"Risk" is a revealing documentary made by American director Laura Poitras that delves into the complex world of Julian Assange, the controversial founding editor of WikiLeaks. The documentary, which was first shown to the public at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, offers a multifaceted glimpse into Assange's life, capturing both his daring moves and internal contradictions.
The narrative begins in 2010, tracing Assange's entanglements with legal systems, particularly focusing on Sweden's desire to have him extradited from the United Kingdom. This request sparked Assange's fear of being handed over to the United States, leading to dramatic scenes such as his call to the U.S. State Department to discuss security issues and his intense concern regarding Chelsea Manning’s situation. In a particularly striking sequence, Assange covertly enters the Ecuadorian Embassy in London to seek asylum.
However, the film's portrayal of Assange is not static. In its initial version, it appeared more supportive of Assange's cause, but a subsequent re-edit shifts to a more critical perspective, examining allegations of sexual misconduct and questionable comments attributed to Assange. This change signals Poitras's own journey from admiration to a sense of disenchantment with Assange's personality and ethics.
Through "Risk," viewers are invited to explore the perilous world of investigative journalism and the ethical quandaries faced by those who expose secrets, including both Assange and Poitras herself. The documentary provides an intimate examination of the challenges involved in WikiLeaks' operations and the personal cost of challenging powerful institutions.
Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist
The idea of the Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist is a significant principle within Twelver Shia Islam, asserting that distinguished Shia jurists should oversee certain religious and social matters until the eventual emergence of the infallible Imam, a figure expected to appear before Judgement Day. However, there is debate among Shia Muslims regarding the extent of this guardianship and which aspects of life it should influence.
This notion became particularly prominent with Ruhollah Khomeini, who, in 1970, advocated a comprehensive interpretation of the concept, suggesting a theocracy where the jurist governs both the state and society. Khomeini's interpretation is embedded in the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran, where the appointed Guardian Jurist acts as the country's Supreme Leader. Under his rule, known as "absolute authority of the jurist," the jurist holds sway over all public and religious affairs, to the point where obedience to him can be deemed more significant than fulfilling certain religious duties, like prayer or pilgrimage.
Nonetheless, some Shia scholars contest Khomeini's expansive approach, arguing for a more restrained implementation of the guardianship, focusing on matters such as settling disputes or caring for those without legal protection. There is also a lack of consensus on the universal acceptance of Khomeini's doctrine within Shia political ideology, leaving the subject open to interpretation and discussion.
Celebrity status denotes a person or group that has garnered immense recognition and fame, often through the focus provided by various forms of media. This can be achieved through wealth accumulation, a career in sports or entertainment, a role in politics, or connections to other celebrities. Unlike the more neutral or negative connotations of being 'famous' or 'notable,' or 'infamous' and 'notorious,' being a celebrity generally implies a positive image in the public eye.
The concept of celebrity is not new. Historian Greg Jenner explores this in his book "Dead Famous: An Unexpected History Of Celebrity," where he identifies celebrities dating back to the early 1700s, with his earliest example being Henry Sacheverell. Despite some arguments by sociologists that celebrity culture began around 100 years ago with the inception of Hollywood, Jenner points to instances throughout history where individuals achieved fame. For example, ancient Greek athletes were revered as heroes and celebrated in various forms of cultural expression. Likewise, in Ancient Rome, prominent actors, notorious gladiators, and even Julius Caesar—who was notably featured on a coin during his lifetime—were subjects of public adoration.
The phenomenon of becoming rapidly famous has also been observed long before Hollywood, with the Christian martyr Thomas Becket in the 12th century serving as an example. Following his murder, Becket's image and life story spread quickly and widely due to promotion by the Christian Church. This pattern of a sudden surge in popularity is recurrent throughout history and is indicative of the enduring concept of celebrity.