Philosophical Concepts Explaining The World.

This letter, which I began writing 3 weeks ago by hand on a calm and sunny Sunday mid-morning, is going to cover some deep concepts that could improve how you understand the world.

In other words, it’s a philosophical lens on modern life. Today, you are going to find ideas that explain some of the major events and trends we see around us.

Many people assume the world operates on randomness, that events simply happen or are just as they appear. But let me tell you, things aren’t always what they seem.

Philosophy to me has become second nature. I read or talk about it near everyday! I like calling it: philosophizing. By "philosophizing," I mean asking questions and examining society.

My philosophical journey began in childhood, shaped by my caregivers’ stories about my relentless questioning of everything around me. Sound familiar? Babies often exhibit this curiosity too. It's natural to question, to explore.

Esteemed Nick’s Letters reader and subscriber, DJ and entrepreneur Shivachi Shihembekho, places immense value on philosophy. So does nonprofit CEO Wangoi Maina, who exclaimed in excitement (yes, screamed "Wuuu!") when I introduced myself as a philosopher at Alliance Française. (I hope I spelled that correctly!)

Philosophy, without question, is a subject worthy of broader appreciation.

I believe it should be accessible beyond university lecture halls, where most encounter it for the first time. It’s a tool for life—one that provides clarity and understanding, especially in these chaotic times.

Take, for instance, the recent U.S. elections. The results are not surprising to me. If you’ve read political principles deeply enough, you’d see why Trump won. But I’ll leave that rabbit hole for another day.

Instead, let’s focus on principles, rules, and laws that can illuminate how the world works. These aren’t my original ideas; they’re timeless lessons curated by philosopher and researcher Jash Dholani.

From his extensive list, I’ve picked six concepts that are particularly relevant to you, my discerning and liberated readers. Let’s dive in.

1. The Tacitus Razor

Want to know who’s in control? Look at those you’re forbidden to criticize. It’s no longer a secret—power leaves clues in plain sight.

2. The Slavery Syndrome

Roman historian Sallust observed, “Few men desire liberty; most men wish only for a just master.”

Freedom isn’t for everyone—it requires independent thought, decision-making, and mental effort. Liberty, it seems, is a burden most would rather avoid, opting instead to follow narratives that promise comfort.

3. The Polybius Warning

Polybius, a 2nd-century BC historian, warned that falling birthrates precede the collapse of civilizations. Low birthrates often reflect societies consumed by unhealthy lifestyles and complacency.

I’m not here to dictate your choices, but history suggests that when people stop prioritizing family, decline often follows.

4. The Tyranny of Laws

Contrary to popular belief, laws don’t always bring justice or order. In fact, more laws often mean more control by corrupt rulers who serve their interests—not the public’s.

5. The Juvenal Principle

Roman poet Juvenal famously said, “Give them bread and circuses, and they will never revolt.”

Long periods of peace and indulgence, Juvenal argued, can be as dangerous as war. Many of us find comfort in instant gratification—food, social media, distractions. But have you ever tested your focus through hunger or fasting or digital detox? It’s transformative.

6. The Cassius Hypothesis

Historian Cassius believed monarchy required just one person to make the right decision, while democracy relied on millions.

Which is more efficient? History shows monarchies, especially in the wealthier Middle Eastern nations, outperform many democracies. It’s food for thought.

There you go!

These are ideas to ponder, not gospel truths.

They’ve been tested over centuries and still hold relevance. Look at the world through these lenses, and you’ll start to see patterns. You ‘ll see why things are as they are, and where humanity might be headed.

For instance, you might even understand why poverty persists in many African nations and families.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to interpret and apply these insights. If you’ve made it this far, I trust you can do that.

Let me know which idea resonated with you the most by replying to this email. Until next week,

Nick Osale

P.S.

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