Author: jhnashtongmailcom

MALICIA AS A GAME OF POWER (12/19/25)

Welcome to MALICIA AS A GAME OF POWER, a blog series exploring human interactions, communication, conflict resolution, and negotiation. It offers strategies for leadership, personal branding, and highlights the importance of social influence and emotional intelligence. Readers will find techniques for navigating social dynamics, resolving conflicts, and building a strong personal brand. The blog serves as a resource with insights and practical advice for using communication effectively to succeed personally and professionally, encouraging reflection on experiences to foster meaningful connections.

In this installment, we will explore the 47th law of power in the book, the 48 laws of power by Robert Greene. You can buy a copy by clicking HERE.

LAW 47 DO NOT GO PAST THE MARK YOU AIMED FOR IN VICTORY

LAW 47: DO NOT GO PAST THE MARK YOU AIMED FOR IN VICTORY

This law is a critical, yet often overlooked, principle of strategic success and power maintenance. It serves as a caution against the intoxicating hubris that can accompany a great triumph. The core idea is simple: once you have achieved your objective—once you have secured the victory you initially sought—stop. Continuing to push the boundaries of your success or attempting to exploit your defeated enemy further is a grave mistake that almost inevitably leads to a reversal of fortune.

The Peril of Over-Extension

When a victory is achieved, a dangerous psychological shift often occurs. The victor, feeling powerful and invincible, tends to become careless and greedy. They forget the measured caution and strategic planning that led to the success in the first place. Instead, they begin to believe they can achieve anything and often try to extract more from the situation than is realistically possible or politically advisable.

The consequences of this over-extension are threefold:

  1. Arousal of Resentment and Fear: Pushing your advantage too far humiliates the defeated and instills fear in onlookers, including your potential allies. When you aim for absolute destruction or total subjugation, you leave the enemy with nothing to lose, thus inspiring a desperate, last-stand resistance. Furthermore, neighboring powers and subordinates, observing your boundless ambition, will begin to see you not as a hero, but as a tyrant who must be stopped before their own interests are threatened.
  2. Dilution of Resources: Every step taken past the original goal requires an investment of time, money, manpower, and attention. This unnecessary expenditure drains your resources, weakens your original position, and provides your enemies (both current and future) with a potential opening. A finite victory is strong; an attempt at infinite victory is inherently fragile.
  3. The Point of Diminishing Returns: The greatest benefit is derived from the initial victory. Subsequent gains often come at a much higher cost and yield far fewer strategic advantages. The wise strategist knows when the maximum return has been reached and pulls back to consolidate their gains. To continue past this mark is to invite exhaustion and vulnerability.

Strategic Implementation

To adhere to LAW 47, a leader must exercise rigorous self-control and clear foresight:

  • Define the Mark: Before the conflict or competition even begins, clearly define what constitutes a complete and sufficient victory. This definition must be concrete, measurable, and limited.
  • Stop and Consolidate: Once the defined goal is met—the castle is taken, the treaty is signed, the market share is secured—it is time to halt the offensive. Shift immediately from the act of conquering to the process of consolidating power and fortifying the newly won position.
  • Grace in Victory: Show a degree of magnanimity toward the defeated. This is not charity; it is shrewd politics. Allowing the enemy an honorable retreat or a degree of self-respect lessens their desire for immediate vengeance and makes future diplomatic relations possible.

By stopping at the appropriate mark, the victor preserves their energy, avoids unnecessary conflict, and, most importantly, prevents the world from perceiving them as an insatiable threat. The perfect victory is one that achieves the objective with the least necessary effort and leaves the victor in a strong, sustainable position.

The 47th Law of Power, as described in Robert Greene’s The 48 Laws of Power, is: “Do not go past the mark you aimed for; in victory, learn when to stop.” This law essentially advises against overextending oneself after achieving a significant success or victory, emphasizing the importance of knowing when to consolidate gains rather than pressing one’s luck and making new enemies.

Applying this law in an ethical manner requires reframing its core principle—strategic restraint—around virtuous and constructive goals, rather than purely self-serving or manipulative ones.Ethical Application of the 47th Law: Strategic Restraint for Sustainable Success

The ethical use of the 47th Law revolves around two main areas: Consolidating Success and Maintaining Moral Integrity.1. Consolidating Success (Knowing When to Stop for Good)

In an ethical context, “stopping” does not mean ceasing all activity, but rather pausing aggressive expansion or self-promotion to ensure long-term stability, foster goodwill, and sustain impact.

  • Focus on Depth, Not Just Breadth: After a major achievement (e.g., launching a successful product, completing a key project, or winning a policy debate), resist the urge to immediately pivot to the next, more ambitious goal. Instead, dedicate resources to perfecting the existing success. This involves improving quality, optimizing processes, training employees, and deepening relationships with existing stakeholders.
    • Ethical Rationale: Ensuring a product or service is truly excellent and sustainable provides greater value to the public and prevents rushed, low-quality efforts that could damage trust.
  • Share the Credit and Cede the Spotlight: A key risk of overextension after victory is becoming arrogant or monopolizing the spotlight. Ethically, a leader should use a victory as an opportunity to elevate others. Acknowledge the team’s contributions, share praise with collaborators, and ensure that those who helped achieve the goal are properly rewarded.
    • Ethical Rationale: Fostering a culture of gratitude and shared success builds a stronger, more loyal team and prevents the leader from becoming an isolating figure of envy.
  • Manage Expectations and Resources: Success can create a dangerous appetite for constant, escalating wins. Ethically, one must be realistic about organizational capacity. Do not commit to unachievable future goals merely to capitalize on current momentum. Use the “stop” period to meticulously audit resources, assess the true cost of success, and plan future initiatives responsibly.
    • Ethical Rationale: Responsible stewardship of resources and avoiding burnout demonstrates respect for employees and stakeholders.

2. Maintaining Moral Integrity (Avoiding the Envy of the Gods)

The original law warns that pressing too far incites envy from others, leading to a backlash. Ethically, this means being mindful of the impact of your success on the wider community and deliberately avoiding actions that cause unnecessary resentment or suffering.

  • Practice Humility and Avoid Triumphalism: Ethical success should not be flaunted in a way that minimizes others. Avoid public gloating, unnecessary displays of wealth, or rhetoric that frames rivals as utterly defeated or incompetent. Maintain a gracious and humble demeanor, even when celebrating.
    • Ethical Rationale: Respect for opponents and maintaining civility fosters a better environment for future collaboration and reduces the motivation for others to actively work toward your downfall.
  • Do Not Exploit a Weakened Competitor: If a victory comes at the expense of a competitor who is now struggling, the ethical application of the 47th Law mandates restraint. Do not use their moment of weakness to deliver a crippling blow or acquire their assets through coercive means. Instead, focus on your own business improvement.
    • Ethical Rationale: Ethical competition allows for the health of the market and community. Crushing a rival unnecessarily can lead to monopolies, job losses, and a poorer outcome for consumers.
  • Define and Honor the “Good Enough” Mark: In the context of ethical self-improvement or social change, know when a goal has been sufficiently achieved. For instance, in an advocacy campaign, reaching a meaningful legislative reform might be the “mark.” Going past the mark might mean demanding extreme, non-negotiable changes that alienate moderate supporters and threaten to overturn the initial, successful reform.
    • Ethical Rationale: Prioritizing pragmatic, achievable, and widely beneficial outcomes over maximalist idealism ensures that ethical progress is durable and widely supported.

In essence, the ethical application of the 47th Law of Power transforms a manipulative rule of self-preservation into a virtuous principle of sustainable, responsible, and shared success. It is a discipline that preserves not just your power, but also your reputation and moral standing.

The 47th Law of Power, Through the Eyes of an Angoleiro

This exploration delves into the seemingly contradictory yet profoundly insightful relationship between Robert Greene’s The 47th Law of Power: Do Not Go Past the Mark You Aimed At; In Victory, Learn When to Stop and the philosophical discipline embodied by Capoeira Angola.

The 47th Law cautions against the intoxicating hubris of an overwhelming victory, advising the powerful to exercise restraint, not push their luck too far, and avoid creating bitter enemies through total annihilation. It is a lesson in strategic self-limitation, reminding us that a continued escalation of dominance can be counterproductive, drawing unwanted attention and galvanizing opposition.

For the Angoleiro—a practitioner of Capoeira Angola—this law resonates deeply within the core principles of their art. Capoeira Angola is not merely a fight; it is a complex, ritualized game (jogo) played within the protective circle of the roda (the ring). The ultimate aim is not to physically destroy an opponent but to achieve dominance through malícia (malice, cunning, and trickery), mandinga (mystical energy, power, and strategy), and superior technical skill, all while maintaining the utmost respect for the tradition and the partner.

The Angoleiro’s Interpretation of the 47th Law:

  • The Mark (O Alvo): In the roda, the “mark” is often not a knockout blow but a strategic moment of control, a perfectly executed rasteira (sweep), or a brilliant escape from a compromising position. The true objective is to win the game, not end the partnership.
  • Victory (A Vitória): A true “victory” in Capoeira Angola is the display of complete control and fluid mastery, a jogo so compelling that it captivates the entire roda. To land a debilitating strike or humiliate a partner publicly goes “past the mark.” Such an action violates the spirit of the jogo, risks inciting genuine violence, and earns the practitioner a reputation for carelessness and lack of malandragem (street smarts/cunning).
  • Learning When to Stop (Saber Parar): The Angoleiro learns that the highest form of power is restraint. After successfully sweeping a partner, the master does not follow up with a crushing kick (cabeçada); instead, they often use a fluid, non-damaging movement to continue the jogo or gracefully back away, allowing the partner to recover and re-enter the dance. This act of grace signals strength, confidence, and respect, ensuring the jogo continues and the community remains harmonious. Pushing a defeated opponent further creates unnecessary inimizade (enmity), which the wise Angoleiro avoids, knowing that in the closed world of the Capoeira community, today’s opponent is tomorrow’s teacher or friend.

The Angoleiro, therefore, practices the 47th Law not as a cynical political maneuver, but as an essential philosophical element of their art, understanding that the pursuit of absolute, total victory is often an act of profound weakness, whereas controlled, measured dominance is the truest manifestation of power.

Dr. Thabalala’s Diplomatic Incident: A Call for Historical Accountability

The political and diplomatic career of Dr. Khanyisile Thabalala, a prominent South African member of parliament, took an unexpected and dramatic turn following a seemingly innocuous visit to a museum in Germany. The core of the controversy stems from a single, pointed question she posed during her tour, an inquiry that quickly escalated into a diplomatic incident resulting in a lifetime ban from the country.

The incident unfolded during an official parliamentary delegation visit to Germany. While touring a significant cultural institution—reported to be a major historical or ethnographic museum—Dr. Thabalala paused before a specific exhibit. The exact nature of the exhibit remains a point of public conjecture, though it is widely believed to have displayed artifacts or information related to Germany’s colonial past, particularly its involvement in South West Africa (now Namibia) or other parts of the African continent.

In an act that demonstrated her commitment to questioning historical narratives and challenging uncomfortable truths, the South African MP addressed a museum official or guide with a question that, in the German context, proved highly provocative. Sources close to the delegation suggest her query focused on the provenance of the artifacts, specifically asking about the ethical nature of their acquisition or the display’s acknowledgement of colonial-era violence and exploitation. She reportedly pressed for details on whether the museum had initiated, or was planning to initiate, a repatriation process for any human remains or culturally significant objects taken under duress.

This line of questioning, intended by Dr. Thabalala to open a dialogue on historical accountability and reparative justice—themes central to South Africa’s own post-apartheid discourse—was not received in the spirit she intended. Instead, German authorities viewed the inquiry as an aggressive challenge to national history and a disruption of a state-sponsored cultural exchange.

The repercussions were swift and severe. Within a short period, Dr. Thabalala was officially notified of a decision by German federal authorities. Citing reasons that remain largely obscured by diplomatic language—likely related to “disrupting official proceedings” or “inappropriate conduct”—she was declared persona non grata and issued a permanent ban preventing her from ever re-entering the Federal Republic of Germany.

Dr. Thabalala’s narrative of the event serves as a stark reminder of the often-tense relationship between former colonizing and colonized nations regarding cultural heritage, historical truth, and the politics of memory. Her experience has been widely discussed in South Africa, where it is often framed as an example of Western nations’ reluctance to fully confront and apologize for the brutalities of their colonial empires. The incident has cemented Dr. Thabalala’s reputation as a fearless advocate for decolonization, even as it cost her access to a major European nation.

White Supremacists Gather In Tennessee. Who Are They?

I want to extend a massive and sincere shoutout to the professor for the incredible effort and dedication that went into creating and posting this exceptionally informative and well-produced video. It has proven to be an invaluable resource, clarifying complex topics and significantly enhancing understanding.

For several years, the American Renaissance organization, a periodical and website founded by Jared Taylor that advocates for white-identity politics and racial homogeneity, has convened in Tennessee for its annual meeting. These gatherings typically feature a lineup of speakers who discuss topics ranging from racial differences and immigration to the perceived existential threats facing white people in the United States and globally.

The mainstream or “white media,” as the original text terms it, has largely maintained a policy of ignoring or downplaying these meetings. This strategy is often predicated on the belief that giving attention to such groups only amplifies their message and grants them a platform, a form of self-imposed media blackout. However, this raises a critical question, particularly for those concerned with public safety and the rise of politically motivated violence: when dealing with groups whose ideology has been linked to domestic extremist acts and who are often described by watchdog organizations as purveyors of “race-terrorist” or white nationalist ideology, is it wise for law enforcement, intelligence agencies, and the broader public to remain willfully ignorant of their activities, membership, and evolving rhetorical strategies? A lack of public scrutiny may allow their networks to grow and their ideologies to radicalize individuals in the shadows, making the meetings a significant event that warrants closer attention, not less.

For anyone who found this video helpful or is looking for more high-quality educational content, I highly recommend visiting the professor’s YouTube channel. You can click HERE to go directly to his amazing channel, where you will find a wealth of other videos covering a wide range of subjects. His commitment to accessible education is truly commendable.

Exploring Afro-Diasporic Martial Arts: A Path to Personal Sovereignty

The Lifelong Doctrine of Afro-Diasporic Martial Arts: Cultivating Unassailable Sovereignty

The lifelong, profound commitment to the practice of Afro-Diasporic martial arts—a rich category encompassing the graceful, dynamic Brazilian art of Capoeira alongside the practical, historically rich weapon systems such as Esgrima de machete y bordón, the Haitian Tire Machet, and the Trinidadian Kalinda—transcends the simplistic, often reductive notion of mere physical fitness or combat training. This rigorous pursuit is, at its deepest core, a powerful, multi-faceted, and profoundly ethical doctrine dedicated to the preservation of an individual’s personal and communal sovereignty. It crystallizes into a deep, holistic dedication to self-mastery, the active preservation of cultural heritage that has been historically suppressed, and the fundamental, unassailable right to self-determination across all essential spheres of life—spiritual, psychological, cultural, and physical.

—–Capoeira: The Embodiment of Liberated Movement and Intellectual Resilience

Capoeira, the quintessential Afro-Brazilian art form, was ingeniously forged in the crucible of colonial slavery. It is an art that seamlessly and deceptively blends elements of fight, dance, acrobatics, and music into a singular, fluid expression. Its very historical genesis, under the brutal and watchful eye of bondage, molded it into an art of necessary evasion, ingenious deception, and profound, systemic resilience. The structured yet endlessly fluid practice of Capoeira inherently and systematically instills a deep and personal sense of sovereignty through several intertwined and critical dimensions:

1. Physical Autonomy and Bodily Self-Governance:

The core, intricate, and flowing movements, particularly the foundational ginga, are far more than a simple footwork pattern. They are a philosophical and physical expression of a constant state of fluid preparedness and active non-commitment to any fixed, vulnerable position. Consistent, rigorous training develops unparalleled, reflexive control over one’s own body, enabling the practitioner to move with a signature blend of grace, power, and often baffling unpredictability. This level of physical mastery grants the practitioner the ultimate, intrinsic physical freedom: the capacity to navigate physical conflict, danger, and physically constrained spaces, thereby asserting absolute, non-negotiable command over their own physical person and boundaries. The reflexive ability to evade a strike (esquiva), which is central to the art, is not merely a technical skill; it is the physical, instantaneous declaration of one’s inherent, non-negotiable right to remain whole, untouched, and unviolated. This is a sovereignty rooted in the mastery of one’s own corporeal existence, transforming the body from a potential site of subjugation into an unassailable temple of personal will.

2. Mental, Strategic, and Psychological Fortitude:

The strategic “game” (jogo) played within the roda (the circle) demands an exceptional degree of mental agility, impeccable timing, and the unwavering ability to remain centered and calm, even when facing high-pressure maneuvers or direct, aggressive confrontation. This constant, high-stakes exercise in strategic, non-linear problem-solving, immediate spatial awareness, and deceptive feinting translates directly into a robust and internalized form of psychological sovereignty. It cultivates the unwavering ability to maintain clear, rational thought, make sound, self-directed decisions under duress, and fundamentally refuse to cede control of one’s emotional or mental state, even when directly provoked, threatened, or constrained by external, oppressive forces. The jogo serves as a dynamic, living microcosm of life’s complex and unpredictable challenges, requiring the player to always be one move ahead of the present moment—mastering the delicate art of anticipation, sophisticated response, and psychological misdirection. The Capoeirista gains an internal grounding, making them immune to the psychological manipulations of fear or inferiority.

3. Cultural, Historical, and Spiritual Reclamation:

By engaging fully with Capoeira’s complex music, its deep rituals, the historical call-and-response songs (corridos), and its foundational history of resistance, the practitioner connects to a living, visceral legacy of intellectual and physical defiance against systemic oppression. This profound, active connection reinforces a deep cultural and historical sovereignty, as the practitioner is not simply learning a fight, but actively recognizing, reclaiming, and celebrating an identity and a tradition that was violently suppressed and deemed illegal. The art itself serves as a tangible, moving, and audible testament to the sovereign power of an oppressed people to create, communicate, and effectively resist oppression under the deceptive, innocuous guise of a beautiful dance. The Capoeirista, in every fluid, powerful movement, literally carries the history and the continuing flame of liberation, fostering a deep sense of lineage that solidifies the conviction that their life and culture are inherent, sacred rights.–

—Weapon Arts: Asserting External Sovereignty and Communal Defense

The practice of martial arts originating from the African diaspora serves as a powerful, embodied philosophy for protecting one’s personal and communal sovereignty. These traditions are more than mere fighting systems; they are cultural archives, repositories of history, and methods of self-actualization born out of resistance and resilience. The weapon-based arts, in particular, provide a crucial dimension of practical, external sovereignty.

The Role of Haitian Machete (Tire Machet) in Asserting Sovereignty

The techniques associated with the Haitian Machete (often referred to in various regional styles, including Tire Machet), are direct descendants of the tools and methods used during the Haitian Revolution—the only successful slave revolt in history that led to the formation of a free republic. This remarkable uprising not only demonstrated the relentless spirit and resilience of the enslaved population but also transformed the machete into a symbol of liberation and resistance. The Haitian Machete became an essential instrument for both agricultural work and defense, embodying a powerful legacy intertwined with the cultural identity of the Haitian people.

  • Embodiment of Resistance: Practicing the Machete is an act of historical remembrance, connecting the practitioner to the spirit of the maroons (runaway slaves) who used their agricultural tool as a weapon of liberation. The machete, an everyday item, became a potent symbol of turning oppression’s instruments against the oppressor.
  • Protection of Personal Space and Dignity: The mastery of the blade’s long reach instills confidence and establishes a tangible boundary of personal space. This training translates psychologically into an unwavering defense of one’s dignity, autonomy, and rights, which is the very core of personal sovereignty.
  • Communal Defense: In a broader sense, the practice is a preparation for collective defense. It harkens back to the organized, strategic use of the machete by revolutionary forces, emphasizing discipline, situational awareness, and the protection of the community from external threats.

Even today, these techniques are not merely practical skills; they reflect profound historical narratives where each swing of the machete resonates with the courage and determination of those who fought tirelessly for freedom, inspiring future generations to honor and celebrate this rich heritage. Each movement is imbued with stories of struggle and resilience that have been passed down through time, serving as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for liberty. As individuals engage with these techniques, they connect to a lineage of bravery and defiance, reinforcing the importance of remembering and preserving these traditions. The act of wielding the machete transcends its physical utility, transforming into a powerful symbol of identity, unity, and the ongoing pursuit of justice, thus enriching the cultural tapestry of communities around the world.

Practicing Kalenda as a Way to Uphold One’s Sovereignty

Kalenda, also known by variations such as Calinda or Ladja, is a dynamic and captivating stick-fighting and movement tradition rooted deeply in the rich cultural landscape of the French Caribbean, particularly strong in places like Trinidad, Martinique, Guadeloupe, and Haiti. This vibrant practice, with its intricate techniques and rhythmic movements, not only showcases the martial skills of its practitioners but also serves as a vital means of cultural expression and community bonding. Through energetic performances often accompanied by music, the Kalenda tradition fosters a sense of identity and belonging among participants, highlighting the historical influences of African heritage blended with Caribbean creativity. As an art form, it encourages collaboration, respect, and mutual appreciation, allowing practitioners to connect with their ancestors while engaging with the contemporary cultural scene, thus ensuring the survival and evolution of this significant aspect of their heritage.

  • A Dance of Defense: Kalenda is often misidentified as just a dance, but this fluidity is its strength. The movements—low stances, intricate footwork, and rhythmic parries—are codified combative strategies disguised in cultural performance. This allowed practitioners to train in plain sight, maintaining their martial capability despite colonial bans.
  • Spiritual and Mental Sovereignty: The practice is deeply linked to cultural identity and spirituality. It requires intense focus, breath control, and rhythmic coordination, training the mind to remain centered and decisive under pressure. This mental fortitude is a critical component of sovereignty, ensuring that the individual retains control over their inner self and decisions regardless of external coercion.
  • Preservation of Cultural Heritage: By engaging in Kalenda, practitioners assert cultural sovereignty. They actively preserve an indigenous-diasporic tradition that colonial powers sought to erase, reinforcing the idea that their cultural practices are inherently valuable and a fundamental right to maintain. The stick (bwa) becomes a literal and metaphorical scepter of self-rule, an ongoing performance of liberty that challenges the boundaries of the possible.

Through rhythmic movements and precise techniques, Kalenda reflects the resilience and creativity of the Caribbean people, embodying their historical struggles and triumphs. It is a profound manifestation of cultural and physical sovereignty, deeply entwined with the narratives of identity, heritage, and resistance that characterize the region’s rich history. As practitioners engage in this dynamic art form, they not only preserve an essential aspect of their culture but also adapt and innovate, ensuring that Kalenda continues to thrive in contemporary society.

Esgrima de Machete y Bordón: Asserting the Right to Self-Defense and Inherited Heritage

Esgrima de machete y bordón represents a diverse and practical family of historical, weapon-based martial arts. While often collectively associated with the sophisticated folk fencing styles of the broader Caribbean, Spanish colonial, and Filipino fighting traditions, these systems focus on the defensive and offensive use of the machete (or any similar bladed tool) and the bordón (a stout walking stick, staff, or club). The practice of these potent weapon arts offers a distinct, tangible, and absolutely necessary layer of sovereign protection that addresses the stark realities of external threat:

1. Practical Self-Defense and the Right to Exist:

Training rigorously with these tools provides a potent, decisive, and practical means of self-defense. This discipline operates from the stark, ethical acknowledgement that, at times, evasion, non-violent navigation, and de-escalation are tragically insufficient, and more decisive, forceful measures are necessary to repel a direct, life-threatening attack against one’s life, family, or community. The profound proficiency gained in wielding these historically potent tools becomes a literal, uncompromising, and immediate expression of the universal, inherent right to protect one’s life, physical integrity, and liberty. It is the definitive, muscular assertion of the unyielding will to survive and prevail against existential threat, ensuring that the final say in a moment of crisis belongs to the self.

2. Historical and Communal Sovereignty through Transmission:

Historically, these fighting systems—including regional variations such as Tire Machet from Haiti or the foundational movements found in stick-fighting arts like the Trinidadian Kalinda—were often the unwritten, localized doctrines used for the intimate defense of local communities and for the active assertion of self-governance against colonial, external, or bandit forces. To practice Esgrima is to honor, maintain, and actively transmit a vital cultural and communal heritage, which in itself is a profoundly powerful act of sovereign defiance against cultural erasure and historical marginalization. The intimate, hands-on knowledge of these fighting forms is a treasure passed down not for mere sport or entertainment, but for the fundamental, enduring purpose of community preservation and security.

3. The Mastery of Tools as Self-Possession and Competence:

Learning to skillfully wield the machete (which, for millions, is an essential, multi-use tool of labor, agriculture, and daily life, as well as a potential defensive weapon) or the bordón requires deep discipline, profound respect for the lethal potential of the instrument, and intense precision. This mastery symbolizes the individual’s profound competence, self-reliance, and comprehensive preparedness to take charge of their own defense, well-being, and provisioning. By attaining this competence, the practitioner effectively rejects dependency on external, and potentially indifferent, incompetent, or even oppressive, institutional protection. The proficient hand is, therefore, an autonomous, self-governing hand, capable of ensuring its own safety and prosperity.

—–The Unified Pursuit of Sovereignty: A Comprehensive, Integrated Doctrine

When practiced with deep intention and historical awareness, Capoeira and Esgrima de machete y bordón (along with all related Afro-Diasporic martial arts) do not stand as separate disciplines but form a comprehensive, integrated, and layered doctrine of personal sovereignty that effectively addresses both internal and external threats to the self:

  1. Internal Sovereignty (The Capoeira Paradigm): This represents the ultimate, untouchable freedom of the inner self—the mental, emotional, and spiritual domain achieved through rigorous self-control, psychological centering, and non-violent, creative navigation of conflict. It is the ability to maintain one’s essence, dignity, and calm presence in the face of constraint, challenge, or chaos, ensuring that the self remains unbroken.
  2. External Sovereignty (The Esgrima Paradigm): This represents the ultimate right and the acquired capacity to physically enforce one’s boundaries and defend one’s life and liberty when all avenues of evasion, negotiation, and de-escalation have been ethically and practically exhausted. It is the uncompromising, tangible assertion of absolute control over one’s physical environment and destiny, ensuring the physical survival of the individual and the community.

Ultimately, consistent, dedicated engagement with these profound Afro-Diasporic martial arts is a continuous, living declaration that the individual—their body, their mind, their history, and their spirit—is the sole and final authority over their own existence. This engagement is not merely a practice of physical techniques; it is a holistic, deeply rooted philosophy of self-determination forged through centuries of resistance and cultural preservation. It is a lifelong commitment to cultivating an unbreakable, systemic resilience, a psychological and physical armor that transcends immediate threat and allows the practitioner to move through the world with grace, strength, and unwavering conviction. In securing the unassailable right to exist fully, completely, and on one’s own terms, the practitioner achieves a state of genuine, comprehensive liberty.

THE WARRIOR CLASS (12/13/25)

Welcome to the WARRIOR CLASS Podcast

The WARRIOR CLASS podcast is your essential, unique resource for mastering self-protection and self-defense. Designed to equip every listener—regardless of background, experience level, or physical ability—with the vital skills and profound knowledge necessary for personal safety and empowerment, we go beyond simple techniques.

We believe that true self-defense begins with a “Warrior Mindset,” focusing on situational awareness, threat recognition, de-escalation tactics, and the legal and ethical considerations of using force. Our episodes feature in-depth interviews with world-class experts: tactical trainers, martial arts masters, security professionals, and legal analysts.

Tune in to explore practical strategies for:

  • Physical Self-Defense: Practical, high-percentage techniques for escaping grabs, defending against common assaults, and utilizing everyday objects for protection.
  • Situational Awareness: Developing the mindset to identify and avoid danger before it escalates.
  • Home Security and Personal Safety Technology: Reviews and best practices for securing your environment and leveraging modern tools.
  • Psychology of Conflict: Understanding fear, managing adrenaline, and maintaining control under pressure.

Join the WARRIOR CLASS community today and take charge of your personal safety journey. Your empowerment starts now!

This week…

Warrior Class: How to Spot Government Agents and Informants

The modern landscape of activism, political movements, and even certain social circles requires a heightened level of awareness regarding infiltration. The presence of both confidential informants (CIs) and government agents poses a significant threat to the security and integrity of any group dedicated to activities that might challenge or circumvent established authorities. Understanding the fundamental differences and, more importantly, the tell-tale signs of each is a critical component of personal and organizational security.Understanding the Enemy Within: The Confidential Informant (CI)

A confidential informant (CI)—pejoratively and often accurately referred to as a “snitch” or “rat”—is an individual who operates from within a community or group, providing detailed, often sensitive, information to law enforcement agencies. This information typically pertains to so-called criminal activities, plans for activism, or preparations for revolutionary acts.

Key Characteristics of a CI:

  • Disguised Identity: The core function of a CI is to gather intelligence without revealing their alliance with law enforcement. They are often trusted members of the group, known figures in the community, or individuals who have successfully integrated themselves over time.
  • Motivation: The motivations for CIs vary widely but usually fall into several categories:
    • Plea Bargain/Reduced Sentence: They are often facing charges themselves and are cooperating to secure leniency from prosecutors or a judge.
    • Financial Gain: Some CIs are paid for the information they provide, acting as professional spies for the government.
    • Coercion/Blackmail: Authorities may exploit personal vulnerabilities, past indiscretions, or immigration status to force cooperation.
  • Focus: CIs specialize in gathering detailed intelligence on internal discussions, private plans, names of participants, and the location of assets or resources. They are the eyes and ears inside the inner circle.

The Official Hand: The Government Agent

A government agent, particularly a law enforcement agent (LEA), operates in an official capacity on behalf of a federal, state, or local government agency. These individuals are salaried, sworn personnel of agencies such as the FBI, ATF, DEA, Homeland Security, or state/local police departments.

Key Characteristics of a Government Agent:

  • Official Authority: They act under the color of law, meaning they have the legal authority to execute search warrants, make arrests, and use force as prescribed by their jurisdiction.
  • Role in Infiltration: While sometimes operating undercover, a sworn agent’s presence is often more direct. They may be the ones managing and directing a team of CIs, or they might be used to initiate contact, introduce new operational concepts, or provide resources to a target group—all with the goal of entrapment or gathering probable cause.
  • Focus: The agent’s focus is typically on building a prosecutable case. This involves recording conversations, documenting physical evidence, and establishing the necessary legal predicate for an eventual raid or arrest.

Warrior Class: Spotting the Infiltrators

On this critical episode of Warrior Class, the Instructors will delve into advanced methodologies and practical fieldcraft to show you how to spot both the subtle manipulations of the CI and the more overt, though often masked, actions of the government agent. The ability to distinguish the two and respond appropriately is the ultimate lesson in securing your operational integrity.

MARTIAL ARTS THEATER (12/12/25)

Welcome to MARTIAL ARTS THEATER, a community hub for martial arts enthusiasts that offers resources such as expert interviews, instructional videos, and engaging events. We promote personal growth, discipline, and camaraderie across various styles like karate, judo, taekwondo, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Whether you’re an experienced martial artist or a beginner, you’ll find a welcoming space for learning, collaboration, and meaningful connections. Join us on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment through martial arts.

Now I know we usually feature other martial arts in this series. However, today we’re sticking with Capoeira.

The Capoeira Challenge: An Immersion in Brazil

Prepare for a journey of grit and discovery as our intrepid host, Chris Crudelli, plunges headfirst into an intense, high-stakes adventure deep within the vibrant heart of Brazil. This is no ordinary tourist excursion; Chris is driven by a singular mission: to achieve a profound immersion in the beautiful, yet deadly, Afro-Brazilian martial art known as Capoeira.

His quest is an ambitious undertaking, a grueling week-long trial by fire. Over the course of these seven days, Chris will train relentlessly, pushing the limits of his physical and mental endurance under the tutelage of Capoeira’s most respected masters. He will strive to decode the complex layers of this discipline, which is simultaneously a captivating dance, a mesmerizing acrobatic performance, and a ferocious fighting system.

The training will demand absolute dedication as Chris works to internalize the core components of the art. He must master the deceptive flow of the Ginga (the fundamental rocking movement), the soaring heights of the acrobatic maneuvers, and the explosive power of the hidden strikes and takedowns. Every lesson is a step toward understanding not just the mechanics of the fight, but the rich historical and cultural context that gave birth to this unique expression of resistance and freedom. This intensive week promises a transformation, forging a deep connection between the host and the powerful, rhythmic soul of Capoeira.

But the training is only the beginning. The grueling regimen in the confines of the roda—the Capoeira circle—served its purpose, forging Chris from a novice into a contender with lightning-fast reflexes and a dangerous, unpredictable repertoire of moves. Now, to truly validate the effectiveness of his rapid-fire, intensive education, Chris must venture beyond the hallowed, if makeshift, dojo and plunge headfirst into the raw, unforgiving environment of local Brazilian fight clubs.

His mission is not just a test of skill, but a crucible for his newly acquired combat philosophy. He’ll be putting his freshly acquired Capoeira skills on the line, where the graceful dance-like movements must translate instantly into devastating strikes and evasions. Stepping into the cage—or often, just a roped-off corner of a dimly lit warehouse—he will face some of Brazil’s toughest Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) competitors.

These are not students of philosophy; these are seasoned veterans of the cage and the street, known for their visceral aggression, granite-like resilience, and mastery of a diverse, brutal arsenal of techniques drawn from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and traditional boxing. For Chris, a man who moves like an acrobat, the challenge is immense: he must adapt his flowing, rhythmic Capoeira to the crushing pressure of a full-contact brawl, where a single missed spin could mean a rapid descent into unconsciousness. Every bout will be a high-stakes lesson in survival, forcing him to evolve his art from performance to pure, lethal practicality.

The central, pulse-pounding question remains, not just for Crudelli, but for the entire narrative of mixed martial arts: Can a single, intense, and relatively brief week of immersion in the fluid, acrobatic art of Capoeira adequately prepare a non-specialist, though seasoned, martial artist like Chris Crudelli to hold his own, or even survive, against professional, hardened MMA fighters on their home turf? This isn’t just a physical contest; it’s a profound clash of philosophies. Will the hypnotic rhythm, evasive ginga, and dynamic, sweeping movements and kicks of Capoeira, a style rooted in dance and deception, be enough to counter the brutal, pragmatic power of modern MMA?

The stakes are higher than a simple loss or win. A week of specialized training, no matter how rigorous or high-level, is a drop in the ocean compared to the years of dedicated, cross-disciplinary training that shapes a professional MMA fighter. These opponents are masters of controlling the distance, integrating powerful striking, relentless grappling, and strategic ground-and-pound. Crudelli’s Capoeira focus provides a unique, unpredictable element, but will its open stances and emphasis on non-contact trickery translate effectively into the unforgiving, enclosed reality of an MMA cage? The elaboration must explore the dramatic tension between the art form’s aesthetic beauty and the sport’s ruthless efficiency. Is Capoeira a viable weapon, or a fascinating but ultimately fatal liability when faced with the compounded skillset of a true MMA warrior?

Tune in to witness this incredible clash of cultures and combat styles! The outcome is far from certain, and the danger is very real. Watch and find out!—

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THE MOMENT OF TRUTH FRIDAY CRIME REPORT (12/05/25)

Every Friday morning, PROFESSOR BLACK TRUTH hosts “The Friday Crime Report,” a compelling program that delves into the complex issues of systemic racism, economic inequality, and police brutality that persist in the black community. Through a combination of expert interviews, insightful analysis, and powerful personal narratives, the show aims to raise awareness and promote advocacy for meaningful change. Each episode serves as a platform where not only are the facts presented, but also where the lived experiences of individuals are shared, ultimately fostering a deeper understanding of these critical societal challenges. It encourages dialogue and community engagement, empowering listeners to recognize, confront, and address these societal issues with a collective mindset while fostering solidarity for a more equitable society. The program also highlights actionable steps that can be taken by individuals and communities alike, inspiring listeners to become advocates for reform and change in their own neighborhoods.

In Today’s installment…

The highly contentious trial of Gary Edwards has reached its dramatic conclusion, resulting in a full acquittal by a Portland jury. Mr. Edwards was on trial for the stabbing of Gregory Howard, an act he steadfastly maintained was carried out entirely in self-defense. Despite this core claim, prosecutors mounted an aggressive campaign, with many observers suggesting their approach was designed to “railroad” Mr. Edwards into a conviction and a lengthy prison sentence.

However, the jury, composed entirely of white Portland residents, ultimately sided with Mr. Edwards’s narrative. Their decision to acquit has sent shockwaves through the local media landscape, particularly among outlets that had characterized the case in a specific light.

Following the verdict, the “white privilege press,” as critics are now labeling it, has erupted in fury. Editorials and opinion pieces are seething with outrage, questioning the jury’s judgment and implying that the verdict itself is a travesty of justice. The intensity of the media’s reaction suggests that they are profoundly unhappy with an outcome that defied their expected narrative, implying a significant double standard in how such cases are reported and adjudicated based on the parties involved. The palpable anger emanating from these established media voices highlights a deep, ongoing rift concerning issues of justice, self-defense, and racial dynamics within the city of Portland.

Shoutout to the professor for creating and posting this video.

The meticulous and groundbreaking work conducted by the professor constitutes a foundational resource for anyone seeking a true mastery of this complex subject. Their contribution is not merely a summary but a detailed and rigorous examination, offering incisive expert commentary that illuminates the nuances and subtleties of the topic. Crucially, the professor has ensured the presentation of a broad spectrum of scholarly perspectives, which is absolutely essential for a complete and unbiased grasp of the material and its implications. We extend our highest commendation and credit the professor for this exceptional, indispensable contribution to the ongoing scholarly discourse.

For those dedicated to a comprehensive understanding, we have provided direct access to the professor’s official digital platform. We strongly encourage you to click HERE to be taken to their official YouTube channel. This link will allow you to view the primary, comprehensive video, which serves as a cornerstone of their research, along with other related academic works that further expand on these critical themes. This multimedia resource is invaluable, not just as a supplementary tool, but as a core component of study for undergraduate and graduate students, seasoned researchers who are deepening their knowledge in the field, and any professional or inquisitive individual seeking a well-informed, critical, and authoritative perspective on the inherent challenges, ethical dilemmas, and practical implications that define this essential area of study. The depth of analysis offered provides a critical lens through which to evaluate current practices and future directions.