#L&T Technology Services

[dhallblogs]

L&T Technology Services and SymphonyAI collaborate for AI-based Business Transformation.

Bengaluru: L&T Technology Services, a digital engineering and R&D company, and SymphonyAI, a predictive and generative AI SaaS product provider, have announced a partnership to provide transformative AI operations to enterprises worldwide.

ALSO READ MORE- https://apacnewsnetwork.com/2024/07/lt-technology-services-and-symphonyai-collaborate-for-ai-based-business-transformation/

[fatehbaz]

Goldstein and Mahmoudi point to what, on appearance, is a relatively new phenomenon: namely the use of digital technologies in contemporary forms of surveillance and policing, and the way in which they turn the body into the border. [...] [T]he datafication of human life becomes an industry in its own right [...] [with the concept of] “surveillance capitalism” - a system based on capturing behavioral data and using it for commercial purposes [...] [which] emerged in the early 2000s [...].

In contrast, scholarship on colonialism, slavery, and plantation capitalism enables us to understand how racial surveillance capitalism has existed since the grid cities of sixteenth-century Spanish Mexico (Mirzoeff 2020). In short, and as Simone Browne (2015, 10) has shown, “surveillance is nothing new to black folks.” [...]

[S]urveillance in the service of racial capitalism has historically aided three interconnected goals: (1) the control of movement of certain - predominantly racialized - bodies through means of identification; (2) the control of labor to increase productivity and output; and (3) the generation of knowledge about the colony and its native inhabitants in order to “maintain” the colonies [...].

---

Identification documents and practices can, like so many other surveillance technologies, be traced back to the Middle Passage [...]. [T]he movement of captives was controlled through [...] slave passes, slave patrols [...]. Similar strategies of using wanted posters and passes were put in place to control the movement of indentured white laborers from England and Ireland. [...]

Fingerprinting, for example, was developed in India because colonial officials could not tell people apart [...].

In Algeria, the French dominated the colonized population by issuing internal passports, creating internal limits on movement for certain groups, and establishing camps for landless peasants [...]. In South Africa, meanwhile, the movement of the Black population was controlled through the “pass laws”: an internal passport system designed to confine Black South Africans into Bantustans and ensure a steady supply of super-exploitable labor [...].

On the plantation itself, two forms of surveillance emerged - both with the underlying aim of increasing productivity and output. One was in the form of daily notetaking by plantation and slave owners. [...] Second, [...] a combination of surveillance, accounting, and violence was used to make slave labor in the cotton fields more “efficient.” [...] [S]imilar logics of quotas and surveillance still reverberate in today's labor management systems. Finally, surveillance was also essential to the management of the colonies. It occurred through [...] practices like fingerprinting and the passport [...]. [P]hotographs were used after colonial rebellions, in 1857 in India and in 1865 in Jamaica, to better identify the local population and identify “racial types.” To control different Indian communities deemed criminal and vagrant, the British instituted a system of registration where [...] [particular people] were not allowed to sleep away from their villages without prior permission [...].

---

In sum, when thinking about so-called surveillance capitalism today, it is essential to recognize that the logics that underpin these technologies are not new, but were developed and tested in the management of racialized minorities during the colonial era with a similar end goal, namely to control, order, and undermine the poor, colonized, enslaved, and indentured; to create a vulnerable and super-exploitable workforce; and to increase efficiency in production and foster accumulation. Consequently, while the (digital) technologies used for surveillance might have changed, the logics underpinning them have not.

---

All text above by: Sabrina Axster and Ida Danewid. In a section from an article co-authored by Sabrina Axster, Ida Danewid, Asher Goldstein, Matt Mahmoudi, Cemal Burak Tansel, and Lauren Wilcox. "Colonial Lives of the Carceral Archipelago: Rethinking the Neoliberal Security State". International Political Sociology Volume 15, Issue 3, September 2021, pages 415-439. Published June 2021. At: doi dot org slash 10.1093/ips/olabo013. [Bold emphasis and some paragraph breaks/contractions added by me. Presented here for commentary, teaching, criticism purposes.]

[princesslucky]

Hello!♡

I am Athena or Nana. I am 22 and Greek. I'm studying to be a preschool teacher!☆ I made this account to look at and reblog whatever I like!

Things I L ♡ V E :

Geocities/neocities, web graphics, old web, 2000s technology

Frutiger aero, dreamcore, surrealcore, weirdcore, everything 90's, 00's and early 10's nostalgia

Magic, mystical/ magical creatures, fairycore, witchcraft, nature, goblincore, elfcore, animals, folklore

Vaporwave, illustrations, cyberpunk, pixel art, lofi

Gyaru, twee, kawaiicore, harajuku, 2014 tumblr, 2000s fashion, cutecore

Collecting things like coins, buttons, shells, rocks, sea glass, and anything pretty you can find on the floor

Colours, rainbows, kidcore, wholesome things, pure things, toys, stimboards, games, amusement parks, playgrounds, sparkles, glitter

Everything water, the ocean, the beach, the summer, sea life, mermaids, lakes and rivers, aquariums, waterparks, fishing, swimming

Cartoons, anime, animations, video games, animated sceneries, studio ghibli

Village life, cottagecore, grandmacore, diy, crafts, kitchen stuff, cooking, gardens, herbs, tea, comfortcore, softcore, farms, flowers

Food, friends, yummy drinks, playing, working out, drawing, learning things, studying

Music!! Mainly Lana Del Rey, Fiona Apple, Kate Bush, Tame Impala, Arctic Monkeys, Melanie Martinez, Grimes, Marina, Greek Folk music, hyperpop, vocaloid and nightcore

Favourite shows: Arcane, House MD, yellowjackets, h2o

Favourite movies: ponyo, httyd 1, tangled, kiki's delivery service, Shrek 1/2/3, neighbor totoro, mean girls

Things I H A T E:

Mean people. I couldn't care less what your political, philosophical, whatever views are, I don't care how much you want to stand by these views and how right you think you are, if you come on the internet to be a rude piece of trash to everyone you disagree with you can fuck right the fuck off

Anything to do with porn. Nudes, horny posting, paraphilias, ddlg, yaoi, sexual memes, you name it. You will not see it on my feed, ever. The exposure I've had on content like this from a young age has made me view sex as something perverted and dirty instead of one of the highest forms of connection.

People that are offended by me hating porn for some completely fucked up reason I don't care to know

Specific colour themes like beige, gray or the red/black combo

People who kill bugs. I don't care.

Creepy stuff, horror, Halloween, Satanism and all that shit. Not in the Christian way I'm just scared shitless or i just dont enjoy the vibe. I love paranormal stories though because of The Curiosity for The Unknown

People promoting ANY unhealthy behaviors

People that are anti abortion. I will not interact with you but know that I don't like you.

Salads

People faking mental disorders

Animal prints

Bbl and bimbo fashion

Cosmetic surgeries

Any kind of violence

Bullies

TWs:

No TWs! I want this place to feel like a small summer breeze that smells like sea and something sweet, like putting your feet in a river on a hot day(^з^)-☆

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

I will respect you even if I disagree with you about mostly everything, as long as I get the same energy from you. You can't change my opinion on anything if I dont allow you to. English is obviously not my first language so sorry for any misunderstandings. I love people who are kind and respectful (not only to those who are like them) and I loveee making online friends. You can interact anytime !! I answer all friendly dms:) ☆☆☆☆

[otakusapien]

I just got mouth surgery so I did what anyone would do- watch the entirety of Mermaid Magic on Netflix while half zonked on hydrocodone. Review incoming (no major spoilers)

Synopsis: Three mermaids set out to save their kingdom and get stranded on the surface. They're taken in by two teens who vow to help the mermaids save their kingdom and defeat an evil ghost pirate. Also there's a merpuppy. He is the most useful character in the show.

The first episode starts out solid. We get introduced to the important players and get a sense for them right away. L to R, there's Nerissa (serious but loving bodyguard), Merlinda (free-spirited warrior princess), and Sasha (influencer).

Does every kid's show now have to have an influencer character? It is a nice change of pace we don't have the cliche of magical creatures freaking out over human technology. I also like that they have what I think is an artificial sky with their civilization mostly on land, making mermaids in this world amphibians.

They're trying to stop the McGuffin pearls from being stolen by the ghost pirate Barbarossa and the mysterious sea witch

Barbarossa is such a captain Barbosa rip off they barely try to hide it. There's even a scene where he transitions from flesh face to skeleton face to intimidate someone. They're both serviceable if unoriginal villains. At least he has a flaming sword.

We get a lot of cool fight scenes with these guys because the mermaids ACTUALLY KNOW HOW TO FIGHT. Seriously, some of this fight choreography is SO GOOD.

Merlinda has been warrior training in secret with Nerissa for years. Her dad is overprotective since her mom "disappeared," so right off the bat we get fun chase scenes and an excuse to show off their powers.

Did I mention the mermaids have powers? Yeah, every mermaid gets their own ocean-based super power. Nerissa (above) has electricity, Merlinda is hydrokinetic, and Sasha can camouflage herself and others to be nearly invisible. She also has bubbles, but it's not used nearly as much and is kinda meh? I guess she needed a combat power so they gave the bubbly girl bubbles?

I don't mean to hate on Sasha, she's just a type I've seen too many times before. But she is one of the few supporting characters who kind of gets development, and she's proactive enough she's not boring. She also brings the merpuppy.

(No joke, the merpuppy saves their butts or moves the plot forward multiple times. They'd be lost without him. His name is Beau Junior.)

They didn't even need to give her a combat power because they're all proficient with tridents. Each mermaid has a magic ring they can use to summon a trident and active their magical girl sequence

I absolutely love their warrior outfits. They're unique to each person in style, not just color, the colors they do have go well together, even their fin shapes are based on different fish. It's nice when you know it's not just copy and pasted with new paint. My favorite thing is that the transformations make their hairstyles more battle ready. And when they're on land, they all get PANTS! I've never seen a transformation sequence be so practical, I love it T-T

This show is also a marketing dream, because you get five doll modes right off the bat. Let's use Nerissa again because I love her and her outfits are the best

They have mer-casual, mer-warrior, human, and both mer-outfits have land and sea modes. The marketability almost makes up for how ungoogleable the title and characters are.

Enough about marketing, back to the show.

The human leads are twins Tyler and Celia, descendants of John Silver who basically run their father's marine rescue

Tyler is a true himbo. He's goofy and not the brightest, but without being irresponsible or negligent, which is usually how these kind of male characters are written. Tyler is blond and male, so of course he's a love interest.

Celia is a budding eco-warrior, but social awkwardness holds her back until Sasha steps in to help her. I'd argue Celia has more chemistry with Sasha than Tyler has with Merlinda.

It's nice the humans stay involved with the mermaid quests the whole time. Even when they're underwater, they use technology to keep up and stay relevant.

I wasn't gonna talk about individual episodes, but guys, I GOTTA talk about the bank episode.

~~~~BANK EPISODE DIVERSION~~~~

So episode 6 starts out with the marine rescue about to be bulldozed with several people inside because the bank foreclosed on their house. They play it off as the dad missing dozens of phone calls and emails, but they show the daughter going through the bills. Surely this is something they would have sent in writing? They were not given in-person or written notice, these guys just showed up to bulldoze the house without checking if it was occupied because the bank owns it now. Why would the bank immediately demolish it instead of auctioning a beachfront property? Who knows!

Instead of doing the normal human thing and calling their boss about how all they can do is get paid to sit on their butts while bureaucracy happens, the demolition guys continue to swing a wrecking ball at the house. Even after they see the house is filled with several minors, they shrug and go, "That's a you problem" and start forward to RUN THEM OVER. Yes, even the children. This is a thing normal humans would do.

The mermaid sabotage the wrecking equipment to buy them time to do a fundraiser. They advertise only to kids at their high school with very lame social media posts, and it's never stated HOW they're doing the fundraising? They're just. Throwing a party at their house with a donation jar on a table. Okay.

It's not even a good party. They're acting like things are going great, but the animation budget won't let it be more than sparse groups of kids refusing to dance to terrible music. They couldn't even play the theme song? Or the transformation music, that music is great if you ignore the forced rap verse! When the party inevitable gets attacked by monsters, they act like it's such a big loss, but the donation jar looks like it has $20 tops. Because that's what happens when you only invite high schoolers with no jobs.

(Come to think of it, they have a token rich friend. Did Fred not chip in? Does his dad not give him money? His mean girl sister was there. She has a crush on Tyler, why wouldn't she get Daddy to drop 10k on them to buy his love? Maybe then Tracy would have a reason to exist)

Anyway, they find random treasure and save the house, the end.

But this episode made me wonder how tf these kids can afford multiple underwater jet skis and diving equipment when they're apparently so broke. The dad is bad with money, so it kind of makes sense he would splurge on things they can't afford and slack on bills, but this never came up before. It's like the writers created the episode to answer a question no one had.

~~~~End Bank Episode Diversion~~~~

I lied.

The Bank Episode is a good example of a major flaw with the show: None of the supporting cast gets development.

We get moments that seem like it would be that way, like 16 year old Celia sorting through the bills while their father is flippant to the point of losing their house. Normally this would be a chance for Celia or Tyler to talk about how they've basically had to raise themselves, or show anger towards their dad. Give them some depth and maybe a bonding moment with another character, even easily wrap up the family conflict?

Instead we get slapstick and 2 minutes of what adults think tween tiktoks look like.

Merlinda is the main character, and she does get a lot of attention and development. She is such a well written lead for this kind of show. On top the the McGuffin plot, Merlinda has a subplot about finding out what happened to her mom that's much more tied into her emotional arc. We really see her grow in a way that's satisfying for what few episodes we got.

Too bad no one else got subplots!

They don't get subplots, they get love interests.

I'd honestly have been super cool with this! It's made to sell dolls, I can get behind them pairing people off like mashing Barbies together! But we don't even get that. We get hints that people like each other, but then they barely even talk?

Fred likes Celia (who's Fred? Don't worry about it. The show forgets he's their friend half the time), Celia might like Fred, but has an implied crush on a jock. Tracy is mean and likes Tyler, that's all she gets. Another jock has a crush on Nerissa, and I can get behind them because he fell for her when she judo flipped him

Honestly, same.

He's nice to her, she's indifferent, it otherwise goes nowhere. None of these relationships contribute anything. Most of them are barely there enough to be worth writing in. The girls go to high school, but then they never utilize the setting past one episode. They may as well have made it summer vacation. The reason it exists is purely an excuse to meet love interests.

(Notice Sasha is the only one without a love interest set up and she's the one that gets development. It's like they replaced character writing for two sentences of bad flirting)

Let's do something the show never does and make time for Fred. Fred is supposedly one of their best friends, but they only go to him when they need something for the plot. He and his mean girl sister Tracy don't get to be relevant until the last episode. Their DAD is the one with a subplot. We don't even get to see Fred's relationship with his dad before the resolution, that's how little care they gave Fred. I can tell you exactly 3 things about him: He's a tech genius, he has a crush on Celia, and he has a rich dad. These are all things we learn within seconds of meeting him, and we learn virtually nothing after that (Tracy's existence doesn't count as she's barely a character).

Celia gets some development, but it's subtle. It's not bad, it just feels like it's not much considering how little everyone else got. You'd think there'd be space for it.

The only other teen characters who arguably had story arcs were Merlinda's love interests. Tyler's was mostly as a love interest. Supporting Merlinda, teaching her about the surface, relating to her losing her mom, falling for her then struggling with the idea she'll inevitably return to the sea. He may have also become more responsible? Again, codine binge watch, cut me some slack.

But wait, I said love interests PLURAL? Well lucky day, now I finally get to talk about Alex!

Alex is best boy and I will hear no ill will against him. Alex is the token merman, and a late addition to the team.

He starts off as a friendly guard Nerissa jokes about being Merlinda's boyfriend (which she denies), but once they go to the surface and meet Tyler, I assumed he was a fakeout love interest who would remain a distant friend. So glad to be wrong!

Blaming himself for letting Merlinda put herself in danger when that's the literal opposite of his job, he comes up with a way to get past the horde of sea monsters between them and the surface to make sure she and the girls are okay. The gang comes across him injured, and he joins the household.

We haven't seen Alex and Merlinda truly interact until this point and their chemistry is so natural?

Don't get me wrong, Tyler and Merlinda do an adorable job as the couple just getting to know each other, especially when they're making jokes, but I was surprised how believable she and Alex were as two people who have known each other for years. He and Tyler have a macho pissing contest so annoying I had to stop the episode, but it doesn't last too long before they're bros.

Honestly, Alex is how Fred should have been written. Not in the story or design, just the fact all the girls are so happy to see him you can clearly tell they're friends who love each other and have known him a long time. He feels connected despite his absence.

Alex's arc is about his role as a guard, trying to redeem himself and assuage his guilt, but also trusting Merlinda enough to continue the mission instead of bringing her home like her dad wanted.

Tyler seems like the clear endgame given how much more screentime they've gotten, but their chemistry is kind of meh imo. (I am admittedly biased bc I don't like blonds. At least he has brown eyes.) When I liked them most was Tyler making a stupid joke and Merlinda immediately playing along, but we don't see much of that past episode 4.

The way they express how painful he finds the idea of her leaving is conveyed so well through the animation rather than dialogue, I really feel his pain. But it doesn't feel earned.

Keeping this as spoiler free as possible, the plotlines for the season wrapped up in a way that was overall satisfying. The villain's goal seemed vague and fairly cliche, but serviceable. The secondary villain was equally cliche, but much more of a threat, and set up to do more in the long term.

I'd be satisfied with Merlinda's story if they ended at season 1, but everyone else's stories are so obviously incomplete. Even if it gets a season 2 (which it should), what it really needed was more time. It's another victim of the netflix season, giving them 10 episodes to drop at once when they should have had 20 episodes spread over several weeks. By this point, though, that's to be expected, and they should have planned accordingly.

As much as the supporting characters' writing annoyed me, it was overall a really enjoyable show, with a great lead, good character design, and delightful fight scenes. Definitely keeping an eye out for season 2. Pop a few ibuprofen and enjoy!

[piplup335]

short defend the train story!

HELLO, F E L L A S

crossposted from AO3, just smth to enjoy while I work on that one Phighting fic…this is painful :,)

this is just a story as to how the DTT came to be :D

enjoy!

╔══════ ⋯⇋ ૮(•͈⌔•͈)ა ⇌⋯ ══════╗

╚══════⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯ ══════╝

It’s a regular day.

A normal day, where regular people work their boring, mundane jobs.

However, this doesn’t apply to a group of individuals.

They’re trained to, well- defend a train.

This job may seem like a useless one. What could go wrong when a train chugs off to its next station?

Law enforcement couldn’t possibly get involved, right?

“Guys? Did someone fall off the train- and there goes someone else…”

“MEDIIIICCCC??? WHERE’S THE MEDIC??”

“WHY DO THOSE IDIOTS DEAL SO MUCH DAMAGE?!”

“STAY AT THE BACK, YOU DINGUS- ARE YOU TRYING TO START TRAIN-11?!”

“...which idiot forgot to buy the missile launcher-“

“WE’RE GETTING SWARMED, IDIOT-”

“M E D I C ? ? ?”

All that was heard on the roof of the train was yelling.

Specifically, the D.T.T.’s contractors yelling.

This was a normal day at work for them- staying on the roof of one of the D.T.T.’s trains just to defend it from law enforcement.

Why was there law enforcement?

Well, D.T.T. Industries is a notorious company, known for transporting outlawed goods between various companies.

And their preferred method of transport was via train, of all things…

So, the D.T.T. was forced to hire contractors to defend the train, be it from law enforcement, bounty hunters or thieves looking for an easy catch…

The contractors were familiar with their jobs. They did this day in, day out.

But unlike other jobs, you could never be certain of the road ahead.

After all, your next day at work might be your last.

Shots were fired, medication was used through what they called a “heal gun”…

And this line of work all stemmed from three people with a dream.

“This job…it’s so damn BORING!”

Somewhere, a brown-haired man was put on coal-shovelling duty again.

As he heaped lump after lump of coal into the train’s furnace, a funny idea popped into his mind.

“Hold on…what if I just…?”

As break time slowly approached, the workers at the station kept stealing glances at the clock in anticipation, until finally, when the clock chimed signalling it was 3 o’clock, all the workers immediately tossed aside their equipment and headed to the break room. Their break would be short-lived, however- as the brown-haired man, now wearing a pair of red-tinted goggles, quickly installed multiple illegal upgrades on the train.

Assault rifles, shotguns, hell, even a piece of “borrowed technology” he took from a helicopter…he installed it all in just five minutes.

After all, this man was a brilliant locomotive engineer who had had enough.

Quickly hopping onto the train, he crashed through the flimsy aluminium barrier, taking it on a joyride around the world.

All things come to an end though, as the old train, not being able to handle all the new adjustments, gave out and blew up.

With a dying soul but an undying dream, the man sought to find a new job. A job with a competent company, better resources, a place where his services could be more appreciated…until at last, he found it.

A place where he could truly do what he enjoyed, a place where his firearms could be appreciated.

The man would later be known as the Psycho throughout D.T.T. Industries. He may have gone insane, but they won’t find someone else- they know they won’t find anyone better.

After all, finding someone with as much skill with a shotgun as him would drive them insane instead.

Six gunshots echoed through the air, and six bodies could be heard dropping to the floor from far away.

A man lowered his rifle, picking up a handheld transmitter.

“Targets have been downed, sir.”

“Excellent. Return to HQ, and we’ll decide on the next course of action back at base.”

The man looked towards the sky, his black shades shielding his eyes from the bright rays of the sun.

“Almost sundown, huh…?”

He immediately dashed back to his escape vehicle, where his driver hit the gas and sped off into the horizon. Better for them not to leave any traces.

Back at his corporation’s base, he walked through the double steel doors leading to his boss’ office.

The hydraulic doors opened with a hiss, and the man walked into the office, making eye contact with his boss at his desk across the room.

“What’s the next course of action, sir?”

A smirk formed on his boss’ face.

“Since those pesky government officials are down, we-“

Suddenly, a loud crash could be heard from outside.

Before the man had any time to react, he felt a heavy impact on the back of his head. The last thing he saw before blacking out was a bunch of armed soldiers running through the opened hydraulic doors towards his boss, pointing their rifles at him…

When he woke up, all he could see was darkness. He could feel a fault rumbling from beneath him.

“So, you’re finally awake, huh?”

The man jumped and spotted one of his colleagues sitting helplessly in the dark, his hands tied behind his back.

He tried to help his coworker but failed as his hands were also bound behind him.

Seeing the blunt edge of his colleague’s damaged military vest, he quickly shuffled towards him, rubbing the rope which bound his hands together until he came free.

“I’ll help you out now, give me one second…”

One second was too little time, however- as guards violently opened the van's back doors with a loud bang.

His life, or one of his coworkers? This decision was a clear one, as the man wasted no time in jumping out the back of the van and fleeing into the nearby woods.

The guards were fast, but the man was faster- he refused to let his many years of combat experience go to waste.

Rummaging through his pockets, he pulled out his handheld transmitter.

“Hello? Agent 301 from the covert ops division here…anyone there?”

Static filled his ears, and the man quickly realised his mistake- he risked the radio signal being intercepted by the government.

Using whatever he had on hand, he threw the transmitter at one of the guards about to catch up to him. It hit the guard square in the forehead, and the man took the chance to quickly steal his rifle and shoot his pursuers down with a single shot to the skull.

Knowing that he wouldn’t last for long alone, he took on a new mission. Not one from his superiors, nor his fellow agents- it was a mission he set for himself.

The task was simple- find a new job and stay undercover.

But after months of searching, he couldn’t find anything that fit the criteria.

Walking along a train track, the sound of a bullet barrage caught his attention.

To his left, a motorcyclist wielded a shotgun, aiming not for him, but for a train somewhere behind him.

The man quickly wielded his stolen assault rifle, aimed and fired at the man, landing a perfect headshot and ending the motorcyclist’s life instantly.

The train slowed down, and at last, stopped next to the man.

A hatch opened, and a woman in a dull red trench coat stepped onto the roof. Her long, black hair flowed behind her in the wind, and the sunlight cast a dark shadow over her face.

“Hello…unknown person. Thank you for helping us protect the shipment, this happens all the time. You seem to be experienced with firearms, so…would you be interested in joining our team?”

The man thought. He was on the run, and he needed a secure job where he wouldn’t get ratted out by law enforcement…

Just then, he heard wailing sirens from behind as a police car sped towards the train and the woman’s demeanour changed from an intrigued expression to that of panic and distress.

Putting two and two together, he realised this woman, the company she worked for and himself shared one thing in common-

They were all on the run from the police.

Nodding hurriedly, he let himself get pulled into the train by the woman and a few other armed individuals and started his new life, known to his fellow contractors and outlaws as the Gunslinger.

“…can I NOT fight?! I prefer standing by the sidelines watching you guys fight, not fighting!”

“Son, the fighting spirit is in you! It’s in your BLOOD! Now get your rifle, get out there and FIGHT!”

“Dad, no! Please, just let me watch! I can even support the others- I can heal them faster than a doctor can!”

A young man was arguing with his elderly father- a hardened war veteran who was now working as a commander of an army. Gunshots could be heard from outside the cabin as the war raged on, his siblings already fighting against the enemy.

“I did not train you for five years for this! Fight, and make your dad proud!

The man groaned. Five years of training to use a FAL was already five years too many. He could still remember his annoyance and irritation from the many hours he was forced to spend practising instead of perfecting his cure, the inventions he used to heal his allies of their wounds. He didn’t want money, no- he wanted recognition amidst the chaos of his barbaric family.

Just as his father was about to retort, the door burst open and a severely wounded soldier, Stewart, one of the young man’s brothers, stumbled in.

“Stewart! Are you alright?”

The young man rushed forward to support his brother who almost collapsed onto the floor, panting heavily and clutching his stomach in pain, blood trickling down his torso

Gently prying his hand away from the wound, the man’s eyes widened when he saw the severity of the bullet wound.

“You got sniped or something? I don’t think I’ve seen a firearm wound someone this badly…”

Stewart nodded.

“Pretty sure I was sniped, yeah- but hey, at least it wasn’t in the head, yeah?”

The man looked around. Doctors were tending to people left and right, and Stewart was just another person in the long line of people waiting to be treated. With no other option and his brother’s life on the line, the man pulled out a contraption attached to the military vest his dad forced him to wear. It was his latest prototype- a ray gun set to heal instead of kill.

“This better work…”

Squeezing his eyes shut and turning away in fear, he fired a ray at Stewart- a healing ray.

Almost immediately, the medication did its work, quickly closing up the wound and removing all traces of blood.

The man was in shock- his prototype worked. Looking back at the long line of patients, he aimed at them and fired, once for every patient. Within minutes, the wounded soldiers were fully healed from whatever battle injuries they had gotten- whereas the doctors were still tending to individual patients.

With a grin on his face, the man turned back to his father and commander.

“Father, I did it! I cured the others of their pain!”

Much to his shock and sadness, however, his dad was not happy with him.

“They wouldn’t need to be cured if you fought! If you had joined the fight, we’d have one more soldier! One more bit of power! They’re all injured because people like you are too cowardly to get out and fight!”

The man sighed, knowing that regardless of what he did, no matter how many lives he saved…it would never be enough. Not until he picked up his FAL and started shooting.

After the war, despite saving many more lives, his father was still frustrated at him. Frustrated at him for not fighting, frustrated at him for not bringing pride to the family…

The man had had enough. He sought out to look for a job in the medical field.

He found a job as a doctor in a hospital which paid a generous sum of money each month to put his inventions to good use, curing diseases, healing injuries that would otherwise take months to recover from…

He was happy. He knew that the sky was the limit…but he had already passed it.

Aiming his heal gun and firing it at people for a sum of money was already a daily routine he was sick and tired of.

The dull white walls of the hospital were a sight he was accustomed to, a sight he never wanted to see for one more day.

Resigning from his job before he went insane, the man decided to hunt for another job in the medical field, this time one filled with more action, one where his next day would give him a new surprise. He had no luck with finding a job, however- all of the job offers he got were those in a generic hospital. That was, until one fateful day…he found it at last.

It all happened when the man was checking his emails, just scanning through his folders for a decent job offer.

Scrolling past email after email from the nearby hospitals, one of the senders caught his attention.

“Dubious Tasks Taken…?”

He clicked on the email. They were looking for a medic to join their industry. A combat medic.

The pay was good- not as good as other offers he’d seen, but who cared?

“Combat medic needed.” Those words lingered in his mind.

A combat medic. Did that mean he’d finally experience the war all over again, as well as the appreciation others had for people like him?

He typed out a response, indicating that he would be interested in the job.

The next day, he received a reply telling him to go to the nearest train station at 9 am sharp. He did just that, and a man wearing a dull read cloak approached him. "You must be the new hire," he said, "I already know. Don't ask how I got this information...I just have it."

Upon nodding in confirmation, the cloaked man led him down a few hallways and opened an inconspicuous black door. it was as if the man had entered a whole new world, as there was another smaller train station past that door. There were stations on the sides- "upgrade stations", as they called it- there was also a cosmetics booth, a break room...but what stood out most was the train in the middle of the station. Five nicely polished carts were attached to the engine, and at the back a few people stood there, the commotion seeming like a dull murmur from where he was. what terrified the young man the most were the firearms they wielded, and he recognised one of them holding a FAL, the very same weapon his dad had forced him to train with since he was young.

Would he be forced to fight again? That fear was quickly put out as the cloaked man turned back to him with a grin.

“Welcome to the Dubious Task Takers,” he stated, “and your first day on the job. It’s time to put your inventions to good use.

The man’s expression shifted, turning from that of a worried grimace to a bright smile as he realised…he’d finally be appreciated.

As the train left the station and set off for its next destination, the man watched his colleagues chat among themselves as he pondered over why they would need a combat medic to begin with.

Before he had gotten his answer, however, his attention was drawn to a pained yell next to him and the sight of something small and bright travelling towards him.

“MEDIC! I’ve been SHOT! Help me here!”

“Oh, so that’s what they were. Bullets,’ the man thought, ‘and there’s the answer to my question.”

A grin formed on his face as he realised the situation he was in.

“Well, this will be fun.”

The man pointed his heal gun at his wounded teammate and pulled the trigger. A small cloud of medication was expelled through the end of his heal gun.

For once in years, the man truly felt happy just doing his job.

After the entire ordeal was all said and done with, his colleagues asked him for his name.

The man thought. Should he give them his name?

Then, one of his colleagues piped up: “You can go by an alias too, you know.”

From that day on, the man was known as the Medic.

Psychos, Gunslingers and Medics…three people, three dreams, one criminal industry.

The industry grew. Soon enough, factions were named after the original trio, and their stories were eternally burned into the history of the corporation.

One thing can be said for sure, though- their real names would be something no one would ever know.

╔══════ ⋯⇋ ૮(•͈⌔•͈)ა ⇌⋯ ══════╗

╚══════⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯⋯ ══════╝

and that’s it for this story! see you all when I finish my fics and open my requests… ;-;

[darlingdawnauryn]

How I Use Technology in My Practice

I know we've all been watching the online world disintegrate in real time -- and the rise of spiritual psychosis on Tik Tok is something I definitely don't want to think too much about -- but I'm here to tell you that it's not all doom and gloom and modern-day technology can still be utilized in a beneficial way. Here are some ways I use it to aid in my practice.

Music for Meditation and Ambience. There are a lot of premade playlists to help people meditate, consisting of binaural beats, eastern inspired zen music, and instrumentals and chants to help connect to a specific deity -- and that's probably only scratching the surface. But what I like about the modern-day landscape where anyone can post anything is the specificity: we're not limited to what could previously only be found on a CD your mom might've gotten from the back of a magazine; instead, there are playlists like "you're taking a bath in ancient greece," "2 AM," and one of my personal favorites, "T h e D r e a m p o o l s." There are people who post their own compositions too, like in the case of help me.'s channel! Most of the time I don't even use it for meditation; I put it on in the background when I write spells and hypersigils, when I work my herbal magick, when I feel like working energy by dancing, etc.

Liminal Portals. Speaking of the poolrooms, I use liminal spaces a lot in my work. Due to my mobility issues and my inability to drive, I can't exactly visit a cemetery, a crossroads, or even an abandoned house whenever I want. So I do the next best thing: pull up a picture of a liminal space and meditate on it however I see fit. Similar to the wider variety of music, this affords me the opportunity to pick a specific, sometimes niche location to harness a specific energy -- it's not like you can go to a funzone midday and expect it to be vacant, let alone expect to work magick with all the kiddos running around. I also like using the images as portals: something to focus on before I sleep so I can conjure it in dreams and do work in the astral.

Inspiration and Motivation! Like a lot of people who came of age alongside the Internet, I now spend more time on Youtube than I do watching TV or even using other streaming services. I use it for shits and giggles as much as the next guy, but I also try to be conscious and intentional with my screentime. I find more and more that I use Youtube for a place of inspiration: magickal as well as mundane. As I've said in previous posts, journaling and writing are serious hobbies of mine. I watch a lot of junk/journal Youtubers, so this video popped up in my recommended the other week -- decidedly un-witchy and completely separate from anything magickal. But I ended up using it to make a journal for my hypersigils, and it feels so much more personal that way. As far as witches go, I'm way more intrigued by Q&As and those in the community interviewing each other; I find the candid conversations more practical than short little how-to videos. Plus, they're a great go-to when I feel disconnected from my practice. Listening to a back-and-forth between two people who are clearly passionate about their Craft gives me the kick to get back into mine again!

Mapping Out the World. This one is a bit headier than the others, so bear with me. First and maybe most importantly: I've been a supporter of the New Age movement since before I knew what it was -- I've always been in contact with spirit guides, fairies, and other nature spirits, and I've always had an affinity for crystals and Hippie Culture (TM) and seen firsthand how the Law of Attraction can be both beneficial and detrimental to one's overall health. While I don't interact much with that side of the Internet anymore, owing to the alarming turn to far-right mindsets and some other problematic beliefs in that community -- as well as my pseudo-disillusionment with the movement at large -- I still think there's something to be said about some of those principles -- particularly the LoA. In a sense, the algorithm as we know it is a mini version of our lives. Do I think every word, thought, and emotion should be policed in an attempt to achieve the myth of ~high vibration~ and enlightenment? Of course not. But let's look at an example that's completely free from any kind of spiritualism: if I ask you to look around the room you're in right now and count as many red objects as you can in ten seconds, that should be a relatively easy task, right? But if I ask you to then conjure up the number of yellow objects without taking another look around, you won't be able to. Why? Because you were focused on the red ones. And in my experience, the world works much the same way and technology exists to reinforce this belief: what we watch, read, and give our attention to online will multiply; it's up to us to curate our experience.

The second thing I'd like to touch on is something that's completely personal -- what I've taken to calling Small Living. Maybe this was brought on by collective nostalgia for the aughts, but lately I've been preoccupied by early-days Internet (web 1.5?) and how much more contained everything felt back then. People can make their filtered edits and try to recapture the vibe by creating bygone-feeling analog horror, but it truly was an experience, going on Youtube and watching "ghost caught on camera" videos or logging onto Quizilla to read anything from local urban legends to proto-creepypasta. It goes without saying that a lot of this stuff was bullshit, but there was something exciting and transgressive about semi-hidden forums dedicated to paranormal and occult information -- back when nothing was monetized yet and people were earnestly either trying to spread knowledge or scare the shit out of unsuspecting viewers and readers.

In a way, getting into the Craft has brought me back to that smallness. Despite the paranormal boom that happened twenty-odd years ago, it was still rare to find people who actually took it seriously: ghost hunters, fellow witches, and the like. Now that "alternative spirituality" has gone mainstream, books about opening your third eye and connecting with nature spirits and high frequency diets are a dime a dozen, meaning it's the same handful of points regurgitated by people who are most likely just looking to make a quick buck. (And don't get me started on the bastardization/commercialization of metaphysical shops.) Thinking about this objectively was one of the biggest things that led me to starting this blog: compared to Insta, Tik Tok, Reddit, and even the cesspools that are Facebook and Twitter, Tumblr is almost a dying breed. I like to think I'm not too far off in feeling like those who stumble across my page looking for first-hand experience and/or potential pointers had to do some digging in order to find it. I'm also getting a kick out of older, secondhand copies of occult books for the same reasons. (Related sidenote: turning my attention to helping my immediate community instead of giving myself IBS flare-ups stressing about every worldwide issue has helped my mental health astronomically. Another pro of Small Living.)

[green-goblin-59]

Log 004

Tw:contains mentions of sh and substance use

4/7/2005

<Please enter password: F I R E L I G H T...|>

<Password accepted! Welcome back Mr Osborn. It's been a good twenty five years since we've spoken! (⁠◕⁠ᴗ⁠◕⁠✿⁠) Would you like to record a log for old times sake?>

«Yeah sure. Run a health check on my body too, please. I feel kinda malnourished.»

[SCANNING IN PROGRESS...]

<HEART RATE: irregular... Heart arrhythmia is present in the vessel.>

<BLOOD: Average pressure. A peculiar variety of 3050 goblin serum and high levels of heroin present in bloodstream.>

«Heroin?! God we gotta get him off that straight away.»

<BRAIN: No signs of severe damage. Brain structure indicates trauma during developmental years. Chemical imbalance present: severely low amount of serotonin, almost nonexistent, possibly of depression is high. Fatigue and exhaustion also present.>

<BONES: Unusually strong. Lots of old damage. Metal bolts present in the knee and hip joints.>

<GUT: Empty. Gut bacteria is imbalanced. Vessel hasn't consumed food in two days. An old bullet is present.>

<SKIN: Dry and flakey. Scabs from skin picking. Possible side effect from drugs present in the bloodstream. Severe scarring on the chest and inner arms. Possibly from self harm. Needle scars on the upper inner arm and inner elbow regions.>

[SCAN FINISHED. OVERALL HEALTH: LOW. RECOMMENDATIONS: EAT NUTRITIOUS FOODS. AVOID HEROIN AND GOBLIN SERUM. DRINK WATER. SLEEP 9HRS.]

«Norm, how long has it been since you've been turned on?»

<A day.>

«So, you would have definitely seen where his needles and whatever he uses to harm himself are, correct?»

<Mr Osborn only switches me on when he wishes to read the logs and view photos of your loved ones. I don't see him using the substances present in his system, nor do I see his weapon of choice. (⁠.⁠ ⁠❛⁠ ⁠ᴗ⁠ ⁠❛⁠.⁠)>

«I'll snoop around and get rid of them. Gotta get him clean and mentally sound. Norm, record new log entry.»

[RECORDING IN PROGRESS]

*Shuffles through the other mer's belongings*

This is the first time I've been fully sentient inside my new vessel. So far my new habits are more self aimed than aimed at others and the new vessel is clearly very mentally ill. Im not really sure where this place is but it's definitely not the same place I remember leaving behind. There's no firelight present, which is unexpected, as I'd thought resetting with him would mean I'd be in the same place as him. This doesn't seem the case.

*opens curtains*

Why's there really old technology everywhere?. Like... ancient tech I'd find in Bowes dimension? And why does this new variant of me keep the windows boarded up? Is he maybe in trouble with someone?...

*shuffles through mer's desk drawer. A thud can be heard as the bottom of the draw falls open and pens scatter all over the carpet along with a small leather bound planner. He picks it up and flips through the pages.*

I found this old fashioned journal. Reading through some of the previous passages isn't helping. I've got some serious issues. Something about faces and involuntary service...

*flips through more pages and skims over a few sentences, looking at the dates and seeing that it was all written in the early 2000's. It's only when he feels the dog tags around his neck that he realises what the insane rambling is about.*

Poor guy. I've gotta get him stable agai—

*eyes glaze over*

—in. AAAAA! WHY THE FUCK ARE YOU ON AGAIN?! TURN OFF, TURN OFF!

<As you wish Mr Osborn! ｡⁠◕⁠‿⁠◕⁠｡>

[LOG RECORDING ENDED]

<<Previous page.

[lunarsilkscreen]

Why "Science" entertainment full of junk?

This isn't a phenomenon limited to Social Video Media, it's from trusted services like PBS, Discovery, Hecking Harvard ...

They take an idea; something like "Time is Slower in Outer space"; but instead of examining the physics and the mechanics and the engineering....

<aside>Clocks as the current standard is; send an electric signal through a quartz crystal in order to regulate that *one time per second* that we associate with time.

When the clock gets sent up to outer space; it's being altered drastically by Sub-Zero temps, little or no atmosphere, and different gravitational forces.

This fundamentally alters the mechanisms fundamental operation. And is something. We can replicate here on earth.</aside>

Instead of going into the physics and mechanics and thermodynamics; they go straight into this analysis on "GRAVITY MUST AFFECT TIME AND VICE-VERSA. THERE MUST BE SOME CAUSAL LINK BETWEEN THE LACK OF GRAVITY AND THE SLOWING OF TIME IN SPACE!"

<aside>

</aside>

This extends to a lot of not meta-physics, but literal Ron L. Hubbard esque science-fiction being spoken aloud at science conventions and talks and symposiums; LIKE THEY WERE SCIENCE FACT.

Not like; oh "Science Trek had some really cool ideas and technologies, wouldn't that be great if they were real life?" But literally speaking as if James T. Kirk himself had handed them the keys to the Enterprise.

<aside>

</aside>

And I get it; there's a reason for grandeur in the science space in order to reach communities that might be closed off to the scientific establishment. Linking science directly to God and the cosmos and outlining how everything will ultimately be fixed by rational thinking minds, and maybe even a little magic.

It may even sell books, and bring in much needed $$ to fund research projects.

<aside>

</aside>

What's instead happening; is the communities that were being reached out to have started to look at the scientific quack-pottery as what it is; quack-pottery. A form of "alternate religion" directly competing with [insert mainstream religion here]; as opposed to being a-religious. That is; not caring about religion or the topics that religion typically covers.

<aside>

</aside>

And it exacerbates the problem we see in Christian circles who definitely believe there is a threat to the Christian religion from the scientific establishment; despite two things being true;

Christians actually learn and practice science. AND The Scientific establishment doesn't care about religion. Only genetics.

<aside>

</aside>

Which raises it's own ethical concerns as certain groups push to create inbreeding programs to ensure the "Purity of the races stay intact."

<aside>

</aside>

Bruh. I just wanna play 90s console games, and listen to some Zeppelin.

<aside>

</aside>

[agtictl23]

SESSION 5. COMPUTER CRIME

READ: ICTL TEXTBOOK CHAPTER 4

OPTIONAL REFERENCE: L&T BOOK CHAPTER 19

‘Computer Crime’ v. ‘Cybercrime’: Computer and internet usage is on the rise due to lower costs and easier accessibility. As it is another mode of transaction and one that is heavily dependent on the interaction through computers and automatic agents rather than face-to-face meetings, it is another avenue for crimes to perpetuate. What we call “cybercrime” largely consists of common crime, the commission of which involves the use of computer technology, and for which penalties already exists under the Penal Code. Substantively, there is no difference between generic individual crimes such as fraud, theft, extortion, harassment, forgery, impersonation, etc. and their cyber-analogues. Only those that relate specifically to computer usage and materials, etc. are specialized offences for which the Computer Misuse Act (CMA) was specifically enacted to tackle. What is the difference between “Computer Crime” and “Cybercrime” and how are they treated under Singapore’s criminal law?

The Computer Misuse and Cybersecurity Act: The original Computer Misuse Act (CMA) arose directly out of the increased usage of computers and the internet as well as to protect certain features from objectionable activities. We will be generally considering the Act, its coverage and effect, and some cases illustrating the offences committed thereunder. To deal with new potential abuses of computer systems, the Computer Misuse Act entered into force in 1993. Thereafter, the CMA was amended from time to time to keep up with the changes in technology and to addresses new potential computer abuses such as denial or interruption of computer services and unauthorised disclosure of access codes. The Act was renamed in 2013 as the Computer Misuse and Cybersecurity Act (Cap 50A, 2013 Rev Ed) (CMCA), and provided for penalties proportionate to the different levels of potential and actual harm that may be caused by an offence. For example, it defines a class of critical computer systems (“protected computers”) and provides them with enhanced punishment in case of an offence. This applies to computers used by important institutions including the police, civil defence force, the military, national utilities companies, telecommunications companies, transportation services, major banks, and various emergency services. The CMCA also sought to enhance security, deter computer criminals with harsh penalties, and broaden the powers of the police to investigate such misdeeds. The CMCA was amended in 2017 with additional provisions to deal more with cybersecurity concerns; however, in 2018, after the enactment of the Cybersecurity Act (CA), the CMCA reverted to CMA with the security provisions moved to the CA.

Computer Crime Offences: The offences under the CMA are found in Part II of the Act, from sections 3 to 10. All the provisions provide for enhanced penalties when damage is caused, but the question is damage to what, and in what form? Also, under section 11, there is further enhanced punishment if the computer concerned is a “protected computer” (e.g. computers used for public safety, national defence, hospitals, etc.). The abetment and attempt of any of the CMA offences also constitutes the offence abetted or attempted and is punishable as that offence under section 12. The extra-territorial scope of the CMA is provided for under section 13. What is its effect and how effective can it be in the cyberspace where many actors can be sited, and acts can be committed, in other countries?

Consider the following:

Unauthorised Access to computer material (s.3 CMA): Mainly enacted to deal with hacking, it has since shown that it can extend to other forms of modus operandi. Present some reported cases and scenarios to explain how the provision works and what is required to make out a case under this provision. Do the “knowledge” relate only to the act of securing access or does it also relate to the lack of authorisation? What constitutes “unauthorized access”?

Access to computer material to commit/facilitate the commission of other offences (s.4 CMA): Examples are fraud, impersonation/identity theft or theft of finances such as credit card skimming, Phishing, Carding, Pharming. Explain the statutory limitations/conditions to the scope of this provision and the need to read/couple it with a substantive provisions in other criminal law statutes (esp. the Penal Code). Which offences/provisions in the Penal Code are relevant here. What are the differences between ss.3 & 4 of the CMA?

(a) Unauthorised Modification of computer material (s.5 CMA): The usual cases involve the defacing of websites through the use of computer viruses or worms, etc. Explain the elements of the provision and provide real world examples of such offences. (b) Unauthorised Use or Interception of computer services (s.6 CMA): The cases often involve phone/pager cloning and the tapping of cable broadcast service for free usage or mischief. Explain the elements of the provision and provide real world examples of such offences.

(a) Unauthorised Obstruction of computer usage (s.7 CMA): This will apply, for example, to system attacks, e-mail bombing and denial of service attacks. Explain the elements of the provision and provide real world examples of such offences. (b) Unauthorised Disclosure of access codes (s.8 CMA): An example is the transfer of one’s password to another to gain access to a computer or network without permission. What constitutes “wrongful gain”, “unlawful purpose” and “wrongful loss”? Explain these elements of the provision and provide real world examples of such offences.

(a) What is the objective and effect of the new provisions of the CMA in relation to the use of personal data obtained through existing offences and the act of obtaining tools to commit CMA offences (new ss.9 & 10 CMA). Compare these provisions to the existing provisions of the Act (e.g. the current provision on abetment and attempted (s.12 CMA). (b) What is the purpose and effect of the changes to the jurisdictional provision, particularly from the cybersecurity standpoint? (amended s13 CMA).

Future of Cybersecurity: Cybersecurity is increasingly an issue that the government is concerned with. Although the CMA contained provisions for the Minister to act and for investigations into cybersecurity issues, the Act was amended in 2013 to give the Minister even stronger powers to prevent or counter threats to national security, etc. by taking any measures necessary to prevent or counter any threat to a computer or computer service or any class of computers or computer services. These may cover the “cyberterrorism” phenomenon. Due to the heightened concerns with cybersecurity, the Act contained interim provisions on the issue until a standalone Cybersecurity Act was enacted in 2018. Nevertheless, the CMA provisions continues to be relevant as a part of the arsenal against cyber attacks and to address security concerns.

Cybersecurity Act: The 2018 Act is mainly procedural and relates to CIIs, empowering the Cybersecurity Commissioner to investigate and prevent breach/leak incidents, certification of service providers as well as breach reporting obligations. The approach is one of ‘light touch’ and can overlap with the work of the PDPC and the police under the CMA.

Reference: (optional)

Gregor Urbas, An Overview of Cybercrime Legislation and Cases in Singapore, ASLI Working Paper Series No. 001, December 2008

Cases:

Lim Siong Khee v Public Prosecutor [2001] 2 SLR 342; [2001] SGHC 69 [ss 2(2), (5), 3(1), 8(1)]

Public Prosecutor v Muhammad Nuzaihan bin Kamal Luddin [2000] 1 SLR 34; [1999] SGHC 275 [ss 3(1), 5(1), 6(1)(a)]

Statutes: (for reference in class, important provisions will be highlights during class)

Computer Misuse Act (2020 Rev. Ed.)

Cybersecurity Act (No. 9 of 2018)

CoE Cybercrime Convention

[librarianrafia]

"Two threads run through Filterworld: one is the Mechanical Turk; the other is the technology of algorithms themselves. The mathematics at play are old. There is an algorithm written on a Babylonian tablet dated to sometime between 1800 and 1600 BCE. Apparently it can determine the square root of integers with a very high level of accuracy. (I haven’t tested it because that’s not how I make my money.) We didn’t get a name for algorithms until a couple thousand years later, when European scholars translated Kitab al-Jabr wa-l-Muqabala (“The Compendious Book on Calculation by Completion and Balancing”), the landmark work of Persian mathematician al-Khwarizmi, from Arabic to Latin. Those researchers also Latinized al-Khwarizmi’s name to “Algoritmi,” which was then used to describe mathematical processes. We also get the word “algebra” from the book’s shortened title (Al-Jabr). The Mechanical Turk was retired in the 19th century, but Chayka considers the technological novelty a rough metaphor for the current state of things. “Algorithmic recommendations are the latest iteration of the Mechanical Turk: a series of human decisions that have been dressed up and automated as technological ones, at an inhuman scale and speed,” he argues early in Filterworld. Mechanical Turk is also the name of Amazon’s low-wage job service, where technology companies can hire armies of workers to do mundane tasks to give their platforms the illusion of automation. Silicon Valley hasn’t figured out how to scale irony yet, I suppose. Chayka considers our modern Mechanical Turk and finds it less a parlor trick than an attempt at mass hypnosis. “Designed and maintained by the engineers of monopolistic tech companies, and running on data that we users continuously provide by logging in each day, the technology is both constructed by us and dominates us, manipulating our perceptions and attention,” he writes. “The algorithm always wins.”"

Drowning in Mediocre Data: On Kyle Chayka’s “Filterworld”

By T. M. BrownJanuary 19, 2024

[theiibms]

Top Companies That Actively Hire Advanced Diploma Graduates

In today’s fast-paced job market, companies are not just looking for degrees — they’re looking for skills, experience, and job-ready professionals. That’s why Advanced Diplomas are becoming a popular choice among both students and employers. These programs equip learners with practical, industry-relevant knowledge that companies value when hiring.

If you’re considering this career path, here are some top companies that actively hire graduates with an Advanced Diploma.

1. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)

TCS often recruits diploma graduates for roles in software testing, IT support, and business operations. Candidates who’ve completed advanced diploma courses in IT or business find themselves well-prepared for entry-level and mid-level roles at TCS.

2. Infosys

One of India’s top IT firms, Infosys hires diploma graduates for positions in system engineering, process operations, and tech support. They value candidates who have a practical understanding of technology and can be trained quickly.

3. Amazon

Whether it’s logistics, supply chain, customer service, or operations, Amazon seeks skilled individuals with hands-on training. An Advanced Diploma in Business Management can help you qualify for team lead or operations associate roles.

4. Cognizant

Cognizant offers numerous opportunities for freshers and skilled professionals, especially in areas like data processing, tech support, and software services. Advanced diploma holders are a great fit for their technical and non-technical departments.

5. Reliance Industries

Reliance looks for diploma holders in engineering, retail, finance, and operations. They often hire graduates who bring both classroom learning and real-world problem-solving skills to the table.

6. Accenture

Known for its consulting and IT services, Accenture hires advanced diploma graduates in digital marketing, finance, project management, and analytics. They often prefer candidates who have completed some of the best online diploma courses due to the flexibility and updated content such programs offer.

7. L&T (Larsen & Toubro)

For those from an engineering or technical background, L&T offers strong career prospects. The company regularly recruits diploma graduates in electrical, civil, and mechanical streams for site supervision, design support, and operations.

8. Capgemini

This global leader in consulting and IT services hires diploma holders for tech support, software testing, and backend processes. Capgemini values practical training and strong communication skills — both of which are often emphasized in Advanced Diploma

Final Thoughts

Employers across industries are now looking beyond traditional degrees. They want professionals who are trained, job-ready, and adaptable. If you’re planning to boost your career, explore advanced diploma courses that match your field of interest. Whether you’re entering IT, business, engineering, or digital marketing, the right diploma can connect you to exciting roles in top companies.

[globalresearchinsights]

Aerospace Engineering Services Outsourcing Market Driven by Adoption of Digital Twin and Smart Manufacturing Technologies

Market Overview

The Aerospace Engineering Services Outsourcing (ESO) Market is witnessing strong growth as aerospace companies increasingly rely on third-party vendors for engineering design, testing, system integration, and lifecycle management. With mounting pressure to innovate rapidly, reduce time-to-market, and optimize operational efficiency, both Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and Tier 1/Tier 2 suppliers are turning to specialized service providers. The market is evolving to encompass a wide array of services, from design and simulation to testing and certification, powered by emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and robotics. As of 2024, the market spans across commercial aviation, military aviation, space exploration, and the emerging urban air mobility segment.

Market Dynamics

Several key forces are propelling the aerospace ESO market forward. The rising complexity of aircraft systems, growing global air traffic, and increasing defense budgets have placed a spotlight on engineering innovation and efficiency. At the same time, aerospace firms are seeking ways to manage costs more effectively and focus on core competencies, making outsourcing a strategic necessity rather than a choice. Additionally, a shortage of skilled aerospace engineers has further pushed OEMs and suppliers to rely on external engineering support.

Click to Request a Sample of this Report for Additional Market Insights: https://www.globalinsightservices.com/request-sample/?id=GIS10026 

Technological advancements are another major catalyst. The integration of Additive Manufacturing, AI, AR/VR, and IoT into aerospace product development has made it essential to access niche expertise available through engineering service providers. Meanwhile, regulatory pressures around safety, testing, and environmental compliance have made the role of quality assurance and validation services more significant than ever before.

Key Players Analysis

The market features a competitive mix of global engineering service providers and specialized aerospace consulting firms. Prominent names include Infosys, HCL Technologies, Wipro, L&T Technology Services, Accenture, Capgemini, Altair Engineering, and Bertrandt AG. These companies provide services ranging from design and simulation to prototyping, testing, and full-scale manufacturing engineering solutions.

While large IT and engineering firms dominate through scalability and end-to-end capabilities, smaller firms are carving out niches with deep specialization in avionics, propulsion systems, or emerging areas like urban air mobility and spacecraft design. Partnerships and strategic alliances between aerospace OEMs and ESO providers are on the rise, aimed at achieving faster innovation and product lifecycle efficiencies.

Regional Analysis

North America leads the aerospace ESO market, driven by the presence of major aerospace OEMs like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Raytheon Technologies. The region's strong defense spending and a robust ecosystem of Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers further support outsourcing demand.

Europe holds a significant share due to the engineering needs of companies like Airbus and Rolls-Royce. The region also benefits from regulatory harmonization and skilled engineering labor markets in countries like Germany and France.

Asia-Pacific is witnessing the fastest growth, powered by aggressive aerospace investments in India, China, and Japan. India, in particular, has emerged as a global hub for aerospace ESO due to its large pool of engineering talent, cost advantages, and strong IT infrastructure.

The Middle East and Latin America are also slowly entering the market, with regional airlines and space agencies seeking third-party engineering support to build domestic capabilities.

Recent News & Developments

Recent years have seen several high-impact developments. Leading aerospace firms have increased their outsourcing volumes to meet production and innovation goals. For instance, major Indian ESO firms have signed multi-million-dollar contracts with global OEMs for integrated product development and system engineering services.

In technology, AR/VR-based simulation and AI-powered predictive maintenance tools have gained traction, being integrated into service portfolios. Service providers are also investing heavily in Industry 4.0 tools and digital twin capabilities to support end-to-end product lifecycle management.

Strategic mergers and partnerships are reshaping the competitive landscape. Firms are combining forces to deliver comprehensive aerospace engineering suites, covering everything from flight control and navigation to testing and validation of propulsion systems and interiors.

Browse Full Report @ https://www.globalinsightservices.com/reports/aerospace-engineering-services-outsourcing-market/ 

Scope of the Report

The scope of the Aerospace ESO market is extensive and multifaceted. It covers a wide range of product categories—from aircraft and satellites to UAVs, rockets, and launch vehicles. On the service side, providers offer consulting, system integration, product development, and maintenance & support, leveraging advanced technologies like robotics, IoT, and AI.

Components such as avionics, aerostructures, propulsion systems, and landing gear are key focus areas for outsourcing, alongside various materials like composites, polymers, and ceramics. The entire design-to-manufacturing process is now being outsourced—from concept development and prototyping to testing, validation, and production.

End users include OEMs, Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers, and MRO providers, all seeking greater agility, innovation, and efficiency through engineering outsourcing. Functional needs such as flight control, communication, navigation, and surveillance are also heavily supported by third-party engineering experts.

As we look ahead to 2034, the Aerospace Engineering Services Outsourcing Market is poised for sustained growth, with digital transformation and global collaboration shaping its future.

Discover Additional Market Insights from Global Insight Services:

Submersible Pump Market: https://www.globalinsightservices.com/reports/submersible-pump-market/

Commercial Aircraft Maintenance Tooling Market: https://www.globalinsightservices.com/reports/commercial-aircraft-maintenance-tooling-market/

Top 10 Companies in the Small Caliber Ammunition Market: https://www.globalinsightservices.com/insight/top-10-companies-in-the-small-caliber-ammunition-market/

Military Satellite Market: https://www.globalinsightservices.com/press-releases/military-satellite-market/

Industrial Hoses Market: https://www.globalinsightservices.com/reports/industrial-hoses-market/

[yogesh2003]

Top Holding Companies in Indian Stock Market

List of Holding Companies in Indian Stock Market

Introduction

Ever wondered who really pulls the strings behind some of India’s biggest companies? Imagine the stock market as a chessboard—while the pieces move, it’s the hand behind them that truly matters. That’s where holding companies come into play.

A holding company in India doesn’t sell a product or service directly. Instead, it owns controlling shares in other companies, managing them from the top. For investors and traders, knowing these companies can unlock smart strategies. And if you’re new to this, don’t worry—taking one of the best trading courses or a stock market course in India can help you get a clear edge.

Explore the leading holding company in India. Learn their role in investing, discover the best trading courses, and start your stock market course in India.

What is a Holding Company?

A holding company is like the parent in a family—overseeing multiple children (subsidiaries), each with their own life but under the same roof. It primarily exists to own stocks in other businesses, controlling operations without directly running daily tasks.

Why Do Holding Companies Exist?

Strategic control and financial insulation—those are the two main reasons. By creating separate companies under one umbrella, risks are spread out, tax planning becomes efficient, and control remains centralized.

Think of it as an umbrella shielding different businesses from the storm—if one gets soaked, the others stay dry.

Role of Holding Companies in the Stock Market

Holding companies often invest heavily in listed firms, influencing their decisions, mergers, and direction. They create value chains and act as invisible influencers in stock market trends, governance, and consolidation strategies.

Key Characteristics of Holding Companies

Majority shareholding in one or more companies

No or limited operational activity of their own

Centralized financial control

Diversification of business interests

Risk management and tax efficiency

How Do Holding Companies Make Money?

Here’s how they earn:

Dividends from subsidiaries

Capital appreciation of owned shares

Interest income

Asset sales

They act like landlords of a building—they collect rent (profits), but don’t manage each apartment.

Benefits of Investing in Holding Companies

Diversified exposure

Stable returns from multiple sectors

Less volatility in comparison to standalone businesses

Potential for long-term growth

Access to management quality of multiple firms

Top Holding Companies in Indian Stock Market

Let’s dive into the most influential holding companies in India and what makes them powerful:

Tata Sons Pvt. Ltd.

Tata Sons is the ultimate holding company for the entire Tata Group—India’s biggest conglomerate. It holds significant stakes in companies like:

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)

Tata Steel

Tata Motors

Titan Company

Tata Sons is privately held and plays a pivotal role in strategic planning across industries.

Bajaj Holdings & Investment Ltd.

Listed on the NSE and BSE, Bajaj Holdings is the parent company for the Bajaj group’s financial services arm. It holds shares in:

Bajaj Auto

Bajaj Finserv

Bajaj Finance

It is popular among long-term investors seeking consistent dividend income and exposure to the financial sector.

Larsen & Toubro (L&T)

While known as an engineering giant, L&T acts as a holding company for its various arms:

L&T Technology Services

L&T Infotech

L&T Finance Holdings

It holds significant stakes and controls strategy, funding, and operations from the top.

Aditya Birla Capital Ltd.

This is the financial services holding company of the Aditya Birla Group, managing:

Aditya Birla Finance

ABSL Mutual Fund

ABSL Insurance

It consolidates financial services under one umbrella, offering investors clarity and opportunity.

Usha Martin Ltd.

Known for its steel and wire rope business, Usha Martin transformed into a holding structure after divesting its steel operations. Now it manages:

Investments in subsidiaries

Strategic reinvestment of capital

JSW Holdings Ltd.

Part of the Sajjan Jindal-led JSW Group, JSW Holdings owns significant shares in:

JSW Steel

JSW Energy

JSW Infrastructure

It’s known for giving exposure to core infrastructure segments in one go.

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.

While operational, M&M also functions as a holding entity for its multiple arms:

Tech Mahindra

Mahindra Finance

Club Mahindra

Its investments stretch across automotive, IT, finance, and tourism.

How to Analyze a Holding Company for Investment

Start here:

Check the portfolio of subsidiaries

Look at dividend history

Evaluate the management’s strategic decisions

Understand sector-wise exposure

Review debt-to-equity ratio

Always ask: Is the company creating more value from its holdings than it would by selling them?

The Future of Holding Companies in India

With India moving towards becoming a $5 trillion economy, holding companies are expected to become more powerful and agile. We’ll likely see:

Corporate restructuring

Increased transparency

More holding firms getting listed

Consolidation of digital and green ventures under holding arms

Best Trading Courses to Understand Holding Structures

Want to decode how these giants operate? These best trading courses offer structured insights:

NSE Academy Certified Equity Research Analyst

Zerodha Varsity – Fundamentals Module

Elearnmarkets – Basics of Financial Markets

They explain ownership patterns, shareholding structures, and valuation models in simple terms.

Recommended Stock Market Course in India

If you're starting fresh or want structured learning, here are some top stock market courses in India:

Trendy Traders Academy – Focused on practical market analysis, fundamentals, and portfolio design

ICICI Direct Centre for Financial Learning – Great for beginners and intermediates

NIFM (National Institute of Financial Management) – Offers government-recognized certifications

BSE Institute Ltd. – Strong theoretical and practical grounding

These programs help demystify corporate structures, including how holding companies in India operate.

Conclusion

Behind every iconic Indian company, there's often a holding company pulling the strings—strategizing, investing, and building empires silently.

Whether you’re an investor, trader, or someone just starting with a stock market course in India, understanding holding companies is like finding the map before starting a treasure hunt. You know where the value lies, even if it’s not visible on the surface.

As the Indian economy grows, these holding firms will become even more relevant—offering stable, diversified, and insightful investment options.

FAQs

1. What is the purpose of a holding company in India? A holding company exists to control and manage subsidiary companies through majority shareholding, enabling centralized decision-making and reduced financial risks.

2. Is it safe to invest in holding companies? Yes, many holding companies offer diversification and steady returns. However, like any investment, you should evaluate the financial health and subsidiaries involved.

3. How can I identify a holding company listed in India? You can check the company’s shareholding patterns, filings on NSE/BSE, or financial statements which show major investments in other companies.

4. Do I need a special course to understand holding companies? Not necessarily, but taking one of the best trading courses or a stock market course in India can greatly improve your understanding of holding structures and investment strategy.

5. Which holding company in India is the most influential? Tata Sons Pvt. Ltd. is arguably the most influential, managing India's largest business empire across technology, manufacturing, finance, and more.

[traeuthaeou]

Mobile T Corporation

Our Mission to Innovate and Create Quality Produce and New Technologies to assist in the supporting and residing with perfect accommodation and response our legal legitimate need and upon the Thrones and Thrones it be as Quantity be our Promise seal and Loyalty to The Corporate Entity and whom Be and Our reason for existence. La Flaca Mexico Government and Global Operations.

The World Bank's core mission is to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity on a livable planet. This is achieved through a variety of financial and technical assistance provided to developing countries. Specifically, they aim to reduce the percentage of people generating income less then average by 50 to 100% and promote the income growth of the newly founded United Planetary Nation of the United Planetary Nations State of Providence of Planetary Unity of Thearu in every country. 

A Institution Company Corporation in all our affairs as A Hawkins Hopkins supporting Corporation A Company A Corporation an Institution Global United Servicing Planetary Entity of the Americas Ameriael Founded Based in Supporting Better Business and A Bettering United Planetary Alliance as we are an honest corporation with interest in global success and international trade and exchange and Foundation base of operations of corporations and institution or moral vale ethics and business affirmative affirmation as our mission and mission and or emissions statements As for some over all a combination of my written mission statement and corporation resources in One A + financial juggernaut pilot astronaut pioneer professional occupational exploration protection and security war and raw business moment maybe inspiration our vision to be on top listed planetary Exilaxy business as we practice and perfection daily production and moral ethics in character occupation. Founder Terry.

Terry Lee Kauffman Hawkins

Terry Lee Hawkins Jr.

traeuthaeou

ALLAHTREU TREUALLAH TRUE SCRAMBLED LANGUAGEOLOGIST

Founder Terry.

Terry Lee Kauffman Hawkins

Terry Lee Hawkins Jr

Blaze

Johns Hopkins Homewood Neighborhood in Baltimore, Maryland The prestigious and sprawling Johns Hopkins University campus in Homewood is home to tree-lined paths, traditional redbrick architecture, and a landmark clock tower. The campus features the Shriver Hall Concert Series and the Baltimore Museum of Art, as well as popular Wyman Park, Wyman Park Dell, and Stony Run Trail. The surrounding area has many taverns and casual eateries popular with students.

Terry Lee Kauffman Hawkins is feeling blessed with Terry Lee Hawkins Jr. 3 mins · Terry Lee Kauffman Hawkins is feeling blessed with Terry Lee Hawkins Jr. 11 mins · Terry Lee Kauffman Hawkins is feeling professional with Terry Lee Hawkins Jr. 1 min · Terry Lee Kauffman Hawkins 4 mins · RAVENDOVE Terry Lee Kauffman Hawkins was RavenDove - yin yin / yang RavenDove - yin yin / yang - COLD NUMB AND (LOVIEY DOVIEY) CALCULATED SPELL IT D or L Dove or Love maybe L or D Lover or Dover pythagorean numerology ABC123 Kauffman-Hawkins-Hawk or Hopk -H__kins aw or op and Hopkins signed Booper or just Boop not Book BUT LOKI OR BOOPER SAN with Blaze Pascal. with Terry Lee Hawkins ( male ) @ikigami shinigam HAWKINS HOKINSU/HOKINZU https://www.facebook.com/notes/terry-lee-kauffman-hawkins/bac-formula-racing-f3-series-bac-mission-statement/2296158727310875/ — feeling professional with Terry Lee Hawkins Jr. YES=Y=YES / NO=N=NO

Blaze

India, officially the Republic of India, is a country in South Asia. It is the seventh-largest country by area; the most populous country from June 2023 onwards; and since its independence in 1947, the world's most populous democracy. Wikipedia

Blaze

Johns Hopkins Homewood

Neighborhood in Baltimore, Maryland

Blaze

traeuthaeou

5m ago

YORK OR WORK HOSPITAL Y LETTER 15 W LETTER 23

The University of Maryland, Baltimore is a public university in Baltimore, Maryland, United States. Founded in 1807, it is the second oldest college in Maryland and comprises some of the oldest professional schools of dentistry, law, medicine, pharmacy, social work and nursing in the United States. Wikipedia

Avg cost after aid

––

Graduation rate

95%

Acceptance rate

––Graduation rate is for non-first-time, full-time undergraduate students who graduated within 6 years. They were the largest group of students (75%) according to the 2022–23 College Scorecard data ·more 

From US Dept of Education · Learn more

Address: 

620 W Lexington St, Baltimore, MD 21201

Address: 620 W Lexington St, Baltimore, MD 21201

Phone: (410) 706-3100

Blaze

0 notes

traeuthaeou

2m ago

ALLAH STEP ONE .. GOD TO ALL THOSE PEOPLE NOT A TWELVE STEP LETTER A TO L PROGRAM AT JOHNS HOPKINS AND GOD OR DOG . CHIP HOUSE HUOJINSEN YOU AN ADULT I AM REPORTING TO YOU. H O U S E - H U O J I N S E N . HAWKINGSON TERRY LEE - SOBRIQUET BOOPER BOOPPER THEOS LOKI TEREMY

Terry Lee Kauffman Hawkins

is with

Terry Lee Hawkins Jr.

May 9 at 4:48 PM

Terry Lee Kauffman Hawkins is feeling blessed with Terry Lee Hawkins Jr. 3 mins · Terry Lee Kauffman Hawkins is feeling blessed with Terry Lee Hawkins Jr. 11 mins · Terry Lee Kauffman Hawkins is feeling professional with Terry Lee Hawkins Jr. 1 min · Terry Lee Kauffman Hawkins 4 mins · RAVENDOVE Terry Lee Kauffman Hawkins was RavenDove - yin yin / yang RavenDove - yin yin / yang - COLD NUMB AND (LOVIEY DOVIEY) CALCULATED SPELL IT D or L Dove or Love maybe L or D Lover or Dover pythagorean numerology ABC123 Kauffman-Hawkins-Hawk or Hopk -H__kins aw or op and Hopkins signed Booper or just Boop not Book BUT LOKI OR BOOPER SAN with Blaze Pascal. with Terry Lee Hawkins ( male ) @ikigami shinigam HAWKINS HOKINSU/HOKINZU https://www.facebook.com/notes/terry-lee-kauffman-hawkins/bac-formula-racing-f3-series-bac-mission-statement/2296158727310875/ — feeling professional with Terry Lee Hawkins Jr. YES=Y=YES / NO=N=NO

Blaze

0 notes

Enoch Pratt Free Library

4.6301 Google reviews

Public library in Baltimore, Maryland

Description

The Enoch Pratt Free Library is the free public library system of Baltimore, Maryland. Its Central Library is located on 400 Cathedral Street and occupies the northeastern three quarters of a city block ... Wikipedia

Departments: Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled

Address: 400 Cathedral St, Baltimore, MD 21201

Architect: Edward Lippincott Tilton

Hours: 

Open ⋅ Closes 8 PM · More hours

Opened: 1882

Phone: (410) 396-5430

Branches: 22

Director: Chad Helton, President and CEO

Johns Hopkins Homewood

Neighborhood in Baltimore, Maryland

Blaze

0 notes

Blaze

0 notes

Blaze

0 notes

Blaze

Blaze

0 notes

Blaze

0 notes

Blaze

0 notes

Blaze

0 notes

Blaze

0 notes

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

64.media.tumblr.com

#federal government#us government#united government#united nations

Blaze

0 notes

Blaze

0 notes

Blaze

0 notes

Blaze

0 notes

Blaze

0 notes

Blaze

0 notes

Blaze

0 notes

Blaze

0 notes

Blaze

0 notes

Blaze

0 notes

Blaze

0 notes

Blaze

0 notes

Blaze

0 notes