Proceedings of the 33rd International RAIS Conference on Social Sciences and Humanities
Proceedings of the 33rd International RAIS Conference on Social Sciences and Humanities
Contributor(s): Daniel Orogun (Editor), Nicoleta-Elena Heghes (Editor)
Subject(s): Business Economy / Management, Economic policy, Higher Education , Economic development, Human Resources in Economy, Socio-Economic Research, Administrative Law
ISSN: 2578-8574
Published by: Scientia Moralitas Research Institute
Keywords: social sciences; humanities; economy; criminal law; EU legislation; communication; education
Summary/Abstract: This publication presents the proceedings of the 33rd International RAIS Conference on Social Sciences and Humanities held at Princeton, The Erdman Center, 20 Library Place, Princeton, NJ08540, USA, on August 3-4, 2023. The Conference was organized by Research Association for Interdisciplinary Studies.
- E-ISBN-13: 978-1-945298-58-5
- Page Count: 182
- Publication Year: 2023
- Language: English
Courting Trauma: An Unspoken Mental Health Crisis Among Journalists in East Africa
Courting Trauma: An Unspoken Mental Health Crisis Among Journalists in East Africa
(Courting Trauma: An Unspoken Mental Health Crisis Among Journalists in East Africa)
- Author(s):Lydia Ouma Radoli
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Media studies, Health and medicine and law
- Page Range:1-10
- No. of Pages:11
- Keywords:journalists courting of trauma; unspoken mental health crisis; narrativity; portraiture;
- Summary/Abstract:For journalists covering trauma, capturing horrific images is part of the job. Each assignment feeds into the next, creating a cycle of witnessing horror. The story begins with getting the visuals, talking to witnesses, recording evidence, packaging, and relaying to the audience. The story is not worthwhile without visuals. However, every traumatic image captured is seared in the journalist’s cerebral cortex. In this delicate space, the images live and become part of the journalist’s internal memory. A silent companion, a constant reminder of the horror the journalist has witnessed - signaling a courtship of sorts. Using narrativity and in-depth interviews as qualitative methods, the paper situates the problem of a mental health crisis among journalists in East Africa covering traumatic events. Through in-depth interviews, narratives of journalists from Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda indicate a courtship with trauma in the line of duty. The journalists are contextualized as visual rhetors – engaged in the production and dissemination of horrific or difficult visual content. Frost (2019) describes visual rhetors as journalists who witness and produce visual frames of the dark side. This form of media practice produces images of violent conflicts. Learning from Visual Rhetoric and Dual Representation theoretical frames, the paper examines a correlation between visual rhetors ’exposure to horrific images and trauma. Arguing that visual rhetors’ multiple exposure to traumatic images in the production process causes trauma. The escalation of trauma as a mental health issue among visual rhetors is seldom talked about, yet it poses a mounting crisis that demands intervention.
Behavioral Economics for All: From Nudging to Leadership
Behavioral Economics for All: From Nudging to Leadership
(Behavioral Economics for All: From Nudging to Leadership)
- Author(s):Julia M. Puaschunder
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Law on Economics, Socio-Economic Research
- Page Range:11-19
- No. of Pages:9
- Keywords:Behavioral Economics; Behavioral Finance; Behavioral Insights; Law & Economics; Leadership; Public Policy; Searchplace Discrimination; Winks;
- Summary/Abstract:Behavioral economics is an innovative applied science. In the 1950s economic rational choice models came under scrutiny. A theoretical critique emerged that not all human beings strive for efficiency and rationality all the time. Behavioral economics first drew attention to deviations from rationality and discussed the non-applicability of rational choice models for depicting the actual behavior of humans. During the 1970s, Amartya Sen formalized the rational choice critique and published powerful examples of how economics needs a reality check and backtesting of its core axioms of rationality, efficiency and time consistency for actual real-world relevancy and external validity of the standard rational choice claims. By 1979, the two psychologists Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky presented a line of laboratory experiments at universities that proved the rational choice theory to be inaccurate to explain the real-world decision-making patterns of individuals. The following behavioral economics revolution rewrote economics for accuracy and predictability for actual human day-to-day choices and behavior. Sociologists, political scientists, psychologists created a line of research to describe how individuals actually decide during the first decade of the 2000s. Behavioral insights were then used to find ways how to ‘nudge’ individuals, communities and leaders to help others make better choices in different domains, for instance such as finance, marketing, health and well-being. Around the world, governmental officials and governance experts adopted behavioral nudges and winks to create better choice architectures and decision-making patterns. This paper describes the history of behavioral economics with attention to North American roots and European interpretations in order to then prospect future trends in behavioral economics. First, given the enormous popularity behavioral economics has enjoyed in the most recent decades, a general knowledge has formed about behavioral nudges. Libertarian paternalism is – by now – limited when it comes to implicitly tricking people into making choices based on well-known insights. A common body of knowledge on behavioral aspects of choice patterns may lead to reactance if people notice manipulation. The general population should therefore be trained to make self-empowered choices that meet their individual principles, needs and wants based on their behavioral expertise. Behavioral economists should move from manipulating nudges to educating trainings of the layperson. Second, the field of behavioral sciences has experienced a deep replication crisis given major data cheating scandals and contemporary fraud allegations. General oversight mechanism between co-authors, backtesting of effects for validity and their general applicability is therefore warranted. he general population should be trained to be critical of behavioral insights presented to them and be encouraged by behavioral economists to feedback on the potential non-applicability of p-hacked results. Third, online searchplace distortion of behavioral economics results has become a sad reality for young behavioral economists in the strategic search engine results manipulation through Search Engine Disoptimization (SEDO). This implicit internet harassment calls for a democratization of information and whole-rounded inclusion of thoughts online. Behavioral economists should raise awareness for this negative competitive behavior and work together with global governance institutions, regulatory bodies but also industry professionals to curb negative internet search engine manipulation and empower the upcoming generation of behavioral economists to speak up when this is happening. Professional bodies should be informed to help those whose career has been hit by competitive internet manipulation. All these trends are speculated to lead to a revamped behavioral economics revolution that demands for behavioral economics for all. The future of behavioral economics is believed to lie in self-empowered leadership, not manipulation. A democratization of behavioral economics information leading to a general knowledge basis on actual behavioral patterns will guide a self-empowered decision-making cadre within the general population. Search for true and credible behavioral insights can lift the entire field to a more helpful stage to become a standing guidepost for wise quality decision-making. The digital millennium calling for fair internet use will hopefully prosper an inclusive and diversified information on behavioral insights to be accessible, useful and meaningful for all.
Improving Spiritual Care to Bridge the Gap Between Demand and Supply of Healthcare Services in South Africa
Improving Spiritual Care to Bridge the Gap Between Demand and Supply of Healthcare Services in South Africa
(Improving Spiritual Care to Bridge the Gap Between Demand and Supply of Healthcare Services in South Africa)
- Author(s):Daniel Orogun
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Behaviorism, Health and medicine and law
- Page Range:20-28
- No. of Pages:9
- Keywords:Chaplaincy; demand; supply; efficacy; sufficiency; spiritual care;
- Summary/Abstract:This article assesses the efficacy and sufficiency of spiritual care and calls for deliberate improvement to bridge the gap between the overwhelming demand and depleting supply of healthcare services in South Africa. Without disregard for other spiritual care groups, this article investigates the activities of healthcare chaplains and a few healthcare organizations in two municipalities in Gauteng which are Johannesburg and Tshwane. As a primary source, a mixed research method was used to collect data from healthcare chaplains, nursing managers, and hospital human resource managers. The outcome agrees with the global statistics that healthcare demand is rising while its supply is depleting. This leads to the question of necessary alternatives to bridge the gap between healthcare demand and supply. Consequently, this article recommends that healthcare chaplaincies, government health departments, healthcare organizations, theological institutions, community leaders, and healthcare professionals should pay more attention to improved spiritual care as an essential alternative support system in healthcare services.
Understanding the Relationship Between Natural Habitat Loss and Urban Development in Irbid Governorate
Understanding the Relationship Between Natural Habitat Loss and Urban Development in Irbid Governorate
(Understanding the Relationship Between Natural Habitat Loss and Urban Development in Irbid Governorate)
- Author(s):Anne A. Gharaibeh, Tareq N. Aldela’a
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Environmental Geography, Environmental interactions
- Page Range:29-42
- No. of Pages:4
- Keywords:Habitat loss and Fragmentation; greenway planning; rural development; Jordan;
- Summary/Abstract:The global population has grown rapidly, causing urbanization and rural habitat loss. Current research investigates the causes for habitat loss and fragmentation in the Bani-Kinanah County, Irbid, Jordan. It defines loss and fragmentation as natural or anthropogenic separation of green land. It also examines decision-makers' challenges and proposes greenways to reduce habitat loss and fragmentation. The study utilized snowball sampling to interview decision-makers and ArcGIS software to digitize aerial photographs. A literature review and criteria analysis determined greenway and green corridor locations. The study compared digitized aerial photos from 2005 and 2021 for several villages to assess built-up areas, street construction, and ecological natural corridors. Agricultural footprints were also examined. Interviewing the decision-makers revealed that habitat loss and fragmentation are attributed to physical and non-physical factors. they suggested modifications to natural habitat regulations and laws, public awareness of their importance and the causes of fragmentation, and physical interventions to minimize negative effects to prevent habitat fragmentation and loss. This study provides a foundation for understanding habitat fragmentation and loss and proposing solutions. The study recommends community involvement and collaboration with nature/environmental associations to monitor and prevent changes. It also proposes greenways and green corridors to sustain natural habitats.
Decision-making and Folklore in the Matter of Life and Death: Brain Death, Organ Donation, and Miracle Narratives
Decision-making and Folklore in the Matter of Life and Death: Brain Death, Organ Donation, and Miracle Narratives
(Decision-making and Folklore in the Matter of Life and Death: Brain Death, Organ Donation, and Miracle Narratives)
- Author(s):Hicran Karataş
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Behaviorism, Social Norms / Social Control
- Page Range:43-52
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:Culture; folklore; cadaveric organ donation; decision-making; miracle narratives;
- Summary/Abstract:Turkiye and the rest of the world have been experiencing insufficient cadaveric organ donations. Although Turkey laws regulating organ transplantation allow the harvest of organs from the brain-dead who donated their organs while they were alive, Turkish social norms prohibit physicians from applying the written procedures. Therefore, both verbal and written consent of the close relatives of the possible cadaveric donors must be obtained after the brain death is announced. The ambiguity of the concept of brain death, invented in the 50s, and the terminology of modern medicine limit people’s ability to comprehend the states of coma, vegetative life, and brain death. Even though cross-cultural studies verify that the most common reasons for reluctance in cadaveric organ donations are religious concerns, interviews with donors and refusers, who are the relatives of brain-death people, revealed that folklore transmitted to generations within the context of beliefs, rituals, social norms, and oral genres also affect the judgment of prospective donors. As will be discussed in this paper, miracle narratives are particularly referenced in rejecting the reality of brain death in the conducted interviews. This paper will explore how such narratives affect decision-making process of refusers concerning the death of one and the survival of another.
The Famine of 1921-1922 and Modern Kazakh Society
The Famine of 1921-1922 and Modern Kazakh Society
(The Famine of 1921-1922 and Modern Kazakh Society)
- Author(s):Aitmagambetov Duman Ramazanovich
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Interwar Period (1920 - 1939), Migration Studies
- Page Range:53-56
- No. of Pages:4
- Keywords:famine; food spread; Kazakh famine; demographic crisis; migration; mental trauma;
- Summary/Abstract:The article is devoted to a historical and geographical overview of the famine in Kazakhstan during 1921-1922 and its reflection in the modern appearance of Kazakhstanis. In Kazakhstan, this famine is known as the first famine of the Kazakhs under Soviet rule. The main purpose of this work is to familiarize foreign researchers and readers with the topic of the famine of 1921-1922 and its consequences. As a research task, the author attempted to present to the reader the main causes of famine in Kazakhstan, the scale of damage and the impact of famine on the life of the indigenous population of the republic in modern times through a review of historical and demographic analysis. The peculiarity of the research methodology is the generalization and systematization of works on the subject and conclusions regarding the traces of injuries in the minds of the population. The author concludes that not all aspects of the famine of 1921-1922 have been sufficiently studied, among the necessary to study, in addition to historical-demographic and landscape-climatic aspects, the author also includes historical-geographical and migration aspects. The article uses new archival materials and the latest research of Kazakhstani scientists and historians on the topic in recent years, which allows us to delve even deeper into the thick of those events.
The Fear of Technology in Horror Movies: A Comparative Film Analysis Through the Lens of Sociotechnical Imaginaries
The Fear of Technology in Horror Movies: A Comparative Film Analysis Through the Lens of Sociotechnical Imaginaries
(The Fear of Technology in Horror Movies: A Comparative Film Analysis Through the Lens of Sociotechnical Imaginaries)
- Author(s):Hüseyin Cenk Erdem
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Methodology and research technology, Social Theory
- Page Range:57-62
- No. of Pages:6
- Keywords:Sociotechnical Imaginaries; Technology Representation; Horror Movies;
- Summary/Abstract:Science, Technology, and Society (STS) studies examine the social and cultural factors that shape public perceptions of technology. This study problematizes technology representation in horror movies by considering the sociotechnical imaginaries literature and explores the sociocultural effects of technological opacity and the existential fear of losing control. The qualitative research explores the fear of technology in horror movies, comparatively analyzing the discourses of AI technology in three films purposefully selected in terms of their popularity in the last five years: Upgrade (2018), Child's Play (2019), and M3gan (2022). The study concentrates on these movies because, in the past five years, the fear of artificial intelligence has been further fueled by speculative technology development information circulation, including Elon Musk's neurotechnology company Neuralink's goal to develop implantable brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). Merging human consciousness with AI technologies has generated fears of loss of privacy and potential control over one's own thoughts and actions. The fear of AI has also been heightened by the emergence of humanoid robots, notably Sophia, developed by Hanson Robotics. Sophia's human-like appearance and advanced AI capabilities have generated both fascination and fear. This study encourages critical thought on the effects of technical opacity that influence our interactions with developing technology by investigating the depiction of technology in these movies. Findings would help us grasp the complex relationship between technology and fear. In order to create informed dialogues about the moral, social, and cultural effects of technological breakthroughs, it asks for increased transparency and critical engagement with technical processes.
Public Interest – Essential Concept of Administrative Law
Public Interest – Essential Concept of Administrative Law
(Public Interest – Essential Concept of Administrative Law)
- Author(s):Elena Emilia Ștefan
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Governance, Public Administration
- Page Range:63-68
- No. of Pages:6
- Keywords:Constitution; public administration; public interest; contentious administrative;
- Summary/Abstract:One of the greatest challenges of the public administration is undoubtedly to adopt adequate measures for the population in order to carry out the work of enforcing laws and providing public services in such a way as to ensure the necessary balance between the public interest and the private interest. In this respect, public authorities, when issuing administrative acts, may infringe legitimate rights or interests. Given that the issue of upholding fundamental rights remains an increasingly important concern for both citizens and public entities, it demands considerable attention, particularly from legal experts. From this point of view, the scope of this paper is to provide knowledge of the general legal framework regarding the regulation in Romanian law of the right of a person aggrieved by a public authority. In order to achieve the proposed scope, the paper is organized into three parts. Part I presents a brief introduction to the general theme of the topic. Part II investigates the practical importance of the distinction between public and private interest in administrative law. Part III focuses on analysis of the public interest motivation in the European Ombudsman's case law.
Climate Flexibility: Introducing Nature in National Accounting
Climate Flexibility: Introducing Nature in National Accounting
(Climate Flexibility: Introducing Nature in National Accounting)
- Author(s):Julia M. Puaschunder
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Environmental interactions, Accounting - Business Administration
- Page Range:69-76
- No. of Pages:8
- Keywords:Climate Change; Climate Flexibility; Climate Wealth of Nations; Resilient Finance; Sustainable Finance Taxonomy; Trade;
- Summary/Abstract:The European and North American Green New Deals have become springfeathers of change in the national and international accounting of natural resources. The European Sustainable Finance Taxonomy accounts for the carbon impact of industries in order to quantify economic impacts on natural resources to make industry impacts on environmental conditions more transparent and accountable. The United States Joseph Biden and Kamala Harris administration has also launched efforts to put nature on the nation’s balance sheet. The Biden-Harris White House multi-year strategy plans to connect environmental conditions with economic outcomes by collecting data and using innovative methods to capture nature’s role in the U.S. economy. On the global level, integrating natural resources into economic productivity prospects has the potential to change power dynamics and international politics driven by economic opportunities. Linking nature to the economy and productivity as well as the human standard of living is the driver for the World Bank project on “Changing Wealth of Nations.” Integrating natural capital in global macroeconomic and financial models is thereby meant to feature systematically forward-looking wealth estimates as a source to inspire restoration and conservation policies. The ‘Mapping Climate Justice’ project housed at Columbia University measures the impact of climate change on economic productivity around the world and has found vast climate injustices. Future wealth of nations was introduced by the concept of climate flexibility defined as the range of temperature variation of a country. Climate flexibility is the leeway countries have in coping with a changing climate due to a broad range of climate zones prevalent in their territory. Climate flexibility can be grounded on the relative latitude and altitude of countries around the globe. Climate flexibility directly influences a country’s productivity in agriculture production opportunities, trade possibilities, industry development favorable conditions as well as service sector offerings. Climate wealth of nations so far has also been proposed to stem from climate zones, which vary around the world. Climate justice redistribution strategies have been proposed in order to alleviate climate injustices, by which countries that benefit from a relative climate advantage are meant to redistribute some of the expected economic gains to countries that lose out the most and the fastest from global warming. The redistribution could be implemented via a taxation-bonds redistribution strategy. Overall, the concerted efforts to marry the idea of natural resource description are believed to stimulate environmental policy and protection, change sustainable development and macroeconomic calculus. Policy and regulatory settings are meant to be aligned with wealth derived from natural resources. Natural resource accounting is also likely to change the estimation of competitiveness around the world. The integration of local community assets can thereby facilitate conservation holistically. Scientifically, environmental and economics interactions are likely to inspire ground-breaking insights for monetizing the value of natural assets and stimulate the future discourse on resilient finance.
Legal Particularities in the Medieval Era
Legal Particularities in the Medieval Era
(Legal Particularities in the Medieval Era)
- Author(s):Marilena Marin
- Language:English
- Subject(s):6th to 12th Centuries, Sociology of Law
- Page Range:77-83
- No. of Pages:7
- Keywords:medieval era; feudal era; legal system; substantive law; legal institution; procedural law;
- Summary/Abstract:The medieval era was a fascinating time for almost all fields, including the juridical field. The historical and social context of this era marked the legal system by a series of particularities, both in terms of substantive and procedural law, but at the same time, they also left their mark on subsequent eras, to a greater or lesser extent. The analysis proposed in our study concerns, among other things, the way in which the medieval world understood how to regulate social values, establish rules of conduct and organize judicial procedure in relation to social classes and categories, but also the challenges brought about by this historical period.
“For What It’s Worth”: How a Protest Anthem from the 1960s Impacted Activists over the Past Half-Century
“For What It’s Worth”: How a Protest Anthem from the 1960s Impacted Activists over the Past Half-Century
(“For What It’s Worth”: How a Protest Anthem from the 1960s Impacted Activists over the Past Half-Century)
- Author(s):Sania Sawale, Daniel Kurz
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Media studies, Crowd Psychology: Mass phenomena and political interactions
- Page Range:84-90
- No. of Pages:7
- Keywords:Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD); young people; disenfranchisement; draft; public demonstration;
- Summary/Abstract:In the Summer of 1966, older Los Angeles residents grew angry over the crowds of teens and young adults in the downtown area. Despite the fact that few services were offered to these young people who faced the possibility of being drafted in the Vietnam War, the older population decided that the first response to the overcrowding issue should be police intervention. In what is now regarded as a complete overreaction, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) violently challenged, attacked, arrested, and dispersed thousands of young people who otherwise were not acting in a harmful manner. Where these young people would wind up, where they would go to deal with their issues, and their need for socialization was irrelevant. They were treated as if they had invaded the community and that their lives mattered little. In reaction to these violent clashes, singer/songwriter Stephen Stills penned what would be one of the most influential protest anthems of the Modern Era: “For What It’s Worth”. The purpose of this study is to show how this 1966 song was not only an instant hit, but also impacted activists over the past half-century, as it was covered by famous artists in diverse social reform movements, in protests, and even in a political party convention. This study will explore how this one protest song represents the overall impact of music on activist culture, and strives to inspire and inform readers about the power of music in activism.
Public Policies versus Public Entrepreneurship
Public Policies versus Public Entrepreneurship
(Public Policies versus Public Entrepreneurship)
- Author(s):Doina Mureșan
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Public Administration, Economic policy
- Page Range:91-95
- No. of Pages:5
- Keywords:public entrepreneurship; public policies; public private partnership; social entrepreneurship;
- Summary/Abstract:The paper enhances the current understanding of public administration's support for entrepreneurship, providing knowledge that could generate interest in this topic. It analyzes the collaboration among public policies, the public sector, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations, and the following dependent variables: innovation, e-government and digitization, entrepreneurship support ecosystems, and risks in this approach. The academic significance of this research lies in its provision of evidence for the moderating role of NGOs in expanding PPPs to support entrepreneurs. The paper reviews European and national specialized literature in the field of social entrepreneurship. This review focuses on the role of public administrations in supporting social projects and proposes a conceptual model that outlines its empirical boundaries. Additionally, the paper outlines the statistical methods used for this part of the analysis. The findings then lead to suggestions for future research on the role of public administration as a facilitator of social entrepreneurship.
Evaluation of Mental Health in Educational Institutions: A Theoretical Overview of Systematic Implementation in Schools
Evaluation of Mental Health in Educational Institutions: A Theoretical Overview of Systematic Implementation in Schools
(Evaluation of Mental Health in Educational Institutions: A Theoretical Overview of Systematic Implementation in Schools)
- Author(s):Jiyoon Han
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Health and medicine and law, Sociology of Education
- Page Range:96-105
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:Mental Health; Mental Illness; Educational Institution; Adolescence;
- Summary/Abstract:Adolescence is a stage in life in which many students undergo social, emotional, academic, and moral changes. Psychiatric problems and markers of mental disorders are highly prevalent among students, ranging from distress and anxiety to depression and sleep disorders. Continuation of minor symptoms during adolescence can possibly lead to major depression, insomnia, and panic disorder in adulthood. The state of mental wellness is not examined as often as physical health even though mental health is volatile and is one of the most delicate parts of human health. In the present-day, mental illnesses are still highly stigmatized at the interpersonal level and the frequency of utilizing mental health care is significantly low compared to its increased accessibility. The purpose of the paper is to introduce a theoretical framework that reveals the importance of managing mental health from adolescence and how increased mental health care in educational institutions can provide students with a positive transition into adulthood.
Multiple Discrimination in Employment Relationships
Multiple Discrimination in Employment Relationships
(Multiple Discrimination in Employment Relationships)
- Author(s):Dragos Lucian Radulescu
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, Social differentiation
- Page Range:106-111
- No. of Pages:6
- Keywords:discrimination; multiple; rights; criteria; regulations;
- Summary/Abstract:Discrimination in legal employment relationships involves the existence of differential treatment applied by the employer in violation of protected criteria established in the states’ national legislation to restrain or eliminate the use or exercise of employees’ rights. Discrimination involves the imposition of differentiation between employees, usually in comparable situations, and the application of identical treatment, even though they have different duties in the work process, with similar effects of excluding their rights. The article analyses multiple discrimination concerning the relevant European and national legislation, with reference to international and European regulations and relevant case law.
The Challenge of Adapting the Way of Teaching Romanian as a Foreign Language to the New Generations’ Learning Styles
The Challenge of Adapting the Way of Teaching Romanian as a Foreign Language to the New Generations’ Learning Styles
(The Challenge of Adapting the Way of Teaching Romanian as a Foreign Language to the New Generations’ Learning Styles)
- Author(s):Veronica Cristina Nedelcu, Laura Elena Pascale
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Foreign languages learning, Higher Education
- Page Range:112-115
- No. of Pages:4
- Keywords:teaching; gen Z; millennials; language; linguistics; academic;
- Summary/Abstract:The development of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages determined the creation of a general system for the assessment of language skills in the teaching and assessment process of a native or non-native language, which blurred the linguistic and cultural features of the language in the process of language acquisition. Thus, in language teaching, one could observe some general trends, at the European level, such as: highlighting the relation between the culture and civilization that is being studied to one's own national culture, but also to other known cultures; the diversification of academic strategies by combining traditional and modern methods; diversifying the forms of assessment of foreign language learning through complementary methods; the use of new information and communication technologies in the process of teaching - learning - assessment focusing on the needs, interests, capabilities and skills of the learner.
The True Nature behind the Implementation of the Extraterritorial Application of Antitrust Laws in Cartelization Control Policy
The True Nature behind the Implementation of the Extraterritorial Application of Antitrust Laws in Cartelization Control Policy
(The True Nature behind the Implementation of the Extraterritorial Application of Antitrust Laws in Cartelization Control Policy)
- Author(s):Selima Ben Maouia Ben Slama
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Supranational / Global Economy, Economic development
- Page Range:116-120
- No. of Pages:5
- Keywords:antitrust law; extraterritoriality; cartelization control; developing countries;
- Summary/Abstract:The US Supreme Court was instrumental in developing a consistent body of case law on export cartels, which has greatly influenced the antitrust landscape of today. Several states have approved the extraterritorial application of US antitrust laws, although it has run across a lot of opposition. The unstable state of emerging nations is a serious problem since many of them lack the ability to structure their economies and safeguard their citizens. A wave of competition laws have been adopted as a result of the passage of competition laws, luring in international money and investors and fostering economic integration. Extraterritorialism may raise expenses rather than considerably lower them, though. Additionally, it undermines nations' confidence in their own judicial system. Another big issue with antitrust laws is obtaining the necessary evidence. In nations with a common law background, like the US, the discovery process is essential for conclusively proving evidence. To promote international cooperation and uphold a respectful view of other nations' sovereignty, the US has developed a number of conventions and accords. However, because nations are envious of their knowledge, these accords frequently have little teeth. Each nation must secure and safeguard information security in order to maintain the reputation of its businesses.
Evidentialist Paradigm
Evidentialist Paradigm
(Evidentialist Paradigm)
- Author(s):Sergiu Ghica
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Sociology of Religion, Psychology of Religion
- Page Range:121-127
- No. of Pages:6
- Keywords:apologetics, Christian faith; argumentation; evidence; evidentialist system;
- Summary/Abstract:This paper explores the foundations of evidentialist apologetics, the principles of the evidentialist method for defending the Christian faith, the leading representatives of this method and the basic themes addressed. It examines how evidentialists interpret the importance of historical documents, prophecies, and empirical evidence in presenting the authenticity of Christianity. Moreover, it analyzes the systems of thought of some of the most influential contemporary apologists namely John Montgomery and Josh MacDowell.
Elements of Romanian Folk Architecture: Traditional Houses
Elements of Romanian Folk Architecture: Traditional Houses
(Elements of Romanian Folk Architecture: Traditional Houses)
- Author(s):Cristina-Valentina Dafinoiu
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Customs / Folklore, Visual Arts, Cultural Anthropology / Ethnology
- Page Range:128-136
- No. of Pages:9
- Keywords:architecture; homestead; villager; sacred; profane; emplacement;
- Summary/Abstract:The present material has been intended as a brief chronicle of Romanian folk architecture, based on the concept that individual has in perpetuum inclined toward habitation in accordance with their corresponding socio-economic status and household requirements. It explores aspects such as construction methods, along with the choice of position in terms of a sustainable structure to withstand over time for generations to come, the significance of inhabitation in collective consciousness, the evolution of architectural materials over time, and the harmonious blend of architectural styles including the transformation of the living area from the front room to drawing room (the main home). The facets in relation to the constitutive elements or parts of a provincial establishment, from the foundation to the rooftop (sheathing), have been taken into consideration and analyzed. The purpose of this article is to uncover the rich heritage embodied in these traditional houses and gain valuable insight into their construction, symbolism, and role within the community.
Agreement on Extradition between the European Union and the United States of America; Bilateral Extradition Treaty between the United States of America and Romania. Practical Aspects
Agreement on Extradition between the European Union and the United States of America; Bilateral Extradition Treaty between the United States of America and Romania. Practical Aspects
(Agreement on Extradition between the European Union and the United States of America; Bilateral Extradition Treaty between the United States of America and Romania. Practical Aspects)
- Author(s):Simona Franguloiu, Nicoleta-Elena Heghes, Mihaela Pătrăuş
- Language:English
- Subject(s):International Law, EU-Legislation
- Page Range:137-145
- No. of Pages:9
- Keywords:International judicial cooperation; extradition; EU-US extradition agreement; risk of impunity; judicial practice;
- Summary/Abstract:When interpreting and implementing the agreement concluded between the European Union and the United States of America, the Parties shall ensure that its provisions apply to existing bilateral extradition treaties concluded with the Member States and shall fill any gaps in these treaties, with the aim of making international judicial cooperation more effective and avoiding the risk of impunity. This article emphasizes the commitment to uphold the principles of the rule of law and safeguard the procedural rights of extraditable persons, both by central authorities and courts. Furthermore, it acknowledges the challenges posed by differences in legal systems involved in these processes, and highlights the promotion of an international system grounded in clear, precise rules and procedures, as well as the fundamental values of democracy and human rights.
Child Friendly City: The Case of Istanbul
Child Friendly City: The Case of Istanbul
(Child Friendly City: The Case of Istanbul)
- Author(s):Özgür Sarı
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social development, Family and social welfare
- Page Range:146-150
- No. of Pages:5
- Keywords:Child Friendly Cities Initiative; Delft Criteria; Chawla Criteria;
- Summary/Abstract:Today, the number of cities participating in the child-friendly city movement is increasing both around the world and in Turkey. The main reason for this trend is the concern of creating a city image. In today's neo-liberal policies and global economy, cities have become competing actors alongside national economies. In order for a city to be privileged in this competitive environment, it must be different and attractive from other cities. For this reason, it has become popular to participate in the child-friendly city process today. The new criteria, which were blended based on the Netherlands Delft-based KISS, the South African Republic Johannesburg-based Chawla criteria, and the Francis and Lorenzo criteria, were as follows: The common and most basic criterion in all criteria is security. It is important that the city in which it is located is safe above all else. It is extremely important that children and parents feel safe in the relevant space. Therefore, the first criterion is the distance from the dangers and the safety criterion. The second important criterion is the existence of clean environment and green areas, which are as vital as security. The third common criterion is the existence of play, socialization and activity areas. The fourth criterion is accessibility and freedom of movement, and the fifth criterion is the existence of suitable, safe and accessible transportation routes, pedestrian paths and bicycle paths. Within the framework of the common criteria determined, 171 people were interviewed in game parks across Istanbul. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 171 parents who were randomly selected. During the interviews, seven demographic questions, seven open-ended questions, and five Likert-style test questions were presesnted. The results were thematically analyzed to understand whether Istanbul is a child-friendly city or not. It has been discussed what deficiencies exist for Istanbul and what needs to be done to meet the criteria.
Considerations on Combating Money Laundry in the Field of Crypto-Assets, at European Union Level
Considerations on Combating Money Laundry in the Field of Crypto-Assets, at European Union Level
(Considerations on Combating Money Laundry in the Field of Crypto-Assets, at European Union Level)
- Author(s):Carmina-Elena Tolbaru
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Criminal Law, EU-Legislation, Corruption - Transparency - Anti-Corruption
- Page Range:151-156
- No. of Pages:6
- Keywords:money laundry; offenders; organised crime; crypto-assets; European rules;
- Summary/Abstract:Money laundry is a boosting phenomenon worldwide, affecting multiple domains of social life, and we need sustainable efforts to hinder the actions committed by offenders to hide the profits obtained from their offences. The complexity and magnitude of this phenomenon taking place at present is explained within the context of growth of technology, which opens new horizons concerning offence-related opportunities. Thus, offences such as tax evasion, financing terrorist organisations, drug trafficking, corruption, frauds, as well as any other illegal financial activities, are committed regarding the offence of money laundry, witnessing a form of organised cross-border criminality. Starting in 2021, the rate of illegal use of crypto currencies for the purpose of money laundry has registered a significant growth, which made the European Union establish a new regulation framework in the field of combating money laundry, extending the field of application of rules to crypto-assets transfers. This paper analyzes the growing global phenomenon of the use of crypto-assets for criminal purposes, examines the regulatory framework in the European Union, and provides practical recommendations that can help prevent and combat money laundering.
Reflections on the Inadvertence between the Ethical Axioms – Integrity and Corruption
Reflections on the Inadvertence between the Ethical Axioms – Integrity and Corruption
(Reflections on the Inadvertence between the Ethical Axioms – Integrity and Corruption)
- Author(s):Bogdan David
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Norms / Social Control, Corruption - Transparency - Anti-Corruption
- Page Range:157-160
- No. of Pages:4
- Keywords:Ethics; morals; professional integrity; corruption; education; justice;
- Summary/Abstract:Starting from the principle according to which ethics itself is a somewhat paradoxical “science”, an unusual mixture of contingency and universality, aiming at wisdom (phrónesis) rather than science itself (Pleșu 1994, 10), the present approach represents an action nyptic to signal, like axiology, the relations of mutual hostility between the ethical-integrity axiom and the phenomenon of corruption. We believe that it is inescapably necessary to draw attention to the facts of general inadvertence of immoral conduct towards ethical attitudes and professional integrity related to all fields of activity, but especially to the fields of education and justice.
Kazakh-Chinese Cooperation in Energy Sphere
Kazakh-Chinese Cooperation in Energy Sphere
(Kazakh-Chinese Cooperation in Energy Sphere)
- Author(s):S.М. Nurdavletova, А.M. Yesdauletova, А.O. Yesdauletova
- Language:English
- Subject(s):International relations/trade, Geopolitics
- Page Range:161-166
- No. of Pages:6
- Keywords:Kazakhstan; China; Central Asia; energy policy; oil and gas;
- Summary/Abstract:As a full member of the international community, Kazakhstan contributes to ensuring geopolitical stability and international security, presenting itself as a state that is fully aware of its responsibility to provide global energy balance and security. Central Asia is increasingly becoming the new focus of Chinese diplomacy. This region is an axis linking Northeast, West and South Asia, China and Russia. The People's Republic of China (PRC) is beginning to move closer to key political and economic players in the Central Asian region. Therefore, it is necessary to consider how the new initiative of China, Belt and Road, will affect its further energy cooperation with Kazakhstan and other countries of Central Asia. Kazakh-Chinese cooperation contributes to strengthening the independence of Kazakhstan, allowing development of its energy resources and their export to European markets. But China, as a rapidly growing consumer of energy, inevitably emerges as a potential competitor to the United States and the European Union in Central Asia. Based on a scientific analysis of the strategic interests of Kazakhstan and China, the main purpose of this article is to study new systemic approaches for optimizing cooperation between these two states, which affect national, bilateral, and regional/international issues in the framework of economic development and geopolitics. In turn, based on the study, recommendations will be made for the state structures of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the field of energy policy and energy security of the country.
William Lane Craig, a Classic Apologist
William Lane Craig, a Classic Apologist
(William Lane Craig, a Classic Apologist)
- Author(s):Sergiu Ghica
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Sociology of Religion, Psychology of Religion
- Page Range:167-172
- No. of Pages:6
- Keywords:classical apologetics; Christian faith; evidence; truth; kalām cosmological argument;
- Summary/Abstract:This paper presents William Lane Craig as a proponent of classical apologetics and explores his influence on the content and structure of contemporary discussions. These dialogues encompass a wide spectrum, ranging from historical studies of Jesus and His resurrection to cosmological and moral evidence of God's existence, as well as the coherence of Christian theism. In the last part of this paper, we will highlight Craig's notable contribution to the contemporary field of apologetics.
Semiconductor Competition Between China and Taiwan
Semiconductor Competition Between China and Taiwan
(Semiconductor Competition Between China and Taiwan)
- Author(s):Moustafa Hamil
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Supranational / Global Economy, Business Economy / Management
- Page Range:173-182
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:China; Taiwan; semiconductor; competition; challenges;
- Summary/Abstract:This paper explores the competition between China and Taiwan in the semiconductor industry. It discusses the current state of the industry in both countries, their competitive advantages, and the strategies employed to gain an edge. The research also examines the global implications of this competition, the key factors shaping the rivalry, and possible avenues for cooperation to enhance the semiconductor industry's competitiveness and efficiency. The relationship between China and Taiwan is experiencing intense competition over the electronics sector, including semiconductors and electronic chips. Taiwan plays a significant role in the high-tech and electronics industry, which makes it a target of China's economic and technological hegemony strategies. China seeks to achieve superiority in these industries and gain control over the global supply chain, which gives it great strategic power. Its policy is to try to increase its influence on Taiwan, both by diplomatic pressure and by constant military threats. China seeks to achieve "national unity" and restore Taiwan under its control. This geopolitical escalation is increasing simultaneously with the rivalry between China and the USA. The United States stands by Taiwan through its political and military support, which further aggravates the tension between the two states. This competitiveness manifests itself in multiple areas, including technology, security and economics. In short, the conflict between China and Taiwan over semiconductors and electronic chips reflects the rising geopolitical tensions in the region, with the overlap of economic, political and technological factors, the ongoing rivalry between China and the United States further complicates the scene.