Originally published at: https://peakprosperity.com/daily-digest/agricultural-patents-and-biometric-surveillance-spark-outrage/
In Austria, large agricultural corporations are seeking patents on the genetic material of vegetables, plants, and even beer, leveraging CRISPR genetic engineering to claim exclusive rights over natural properties like disease and pest resistance. This practice undermines the protection of conventionally bred plants, allowing corporations to control diverse plant species and food varieties. Despite Austria’s opposition to GMOs, a court ruling prevents the country from banning them, and the European Commission has approved the use of CRISPR without labeling, making it difficult for consumers to avoid genetically modified products. Additionally, new regulations are being proposed to potentially criminalize the free exchange of seeds between farmers and gardeners, threatening traditional vegetable and grain varieties.
The increasing implementation of surveillance and control mechanisms through digital IDs and biometric systems is raising concerns about potential authoritarianism. Governments and private sectors are partnering to enhance these systems, which rely heavily on digital IDs and extensive surveillance. Recent political events, including an attempted assassination on Donald Trump and the announcement of JD Vance as his vice-presidential candidate, have sparked discussions about the manipulation of public opinion and the role of social networks and data brokers in shaping narratives. The intersection of intelligence agencies and venture capital, with companies like Palantir playing a significant role, highlights the privatization of surveillance and its implications for pre-crime and predictive policing. The conversation also touches on stablecoins and their potential to reinforce the existing financial system, advocating for alternative financial systems that prioritize individual freedom and privacy.
British journalist Richard D. Hall is set to stand trial for his claims that the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing was a staged event. Hall’s 2020 documentary suggested that the bombing involved pyrotechnics, a drill scenario, and state agents, and that the bomber, Salman Abedi, was an intelligence asset. In April 2023, the Hibberts sued Hall for defamation and harassment, leading to a High Court ruling in their favor. The judge reaffirmed the official account of the bombing as a terrorist attack, and Hall was ordered to pay damages. His appeal was rejected in June 2024, and a trial is scheduled for July 2024. Iain Davis, who has defended Hall’s investigation, argues that the bombing was a hoax and a psychological attack on the public, continuing Hall’s quest for justice through his book “The Manchester Attack.”
Larry and Pepe Escobar’s discussion in Moscow delves into various geopolitical topics, including the global reaction to the attempted assassination of Trump and its significant impact in Southeast Asia, China, and Japan. They explore the implications of Trump’s near-death experience and the perceived failure of the Secret Service. The conversation shifts to the U.S.’s aggressive stance towards China and Iran, with JD Vance’s selection as Trump’s vice president seen as strategic. They discuss Thailand’s geopolitical position, its strong relations with China, and the potential impact of joining BRICS. The discussion also covers the situation in Yemen, the role of the Houthis, and the broader geopolitical implications in the Middle East. They reflect on the changing global landscape, the decline of Western influence, and the rise of new economic and political powers in Asia, emphasizing the need for continued learning and adaptation.
Sources
Austrian Farmers Face Genetic Engineering Crisis as Corporations Patent Nature
Corporations win; breeders, farmers, and all of us as consumers lose.
Source | Submitted by Shplad
Attempted Assassination on Trump Sparks Debate on Surveillance, AI, and Political Power Plays
When you look at, you know, what it’s building toward, and if we have that kind of system where, like, you know, peace through surveillance, mass surveillance, and, like, peace through a police state and all of that stuff, like, yeah, I mean, you can have an extremely authoritarian, totalitarian government impose order.
Source | Submitted by rhollenb
Richard D. Hall Faces High Court Trial Over Manchester Arena Bombing Hoax Claims
In April 2023, Martin and Eve Hibbert sued Richard D. Hall for defamation and harassment, alleging that his claims damaged their reputation and caused distress.
Source | Submitted by Andrew
Trump Assassination Attempt Sparks Pop Phenomenon in Asia, Raises Questions About US Security
Not only here, Larry, across China. I’m going to Hong Kong tomorrow. I’ll be following the last two days of the plenum in Beijing in Hong Kong. It’s better to follow in Hong Kong because you have a margin of maneuver, you know, it’s not too regimented, and the flow of information is fantastic.
Source | Submitted by rhollenb