SCIENCE AND HEALTH
The Cell Cycle: Growth and Division
Section Manager/Writer- Warren Lai
A notable term that you may have heard of in the world of biology would be mitosis Mitosis, otherwise known as the M phase, is an integral part of the cell cycle, which includes interphase as well as the M phase
The cell division process allows for the reproduction of cells, growth of cells, and repairing of damaged tissues The cell cycle encompasses the life of a cell starting from its formation to its division into two daughter cells
DNA Structure & Organization
In order to understand the cell cycle, we must first understand how DNA is structured
There are five key players in this process: DNA, histone, nucleosome, chromatin, and chromosome To start off, DNA wraps around histones, which are proteins, forming a nucleosome This condenses the vast amount of genetic information into the nucleus A string of nucleosomes is what we call a chromatin, and chromosomes are formed as chromatin condenses Chromatin is densely packed to allow for easier division in the M phase Since DNA is replicated in the S phase of interphase, each chromosome has a duplicated copy These copies join together to form sister chromatids, which are held by cohesin Each sister chromatid is most closely attached at the centromere In addition, each sister chromatid contains a kinetochore, where proteins or mitotic spindles will attach Genome
Microscopic view of cells dividing, showing key stages of the cell cycle like mitosis and cytokinesis
In order to understand the cell cycle, we must also realize what a genome is
A genome is all of a cell’s genetic information, otherwise known as
DNA Prokaryotes have singular, circular DNA, whereas eukaryotes have linear chromosomes The number of chromosomes vary across eukaryotes (e g : Humans have 46 whereas chimps have 48) Although genomes may seem simple, it becomes difficult as we start to include homologous chromosomes Homologous chromosomes are two chromosomes (one from each parent) that are the same length, centromere position (note that centromeres are where each sister chromatid is most closely attached), and carry genes controlling the same characteristics When we say that they control the same characteristics, this does NOT mean that they encode for the same allele (trait)
Types of Cells
In order to understand mitosis and the cell cycle, we must acknowledge that meiosis is different Although mitosis and meiosis are both types of cell division, mitosis is for growth and repair whereas meiosis is for sexual reproduction
Somatic cells, also known as body cells, are diploid Diploid cells contain two sets of chromosomes, having one set from each parent, These cells divide by mitosis In humans, the number of diploid cells is 2n=46 (n represents the number of chromosomes in a single set within a cell)
Gametes, also known as reproductive cells (sperm/eggs), are haploid Haploid cells contain one set of chromosomes, and divide by meiosis In humans, the number of haploid cells is n=23 (n representing the number of chromosomes in a set)
Cell Cycle
The cell cycle comprises two stages (with even more specific stages): interphase and mitosis
Interphase contains the G1, S, and G2 phases Mitosis, which follows after interphase, includes prophase, prometaphase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase Cytokinesis follows mitosis
Interphase
Interphase takes up the longest portion of the cell cycle
In G1, the cell grows and carries out normal functions
In S, DNA replication occurs, and chromosomes duplicate In G2, the cell finishes its final growth and preparation for mitosis
Interphase is a stage in which the cell prepares for itself to be divided into two identical daughter cells that are able to carry out its necessary functions
Mitosis
Mitosis is broken down into five stages: prophase, prometaphase, metaphase, anaphase & telophase and cytokinesis
During prophase, the cell has just finished its growth The parent cell has all necessary components to divide into two daughter cells However, actions must be taken in order to ensure that the division during anaphase is complete To do so, the chromatin condenses into chromosomes during prophase, and the nucleoli disappears Duplicated chromosomes will appear as sister chromatids, which will be pulled apart during anaphase Mitotic spindles form, which are used to divide the cell Centrosomes also move away from each other to the 、
EDITOR-IN- CHIEF: PAIGE HO FUSIONINK SECOND ISSUE
opposite poles of the cell for each sister chromatid to travel to during anaphase
During prometaphase, the nuclear envelope fragments to allow the mitotic spindles to access the chromosomes Microtubules enter the nuclear area, where some attach to the kinetochores to enable attachment
During metaphase, centrosomes are at opposite poles, and the chromosomes line up at the metaphase plate, the middle of the cell Microtubules are attached to each kinetochore, shrinking in anaphase
During anaphase, sister chromatids separate and are pulled apart from each other Each sister chromatid moves to opposite poles of the cell due to microtubules shortening This results in cell elongation
During telophase, two daughter nuclei form, and the nucleoli reappear Chromosomes become less condensed, allowing transcription to resume in the daughter cell However, for the new daughter cell to be complete, cytokinesis has to occur
Cytokinesis
Cytokinesis is the division of the cytoplasm
In animals, a cleavage furrow appears, formed from a contractile ring of actin filaments
In plants, vesicles from the Golgi travel to the middle of the cell and form a cell plate
Checkpoints
Throughout the cell cycle, there are checkpoints, which are control points that regulate the cell cycle to ensure that each step is done correctly and completely The cell receives a stop/go signal
The G1 checkpoint is the most important checkpoint, checking for cell size, growth, and DNA damage
The cell enters G0 (nondividing) if the cell is signaled to stop In G0, the cells may stay here forever or may reenter the cell cycle After G1, they may continue The next checkpoint is the G2
checkpoint, which checks for correct DNA replication or damage The cell proceeds if passed However, cells who do not pass this checkpoint undergo apoptosis, or programmed cell death
The final checkpoint is the M checkpoint This checkpoint occurs in metaphase to ensure that the spindles are attached correctly This allows for the chromosomes to split correctly during anaphase, checking for microtubule attachment to chromosomes at the kinetochores
The cell cycle’s goal is to grow and divide into two identical daughter cells This process helps organisms grow, repair, and reproduce cells
The cell cycle ensures that each daughter cell can function properly and have the correct genetic information
EDITOR-IN- CHIEF: PAIGE HO FUSIONINK SECOND ISSUE
The Day the Sun Went Silent: Solar Storm Almost Sparked World War III
Writer- Syed Zain Aftab
In the cold depths of space, our Sun is more than just a glowing orb that rises each morning It is a colossal nuclear furnace, constantly roiling and erupting with energy Most of the time, Earth is shielded by its magnetic field, quietly enduring solar wind like a ship pushing through waves But every so often, the Sun flares with such intensity that it threatens to disrupt life as we know it
One such moment occurred in 1967and almost triggered nuclear war
The Forgotten Solar Storm That Nearly Ended the World
At the height of the Cold War, paranoia was policy The United States and the Soviet Union had enough nuclear weapons to obliterate each other multiple times over Both sides monitored radar systems constantly, wary of the first sign of an incoming missile
On May 23, 1967, radar stations operated by the U S Air Forces Ballistic Missile Early Warning System (BMEWS) in Alaska, Greenland, and the UK suddenly went blind The screens went blank Communications were disrupted Tensions soared
Direct Contact
Ahmad
used by the military were effectively blinded
Luckily, there were scientists on duty who knew better The U S Air Forces newly formed Solar Forecasting Center had been tracking heightened solar activity When the storm struck, solar physicists quickly alerted the military: Its not the Russiansits the Sun Crisis averted
This behind-the-scenes intervention wasnt made public until 2016, when retired U S Air Force officers and space weather scientists revealed details to the American Geophysical Union For decades, the story had been quietly buried in military archives
Solar Storms: A Hidden Threat to Modern Civilization
While the 1967 event was serious, it was not the most powerful solar storm on record That honor goes to the Carrington Event of 1859
Named after British astronomer Richard Carrington, who observed it firsthand, the Carrington Event sent auroras as far south as Cuba and caused telegraph lines to spark and catch fire Operators reportedly received electric shocks from their equipment
If a Carrington-level storm hit Earth today, experts estimate the damage could run into the trillions of dollars Power grids would fail GPS satellites would be knocked offline Banks, airports, hospitalsnearly every part of modern lifewould be affected
In 2012, a massive CME barely missed Earth by about nine days If it had struck, we might still be recovering A Celestial Reminder
are part of our modern-day earlywarning system, offering precious minutes or hours of notice before a solar storm hits
Still, public awareness remains low Few people know that in 1967, the world stood on the brink of nuclear war not because of ideology or politicsbut because of an invisible wave of particles from the Sun
As we move deeper into the 21st century, well rely more than ever on fragile, interconnected digital systems And in that context, the Sun isnt just a source of warmth Its a wild card
To military analysts, this was a clear sign of jamminga possible prelude to a nuclear strike Jamming early-warning systems was considered a first move in a surprise attack Commanders moved immediately to high alert, preparing for potential retaliation
But unknown to most, the cause wasn't hostile interference
It was the Sun
The Science Behind the Scare Solar storms are caused by intense bursts of radiation from sunspots or solar flares These flares shoot out clouds of charged particlescoronal mass ejections (CMEs)that race across space at millions of kilometers per hour When they reach Earth, they can disrupt satellite communications, GPS systems, and even power grids
On that May day in 1967, a massive solar flare erupted from the Sun, accompanied by a CME that bombarded Earths upper atmosphere The charged particles interfered with the ionosphere, the region that reflects radio waves back to Earth Highfrequency communication systems
Despite our technological prowess, humanity remains vulnerable to solar tantrums While we often worry about threats from Earthwars, politics, economic collapsetheres something humbling about the fact that our greatest danger might be 93 million miles away, hiding behind a calm, golden glow
Today, NASA and other space agencies monitor solar activity around the clock The Solar Dynamics Observatory and the Parker Solar Probe \
EDITOR-IN-
MIND AND SOCIETY
Gamification of Social Media
Section Manager/Writer - Ananya N
Remember the time when life’s biggest joy was getting a smiley in your notebook or winning hide-andseek in the park?
Fast forward to today, and we’re playing a whole new game one where the scoreboard is likes, shares, follows, and streaks
Welcome to the gamification of social life, where real emotions are being scored like Candy Crush points, and validation has become the ultimate prize
Take a moment before we start: When was the last time you talked to someone without mentioning a social media trend or something that someone posted? Or when did you concentrate on a task for a certain amount of time without the urge to check Instagram stories?
Level 1: The Game Begins
At first, it feels innocent You post a selfie, and someone taps a heart A dopamine sparkle goes off in your brain You feel seen, appreciated, maybe even a little famous for a second One like turns into 10, then 50 Boom you’ve unlocked the “Mini Influencer” badge!
And just like that, you’re in Social apps are cleverly designed like games notifications pop like rewards, follower counts grow like experience points, and every new comment is like a power-up Even filters are like character skins in a video game, letting you change how you present yourself in this digital arena
Level 2: Streaks, Stats, and Stress
But every game has a dark side
You start checking your phone way too often leading to digital addiction without us realizing it Did they like my story? Why did they leave me on seen? Should I delete this post
because it only got 12 likes?
Soon, validation becomes a daily quest Not getting enough interaction feels like losing Slowly, the fun becomes pressure The “game” turns into an endless chase for applause, even when you’re tired, sad, or just want to be offline for a bit
We’ve moved from sharing joy to measuring it turning friendships into followers, and smiles into stats
Bonus Level: Why Are Our Minds Hooked?
Because our minds are reward-seeking machines
Social platforms use the same tactics as slot machines unpredictable rewards (likes/comments), streak rewards (Snapchat streaks), and public achievements (like YouTube play buttons) It’s called “gamification”, just like casinos in Las Vegas – where we are addicted to the anticipation of winning rather than winning (in other words, dopamine addiction) and it's great when used for learning or fitness, but tricky when it takes over real-life relationships
We start confusing real self-worth with online validation even though one comes from within, and the other from a screen
Final Level: Can We Still Win?
Absolutely!
We just have to rewrite the rules Here's how:
Post for joy, not for likes Share what you love, not what’s trendy Celebrate others offline A real hug or compliment > any emoji reaction
Take screen-free days You’re not missing out; you’re checking in
with life.
Create, don’t just consume
Whether it’s writing, painting, or dancing express without expectation
And most importantly, remind yourself: You’re more than your online scoreboard
The real win is when your mind feels light, your heart feels full, and your social life includes real laughter, not just LOLs
Final Thought
In the game of social life, don’t be just a player Be the game designer one who builds joy, meaning, and connection, both online and off After all, the best validation is knowing you’re awesome with or without the double taps
Supporting Statistics
Frequent social media use is linked to increased depression and anxiety in teens 1 People touch their smartphone over 2,600 times a day2
Snapchat streaks designed to create compulsive behavior3
Social media uses same psychological techniques as slot machines4
More screen time less life satisfaction (teens)5
EDITOR-IN- CHIEF:
SECOND ISSUE
How to Open a Coconut 101
Co-Editor/Writer- Mariam Kodzakhidze
Has your subconscious ever proffered thoughts that sound like “You cannot do this!” “You are not brave enough to accomplish that task!” “You will never be good enough”? In my case, my mind has done that a trillion times, and those concepts popped up in my head when I first got the taste of the failure so succulent that I could never in my life forget about it If you are waiting for the story, I have to disappoint you, I am not planning on making this article a trauma-dumping session; instead, I am here to talk about how that particular unsuccessful event made me realize that every coin does, in fact, have two sides, and failure is the shiniest of them all
Direct Contact
The first word that comes to my mind when I think of failure is coconut, and no, I am not crazy; well, maybe I am, just a little bit, but that is not the point right now, the main thing is why it happens so Okay, let me dive right into it Imagine you are on a deserted island, with no food, no technology, no water, and although it might sound relaxing right now, it will be quite hard there, with no people You have been walking around the shore for 2 days, fruitlessly, about to give up, but by some miracle, you haphazardly come across the coconut tree and see a brown, furry bowling ball lying under it; happiness takes over your whole body and soul; however, you soon come to the revolutionary idea that you are unable to open it What can you possibly do about it, I mean, it is not an option to surrender to a fruit, if so, you could starve to death; instead, you try and try until you get to that amazing white flash, and delicious water And that, my friends, is my whole point: failure is the best motivation when you are trying to adapt; it urges you to keep on trying This may sound cliché, but it’s the truth
I am not an optimist, but once, a wise person told me never end your writings on a bad note, so let me kick things off with the dark side of being stuck on an island without any
This image illustrates the crossroads between failure and success reminding us that every setbackisachoice:surrenderorpersist Growthbeginsattheturningpoint
resources (a metaphor for failure, if you cannot tell). The negative side of the failure is the perception of it and yourself by fellow humans and your own mind When you are on the way to something new, you feel scared, and that is normal Your hands get all sweaty, you overthink every decision, you are like a new mom who just put her baby to sleep after endless crying, you are feeling hopelessness taking over you, and you let it consume your whole being What’s worse is that some cultures stigmatize failure and make it sound like a bad guy, a villain with no backstory, but that is false Failure, in most cases, feels like the end of something, and it sometimes could be, however, what’s important is that what is the thing you are willing to terminate by it, are you letting it get in the way by succumbing to it, or are you turning it in the end of self-doubt and hate? That is what truly matters, and that is how you show those unpleasant feelings who’s the boss
Now let’s discuss the brighter side of this phenomenon The trick that I used to see failure as a motivation was to look at it as a teacher who is constantly badgering you with negative thoughts, but at the same time is powerful enough to push you towards what you strive for the most I mean, think about it, this is a great technique to see what seems to be annoying as a stimulus to achieve what you want the most Then I think about what this intrepidly prolix teacher gave to me, and I see that she left me with resilience, humility, and creativity, which are much needed to shift her caustic remarks to fuel for my success Once the storm calms down, I sit with myself and think: my skills and ability to pull off this task were never the issue; the main problem was from which side I was looking at it Was it the side when I forgot to water my plants, or was it the one where failure is the fertilizer that made the land I put my seed in more fruitful?
So you see, the biggest coconut you encounter in your life is failure However, the coconut is only hard to open before you learn how to turn it the right way Once you find the power within you to do so, everything will seem like a piece of cake
EDITOR-IN- CHIEF: PAIGE HO FUSIONINK SECOND ISSUE
The Psychology of Place: How Art and Design Shape Our Minds
Editor-In-Chief/Writer - Paige Ho
We often think of design as a matter of aesthetics color palettes, layouts, or furniture arrangements But what if we viewed it as a language, one that speaks directly to the subconscious?
Environmental psychology the interdisciplinary field linking design, architecture, and cognitive science shows us that spaces are not neutral They shape our emotions, attention, behavior, and even memory
From the cozy familiarity of a café to the sterile tension of a doctor’s waiting room, the environments we inhabit leave lasting impressions on our mental states Scientific studies confirm that natural light elevates serotonin levels, increasing alertness and improving mood Curved lines and organic shapes tend to calm the nervous system, while jagged, enclosed spaces can heighten anxiety High ceilings invite abstract thinking Soft, muted tones can quiet the mind, while intense colors like red stimulate action or stress
In short: space is not just where we are; it’s how we feel
Art in public and private spaces plays a vital psychological role Its not just about beauty it's about connection, identity, and emotional access A painting in a doctor’s office isn’t just decor it’s comfort A community mural isn’t just a visual display it’s an invitation to belong In a school hallway, student-made artwork reinforces pride and voice In a shelter or transitional space, art that reflects community identity can ground displaced individuals In urban neighborhoods, graffiti and street art transform forgotten corners into expressions of joy, protest, or resilience
Art becomes the bridge between place and people It infuses still walls with motion It turns sterile spaces into sanctuaries
Spaces That Reflect Us, And Help Us Reflect
Space is a mirror And like any mirror, its reflections can either affirm or distort
Think of your childhood bedroom Was it filled with posters, fairy lights, or maybe handmade crafts? That space likely told you who you were or at least, who you wanted to become Now think of places where you’ve felt small, voiceless, or invisible Those spaces told a different story
Designing spaces that affirm identity spaces that feel personal, safe, and welcoming is not a luxury It’s a necessity Whether in libraries, homes, or creative studios, we thrive in spaces that echo our voice back to us
And the reverse is just as true Cold, impersonal spaces chip away at selfworth They whisper: You don’t belong here
The City as Canvas
Cities, too, are emotional maps A winding alley with flowering vines tells a different story than a freeway underpass Parks with communal benches invite conversation Open-air art markets breathe life into empty plazas Benches, bike racks, walkways, bus stops when designed with intention, even mundane infrastructure becomes a canvas for human interaction Street artists, in particular, reclaim concrete and brick as spaces for dialogue They make us pause They make us feel They democratize art by saying: This belongs to everyone
When artists and designers shape cities, they embed messages into the world itself: You matter You are seen This place is for you Designing With Empathy
Too often, space is designed for efficiency, not empathy But what if we saw every design choice as an act of care?
A hospital room that feels less clinical and more like home A school that replaces rows of desks with collaborative circles A mental health clinic with textured walls, sensory-safe nooks, and calming natural tones These
aren’t luxuries They are blueprints for healing through design
When we ignore environmental psychology, we unintentionally design for stress, isolation, and fatigue
But when we listen truly listen to the needs of the human mind, we can create environments that restore us
And restoration is a form of resistance In a chaotic world, designing places of peace is a radical act
Designing the Invisible Art and design are not just visual They’re emotional Spatial Human
As someone who has worked in the realms of both art and education, I’ve seen the power of intentional environments I’ve seen how a small corner with soft lighting can help someone open up I’ve seen how a handmade mural can transform a group of strangers into a community The places we build today will become the stories people carry tomorrow
So let’s ask not only “How does it look?” but also “How does it feel?”
Because at the end of the day, design is not just about form It’s about feeling And the most powerful spaces are not the most expensive or high-tech They are the ones that make us feel human again
EDITOR-IN- CHIEF: PAIGE HO FUSIONINK SECOND ISSUE
Comparison as the Thief of Joy
Co-Editor/Writer- Abdul Ahad
The modern era sees comparison not just as a personal feeling but a universal tradition
You doomscroll Instagram and see a teenager your age launching a startup You watch a YouTube video of someone your age buying their dream car You hear about classmates landing internships, building bodies, or gaining thousands of followers And before you know, you're asking yourself: What am I even doing with my life? This new obsession with comparing our journey to someone else’s success is growing and its silently harming millions, especially the young’uns
The rise of social media has turned our lives into highlight reels People post only their wins: the awards, the vacations, the perfect scores, or the business success But what we don’t see are the late nights, failures, insecurities, sacrifices, and silent battles behind the scenes
Yet, knowing this, we still fall into the trap
Direct Contact
Why? Because the pressure to “keep up ” is everywhere Society rewards fast success and forgets to talk about slow growth Moreover, most people don’t see your journey, they only see the outcome
The harsh truth is, this often includes your closest relationships For many, support and love seem to appear after their success, not during the struggle This conditional love makes people feel invisible when they’re still growing It's one of the main reasons why individuals fall into comparison, constantly questioning their worth when results haven’t arrived This creates the illusion that if you haven’t “made it” by a certain age, you're falling behind
But life isn’t a race Go at your own pace
Each person has their own timeline, their own history to create and to
Thisimagereflectstheillusionofcomparison whatlooksbalancedontheoutsideoftenhidesunequal perspectives,unseeneffort,ordifferingpathsbeneaththesurface
leave a mark on the world Some people peak early Others bloom later Some people are born with advantages Others fight through obstacles just to reach the starting line Comparing your Chapter 2 to someone else’s Chapter 20 will only harm you
Worse, constant comparison breeds self-doubt It distracts us from our unique purpose and weakens our confidence Instead of being inspired by others, we start feeling inferior Instead of focusing on progress, we obsess over perfection
This trend is especially dangerous for teens At a time when we’re still figuring ourselves out, being overwhelmed by success stories can make us feel like failures, even when we’re growing just fine
So how do we escape this cycle that never seems to end?
Step One: Redefine What Success Means For You
Success is not a single, universal destination It’s a personal journey with wildly different maps
For some people, success looks like earning six figures and rising through corporate ladders For others, it’s waking up without anxiety
It’s reconnecting with a passion after years of burnout It’s creating art that no one else may ever see, but that heals the artist
You don’t need to inherit someone else’s definition of “making it ”
Society may glorify status, numbers, or prestige, but real success happens quietly when you’re aligned with your values, when your actions reflect your dreams, not just your fears
Ask yourself: What does freedom mean to you? What makes you feel proud, peaceful, fulfilled? Your version of success doesn’t need validation it needs clarity And only you can give yourself that
Step Two: Measure Progress, Not Perfection
Step Two: Measure Progress, Not Perfection
We live in a world obsessed with results grades, awards, numbers, outcomes But growth isn’t always loud or shiny Sometimes, it’s invisible and internal
Maybe your win today was simply showing up when you didn’t want to Maybe it was setting a boundary Maybe it was choosing rest over burnout
Celebrate the tiny wins They’re the seeds of transformation
Comparison tells you to look sideways to measure yourself against timelines and trophies that were never meant for you But real confidence comes from looking back seeing how far you’ve come, how much you’ve learned, how you’ve changed, even through pain
Success isn’t about doing it all perfectly It’s about doing it anyway, imperfectly, honestly, and fully in your own way
We live in a world obsessed with results grades, awards, numbers, outcomes But growth isn’t always loud or shiny Sometimes, it’s invisible and internal
Step Three: Remember Everyone is Struggling in Silence
That person who seems to have it all together? They cry in the shower too The person who got into your dream college, won that competition, or posts motivational quotes every day? They battle insecurities you’ll never see
We’re all carrying something Just because someone’s journey looks smooth on the outside doesn’t mean it’s not full of storms
Their success is not your failure Their wins don’t cancel out your potential Life is not a zero-sum game it’s an unfolding process, and everyone’s story is written in invisible ink
So let go of the pressure to have it all figured out Most people don’t And if they do, it won’t last forever Life evolves, and so will you
Instead, focus on becoming not arriving Enjoy this chapter, however unfinished it feels
In this world, it’s YOU vs YOU
BUSINESS AND IDEAS
Strait of Hormuz: Global Market at Risk
Section Manager/Writer- Sarah Tagima
The Global Shockwave from the Closure of the Strait of Hormuz
The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow but vital waterway connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, plays an outsized role in global energy security Roughly 20% of the world’s oil over 17 million barrels per day passes through this strategic maritime chokepoint The surrounding region includes major oil-exporting nations such as Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Iran, making this passage essential for maintaining global energy flow
However, the Strait’s critical role also makes it a flashpoint If Iran were to close the strait whether in retaliation to intensified international sanctions, a military confrontation, or as a geopolitical strategy the consequences would be immediate and catastrophic The global stock market would be among the first to absorb the shockwaves
ThismaphighlightsthegeopoliticalimportanceoftheStraitofHormuz,avitalmaritime chokepointwhereafifthoftheworld’soilsupplypasses makingitakeyplayeringlobal economicstability
declines in consumer spending Sectors like aviation, automotive, shipping, and heavy manufacturing highly dependent on stable fuel costs would be hit first and hardest As operational expenses rise, profit margins would shrink, leading to lower earnings forecasts and swift investor revaluation of these firms’ worth
The Domino Effect on Global Markets
Oil Supply Disruption: A Trigger for Market Panic
The closure of the Strait would block the main artery for Persian Gulf oil exports, severely limiting the supply available to the global market Such a disruption would cause the price of crude oil to surge dramatically
Analysts project that a full closure could push oil prices to $150 per barrel or beyond in a matter of days This would not only fuel inflation but also raise the cost of energy, transportation, and manufactured goods worldwide
A spike in oil prices would strain household budgets, increase production costs, and trigger sharp
Markets are inherently sensitive to geopolitical risk, and the closure of a critical energy chokepoint would create enormous uncertainty Investors, fearing sustained volatility, would likely abandon riskier assets such as equities in favor of safer havens like U S Treasury bonds, Swiss francs, and gold Stock indices across the globe including the Dow Jones, S&P 500, Nikkei, FTSE, and DAX would experience steep sell-offs
Emerging markets, particularly those heavily reliant on oil imports or those with fragile economies, would likely suffer the most Their currencies could plummet, stock exchanges might be forced to halt trading, and their governments may struggle to contain inflation
Central banks around the world would be pressured to intervene cutting interest rates, injecting liquidity into the system, and issuing emergency loans to stabilize banking systems
Geopolitical Reverberations and Investor Flight
Beyond immediate economic effects, a closure would signal a sharp deterioration in Middle East stability Already a region marred by proxy conflicts, sectarian tensions, and fragile alliances, the Hormuz crisis
could heighten risks of military confrontation between global powers Western nations, particularly the U S , have long treated the free flow of oil through the Strait as a strategic interest A shutdown would likely provoke diplomatic escalation or even military involvement
Such geopolitical unpredictability often leads global investors to flee volatile regions Capital flight from the Middle East would destabilize regional stock markets and reduce foreign direct investment Oil-producing nations dependent on hydrocarbon revenues could face budget crises, especially if they cannot reroute exports or quickly pivot to domestic economic alternatives
A Crisis Beyond Oil
In short, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz would not merely be an oil crisis it would be a systemic global shock It would ignite inflation, destabilize markets, and force policymakers into crisis mode In a world already reeling from the aftershocks of a global pandemic, supply chain bottlenecks, and regional conflicts, such a scenario could push the global economy into recession or even stagflation
The international community must remain vigilant As the world becomes more interconnected, chokepoints like Hormuz are no longer regional concerns they are global vulnerabilities Preparing for such black swan events may be the only way to preserve stability in an increasingly fragile system
GLOBAL AFFAIRS
The Deglobalization Wave: Global to Local
Section Manager/Writer- Lucas Qiu
Economies around the world are entering a period of economic fragmentation, as geopolitical tensions rise, and national interests start to outweigh global cooperation Countries have been increasingly embracing protectionist policies, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) warns that this shift could reduce global GDP by as much as seven percent, with a heavier impact on developing nations Regional alliances like BRICS have been challenging Western-led payment systems, to the global race for Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs), nations are pulling back from interdependence in favor of strategic self-interest
This fragmentation threatens to divide global trade Changing the landscape to economic blocs competing with one another in which rivalry and exclusion replaces cooperation This raises questions about the resilience and inclusivity of the global economy
Economic fragmentation extends beyond trade, also affecting the systems of global finance As doubt in interdependence increases among nations, alternative financial systems have been proposed in order to maintain financial sovereignty BRICS has launched alternatives to Western-led financial systems These include BRICS and Brics bridge, launched to facilitate cross border payments independent of SWIFT Furthermore, the rise of CBDCs have been enabling countries to create digital currencies that operate independent of the existing global infrastructure These shifts indicate a move away from financial interdependence Which may fragment the global economy by complicating international transactions, and weakening the cooperation that has supported globalization There are also political consequences to deglobalization As economies become increasingly independent, diplomatic cooperation follows Furthermore, division between economic blocs has been growing, which may set the stage to greater instability between nations Countries which collaborate to address major global issues such as; climate change, international security, and humanitarian aid may become less cooperative on such endeavors Additionally, global institutions which rely on cooperation such as the United Nations and the World Trade Organization may struggle to remain effective through non-cooperation
Recently, countries have begun to reassess their dependence on the global economy including; global supply chains, foreign factors of production and international financial institutions As a result of this, there has been a rise of protectionist policies within countries around the world implementation of trade restrictions and a heavy emphasis on localized manufacturing has been the trend amongst economies This indicates a shift in the desire of nations around the world to economic sovereignty Furthermore, emerging financial technologies have been allowing countries to circumvent traditional financial systems An example of such is CBDCs circumventing SWIFT which is the global messaging system that enables communication between banks around the world These patterns from economies around the world signify that nations are moving away from interdependence As these trends further, the future of globalisation appears increasingly uncertain Deglobalization has been rampant, and is becoming more visible through global trade patterns Trade restrictions around the world have tripled from 2019-2023 according to the IMF This signals a shift towards protectionism This may significantly slow down global economic activity, and may also undermine the system which has governed global commerce As nations close economic borders, developing nations which rely on exports, and foreign investment from more developed countries may be left behind
As globalisation declines, economies which greatly contribute to the global economy will become increasingly isolated through prioritising the domestic economy over international trade Consequently, this may lead to higher prices for commodities, reduce innovation, and lower factors of production Furthermore, intangibles such as cultural exchange would shrink, foreign food, music, and fashion would be less accessible With borders tightening, migration would decline, limiting opportunities for
workers, and cutting off remittance that many families in developing countries rely on Countries could be more unwilling to harbour refugees, viewing them as economic burdens than humanitarian responsibilities This would make populations which are already vulnerable even more vulnerable
As the economies around the world become more independent, the miracle of globalisation is declining This implies fewer cross border interactions; economical, cultural, and more These interactions connect people across continents, with nations becoming more independent, and closed off, the openness that enabled globalisation may be replaced by division amongst borders For the youth, opportunities which came from the boom of globalization are closing, studying abroad, and accessing global job markets may no longer be accessible
Yet in this uncertainty lies potential
The youth has the power to shape the future in their own ways As the leaders of tomorrow the youth can advocate for a world that they want to live in Taking steps that brings the world to a better future Although the future of globalization may be uncertain, the choices of today’s youth will help determine what comes next
EDITOR-IN- CHIEF:
ARTS AND CULTURE
THE POWER OF ART IN A HEAVY WORLD
Section Manager/Writer- Farrin Nuzmul Sahar
“ We have art in order not to die of the truth”- Friedrich Nietzche
The ancientpower of art
In this fast and dynamic world, where the word “ power ” immediately makes people think of something loud like forceful or political, the subtle power of art in our lives tends to go unnoticed History is scattered with instances where art shifted perspectives Let us not forget that before writing systems were established, cave paintings, carvings and symbols were used to pass on knowledge over the next generations Early civilisations like Mesopotamia and ancient Egypt used art to express values, religions and establish power Furthermore, these monumental artworks unified communities by providing them with a common identity and purpose
The subtle yet enduring power of art to spark critical thinking and progress is perhaps best seen in the case of renaissance- where ancient art led to the constructions of new ideas in science, philosophy and politics
Art as survival and escape
Art continues to play such a vital role in this world today because art has the power to move people, to make them see things with a different perspective and eventually aids in preserving people’s souls in this rotting and bitter world This idea was echoed by the renowned German philosopher- Friedrich Nietzche who believed from the early points of his career that art is indeed the
greatest form of self expression- an illusion, an escape, a way to cope with the despair and harsh realities of this world Whenartprests: Geurnica Picasso's "Guernica" is among his most emotionally stirring and politically charged pieces This enormous artwork, which was produced in reaction to the bombing of the town of Guernica during the Spanish Civil War, is a clear picture of the atrocities of war "Guernica" has endured as a representation of anti-war and peace activity It speaks to the universal themes of pain, resistance, and the human potential for both brutality and compassion, transcending its historical setting
Whenart whispers: The Two Fridas
The two Fridas are positioned in the painting with a balanced symmetry, but the asymmetry of their clothing and the state of their hearts creates a dramatic contrast that shows their different identities The emotional struggle between her traditional and modern selves is highlighted by this juxtaposition, which reflects the external pressures she encountered in her cultural and personal life There is a lot of symbolism; the surgical tools and the exposed hearts emphasize themes of suffering and resilience The viewer's attention is drawn to the main emotional tension by the arrangement of these components In addition to conveying her personal hardships, this graphic portrayal of her split self also captures larger cultural conflicts between tradition and modernity
A quiet conclusion
As an artist myself, sometimes I wonder how such a delicate thing like art can have such a huge impact on todays world - maybe it is because art reminds us that perspectives are not fixed And when the bitter world forces us to go numb with its weight, art teaches us to feel and that there is more to life than the harsh truths
Geurnica by Pablo Picasso (1937)
EDITOR-IN- CHIEF:
In this piece I aimed to portray the flow of emotions through my brushstrokes I delve into the themes of flow of dance as a form of emotional expression and the delicate interval between motion and stillnesses This contrast evokes a sense of tranquility, much like the subtle freshness of petrichor after rain I used a muted colour pallet and blurred forms to symbolize the fluidity and grace of movements or motion Each stroke is intended to convey a flowing rhythm , inviting the viewers into a serene contemplative experience
In this piece, I wanted to explore the delicate balance between innocence and hiding one’s true self The doll-like girl, with her big bow and soft curls, represents a picture of perfect childhood but one that feels distant or frozen in time She holds a teddy bear dressed like a musketeer, a symbol of old comfort and playful memories, while the fancy mask floating above her hints at the quiet act of pretending that we often learn from a young age
Illustrator- Subaiyta
Illustrator- Paige Ho