THE MUSTS

Elon Musk vs. Brazil

In a controversy that has captured the attention of the world in the past week, Elon Musk, now at the helm of Twitter/X, finds himself in a heated dispute with the Brazilian Supreme Court (STF), particularly with Justice Alexandre de Moraes. This confrontation and the fight between them is a great example of one of the biggest debates of our generation.

The Spark of Controversy

The stage was set when Michael Shellenberger, an American journalist, posted a series of tweets detailing actions taken by Alexandre de Moraes since 2020, accusing him of censorship and threats to democracy. Among the allegations were demands for Twitter to reveal personal information of users and to censor posts from Brazilian political figures, actions Musk classified as blatant violations of freedom of expression.

Musk, used the opportunity to respond the tweets with promises to challenge Moraes's orders, arguing that principles matter more than profit. He vowed to make public the judge's requests, reactivate suspended accounts, and face the consequences, including the potential loss of Twitter/X's operation in Brazil.

The STF's Response

The STF, through Alexandre de Moraes, was quick to retaliate, initiating an investigation against Musk for obstruction of justice, incitement to crime, among other charges, and imposing a daily fine should suspended accounts be reactivated. The court also signaled the possibility of suspending the social network's operation in the country. It would be the first time something like this would happen.

Broader Implications

This clash goes beyond a dispute between a businessman and a judicial body. It touches on deep questions about the regulation of social networks, digital age freedom of expression, and the power of global platforms against national laws.

Personal Opinion:

I had to cover this since it regards both my country and one of my favorite topics to debate. On one hand, media and social platforms should indeed serve as open spaces for dialogue, including the critique of government actions. The essence of a vibrant democracy lies in the unrestricted flow of ideas and the ability to question authority without fear of censorship or retribution.

On the other hand: Do we truly want the entirety of this power to reside in the hands of businesses whose ultimate aim is to generate profit and satisfy shareholder demands? While these corporations play a pivotal role in facilitating our global conversation, their profit-driven motives can sometimes conflict with the ideals of free expression and equitable discourse. The potential for these entities to shape public dialogue according to commercial interests, rather than the public good, presents a profound ethical challenge.

And you? What do you think? Let me hear you.

What else in on

• Fast Fashion IPO: Shein, the online fast fashion retailer, has more than doubled its profits to more than $2bn (£1.6bn) as it awaits approval for a stock market listing in New York or London.

• "Beyoncé effect". The song "Levi's Jeans", featured on the singer's new album, contributed to a 20% rise in the shares of the famous jeans company.

• First again. Samsung has overtaken Apple and returned to the position of the world's largest smartphone manufacturer, with a 21% share of the market.

• Nike CEO says remote work is slowing innovation: As Nike loses ground to upstarts like Hoka and On Running, its CEO says it’s not easy developing “bold, disruptive shoes” over Zoom - another CEO blaming homeoffice for their inefficiency…

Poor Creatures by Yorgos Lanthimos: Better late than never! This is one of the most amazing movies I’ve seen in a really long time. And if you haven’t watch it yet (where were you btw?), here’s my honest review:

Poor Things is a blend of the narrative of the Frankenstein's Monster with Lanthimos's distinctive directorial vision.

Be warned: This film demands an approach with an open mind, prepared for its unorthodox humor and bold thematic exploration. "Poor Things" challenges viewers to ponder the vast implications of autonomy and the right to self-governance while discovering the beauty of being human.

It also delves into potent themes of hedonism and the quest for female sexual liberation, crucial to Bella's pursuit of autonomy. This particular narrative choice boldly confronts the patriarchal frameworks intent on shaping her path, rendering Bella's resistance not only a personal choice but a broader commentary on the fight for self-determination and freedom.

Emma Stone as Bella is as compelling as you can imagine, making "Poor Things" must-watch cinematic experience. (Rating 10/10)

Hi!

It feels like just yesterday that I came here to talk about my Easter tradition with my father. In fact, many of you reached out to say how much you enjoyed the story! I was thrilled by the reception. Thank you so so much for your love!

Today, I'm here to talk about “trivial” things.

This year has been quite demanding. I've been working more, and after work, I'm studying for an important exam. Between the gym, work, and study, my routine becomes a bit exhausting and frankly, quite monotonous. My greatest joy has been planning my trips. Sometimes on the subway, sometimes before sleeping, I dream about the places I'll visit, thinking about the places I need to research, and making imaginary itineraries to distract myself from the daily grind.

And in three days, I embark on a very important trip for me. My 25th-year trip. I've wanted to do this for a long time, and I think it will be a very important period for reflection, spending time with myself, and celebrating this crazy journey that has been my life so far. Yet, it coincides with financial concerns—rising rent and the cost of living in Italy challenge the justification of this trip as a birthday celebration, making it seem like an luxury I should perhaps forego.

Discussing this with my psychologist (here he is again…), he raised a very important point:

• "So, you're saying these trips are what's motivating you to continue..."

• "Most days, yes..." - I said beautifully

• "but you feel guilty because it's a superficial expense..."

• "Yes, exactly..."

• "Well, if these trips are what's motivating you to move forward... is it really that “superficial”?

This really stuck with me. Let’s think about it.

In this case, it was about trips, but it could anything. A gift you gave yourself and felt guilty about afterward, or a passion you feel guilty about pursuing because it takes away your time from more "useful" things... It could even simply be feeling guilty about playing video games when you get home instead of doing something "productive"...

The weight of these “superficial” things in our lives is immense. Because it's these superficial things that make the hard times, easier! In my case it's this trip, for you it might be a glass of wine and a good movie before bed, for others it might be saving money to buy Prada bags... Without any kind of judgment, often it's the light things that make a dull day worthwhile.

I wanted to leave this reflection here because we are part of a generation that is always trying to be efficient or productive. We feel guilty for the superficial. But my trip is not superficial. It is actually quite important. Let’s redefine what we consider 'trivial' in a life that demands constant productivity? Let’s think how these moments of perceived frivolity actually contribute to our overall sense of happiness? Maybe more than one would think.

Go eat that McDonalds, go buy that plane ticket, and go search for an amazing birthday gift for yours favorite…

With love,

Micael.

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