All articles by Ralph Allen
Music can change the mood, not the mindset
Ralph Allen — January 7, 2010 7 Comments
Musicians can make a big difference, but can’t expect to inspire political movement, at least not in this country. I hope that more politically motivated bands join the fray, as it does ultimately dismay me that music has become so generally devoid of political meaning, and the advent of an exciting cultural movement could well be imminent. But for now, for most of us, to whatever extent we are the heroes of our own narrative, music serves only as the soundtrack to our development.
Culture, Editor's Pick
Give youth services more money and it will benefit society and the economy
Ralph Allen — June 7, 2009 0 Comments
If youth work is properly invested in now, the ultimate cost to the economy would be minimal but the benefits to our society would be immeasurable
Editor's Pick, Politics
Superfluous Luxuries: How science was put in the service of greed
Ralph Allen — May 31, 2009 6 Comments
The metaphorical conception of oil as the earth’s blood is only too accurate; we are bleeding it dry and the life-force we have invested far too much in will soon give up on us. Nature will have her revenge, she is already displaying her destructive potential, flexing her muscles, and we need look no further than our temperate little island to see the effects (in terms of unprecedented weather patterns and consistent meteorological anomalies)
Science
Volunteering is the way out of post-graduation blues
Ralph Allen — February 6, 2009 2 Comments
In these troubled economic times I was finding it difficult to find a graduate job, but when I started volunteering I found a job not long after that was fulfilling and rewarding. I now recommend volunteering to everyone.
Economics, Editor's Pick
It’s time for music to get politicized and accurately reflect our generation
Ralph Allen — December 3, 2008 21 Comments
It is rare for musicians to successfully straddle the line between mainstream appeal and forthright political activism, but it has happened in the past, and rising artists must begin engaging again with the issues that affect us all.
Culture, Editor's Pick
The perils of 21st century activism
Ralph Allen — November 3, 2008 3 Comments
Despite my illusions, the student population is one full of apathy and posturing when it comes to activism. We need movements that have a long-term strategy, otherwise it’s a pointless exercise.
