If someone says something is a proxy for something else, what do they mean by "proxy"? List examples.

Answer 1

When someone says something is a proxy for something else, they mean that the first thing serves as a substitute or indicator for the second thing. It represents or mimics the characteristics, functions, or behaviors of the other thing. Here are some examples:

1. Proxy War: In politics and international relations, a proxy war refers to a conflict between two powers where they indirectly fight each other by supporting opposing groups in a third country. For instance, during the Cold War, the United States and the Soviet Union engaged in proxy wars, such as the Vietnam War and the Korean War, where local parties fought under the influence and support of the superpowers.

2. Proxy Server: In computer networks, a proxy server acts as an intermediary between a user and the internet. It can serve as a proxy for the user by receiving and forwarding their requests to web servers, thus helping to enhance privacy, security, and performance. The proxy server represents the user's identity while interacting with the internet.

3. Stock Proxy: When shareholders are unable to attend a company's annual general meeting, they may elect a proxy to represent them and vote on their behalf. The proxy, chosen by the shareholder, stands in their place and represents their interests during the meeting. The proxy serves as a substitute for the shareholder, ensuring their voice and voting rights are upheld.

4. Proxy Indicator: In certain situations, one variable can be used as a proxy or approximation for another variable. For example, economists may use GDP (Gross Domestic Product) growth as a proxy for overall economic health or progress, even though it might not capture every aspect accurately. Similarly, in climate studies, proxies are used to estimate past temperatures by examining indicators such as tree rings, ice cores, or sediment layers.

5. Proxy Vote: During a decision-making process, individuals who are unable to participate in person can assign their voting rights to someone else through a proxy vote. The proxy, usually a trusted person or representative, then attends and votes on behalf of the absent person, ensuring their input is heard and counted.

These examples illustrate how something can serve as a proxy, acting as a stand-in or representative for another entity, whether it be in politics, technology, finance, or various other fields.