Free Masterclasses: Virology, Finance, Russia-Ukraine, Banking - Rooted in First Principles

Each year, the internet offers free masterclass lectures in fascinating new subject areas. These masterclasses provide an excellent opportunity for people to learn about a wide range of topics, from virology and epidemiology to finance and geopolitics. In this blog post, we will explore the masterclasses that have been offered in recent years and those that are coming up.

2020: Virology, Epidemiology, and Public Health Policy

In 2020, the internet offered free masterclasses in virology, epidemiology, and public health policy. Virology is the study of viruses, while epidemiology is the study of how diseases spread and how to control them. Public health policy refers to the laws and regulations put in place to protect the health of the public. COVID-19 is a virus that causes a respiratory illness. It was first detected in Wuhan, China in December 2019, and it quickly spread to other parts of the world, becoming a global pandemic. The masterclasses offered in 2020 helped people understand the science behind the pandemic and the policies put in place to mitigate its effects. For example, they explained why it was important to wear masks, wash hands frequently, and maintain social distancing to slow the spread of the virus. The first principle knowledge underlying these masterclasses is the scientific method. This involves using observations and experiments to develop and test hypotheses about how the world works. In the case of COVID-19, scientists used the scientific method to study the virus and develop vaccines that could help prevent people from getting sick.

2021: Stimmy Checks, Meme Stocks, Crypto Printer Go Brrrr

 In 2021, the internet offered free masterclasses in finance and economics. Stimmy checks refer to the economic stimulus checks that were sent to Americans to help them cope with the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic. Meme stocks are stocks that are popular on social media, often because they have a catchy name or symbol. Crypto printer go brrrr refers to the rapid growth in the value of cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin. The masterclasses offered in 2021 helped people understand the dynamics of the stock market and the impact of government policies on the economy. For example, they explained how the stimmy checks were meant to boost consumer spending and help support struggling businesses during the pandemic. The first principle knowledge underlying these masterclasses is supply and demand. In economics, supply refers to the amount of a product or service that is available, while demand refers to how much of that product or service people want to buy. When demand exceeds supply, prices go up, and when supply exceeds demand, prices go down. Understanding supply and demand is essential for understanding how markets work.

2022: Russia-Ukraine History and Geopolitics

In 2022, the internet offered free masterclasses in history and geopolitics. Geopolitics refers to the study of how geography and politics interact. The masterclasses delved into the complex history of the two nations, examining key events and geopolitical dynamics that have shaped their relationship. Additionally, experts provided insights on the current state of affairs and potential future developments.  Russia and Ukraine have a long and complex history that dates back centuries. The current conflict between the two countries is rooted in the history of the region and the competing interests of different groups. The masterclasses offered in 2022 helped people understand the historical context of the current conflict and the complex relationship between the two countries. The first principle knowledge underlying these masterclasses is conflict resolution. Conflict resolution involves finding ways to resolve conflicts peacefully, without resorting to violence or war. It requires understanding the interests and needs of all parties involved and finding ways to addressthose needs in a way that is mutually beneficial.

2023: Fractional Reserve Theory of Banking and Asset Duration Mismatch

 In 2023, the internet will offer free masterclasses in banking and finance. The focus will be on the fractional reserve theory of banking and asset duration mismatch. Fractional reserve banking is a system used by banks. Banks hold only a fraction of the money deposited by their customers. They use the rest of the money to make loans and investments. This system allows banks to create money. However, it also poses risks to the financial system. Large-scale loan defaults or withdrawals can be problematic. Asset duration mismatch is a term used in banking. It refers to a situation where a bank's assets don't match its liabilities. The assets may be loans or investments. The liabilities may be deposits or debt. This mismatch can create liquidity risks for the bank. These risks can be especially challenging during market stress. The masterclasses offered in 2023 will help people understand the workings of the banking system and the risks involved. They will explain the role of banks in the economy and the importance of regulations to ensure stability. The first principle knowledge underlying these masterclasses is risk management. Risk management involves identifying and mitigating potential risks to a system or organization. It requires understanding the potential sources of risk and taking steps to minimize their impact. In the case of banking, risk management is essential for maintaining the stability of the financial system and protecting depositors' funds.

Free Masterclasses: A Gateway to Knowledge and Deeper Understanding of Complex Topics

Each year, the internet offers free masterclasses for people to learn about various subjects. These classes cover topics like pandemics, stock market operations, wars, and banking. People can learn a lot from these masterclasses and gain valuable knowledge. By applying first principles, students can develop a deeper understanding of the underlying principles of these subjects.