It’s important not to overlook that the declassified files, which precipitated the collapse of Peter Mandelson’s career, expose the depth and complexity of Epstein’s web of influence. Epstein was not merely a criminal; he was a calculated predator who embedded himself within elite circles to extract influence, protection, and access, leaving widespread harm in his wake. This pattern of remorseless exploitation, strategic social manipulation, and emotional emptiness is consistent with textbook traits of psychopathy, and the continuing political fallout underscores the risks posed when elite perpetrators can access and exploit powerful people....

The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir presumptive to the Austro-Hungarian throne on 28th June 1914 set off a chain reaction leading to the start of the first world war. Killed by a Bosnian student group that was supported by Serbs who feared the Habsburg Empire’s further encroach on their territory, Ferdinand’s death would ultimately lead to a rejigging of the European territories....

The term ‘perversion’ has always attracted considerable controversy. Perhaps a somewhat unfortunate choice, perversion easily implies a norm, for example a deviation from an accepted sexual norm, and a judgement about how wrong or right that deviation is, but the term has remained relevant and is used to assist particularly with people whose sexual life, experiences and fantasies makes them suffer....

What’s behind Xi Jinping’s seemingly permanent Buddha smile? A diplomat’s answer might run along the lines of the secret strategic calculations that tell Xi the geopolitical balance of power is tilting his way. A sense of impending victory, hubris even....