern Thailand, experienced severe flooding in both urban and rural areas. The Ping River, which flows through the heart of the city, overflowed its banks due to the heavy rains, submerging riverside communities and causing damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure. Low-lying parts of the city, particularly around the Old Town and near the Ping River, were badly hit.

In addition to river flooding, Chiang Mai’s mountainous areas experienced flash floods and landslides. The rapid runoff of rainwater from the mountains overwhelmed drainage systems and caused significant damage to roads and rural communities. The disruption to transportation and agriculture was substantial, and emergency services struggled to reach some of the more isolated areas.

Other Northern Provinces:

Other provinces in northern Thailand, including Lampang, Nan, and Phayao, were also badly affected. These areas experienced a combination of flash floods and river overflows. Lampang, in particular, saw districts along the Wang River inundated, while Nan’s riverside communities were heavily impacted by the swollen Nan River.

4. Chiang Mai’s Flooding: Specific Causes and Impact

Geography: Chiang Mai’s location in a valley surrounded by mountains makes it particularly vulnerable to flooding. When heavy rains fall in the mountains, water quickly flows into the low-lying city. The Ping River, which is the main waterway through Chiang Mai, is prone to rising rapidly during periods of intense rain, which is exactly what happened in recent weeks.

Urbanisation: The rapid growth of Chiang Mai’s urban area has also exacerbated the flooding. As more land is developed for housing and businesses, there is less natural space for water to drain. This has put increased pressure on the city’s drainage infrastructure, which struggled to cope with the volume of water during the recent rains.

Environmental Factors: Deforestation in the region has reduced the land’s ability to absorb water, leading to faster runoff into rivers and urban areas. This, combined with poor land management, contributed to the severity of the floods.

clean-up time - a comprehensive and rapid response

5. Conclusion

The recent flooding in Thailand, particularly in northern provinces like Chiang Mai, was caused by a combination of heavy monsoon rains, tropical storms, and the overflow of local rivers. While the Mekong River did contribute to flooding in some areas, particularly in northeastern Thailand and beyond, it was not the sole factor. Northern Thailand’s geography, combined with environmental changes and inadequate infrastructure, made it particularly vulnerable to the extreme weather this season. The impact on cities like Chiang Mai has been severe, and future flooding is likely unless significant measures are taken to improve flood management and infrastructure in the region.

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1. Étendue et causes générales des inondations

Ces dernières semaines, de vastes inondations ont touché de nombreuses régions de la Thaïlande ainsi que des pays voisins. Ces inondations sont le résultat de plusieurs facteurs interconnectés, notamment des pluies de mousson exceptionnellement abondantes, des tempêtes tropicales et le débordement de grands fleuves. Bien que le fleuve Mékong ait joué un rôle dans certaines régions, les inondations n'ont pas été uniquement causées par le débordement de ce fleuve. D'autres rivières, comme la Ping, la Wang, la Yom et la Nan, ont également contribué aux inondations sévères dans différentes parties de la Thaïlande.

L'impact de ces inondations s'est étendu au-delà de la Thaïlande, touchant des pays comme le Laos, le Myanmar, le Vietnam et le Cambodge, également confrontés à des inondations importantes dues à des systèmes météorologiques similaires et à des réseaux fluviaux partagés, notamment le Mékong. En Thaïlande, tant les zones urbaines que rurales ont été touchées, des provinces montagneuses du nord aux plaines centrales basses, les infrastructures et les systèmes de drainage étant dépassés.

2. Causes des inondations en Thaïlande

Les principales causes des inondations sont :

Pluies de mousson abondantes : La saison des pluies en Thaïlande dure généralement de mai à octobre, mais cette année, les averses ont été plus longues et plus intenses. Ces pluies ont submergé les systèmes fluviaux et de drainage à travers le pays, en particulier dans le nord et le centre de la Thaïlande.

Tempêtes tropicales : Plusieurs tempêtes tropicales formées en mer de Chine méridionale ont traversé l'Asie du Sud-Est, apportant des pluies torrentielles et des vents violents. Ces tempêtes ont considérablement aggravé les inondations dans des zones déjà saturées par les pluies de mousson.

Débordements de rivières : Des rivières majeures comme la Ping, la Yom et la Nan ont gonflé en raison des fortes précipitations, provoquant des inondations dans les régions environnantes. Bien que le Mékong ait également débordé, contribuant aux inondations dans le nord-est de la Thaïlande et au Cambodge, il n'a pas été la seule cause des inondations généralisées dans la région.

3. Focus sur le nord de la Thaïlande

Le nord de la Thaïlande a été l'une des régions les plus durement touchées, connaissant des crues soudaines, des débordements de rivières et des glissements de terrain. Cette région se caractérise par un terrain montagneux, où l'eau s'écoule rapidement dans les vallées et les zones urbaines, provoquant des inondations destructrices.

Province de Chiang Mai :

Chiang Mai, l'une des plus grandes villes du nord de la Thaïlande, a subi de graves inondations tant dans les zones urbaines que rurales. Le fleuve Ping, qui traverse le cœur de la ville, a débordé de ses rives en raison des fortes pluies, submergeant les communautés riveraines et causant des dommages aux habitations, aux commerces et aux infrastructures. Les zones basses de la ville, notamment autour de la vieille ville et à proximité du fleuve Ping, ont été gravement touchées.

En plus des inondations fluviales, les zones montagneuses de Chiang Mai ont connu des crues soudaines et des glissements de terrain. L'écoulement rapide des eaux de pluie depuis les montagnes a submergé les systèmes de drainage et causé d'importants dégâts aux routes et aux communautés rurales. Les services d'urgence ont eu du mal à atteindre certaines des zones les plus isolées.

Autres provinces du nord :

D'autres provinces du nord de la Thaïlande, notamment Lampang, Nan et Phayao, ont également été gravement touchées. Ces régions ont connu une combinaison de crues soudaines et de débordements de rivières. Lampang, en particulier, a vu des districts situés le long de la rivière Wang inondés, tandis que les communautés riveraines de Nan ont été fortement impactées par le débordement de la rivière Nan.

4. Inondations à Chiang Mai : Causes spécifiques et impact

Géographie : La situation géographique de Chiang Mai dans une vallée entourée de montagnes la rend particulièrement vulnérable aux inondations. Lorsque de fortes pluies tombent dans les montagnes, l'eau s'écoule rapidement vers la ville située en contrebas. Le fleuve Ping, qui est la principale voie navigable traversant Chiang Mai, a tendance à monter rapidement pendant les périodes de fortes pluies, ce qui s'est précisément produit ces dernières semaines.

Urbanisation : La croissance rapide de la zone urbaine de Chiang Mai a également aggravé les inondations. Avec davantage de terrains aménagés pour les habitations et les entreprises, il reste moins d'espace naturel pour le drainage des eaux. Cela a mis une pression accrue sur l'infrastructure de drainage de la ville, qui a eu du mal à gérer le volume d'eau pendant les récentes averses.

Facteurs environnementaux : La déforestation dans la région a réduit la capacité du sol à absorber l'eau, ce qui a entraîné un ruissellement plus rapide vers les rivières et les zones urbaines. Cela, combiné à une mauvaise gestion des terres, a contribué à la gravité des inondations.

5. Conclusion

Les récentes inondations en Thaïlande, en particulier dans les provinces du nord comme Chiang Mai, ont été causées par une combinaison de pluies de mousson abondantes, de tempêtes tropicales et de débordements de rivières locales. Bien que le fleuve Mékong ait contribué aux inondations dans certaines régions, notamment dans le nord-est de la Thaïlande et au-delà, il n'a pas été le seul facteur. La géographie du nord de la Thaïlande, combinée à des changements environnementaux et à une infrastructure inadéquate, a rendu la région particulièrement vulnérable aux conditions météorologiques extrêmes de cette saison. L'impact sur des villes comme Chiang Mai a été sévère, et de nouvelles inondations sont probables à l'avenir, à moins que des mesures importantes ne soient prises pour améliorer la gestion des inondations et les infrastructures dans la région.

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THE THIRD NORMAL FORM

19 October 2024

1. Overview of Codd’s Rules for Normalising a Database

E.F. Codd, the founder of relational database theory, introduced database normalisation to reduce redundancy and improve data integrity. His normalisation process is divided into stages, known as normal forms (NF). Each step addresses specific types of anomalies that can occur in a poorly designed database. Below are the key normalisation rules:

2. Codd's Normal Forms

First Normal Form (1NF):

Each table must have atomic values (no multiple values in a single field).

Every column should contain only one value (no lists or arrays in one cell).

There must be a unique identifier (a primary key) for each record in the table.

Example: Instead of having a field that contains multiple phone numbers, there should be separate rows or a related table for each phone number associated with the person.

Second Normal Form (2NF):

It must satisfy all requirements of 1NF.

It should eliminate partial dependency, meaning non-primary key attributes must depend on the entire primary key, not just a part of it.

Example: In a table where the primary key is a combination of multiple columns (e.g., Student ID + Course ID), the student's name should not depend only on Student ID; it must depend on the combination of Student ID and Course ID.

Third Normal Form (3NF):

It must satisfy all requirements of 2NF.

It eliminates transitive dependency, meaning non-key attributes should only depend on the primary key and not on other non-key attributes.

Example: If a table has a Student ID, Course ID, and the Instructor Name, the Instructor Name should be removed and placed in a separate table, as it’s not directly dependent on the primary key (Student ID + Course ID).

3. Advanced Normal Forms

Boyce-Codd Normal Form (BCNF):

A stricter version of 3NF. It eliminates any remaining anomalies where a non-primary key attribute functionally determines a part of the primary key.

Example: If a table contains both Professor ID and Department, and Department determines Professor ID, BCNF requires that the relationship between Department and Professor ID be normalised into separate tables.

Fourth Normal Form (4NF):

It must satisfy all requirements of BCNF.

It addresses cases of multi-valued dependency, ensuring that no record contains multiple independent sets of values for different attributes.

Example: In a table containing Employee ID, Skill, and Language, an employee’s skills and languages are unrelated, so the table should be split into two tables: one for Employee-Skill and another for Employee-Language.

Fifth Normal Form (5NF):

It must satisfy all requirements of 4NF.

It eliminates join dependency, ensuring that data should not be decomposed beyond the necessity to represent complex relationships.

Example: If a table captures relationships between three entities, breaking it into smaller tables shouldn’t cause the loss of any meaningful relationships between the entities.

4. Key Definitions

Atomic values: Each data entry must be indivisible (no lists or sets inside a cell).

Partial dependency: When a non-primary key column depends only on part of a composite primary key, rather than the entire key.

Transitive dependency: When a non-primary key column depends on another non-primary key column instead of directly on the primary key.

Multi-valued dependency: A situation where one attribute in a table uniquely determines another set of attributes, leading to redundancy.

Join dependency: When the combination of multiple tables is necessary to represent a relationship between entities.

5. The Big Picture

Codd's normalisation rules are designed to improve database efficiency and avoid problems like redundant data, update anomalies, and inconsistencies. By applying these forms step-by-step, a database becomes more structured, ensuring that data is stored logically and can be queried effectively.

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IN GAZA, THE SCENT OF DEATH FILLS THE AIR

19 October 2024

I've just been watching a very interesting account of the travels of Voyager 1 and Voyager 2. They set off from Earth in the 70s. They're still going strong today, and in something like 30,000 years, they'll leave our solar system.

Of course, by that time it is quite possible that the planet Earth will no longer exist, we having blown ourselves apart.

The whole of Gaza Strip has now been razed to the ground, and I imagine that two million people are sleeping under the stars, huddled under torn blankets, with no food, disease creeping over them all, the scent of death filling the air. 

Just imagine the scene that will be captured by the world's cameras when we get in to Camp Gaza and find all these living skeletons with their sunken eyes staring back at us.

Perhaps if images can be beamed out to Voyager, these will be some of the memories sent from a dead and distant planet.

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WHAT IS SO BAD ABOUT RUSSIAN CULTURE

18 October 2024

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/opinion/2024/10/18/germany-must-shed-its-reputation-as-europes-soft-underbelly/

Since this article talks about russian and german culture, it's worth noting that they are similar in many ways that might surprise us.

We hear nothing but negative bitter crit of all things russian these days, but it is worth considering whether russia could play a useful and positive role 

a) counter balancing the very negative influence of america on us europeans and more generally, could russia save us from the decline of the west? and 

b) whether conservative-minded readers of this blog might not find we have rather more in common with russian culture than we would like to admit...Worth thinking about? Ok, read on Horatio...

If you offer russian people the choice between their existing culture and a liberal-democratic culture as largely found across Europe, you can be sure you would immediately be shown the door. They had a bellyfull of that in the 1990s.

Instead, Russia offers a communal, nationalist ethos - a cultural and societal mindset that emphasises the collective identity and unity of a nation, often placing the interests and values of the group or community above those of the individual.

Russia's alternative cultural model is resistant to neoliberalism, much like Germany's in some respects. Remember that neoliberalism is not the same as liberalism, neoliberalism is what has given us all these forever wars, i believe Germany is no longer a threat in that respect..

It may surprise you to learn that Russia is a democratic society. You can see that from the polls, which give Putin a consistent near-80% popularity. But while it is democratic (hooraaaay), it is also to some extent authoritarian (boooooh), and you can tell this by the poor treatment of minorities and from the composition of the governing class, which tends to be drawn from the oligarchs (but don't think that democracy in europe is any better! certainly not in the EU).

From what I can work out, russia offers a traditional culture, a nationalist spirit, a diverse though well integrated society (ethnically and religiously, russians are majority orthodox Christian from the days of bizantium, but has a large Muslim population in the caucases,

from the days I think of the ottomans), patriarchal by family type, meaning a somewhat rude authoritarian political culture, but is at the same time a popular democracy. 

It is alleged to share with Germany, however, a certain violent family type, supposedly originating in "droit de cuissage", but from examining the historical record, this looks like a myth. Widespread violence in the family does lead to extremes in political culture, we know about that and which I cannot name, but let's just say it is expressed in n and c.

I don't see much wrong with a nationalist, conservative, traditional and religious culture, hopefully not too exaggerated, though I would prefer a liberal democracy that is real and not just the marketing propaganda of an elite class; and I can see a big boon in having a counter-weight to american influence in europe and a brake on our further decline into poverty and decadence.

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AMERICA IN THREE LAYERS

16 October 2024

UNDERSTANDING FOREVER WARS

The Deep State – three layers

Aaron Good’s concept of the American state is a critique and a framework for understanding power in the United States - power that goes beyond the visible democratic institutions presented in the MSM. 

Good suggests that the true state comprises three interconnected layers of American power:

- the visible state, that governs and arbitrates justice, 

- supported by the deep state that assures security and continuity of interest, 

- on behalf of corporate America, the "overworld" he calls the Fortune 500; with connections to the underworld for certain ops such as assassination attempts :

1. The Visible or Madisonian State:

• This layer represents the familiar institutions of American democracy as outlined by James Madison in the U.S. Constitution. It includes the president, Congress, the Supreme Court, and elected representatives. These institutions are visible to the public, and through them, laws are passed, budgets are voted on, and political campaigns are conducted. This layer embodies the democratic ideals of representation and the rule of law but is largely limited in its scope and power.

2. The Security State:

• Often referred to as the "deep state" or the permanent state, this layer includes the military-industrial complex and the various intelligence agencies, most notably the CIA and NSA. Good emphasizes the massive scale of this layer, with a trillion-dollar budget and global military reach. This is the apparatus that wields significant power and largely operates outside public oversight. Military contractors like Lockheed Martin, Boeing, and Raytheon benefit from this system, reinforcing a cycle where the U.S. is constantly preparing for or engaging in wars. According to Good, this state is always ready for war, thrives on conflict, and supports regime change operations when necessary.

• Importantly, Good argues that the CIA and other intelligence agencies operate in near-total secrecy. These agencies have little accountability, with oversight committees often functioning more as rubber stamps than genuine checks on their power.

3. The Overworld:

• The third layer, which Good calls the overworld, represents the corporate and financial elite that benefit from America’s global dominance. This includes Wall Street, Big Oil, and, increasingly, Big Tech, Big Pharma particularly at the time of covid. These industries are intertwined with the security state, as they profit from the military's global reach, oil pipelines, and data surveillance. The "overworld" works to preserve a global system that protects their interests and wealth through regulatory control, surveillance, and military backing. The overworld’s relationship with the security state is symbiotic; they provide financing, technology, and resources, while the security state ensures their continued dominance.

• Good also notes that this elite class is becoming increasingly tied to Big Tech, which now plays a critical role in surveillance, data collection, and collaboration with government agencies, as WikiLeaks and whistleblowers like Edward Snowden have exposed. Platforms like Facebook, Google, and Amazon are tied to the state through contracts with the NSA and other intelligence agencies, the infamous “back doors” for example, blurring the lines between private business and state power.

• The underworld. The CIA, for example, has historically been involved in covert operations, assassinations, and regime changes, often in partnership with organised crime or the "underworld." Eg attempts on the life of the Cuban leader.

Is the American Deep State Real?

• Aaron Good’s analysis suggests that the deep state is not just a conspiracy theory but a structural reality within American governance. The deep state refers to the networks of power that operate beyond the democratic institutions, shaping policies and ensuring the continuity of U.S. hegemony regardless of which political party is in power. Good criticises the notion that elections bring meaningful change, as presidents and politicians are quickly brought into line by the permanent state apparatus, as noted by Vladimir Putin in a 2017 interview where he observed that U.S. presidents enter office with ideas but soon are confronted by the men in dark suits and learn the reality of the purpose and machinations of the deep state and the extent of its influence.

Critical Review of Neoconservative Influence

• Good’s model is a critique of neoconservatism, particularly its role in expanding U.S. military intervention and perpetuating a global order, election after election, generation after generation, favourable to American elites. From Vietnam to Iraq and now Ukraine and Palestine, Good sees a pattern of endless wars, regime change, destabilisation operations, splintering polities all the easier to rule over and pillage resources, none of which serve the American “public interest”, but rather the security state and its corporate partners. These wars have cost trillions, drained public resources, and destabilised entire regions, while benefiting the military-industrial complex, Big tech and big oil interests. This does make one cynical as regards the stated moral purposes and practical legitimacy of U.S. exceptionalism and the true ends of its foreign policy.

Opening the Debate for Alternatives

• Good’s work opens up the debate on how the United States could move beyond this system. He challenges the necessity of maintaining a unipolar world, where U.S. dominance is enforced through military might and covert operations. Instead, he points to historical alternatives, like Gorbachev’s vision of a Common European Home with the UN-based international order, in place of the Pax Americana with the American “international rules-based Order”. The former focused on collaboration the latter on dominance.

• Moving forward, future historians may view neoconservative policies as a form of nostalgia - an attempt to cling to an outdated world order based on American supremacy. In a multipolar world, where powers like China and Russia and other rising BRICS nations, challenge U.S. hegemony, maintaining this Order becomes increasingly unsustainable and dangerous. The question arises: should the U.S. continue to pursue global dominance, or should it embrace a more cooperative, multipolar world order?

Conclusion

Aaron Good’s tripartite model of the U.S. state - comprising the visible state institutions, the supporting security apparatus, and the overworld beneficiaries - offers a comprehensive critique of the deep structures of power that drive American foreign and domestic policy. The deep state, in this view, is not a conspiracy theory but a structural reality, wherein the military-industrial complex, intelligence agencies, and corporate elites work together to perpetuate the goal of continued U.S. hegemony. By highlighting the dangers of this system, Good calls for a rethinking of America’s role in the world, urging for alternatives that focus on global cooperation rather than unending war and dominance, fighting for territories, resources and populations.

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THE SURVIVORS' CLUB

14 October 2024

I'm here at my local café with friends and it's like a real survivors club. The atmosphere is intense, try to imagine - everyone's telling their stories.

Like trying to navigate the Main Street in a flat bottom boat when you've got doors and toilets seats and furniture sailing down and hitting you.

The water was five meters above river level. A metre in the street. It forced in all the shop fronts and demolished walls.

The power and water has only just come back on. The pumps weren't working, so a metre of water came into your house and turned your tables and chairs and fridges upside down, saturated your mattresses, your bedding, what would you do? 

So everyone's exhausted from cleaning up and especially dealing with the trauma of the last two weeks, it's been very emotional for some. 

Certain have worked nonstop, leading relief efforts, setting the example; others are grateful to have someone to figure out the next steps.

I was very lucky. The property manager organised the resistance and the cleanup fterwards. The staff have been magnificent and the residents who stayed made a close community.

I was lucky to escape the worst by going to my hotel in the mountains, but now we’re back and all sticking together to get through this. 

Hope nothing like this ever hits you!

Post script

Why it's not a good idea to walk home in a flooded street on the pavement....it's better to walk in the middle of the road.

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WHAT IS NEO-CONSERVATISM

12 October 2024

Neoconservatism: An Ideology of American Power

                         Pax Americana

Neoconservatism can be called an ideology, particularly in the context of U.S. foreign policy. It originated as a reaction to liberal policies in the 1960s and 1970s, took hold in the 90s and 2010. When american power was unchallenged, and has developed into a distinct worldview that prioritises the projection of American power and values globally. While the promotion of democracy is a key tenet, the underlying purpose is to maintain a unipolar world where the U.S. holds hegemonic sway. This pursuit of global dominance, backed by military strength, underpins neoconservative thought and has shaped many of its policies.

1. Beliefs, Values, and the Pursuit of Hegemony

American Exceptionalism and Unipolarity: At the heart of neoconservatism is the belief in American exceptionalism—the idea that the U.S. is a unique force for good in the world, tasked with spreading democracy and free markets. However, the broader goal is not simply to promote American values but to ensure that America remains the unchallenged global hegemon. A unipolar world, where America sets the rules (" the rules based international order"), is seen as essential for global stability and prosperity. This worldview interprets any challenge to U.S. dominance—whether from Russia, China, or transnational entities like the European Union—as a threat to its global order.

Moral Clarity and Interventionism: Neoconservatives often frame international politics in stark moral terms—good vs. evil—with the U.S. on the side of righteousness. This belief in moral clarity fuels military interventionism, justified by the need to spread democracy or counter threats. The overthrow of regimes such as Iraq’s Saddam Hussein, is seen as both morally justified and strategically necessary to maintain U.S. influence.

The Death of Diplomacy:

As a consequence, world gov.ts are divided into democracies and authoritarian regimes, into good and evil. When it comes to conflict resolution, this manichean view means that it is impossible to deal with or compromise with evil, after all, you do not sup with the devil, you defeat it, and this is why there is no diplomacy and no negotiations, only military and economic force in the service of uncompromising political objectives.

Unilateralism and Pre-emptive Action: Neocons tend to favour unilateral action if multilateral channels (like the UN) are seen as ineffective or opposed to U.S. goals. Pre-emptive strikes, like the invasion of Iraq in 2003, are justified on the grounds of eliminating potential future threats to American dominance, even at the cost of bypassing international norms or institutions.

2. A Critical Review: The Consequences of Neoconservative Interventions

Despite the ideological clarity neoconservatives claim, the consequences of their interventions have often been far from the successful outcomes they envisioned at the start of operations. In many instances, neocon policies have led to destabilisation, prolonged conflict, and significant humanitarian costs. The most glaring example is the Iraq War, but there has been Afghanistan and Syria, and now, Ukraine.

The Iraq War (2003): Promoted as a necessary intervention to spread democracy and eliminate weapons of mass destruction, the Iraq War became the neoconservatives' defining moment. However, the consequences were disastrous:

Destabilisation: The removal of Saddam Hussein led to a power vacuum that fuelled sectarian conflict, civil war, and the rise of groups like ISIS. Iraq’s instability spilled over into neighbouring regions, contributing to broader Middle Eastern chaos.

Humanitarian Catastrophe: Hundreds of thousands of civilians died in the conflict, and millions were displaced. Far from promoting stability, the war resulted in widespread destruction and long-term suffering for the Iraqi people.

Damage to U.S. Credibility: The failure to find weapons of mass destruction, coupled with the prolonged insurgency, damaged America’s global standing. Neoconservatives’ insistence on unilateral action alienated traditional allies and raised questions about the legitimacy of U.S. interventionist policies.

The War in Ukraine (2014-2025): the fight at this time was over, not weapons of mass destruction, but Ukraine's admission to NATO. There were no weapons of mass destruction and Ukraine was not admitted to NATO. Otherwise, the consequences have been much the same: mass death and destruction, crippling costs, destruction of Western credibility and influence, and a war that could prove to be the greatest and the last of neocon catastrophes, with the destruction of the dollar as the world's reserve currency and the creation of an alternative world order centered on China, Russia and Iran.

2. The Legacy of Endless Wars:

So Neocon-driven interventions - whether in Iraq or Afghanistan, Syria or Libya - have often left countries in worse physical and financial condition than before and with a clear rejection of liberal democratic values. These conflicts have contributed to endless wars, with no clear exit strategy or long-term solutions. Moreover, they have drained U.S. resources and further eroded public support for military interventions, leading to what some describe as "war fatigue" and censorship of views at home in the U.S. and Europe.

Unintended Consequences: Beyond the immediate destruction, neocon policies have often empowered adversaries. The Iraq War, for example, enhanced Iran’s influence in the region, as Tehran expanded its footprint in post-Saddam Iraq. Similarly, the chaotic aftermath of Libya’s intervention has turned the country into a breeding ground for extremism. 

Afghanistan is back in the hands of the Taliban after a disastrous cut and run by America; and Ukraine will have lost a quarter of its territory, access to the Black Sea, as well as the destruction of its communication, infrastructure and energy systems in the remaining Western, neutral, rump. 

3. The Nostalgia of Neoconservatism: Opening the Debate for Alternatives

As neoconservative policies have faced increasing scrutiny, future historians may look back on this neocon era not as the height of American power but as a period of nostalgia for a unipolar world that was already slipping away. The post-2014 global order, marked by the rise of China, the resurgence of Russia, and the fragmentation of western alliances, represents a shift away from the neocon vision of U.S. global dominance.

The Decline of Unipolarity: The neocon dream of maintaining a unipolar world has become increasingly untenable. The rise of multipolarity - where power is distributed among multiple global actors - has created a new reality that neoconservatives are reluctant, unwilling even, to accept. The Ukraine crisis and the U.S.’s waning influence in the Middle East underscore the limits of U.S. power in this evolving order.

Alternatives to the Neocon Worldview: As the unipolar world continues to fragment, alternatives to neoconservatism have gained traction. These include:

Realism: A more realist foreign policy approach advocates for restraint and a focus on U.S. national interests rather than ideological crusades. Realists argue that the U.S. should prioritise diplomacy, avoid unnecessary interventions, and recognise the legitimacy of other powers' spheres of interest.

Multipolar Engagement: Rather than enforcing a unipolar order, some suggest the U.S. should engage in cooperative multipolarity, acknowledging the rising power of nations like China, Russia and Iran, while working through international institutions such as the UN to build a more balanced and stable world order. This would be an alternative to the NATO Alliance, which works only for a group of western countries.

Non-interventionism: Critics of neoconservatism advocate for a non-interventionist stance, focusing on addressing domestic issues and limiting U.S. military engagement abroad. This approach resonates with a growing segment of the U.S. population, weary of endless wars, foreign entanglements and growing debt?.

Rethinking Global Governance: Future historians may also reflect on the missed opportunity to reshape global governance. Rather than clinging to outdated notions of Pax Americana, the world might have benefited from pursuing new security architectures and cooperative frameworks, such as Gorbachev’s "Common European Home" or the UN-based international law. These alternatives, sidelined in favour of NATO expansion and unilateralism, might have led to a more inclusive and sustainable global order.

Conclusion

Neoconservatism, while rooted in a strong belief in American exceptionalism and global dominance, has faced significant criticism for its failure to achieve it's goals and instead its disastrous consequences. The wars in Iraq, Afghanistan, and elsewhere have shown that unilateral military interventions, based on moral clarity and the pursuit of a unipolar world, often lead to mass depth destruction and displacement of peoples, lasting instability, long-term conflict, and the erosion of American power.

As the global landscape continues to shift towards multipolarity, the neoconservative worldview may increasingly be seen as nostalgia for a world order that no longer exists. The challenge for policymakers is to rethink America's role in a more pluralistic world and to explore alternatives that embrace cooperation, diplomacy, and shared leadership on the global stage. Whether the future lies in realism, multipolar engagement, or non-interventionism, the era of neoconservative dominance is fading, and a new approach to collective security and world order, will be needed to navigate the complexities of the 21st century.

The sun is setting on the American world order

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