Halloween Perceptions - Reality

Help, the Social Pressure!!

As I'm sure you guys know, Halloween is coming up and I'm looking back on it and realising there are changes afoot. Many of these public holidays are often aimed at the innocence of the youth, at least the material side of it. Christmas being a prime example of this. However; we must look and realise that a holiday will mean different things to different people.

Now, I'm not talking the different meaning or importance of cultural/ religious holidays such as Thanksgiving, Ramadan or Kwanzaa. But what it means to different age groups and social circles. I bring this up because of a change in the past few years of what Halloween means to me.

As a young kid, you look forward to an evening of wondering around with the family knocking on peoples doors leading the infamous phrase "Trick or Treat" being shouted from every door we saw a pumpkin/ decorations outside of. As I got older, the joy came in putting up our own decorations and being a kid who was obsessed with order, I wasn't really happy when my sister wanted the influence.

Unfortunately, we haven't had a lot of time in recent years. Also my parents haven't been that into it, so we've not been participating recently. This has left me in the last few years in a limbo mode. As much as I enjoyed it as a kid, it seemed beneath me. To add, it didn't help, I got mocked a few years back.

 - Oh, boo hoo. You had a childhood trauma, get over it.
 - It put me off Halloween for 2 years.
 - So?! You're still happy aren't you.
 - I suppose. Even so Halloween isn't what it use to be.

And I think that's the point here. I do feel I've been left in a nostalgic state of looking back at the past. However; now I'm in Sixth Form (its like college if you're American) I'm starting to see the pull of late night parties. After all its a bit of a stereotype that teens will find any excuse to have a party. Now I talk about "Trick or Treating" as if its generational. Its not and is still popular, I even have a few friends that still do it. However; as I grow I look at other ways this holiday makes me happy.

One final note, as this is a socially awkward blog, its only right, I should point out, I'm really concerned I'll be a social pariah. But none the less, I'm determined to make this work. While there are many changes as I go into this new stage, the one that seems the weirdest is that not everything has to be scary. Which, I believe to be the most unusual American-ism about Halloween.

Be Yourself

-|CJ|-

The Growth Map - First Impressions - Reading

More Holiday Loneliness

I've spoken before about the holidays being a time when people in education lose the motivation to work. So yeah... -_- Guess how much work I've completed today. But even ignoring that fact the holidays been good to me so far. I should however get on to Reading my book.

Yes, like any A-Level student knows, we have a load of Extra Reading. So my book I have to read for Business Studies this term;

  - The Growth Map -  by Jim O'Neill

Many of you know about my love for Economics and the wider world, so I suppose its unsurprising that I chose this book over a biography of some famous business person. As for the book itself, well, having read the first 2 chapters, I can say, its gone through a lot of build up. Many books have a back story so the reader can understand the situation and as someone who is acquainted with the topic but not the author it was interesting to see how his (and colleagues) idea has grown and the impact on their lives. However you do find yourself questioning how necessary the information is.

The book focuses on the BRIC countries and how they will shape our world economically as well as politically and socially. So far he has focused on the BRICs effect on the established countries, the G7 and how it will continue to shape the way trading blocks will interact. 

The Book looks promising in terms of the lessons it can teach me. For someone born after 1995 it has done a good job in explaining to me why China is not part of any major unions like the G7 and surprisingly taught me how successful Japan/ France/ Italy actually is (as opposed to what the UK Media will make you believe.)

So far, I'm placing this on a higher pedestal than the other Economic/ Finance book I read (The Logic of Life) However; with all future prediction books, they must be taken with a pinch of salt, especially from someone who worked for Goldman Sachs, but then again maybe I'm too critical. Especially considering the performance of his predictions so far.

Rating: 4/5 some points are worth taking notice of.

 - Well, there we go, now for the whole book
 - Are you ever going to do a full book review
 - Probably not
 - Then why bother
 - Because I can

So yeah... I'm making a habit of first impressions on Economic books, maybe I'll do more, if I have the time. It's unlikely, but we'll see.

Knowledge is our Greatest Weapon

-|CJ|-

Age of Extremism - Ranting

And the Journey Continues

Now, I'm usually one to cover modern political affairs, so today is no exception. Yes, its one of those posts, to all those who don't want to hear it; I promise it'll be lighter next time.

It's common knowledge that the middle east has gone through a lot of changes in the past few years, as a result the political and geographic landscape could change in the next few years. But why, and what is my take on this?

THIS IS MY OPINION AND SHALL NOT BE TAKEN TOO SERIOUSLY

While the news likes to focus on the now and immediate threat, the roots go back much further. To me, it started back in 2003 with the Iraq War. Now many will say the roots go back further, but in terms of unrest this seems to be a catalyst to many modern endeavours. The other main catalyst being the fall of the dictatorships in Libya and Egypt. But what does this have to do with the current ISIS incentive in Iraq and Syria.

As someone from the UK, the news is very determined to label the good and the bad amongst the fighting, while I don't necessarily disagree, it does raise suspicions of whether it could be seen as a form of propaganda to tell us which side to believe. Then again maybe I'm being too critical.

There was a BBC documentary some years back, about the worlds history and its ages. For the final episode, it was called the Age of Extremism. While this seemed weird at the time, I've taken it to heart, for you look at the main wars since 1900 and we see it is extremism that leads the way. So why is this? Our beliefs have not changed but our perception has. I believe that thanks to the rising power of the media the idea of good and bad has become set within our heads.

In no way am I bashing extremism, but with the rise of the opposition with communism and capitalism, less focus was on the nations power and more with its style of government. But I do feel that this was inevitable. Countries may have been run by whoever was more powerful, hence the rise of empires, but now we have got to a point with nuclear weapons that could take out life, it is impossible to be seen as more powerful, so we can be free to express our emotions in our beliefs. This could be a reason for the rise in Riots and coos over the last 100 years, because the deciding power is not the dictator but the peoples will on mass.

 

So, I feel that this isn't us being repressed to new powerhouses, but should be seen as an age of liberation where our beliefs will shape the world, not by the man with the biggest army, but the man with the strongest tongue. While I admit that this is not always the case everywhere around the world, freedom of speech and democracy has lead to the rise of extremism as it is those most committed to their beliefs that will shout them the loudest. Whether you see this is good or bad, like in ISIS, or Egypt, or in Hong Kong is up to you.

 - Well that was long...
 - People will probably hate you
 - I know -_-
 - No-ones probably read it
 - I know, but I don't care.

Stand up, not because you have to, but because you can

-|CJ|-

Week of Relaxation and Hard Work - Reality

And Breath, its all over now.

School, I mean. Yes, thanks to some slightly odd local regulations we get 1 1/2 weeks away from the line light. With this, it gives us an opportunity to relax right? Well apparently no, teachers see it as an extended deadline. So that pressure is always nice.

But, anyway how am I doing? Fine. What about you guys?

 - Hold it, are you talking to yourself?
 - Isn't that kind of what WE do anyway
 - What do you mean?
 - Well isn't this just me talking to my split personality
 - ....

Well, I think its fair to say, I've lost my mind. It took me half a term of second year sixth form and already the mind is boggling. For those who remember and read all my life posts, because you all have that much time. ;) Some may remember I'm picking up AS Chemistry, and can I tell you its a little unnerving being in a class that you haven't done for a year. To add to this, its Chemistry! So, all the kids are smarter than me and in the year below, so I feel intimidated.

When I say they're smarter than me, that's no exaggeration. Not only are most of them doing 4 subjects but some are doing others like Maths, Biology, Physics, you know, the hard stuff -_- To add to this we did an induction test to see whether we were good enough to stay in the subject. I passed, just! All those who didn't were not allowed to continue. So I have to continue on the knowledge that I'm the weakest in the class. So what does that mean for me? It means that I've got a steep mountain to climb and few assists along the way.

I complain, but at least I've got the friends in my current year, who I can ask about what they did last year in Chemistry. But, it is what they did last year, so its probably a nuisance for them. So yeah... Even so, I need to get up and get on with it. Lets make it to end

The challenges may be many but the pleasures make it worthwhile

-|CJ|-

Pluto as a Planet (2014) - Reading

It's Back!!!

Well, not quite.  There's been a lot of speculation and rumors reciently stating Pluto is back into the planet club. So lets get something clear first. PLUTO IS STILL NOT A PLANET. To any of you who have seen otherwise, I'm sorry to say you've been slightly misinformed. I say slightly because the point being it might change in the future.

 - Well, what is it then smart ass?
 - Rude. -_- But even so, it is a dwarf planet
 - So its a planet.
 - Well, not quite

Lets make this clear, nothing has changed, its been a dwarf planet since 2006 (when it was re classified.) It was origanally kicked out because it didn't reach the IAU's recommendations.

• be in orbit around the Sun,
• be round or nearly round, and
• be shown to have “cleared the neighborhood” around its orbit, be gravitationally dominant in its area — the big kid on the block.

 Basically the problem was that it hadn't cleared its orbit of debris. To add, since Eris' discovery, it was no longer the largest object in its area. However in a recent debate from Harvard-Smithsonian Center in USA, the panel decided it should be a planet. Pluto was voted to be planet. The IAU doesn't have to take their advice, but for all those wishing for it to berecognised, its a big step forward

There were 3 sides to the Argument:
Is a Planet -  Owen Gingerich - Saying that the word planet is historical word and should change as the culture changes.
Isn't a Planet - Gareth Williams (IAU) - Stating its inability to meet the official definition.
Exo-planet View - Dimitar Sasselov - that the criteria for planethood was sun-centric, excluding planets beyond our solar system, or so-called “exoplanets.” He offered an alternative definition: A planet, he argued, is “the smallest spherical lump of matter that formed around stars or stellar remnants.”

While Sasselovs argument won, it may bring up a bigger problem of what do about exoplanets (planets that don't orbit a star). So its unlikely that this issue will go away soon. Especially for the other dwarf planets; Eris, Charon, Ceres, who may want to be reclassified as well. However; I can't make a decision for you. Also, this is a 'reading' blog, so what do you think? Here's some news stories for you to read into;

Post Gazette                        Wikipedia on Pluto
Independant                        Video explaining the reason for demotion
Mirror                                 Education is the Key

Well, hopefully you'll find something to debate about. Interestingly; since its discovery in 1930 it hadn't completed one orbit of the Sun until it was demoted in 2006.

Never doubt societies impact

-|CJ|-

Referendum (pt 2) - Ranting

After the delay...

Yes, I'm back with the second half (first half) of my rant on the Scottish referendum. 1 week after it was due. But anyway, enough of that. -_- So once again;

This is my opinion and is to be taken fairly and not too seriously.

I promised we'd talk about other things. The UK's future for one. I've already said how talk recently has been of the UK Parliament is thinking of setting up an English Parliament, to go with the Scottish, Welsh and N.Irish one. This would be better to delegate powers. But would it cause other problems such as more politicians, which; if you're anyone but me, this may seem terrible.

But will the UK become more separate over time? Well, I hope not. It's been seen a great Union that has held together despite its problems. Scotland became an interesting vote because of the large amount of people that wanted to break away. 45% voted Yes after all. It is easy to forget however that we aren't the only Union. The United States has its, well... united states. I'm bringing up Texas because of its call, in the past that it has the right and wants to secede.

As this video proves, its not as 2 sided as Scotland is. But the Texas issue does have its similarities. In that there is a group that (badly) want it to leave. Like Scotland it also use to be independent. It along with a few other states fought for its succession in the civil war. But what right does it OR Scotland have?

Well, very little. Texas signed as being part of the constitution and thus is a state. There is no escaping that. Moreover; its only a few loud voices. In a petition signed after the 2012 General Election 64000 Texans wanted to break free. Representing 0.2% of the population.

In terms of democracy,  Scotland had the best chance it will ever get to be seen as a respected independent people. But it didn't.

I think this gives us a good understanding of many world situations we are currently dealing with. Many of you will often see news reports of peoples fighting for independence, often being torn apart by war. Often we see the bad or the good guys (depending on who our nation supports). There is room for very little grey in this world. While an Enemy of our enemy is NOT always our friend. While I accept there are some exceptions. Surely it is better to remain as a larger unit than a small independent state.

British Empire

The British Empire was synonymous for this. And while many will argue that it fuelled slavery, surely it fuelled great economic strides forward, creating the globalised and connected world we have today. It may be seen as cruel to control the natives lives and language. But surely, all of our lives are now better, because of the connection we all have and the language we speak as one.

As an Englishman, I do feel that Scotland is right to stay within the Union. As an Englishman, I think the idea of a large connected world is great, but as an economist I think Scotland will not regret its decision to be secure, not only inside the UK, but the EU and NATO.

 - Well, once again, that dragged on
 - People aren't going to read all of that, you know.
 - I know
 - Then why do it?
 - Its nice to vent my thoughts

You never appreciate what you have until its gone.

-|CJ|-

Referendum (pt 1) - Ranting

Here we Go

Yes, with my stupid interest in politics and a large event having recently happened; I think we all knew this would happen. But of course as an Englishman I am clearly the least biased person to talk about this stuff [Obvious Sarcasm]. So, if you're still reading by this point, here we go, -_- Scottish referendum rant. But before we start lets make this clear;

This is my opinion and is to be taken fairly and not too seriously.

So yes, Scotland voted No, asking to stay by part of the Union. This despite a large campaign from Salmon and the Yes Campaign. But one of many issues this brought up was one of Nationalism and its representation within a country. It is wrong to say that a No vote would mean you're anti-nationalist, however those that do strongly believe in their countries ability will and did fight for "their freedom"

 - Please don't do Braveheart references
 - Why not
 - You might get hate
 - Its a political post, I'm getting hate no matter what I say.

But the point remains even in areas such as Glasgow, where the Yes vote seemed dominant, they won but only by 53 to 47%. Which shows that many are deeply divided, but more it shows a Yes vote was far more popular in the city than in the country. The two most populated areas were Yes votes however; unlike in England, most of their population is not located in Urban areas. To add, the most one sided county was the Borders (66 to 33). This was noticeable because this is a Conservative held area.

.

Top Photo Source Right Photo Source

Another big thing this election did was give young people the vote. This seemed to be Scotland allowing its future to be decided by those who would live in it. But despite the young being known for their liberalism, a Yes was not possible. So, is this a case of the Young changing sides or not voting. The high turnout and the high density of young in the cities looked promising for the SNP, yet despite this, nothing came of it. What it seems like to me is that the young and most impressionable did the most logical thing with their new powers and weighed up both sides, rather than letting pier pressure decide. Because; isn't it logical to play carefully with your new toy as you don't want to ruin them.

So, what does this mean to me? Looking at it, it shows the inherent Conservatism of the nation. While many would shout at me for that, well, look at the figures. Scotland, like much of the UK seems to be embracing Conservatism. To me this shows that when put in a large life changing situation, most people like it to stay how it is. Why, for the security that they know they are safe as things stand. This, surely shows a trend for things to stay the same, shouldn't it?

The biggest topic now that this is over is one of giving England more powers. While this may seem anti-productive, Scotland (as well as Wales and N.I.) have national assemblies. While England does not have one and instead must have rules dictated to it from the UK government. This results in politicians from Scotland, Wales and N.I. deciding rules for England but not the other way around. Many however argue that this just creates more polititions and more paperwork. Now, this may seem small and pretentious but is a big deal. More Scottish powers was one of the major points of the election. But power leads me on to two points

But, this has gone on long enough so I'll be discussing; Texas' Succession and Empire, as well as my take on the UK's future, in the next part of my rant. So, I'll end this with a meme of the "Unions greatest saviour" Flash Gordon (Brown) - Source

Fight for what is best, not for whats done by the rest

-|CJ|-

School Restart - Reality

Back to Reality

Back to life in the Sixth Form, meaning my social life has been reactivated. So what does that mean. More stories, everyone cheer!! [Silence from audience] But seriously, right now I just sitting here listening to songs. To anyone that cared, my Intense blogging month of August got me more views that month than in all, but my first month of blogging. As for now, I'll probably calm it down. School has started now, so less blogging more jogging.

 - That pun was terrible
 - I know, the stress is getting to me
 - It's been a week and you're stressed, hahaha, weakling.
 - Shh. No-one must know how pathetic I am.

Yes, yes. I get it, you've all got it worse than me, to be honest you probably do, its not like I have a bad life. Like any respectable school, we were given summer work, its mostly completed .... mostly -_- Yes, you can shout at me. But, I've been let off the hook for now. To add, I have a new subject tomorrow. To all those who don't know, I did not achieve a high enough grade to continue in Economics. Meaning all of you will now look at my economic arguments and be like; pfft, he doesn't know what he's talking about. Please don't.

But seriously, I've now got Chemistry to worry about. Don't worry though, I'm positive. I wasn't left with a lot of choice however. So, new experience, new subjects same life, but now less friends. Don't worry I didn't make any enemies, they're just no longer with us at school, and I wish them luck in their future endeavours.

It's always brighter on the Horizon

-|CJ|-

Young Relationships - Ranting

600 Views, Amazing!

To anyone reading this months down the line, the response is either; this is where it went downhill. Or, look how well he's doing now. But on that topic, that's one thing that has always intrigued me. What happens to the views of the people who just look at your page, but not a particular post, are they counted? Maybe some smart person knows and can tell me below. On another note, last August post for this, my blog crazy month. -_- So lets end it with a good old rant. Before, I start, I should say; these are rants and may contain few facts, just opinions and theories.

 - So, who here wants your opinion, NO-ONE !!
 - Actually, once again, you're right. But I'll do it anyway
 - Why?
 - YOLO
 - Oh God. You didn't just do that, did you?

Well, OK. Maybe that was quite a poor joke, but we joke to please people. Many of you reading will know what it means to make others happy, unless you're REALLY socially awkward, in which I sympathise. But many of us please others for an ulterior motive, such as to form an attachment. We do it to find someone we can call 'ours' and to spend time and resources on for the benefit of something as superficial as happiness.

Well maybe that's quite a cynical way to look at relationships, but the point remains, considering the cliche of high school relationships and their extremely low score rate for marriage, why go through so much mess. What is the prize?

As I've discussed in previous rants, humans are logical creatures. If you want as little as mess as possible then you pick an arranged marriage. After all you spend minimal money and effort. Arranged marriages also give you security as you know your future, allowing you to plan and build around it, after all, as I've said before, humans crave security. Moreover; it may be better for many financially. As it allows poorer families to benefit from the class system and allow other families to secure their assets and build bonds, which creates a stronger, more financially tied community. So, as long as you ignore the recent news on families being exploited, their seems little wrong with it, especially in the modern western world.

So the question remains, why not? What is the prize? Because, if the answer is to get more experience, then that is rendered pointless with the arranged marriage point. So the only option seems to be for happiness. But why, the other option seems logical. Could it be that humans crave risk, or is this yet another example of humans being driven by natural instinct. If that is the case though, what is to be gained. To those over the age of consent, they might argue the obvious. But, is this really all there is.

I keep mentioning that humans crave security, but maybe, in its own sense that's what High School relationships create. Many teens are more stressed now in school than they were many years ago and as a result, maybe having a partner gives you support. Unlike an arranged marriage, where you are making future security but not getting any now, think of it like an investment. In the same way that humans are stronger together, thus leading the point why young people often have many relationships, so they are in an almost constant feeling of caring and security. Then again, that also looks like I'm defending girls who move from one partner to another.

As a socially awkward person, this has always seemed odd to me. Why can't a human feel as secure in a group as a person in a relationship. One thing that I've heard before is that the loneliest people give the best advice because their innocent view of love hasn't been tainted by failed relationships. While that may seem weird, it would explain why many want to a relationship so early in life, as to back up their theories and to experiment. If we word it like that, we could say love isn't much different to wanting to try drugs; to see what the fuss was about.

Lets end this on a high note though. High School romances allow people to form attachments that will be useful within the workplace and create bonds with people in friendships. But maybe this should be answered on a personal note. I'm a person who has enjoyed friend groups but no close relationships, however I am someone who has enjoyed many imaginary relationships with people (I know, how sad). However; is there method in my madness. Using imaginary relationships, I feel happiness on top of my groups security, all I need is my imagination (not in that way though - stupid dirty minded people). Then again, I'd be lying if not, like the young kids, I wonder about an actual relationship and whether it will live up to my innocent expectations.

Thank you if you read it all, if you didn't, I don't blame you.

Don't ever be afraid to be yourself

-|CJ|-

Year Choices - Reading

8 hours in, yay.

As some context for you guys, its been a long day in which I am (should) be getting on with homework. Yes, one of those days. To stop myself constantly changing the music or listening to the same song over and over I'm listening to a You Tube video with a mix of various songs of a particular style, I'm 8 of the 10 hours into it.

But anyway, onto the purpose of this post. I hate leaving one of my Reading, Ranting, Reality or Reviewing topics not done for a while, and I haven't done a reading one in a while. However; as I've explained before, I don't read as much as I should. So these will probably take on a new meaning. Instead of books I've read, it will be written like one of my Reviews or Rants and will simply contain me reading something, probably a poster or news article (not necessarily fiction).

 - Idiot, just not do the topic
 - But that destroys my title purpose
 - Change the title
 - Don't want to, I don't like change
 - Conservative!

Yeah, ha ha. [he looks around guiltily]. So ... yeah. Anyway, I am going to have to do my share of reading up going into the new term. To those of you who don't know what I'm on about; I need to pick up an AS while continuing with my other A2 Levels. So for me, today, my reading is looking at other courses and what they have to offer. At the moment my options are History or Philosophy.
 
What do you guys think? Look at me, asking a blank screen. Either way, it's left me with another big decision on my hands.

Do what is best for you and you'll know what's to come.

-|CJ|-

My Situation Now - Reality

Ah! Where has the Summer gone

To clear up some stuff about my holiday, I returned, with my family on Friday with another long trip home. As you may have suspected I was too tired to make a Day 5, so lets round it up. Thursday evening was made slightly better because, although I couldn't access the Internet, I did find some music (2 tracks) I'd saved on my computer and played them a few times, also I forgot I had a Steam account. (Game account for PC), so ended the day playing Portal 2 in offline mode. As for the travel back day, it was made interesting after my sister got food poisoning and threw up on the way home. The journey took longer than expected. -_- BTW I have now updated the Diary's from last week, so check it out again, if you want.

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4

So what am I up to now, well; looking out my window.... ha, just saw someone I know on the bus. But seriously; I still haven't completed my summer homework, so I need to that, pronto.

 - Then why are writing a blog
 - Shh, tell no-one
 - *rings everyone*
 - You're awful

On a related, but unimportant note, I've had this blog since April and still haven't told my parents I have one. I'm sure the reaction won't be that bad, its nothing more than another heinous computer distraction that is ruining my life. Before pestering me to do get some Vitamin D (sunlight) or to complete my homework.

I think if I was a superhero, I'd be the Procrastinator. I would fly around the city. Not saving anyone, just wasting time, so I don't have to do chores. To anyone who has read my previous rants about dedication and having a good work ethic, you will probably call me a hypocrite. I'm not always this lazy, but as I've argued before, humans crave routine and without school, I lose track of my day. So was there a point to this blog ... no. Just me, being me. Back to ranting in the next post. When will that be? Whenever I feel like it.

Before you think about quiting, look to see how far you've already come.

-|CJ|-

Holiday Diary: Day 4 - Review

I am alive.

*This post has been edited since it was first posted*

I have SERIOUSLY struggled to find internet. But I finally succeeded. Sorry for the late posts reciently, can't do anything when you're in the middle of nowhere. Despite this, the holiday has gone well. As for todays activity; more town exploring. This time the acient city of Ludlow. There was many acient buildings and architecture that as a person who loves design, was great to see the tudor design still promenant. Talking of tudor design, we went round a tudor building which we left with many tales and being talked to by an excentric gentleman. Maybe I'll tell you guys later. While at Ludlow, many things were bought by my family members, but not by me. Call me cheap... 

- Cheap!! 
- Don't interupt me. 
- I do what I want. 
- Yeah, don't you always. 

As I was saying... Don't call me cheap but I didn't buy anything because I found very little of interest. Ludlow is a great place for architecture but not a lot for young people (unless you go into the castle. But even that costs a bit.) We would later walk around the village of Cleobury Mortimer, but that was just as fruitless. Well thats our last full day. But despite the walking, I've enjoyed it. I'll see you tomorrow... Hopefully -_- 

New opportunities are right around the corner 

-|CJ|-

Holiday Diary: Day 3 - Review

Pleasing the little ones.

*This post has been edited since it was first edited*

That may be an exaggeration, especially considering I'm six foot and taller than both my parents. But the point remains. While yesterday we went to a city and national site. Today was very much calmed down. The highlight of today however was going to Wales! 

- What. That's it, haha, that's terrible. 
- It was big to me. 
- Exactly. Small dreams. 
- I like to think, Achievable.

The crossing the border means I have been to all of the 3 countries within the constituent country of the United Kingdom. (N. Ireland is a Provence, but would be nice to go one day). My first impression was that it wasn't that much different. But this is on the basis of a few mile drive just across the border. However; one thing I did notice was that all the signs were in 2 languages. (Welsh and English). I knew this existed but I didn't realise how common it was. We did do another activity that I liked, but, as always. I will be quiet and mysterious. Well, I've given too much away recently. Again sorry for the short posts and no formatting (since edited) but I have very limited Internet. -_- 

You can shape your own future, so do it how you want it. 

-|CJ|-

Holiday Diary: Day 2 - Review

Another day in the Wilderness

*This Post has been edited since it was first posted*
 
I know I was quite vague yesterday. So lets clear some things up. I am on a family holiday (parents and young sister). I am staying at a b+b in the middle of the countryside. Honestly, its a little way from any Internet or phone signal. Its a miracle this was posted. 

- Wait. You're on Holiday with your family! Lame!! 
- Well yes. I suppose some are off with mates. 
- HaHaHa
- Don't you get all cocky. I know others who do it! 

Ok. Maybe I didn't shower myself in glory there. As for today's activity we were off near Ironbridge Gorge. (Look at my detail) To those who don't know England like the back of their hand. It was the town at the forefront of the Industrial revolution. It was great to see the history of the place that was really emphasised at Blists Hill Victorian Village. There was comments on the price but ultimately it seemed to be mostly worth it. A must for historical nerds (I'm not as big as other people) As it turns out, on our way back we drove through the Olympic founding village of Much Wenlock. (such cool; very exiting.) Wow, I can't believe I made that joke. But; I missed it, as it turns out. Why? Because I was asleep. Typical. -_- But anyway. I'll try and keep you up to date. But this is getting harder to post. 

Keep strong. You don't know what will come.

-|CJ|-

Holiday Diary: Day 1 - Review

Ahh. I'm going to kill this thing

*This Post has been edited since being origanally posted*

First off sorry for not posting last night. It had been a long evening and I couldn't be asked. Secondly; I AM GOING TO KILL THIS PHONE SERVICE. I should probably explain. Despite claiming to have wifi, Our farm is dodgy and I have yet to get it. So, this is the best that I can do. No formatting, (At time of post) Just words, as this is being written on my phone. To anyone who has ever used blogger on my their phone will know my utter frustration. -_- This also means I apologise for the spelling. Not my fault. I can't fix it easily. He says on his third attempt at writing this. Although I should say, it will be formatted when I get home. (See the work) 

- Wait! Does this mean I don't get coloured.
- I'm afraid not. 
- The horror. 

To anyone curious about the diary part. Well sorry. Thats short for today. Although I believe it was summed up with my daily highlight being the race we had with a van. Let me explain. On our 6 hour journey to the English coutrysidewe were overtaken and retook one particular van three times over a 30 mile distance. But typically, we won (smug face). I'm sorry if I seem a little grumpy, I'm just tired. I'll try something better this evening. But, we're not all sad. My sister imparticular is loving the dog on the farm. Which as a cat person, I felt she was betraying her roots. But I may be overreacting. 

Start each day with a smile. 

-|CJ|-

Subscribers - Ranting

Another Week, Another holiday moment shared

Despite what SOME people may suggest. I have actually enjoyed this school holiday so far. Moreover; I have a family holiday next week, so time away from you guys.

 - But wait, I thought you were trying to release a load of blogs this month.
 - True, but this style takes time
 - You could do a review
 - Actually that's a good idea... wait. You just gave a good idea... amazing

So its settled next week, I shall attempt a diary of my holiday next week. Yay -_-  But anyway, on with Ranting.

During my holiday so far I have been incredibly productive! By that I mean, I've watched YouTube videos, but something occurred to me while watching some of the larger YouTubers; YouTube is a free market. To those who don't know what that is, here's Dictionary.com's explanation:

An economic system in which prices and wages are determined by unrestricted competition between businesses, without government regulation or fear of monopolies.

To some, this may sound silly, to others perfectly obvious. But to most you may be wondering why I'm taking something innocent and adding economics, again. (I really need to look into the other sciences more.) But let me explain. I came across this theory when looking at a list for most subscribed channels and noticing a trend that is currently happening.

I continue to reference this wikipedia page
I also later the Vidstatsx website, you may want to keep them open.

I concluded after looking at the most subscribed channel page on wikipedia (see graph below) that YouTube has gone through various eras in its life. While you may disagree with me this is what I made of it. Number 1 to 5 show YT in its early days when popularity came down to a small niche community, it was more of an open market with many channels able to come and go with little significance, notably this was before monitisation when it was just for fun.

#	Most subscribed user		Country of origin	MCN (at the time)	Date reached	Date surpassed	Days
1	Smosh		United States	none	May 17, 2006	June 12, 2006	26
2	judsonlaipply			none	June 12, 2006	July 3, 2006	21
3	Brookers			none	July 3, 2006	August 17, 2006	45
4	geriatric1927		United Kingdom	none	August 17, 2006	September 17, 2006	31
5	lonelygirl15		United States	none	September 17, 2006	April 26, 2007	221
6	Smosh (2)			none	April 26, 2007	September 24, 2008	517
7	nigahiga			none	September 24, 2008	October 18, 2008	24
8	Fred			none	October 18, 2008	August 20, 2009	306
9	nigahiga (2)			none	August 20, 2009	June 28, 2011	677
10	RayWilliamJohnson			Maker Studios (until Oct. 2012) Runaway Machine (after Oct. 2012)	June 28, 2011	January 12, 2013	564
11	Smosh (3)			Alloy Digital	January 12, 2013	August 15, 2013	215
12	PewDiePie		Sweden	Polaris Network (Maker Studios)	August 15, 2013	November 2, 2013	80
13	YouTube		United States	none	November 2, 2013	December 8, 2013	36
14	PewDiePie (2)		Sweden	Polaris Network (Maker Studios)	December 8, 2013	December 12, 2013	4
15	YouTube (2)		United States	none	December 12, 2013	December 23, 2013	11
16	PewDiePie (3)		Sweden	Polaris Network (Maker Studios)	December 23, 2013	present	236

The early leaders were the Channels that had become famous off one viral video; the Pokemon parody for Smosh and Evolution of Dance for Judson. This shows how easy it was to "sell" yourself, however no company had any overarching power. The most subscriber record later went to channels where they were putting out regular videos hence why Smosh remained such a prominent force. This was notable of the early YouTube, by the time Smosh retook the lead in April 2007, a new style was emerging. In June of that year, Smosh reached 100'000 subs. Meaning it had taken just over a year for one channel to reach this mark.

If we consider YouTube as the market, we can see how it grows at quite a rate. Some may argue that it stayed relatively amateur as the 1 million mark was not reached for another 2 years, but want you can't miss is that the channels after this point are still big channels who have retained their popularity. The other thing to notice after number 8 on the list is not just that they surpassed the 1 million mark but that any new channels on the list were managed by companies, rather like TV shows. While some may argue that YouTube is the business which other businesses are investing in. You could look at it and say that it is no longer a niche medium and is being Incorporated in the wider market. I point out Fred in particular because he later to have a professional career away from YouTube, like Brookers, showing how products are being taken and "sold" to other companies - TV stations.

Moving back to the issue of YT being a free market, look at its final progression at the end of the third Smosh era. When Smosh took over the lead again at the start of 2013 it had taken until the end of 2012 for RayWilliamJohnson to achieve 6 million, 6 years after the start of the Subscribe feature, however 2013 and 14 saw a large increase in subs.

In the 6 months Smosh were at the top, they achieved an impressive 11 million subs. PewDiePie would take over on 15th August 2013, two days later (1 year ago today) he achieved 12 million subs. Since then he has spiralled in views. Smosh proved it wasn't just him, the whole system exploded in subscribers and one year after this point PewDie now stands at 29 million. As the system grew the largest channels grew at a larger exponential rate compared to the rest.

So there are the three Era's. The amateur's at the beginning who relied on entertaining a small group of individuals, in their niche market. This was between number 1 - 5 or 8 if you want to consider popularity. Then 6 (9) - 11 which show the middle YT, where it became more professional and the users competed on quality content. Finally the self-promotion and Gaming Era, 12-now, where people care as much about content as actual quality, and YT thinks everyone will love a channel where topics are grouped and Google controls.

What is notable about PewDiePie is not that he is the face of the 3rd Era of YouTube, the gaming and self-promotion era. But the fact he is unlikely to be caught any time soon. Comedy Videos, which had dominated YT for so long were not being followed as they couldn't release as quickly as the gamers. Smosh upload 2 videos a week, nigahiga 1 a week, while PewDiePie can do 2 a day, it really shows that YT is a market where quantity is better than quality, this, from a site that got famous off one-off viral videos. 

The thing with PewDiePie is that he is not shrinking, as of today (17th August) he is the 2nd Largest growing channel with the no. 1 spot being a new 2nd Channel for the FineBros (so is likely to drop off soon). Also notice his rivals around him. He is growing with 230'000 new subs a week. His nearest rival in the top 30, FineBros. are only recieving 100'000 a week. PewDie's "free market" dominance is different to other channels in the past as he has built up such a gap. You take the non YT owned channels (all those not in Yellow) and you get HolaSoyGerman who is at 18 million, which is 11 million lower. Moreover, if you half PewDie's subscribers it would only put him 4th. You look at his numbers and you can easily see him not being caught. He even recently beat RihannaVEVO as the most Viewed Channel. To note, the channels are not even spread evenly. PewDiePie raced away at the front with HolaSoy and Smosh a long way behind, then another 4 million jump to RihannaVEVO and the rest of YouTube.

Video Producer	Sub Rank	Subscribers	24 Hour Sub +/-	7 Day Sub +/-	Videos	Views	Actual Rank
Music	1	86,615,629	15,492	92,719	0	0
Gaming	2	78,614,577	-8,111	-218	0	0
Sports	3	77,423,698	-990	-9,991	0	0
YouTube News	4	34,177,159	-689	-20,400	0	0
PewDiePie	5	29,771,661	33,712	230,145	1.9K	5.61 B	1
Popular on YouTube	6	28,637,731	3,101	20,999	0	0
YouTube Spotlight	7	22,086,782	209	800	199	443.3 M	2
HolaSoyGerman.	8	18,910,819	16,387	94,449	111	1.36 B	3
Smosh	9	18,581,108	11,284	68,271	405	3.53 B	4
Movies	10	18,503,862	-112	690	0	0
RihannaVEVO	11	14,371,474	6,721	43,849	81	5.28 B	5
OneDirectionVEVO	12	13,728,250	5,822	35,705	98	3.09 B	6
JennaMarbles	13	13,726,941	10,179	62,681	208	1.52 B	7
KatyPerryVEVO	14	13,326,698	13,106	78,475	82	3.81 B	8
EminemVEVO	15	13,056,958	8,996	53,757	47	3.86 B	9
nigahiga	16	12,763,090	5,923	43,120	199	1.88 B	10
Pop Music - Topic	17	11,997,331	-683	-5,072	0	0
Machinima	18	11,692,524	4,495	30,667	24.7K	5.08 B	11
TV Shows	19	11,660,103	-367	-1,844	0	0
ERB	20	10,781,469	6,137	47,642	40	1.21 B	12
RayWilliamJohnson	21	10,701,633	873	10,417	536	2.73 B	13
Education	22	10,401,287	-547	-4,549	0	0
SkyDoesMinecraft	23	10,315,596	4,358	29,514	927	2.18 B	14
Minecraft - Topic	24	9,943,879	-1,290	-8,953	0	0
JustinBieberVEVO	25	9,924,418	6,023	36,387	96	5.02 B	15
TheFineBros	26	9,671,973	18,850	102,118	652	2.02 B	16
TheEllenShow	27	9,507,386	5,116	33,363	5.3K	3.04 B	17
Rap	28	9,351,636	-357	-3,708	0	0
Porta dos Fundos	29	8,796,118	6,023	35,513	243	1.11 B	18
Werevertumorro	30	8,570,009	7,151	44,563	568	1.11 B	19

Key:
Music Channels
Gaming Channels
Comedy Channels
YouTube Channels

PewDiePie's dominance is notable because he is not being regulated. Because of the way the YT front page works, a video will be promoted if it gets a certain number of views in a particular time. He releases videos daily meaning at least one will be popular inevitably. This will drag in more views, more subscribers and thus more views for the next video, leading to even more promotion.

PewDie may have videos that his followers will only view once, as opposed to a comedy or Music video, but with him releasing at the rate he does and with that many supporters he is bound to have a popular or viral video for every upload. At the rate he is going, the only way PewDiePie will be knocked off the top spot is if he stops uploading, and why would he?

I've compared this to a free market but maybe its better I use monopoly to describe someone like PewdiePie, as I've mentioned it is unlikely that he will be caught anytime soon. If you want, see him as someone like the Coca Cola company. He does not need to do anything special and if left to produce the same products will likely stay at the top for some time, before finally getting knocked off when the market changes, but unlikely to be removed by the market getting bored. One thing to consider though is this article, written when he hit 26 million. He had been achieving a subscriber every 1.2 seconds in March 2014, but dropped to one subscriber every 2.8 seconds, while it was reported that he was achieving one subscriber every 3 seconds in July. This shows his growth is slowing, but like population, it may be slowing but it will be a long time before it evens out.

The final thing to note is the channels in the list. For the purpose of explanation I removed the YT owned channels but look at the top 2; 'Music' and 'Gaming'. Unsurprising when music and gaming channels make up a large portion of the top subscribed channels.

So there we go. My extensive rant on YouTube. Looking back it's probably better to describe it as an analysis, but rant sounds better. Also, this goes out to one of my friends who commented on my short blog lengths.
 
Aim for the moon, because even if you miss you'll be among the stars

-|CJ|-