Cieo

Cieo is an independent think tank operated by a dedicated group of scholars and writers. The political landscape has shifted significantly. The traditional lines between left and right are becoming less relevant, and party loyalty has diminished among voters. Public discussions seem to jump from one topic to another—covering free speech, historical monuments, public restrooms, obesity, the role of education, media portrayal, sexual harassment, and issues of race. However, several key questions keep arising: What defines manhood and womanhood? How should we view history? How can we integrate children into society? Should we prioritize freedom or safety, individual rights or community security? Our responses to these questions reveal two contrasting views of humanity. One perspective sees individuals, whether alone or in groups, as foolish and flawed, or uninformed and deserving of sympathy. This viewpoint suggests that without measures like sugar taxes and behavior nudges, people may harm themselves through poor health choices. It argues that without proper parenting education, parents may fail their children, and without training on unconscious bias, people may act harmfully towards one another. Those holding this view believe that people often make poor political choices, such as supporting Brexit or voting for President Trump, and they argue that politics should be guided by experts for the greater good. Conversely, the other perspective views people as rational, capable, and possessing a shared wisdom, even if they sometimes lack the freedom to make choices in ideal conditions. This view holds that neither history nor national identity should be sources of shame. While people may express themselves in straightforward ways, society is generally becoming less racist, sexist, and homophobic. Populist votes reflect a desire for better living conditions but also a fundamental need for respect and recognition of their voices. Today's political rift is not simply between left and right but rather between experts and the general populace, between a culturally elite group and everyday citizens. Traditional frameworks are inadequate for understanding this evolving situation. Fresh ideas, analysis, and perspectives are essential, and that’s where Cieo steps in. At Cieo, we advocate for the people. We produce original essays, reports, and analyses that aim to celebrate human potential. Every piece we create shares a common thread: the belief that individuals should have greater control over their lives and communities.