History is not conditional

February 18, 2026

Conditional history. What a fearful prospect. Amplified by media control of the narrative, the possibility of digging down into the issues underlying the conflicts currently raging across our world now hinges on conditions. These are often imposed by one or more of the main actors in any given conflict making it difficult if not impossible to rationally discuss just how we got into such a pickle.

Why did Russia feel it necessary to attack Ukraine? Why does China bristle at the mention of an independent Taiwan? Why does Iran feel it necessary to arm itself with a fearsome array of missiles? Why did Gaza explode on October 7?

Differing opinions can often cause offence, but if we want to find a way forward we need to get past our feelings of offence, both genuine and assumed, and start talking. This will be difficult. Some ugly truths will emerge, including instances of hypocrisy, deceit and bad faith. But that’s the hole we are now in, and that’s the hole we have to dig ourselves out of if we are to enjoy any sort of future for all at all.