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Proceedings of the 37th International RAIS Conference on Social Sciences and Humanities, vol. 2 Cover Image

Proceedings of the 37th International RAIS Conference on Social Sciences and Humanities, vol. 2
Proceedings of the 37th International RAIS Conference on Social Sciences and Humanities, vol. 2

Contributor(s): Julia M. Puaschunder (Editor), Nicoleta-Elena Heghes (Editor), Pellegrino Manfra (Editor)
Subject(s): Public Administration, Labor relations, Higher Education , State/Government and Education, Behaviorism, Social differentiation, Criminology, Public Finances
ISSN: 2578-8574
Published by: Scientia Moralitas Research Institute
Summary/Abstract: The 37th International RAIS Conference on Social Sciences and Humanities was held at The Erdman Center, 20 Library Place, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA, on August 8-9, 2024, and was organized by the Research Association for Interdisciplinary Studies.

  • Page Count: 209
  • Publication Year: 2024
  • Language: English
Intersecting Paths: Self-Efficacy for Exercise, Appetitive Traits, and Internalizing Psychopathology

Intersecting Paths: Self-Efficacy for Exercise, Appetitive Traits, and Internalizing Psychopathology
(Intersecting Paths: Self-Efficacy for Exercise, Appetitive Traits, and Internalizing Psychopathology)

  • Author(s):Ligiana Mihaela Petre, Paweł Piepiora
  • Language:English
  • Subject(s):Clinical psychology, Behaviorism
  • Page Range:1-12
  • No. of Pages:12
  • Keywords:HiTOP; Exercise Self-Efficacy; Appetitive Traits; Internalizing Psycho-pathology; IDAS-II;
  • Summary/Abstract:In this cross-sectional study, we explore the influence of age, Body Mass Index (BMI), appetitive traits, and internalizing psychopathology on exercise self-efficacy among 52 participants, framed within the Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology (HiTOP) model. Appetitive traits were assessed using the Adult Eating Behavior Questionnaire (AEBQ), exercise self-efficacy through the Self-Efficacy for Physical Activity Survey (SEPAV), and internalizing psychopathology via the Romanian Inventory of Depression and Anxiety Symptoms (IDAS-II). Stepwise regression analysis across three models revealed that BMI and age (Model 1) have minimal impact on exercise self-efficacy. Adding appetitive traits (Model 2) and internalizing symptoms (Model 3) significantly improved predictive power. Specifically, emotional under-eating was negatively associated with self-efficacy for exercise. Moreover, emotional under-eating was a negative predictor for resisting relapse and making time for exercise, as key factors of exercise self-efficacy. In addition, food responsiveness positively predicts resisting relapse, and negatively, making time for exercise, and self-efficacy for exercise. Lassitude was a negative predictor for resisting relapse, and appetite gain was a positive predictor for making time for exercise. These results underscore the relationship between psychological factors and physical activity, suggesting the need for interventions that address both mental and physical health dimensions. This study confirms the HiTOP model's relevance in identifying psychopathological influences on exercise behav-ior and mental health.
It Is All Interconnected – A Brief, Comparative Planetary Limits and Lifestyle Medicine Analysis of Production, Diet and Lifestyle During Three Stages of Human History

It Is All Interconnected – A Brief, Comparative Planetary Limits and Lifestyle Medicine Analysis of Production, Diet and Lifestyle During Three Stages of Human History
(It Is All Interconnected – A Brief, Comparative Planetary Limits and Lifestyle Medicine Analysis of Production, Diet and Lifestyle During Three Stages of Human History)

  • Author(s):Mark Orsag, Amanda E. McKinney
  • Language:English
  • Subject(s):Comparative history, Health and medicine and law
  • Page Range:13-22
  • No. of Pages:10
  • Keywords:Diet; Lifestyle; Prehistory; Roman Empire; Modern World;
  • Summary/Abstract:This interdisciplinary article examines interconnected issues of human and planetary health related to diet, disease, social organization, agricultural production, resource depletion and environmental damage. Largely egalitarian diets and lifestyles characterized prehistoric hunter-gatherer cultures. The Roman Empire serves as an example of the ultimate direct outcome of the Neolithic Revolution. As with the interconnected Mediterranean World of the Roman Empire in the second-third centuries CE, the pandemic disease has likewise struck our third stage, the modern industrialized United States, for two centuries running. Prophylactic medical techniques, however, have brought these outbreaks under control more rapidly. The hyper-abundant products of modern agriculture and the advances in highly technological medical care have extended the lifespans of twenty-first-century Americans far beyond those characteristics of the two earlier eras. Certain interconnected human and planetary limits, however, appear to have been reached. Recently, US life expectancy has “shockingly declined” to a mere 76.4 years amidst an upsurge in diet-linked chronic diseases.
Revealing Gendered Youth Lessons: Human Rights Revelations from Participatory Research in Lesotho during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Revealing Gendered Youth Lessons: Human Rights Revelations from Participatory Research in Lesotho during the COVID-19 Pandemic
(Revealing Gendered Youth Lessons: Human Rights Revelations from Participatory Research in Lesotho during the COVID-19 Pandemic)

  • Author(s):Sonia Mairos Ferreira, Kimanzi Muthengi
  • Language:English
  • Subject(s):Gender Studies, Social differentiation
  • Page Range:23-33
  • No. of Pages:11
  • Keywords:Youth Gender Differences; Participatory Research; COVID-19 Impact; Human Rights;
  • Summary/Abstract:The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted children and adolescents, prompting UNICEF Lesotho to embark on innovative participatory qualitative research. This meta-analysis aims to uncover the unique contributions of participatory methodologies in understanding gender disparities among Lesotho's youth during this global crisis. Employing a gender-sensitive and human rights-based approach, this meta-analysis underscores the paramount importance of participatory research methodologies. Participatory research not only contributes to deeper and more comprehensive knowledge but simultaneously empowers young individuals to express their perceptions and beliefs using innovative tools like photovoice and storytelling. Engaging 101 participants aged 10 to 17 across three districts, this research sheds light on the intricate and gendered nuances of the pandemic's effects on Lesotho's youth. The findings, resulting from an extensive process of data synthesis and thematic analysis, provide profound insights into the differential experiences of young men and women. Photovoice, in particular, offers a unique perspective on how genders perceive their psychological and emotional challenges, highlighting disparities in coping mechanisms and emotional resilience. Moreover, the analysis of enforced isolation and other pandemic-related issues transcends mere data retrieval. It underscores young women's heightened domestic responsibilities, exacerbated difficulties in accessing education and pursuing life aspirations, and the prevalent feelings of seclusion and anxiety, distinctly contrasting with young men's experiences. This research underscores the imperative of participatory research in addressing the unique challenges faced by young women and men during a crisis. It fosters a profound and equitable understanding of their experiences, offering valuable insights for the development of more responsive interventions and policies.
The Nexus Between Economic Development, Democracy, and Environmental Degradation: Testing the EKC Hypothesis in the BRICS + 6 Countries

The Nexus Between Economic Development, Democracy, and Environmental Degradation: Testing the EKC Hypothesis in the BRICS + 6 Countries
(The Nexus Between Economic Development, Democracy, and Environmental Degradation: Testing the EKC Hypothesis in the BRICS + 6 Countries)

  • Author(s):Gülcan Doğanay
  • Language:English
  • Subject(s):Economic development, Environmental interactions
  • Page Range:34-43
  • No. of Pages:10
  • Keywords:EKC Hypothesis; Economic Development; Democracy; Environmental Degradation;
  • Summary/Abstract:This study investigates the relationship between economic development, democracy, and carbon emissions in the BRICS + 6 countries, considering the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) Hypothesis. By using the data from 1991 to 2020, it aims to fill the research gap on whether economic development and democratic governance consistently lead to better environ-mental quality, focusing on carbon emissions as a primary measure. This research is distinctive because it considers the cross-sectional dependency and heterogeneity of the countries involved, employing robust regression models to examine the effects of various factors, including GDP, democracy index, and population, on carbon emissions. The study revisits the EKC hypothesis, which suggests an inverted U-shaped relationship between economic growth and environmental degradation, proposing that environmental quality deteriorates up to a certain income level before improving. However, it also explores critiques of the EKC, recognizing that the trajectory of environmental degradation is influenced by more than just income levels—factors such as technological advancement, economic structure, governmental environmental policies, and the level of democracy also play crucial roles. Expected to provide valuable insights for policy formulation, this research highlights the complex interactions between economic development, democratic governance, and environmental sustainability. It underscores the necessity of integrating democratic processes with economic and environmental planning to foster sustainable development, offering a nuanced perspective on the dynamics between democracy, income, and environmental quality in the BRICS + 6 countries.
The Doors that ‘April Opened’: Higher Education in Social Work in Portugal at the ISMT in Coimbra

The Doors that ‘April Opened’: Higher Education in Social Work in Portugal at the ISMT in Coimbra
(The Doors that ‘April Opened’: Higher Education in Social Work in Portugal at the ISMT in Coimbra)

  • Author(s):Maria Rosa Tomé, Dulce Serra Simões
  • Language:English
  • Subject(s):Higher Education , Socio-Economic Research
  • Page Range:44-54
  • No. of Pages:11
  • Keywords:Carnation Revolution; Social Work; Higher Education; Bologna Process;
  • Summary/Abstract:The “Carnation Revolution” opened up Portugal to the world and 'invaded' the Schools of Social Work with an impact on the training of Portuguese Social Work (PSW) and Miguel Torga Institute of Higher Education (ISMT), allowing them to conquer academic and professional fields. This paper conducts a socio-historical analysis of training based on documents from the ISMT Archives and interviews with key personalities. It explores three significant periods that mark the evolution of training in PSW at ISMT in Coimbra: 1) 1974 to 1990: during this period, the secularization of training took place, education was democratized, and students gained social rights while participating in struggles for their training and profession; 2) the 1990s: this period highlighted the recognition of the degree, which aled to the development of postgraduate training and research, expanding career opportunities and professional fields; 3) Post Bologna Process: this section addresses the changes imposed by the Bologna Process, which reduced the duration of training from five to four years in 2004 and further to seven semesters in 2007, resulting in substantial changes for training and the profession.
Boeing 737 Max Crisis of 2018–2019: A Content Analysis

Boeing 737 Max Crisis of 2018–2019: A Content Analysis
(Boeing 737 Max Crisis of 2018–2019: A Content Analysis)

  • Author(s):Donald Thompson
  • Language:English
  • Subject(s):Media studies, ICT Information and Communications Technologies
  • Page Range:55-70
  • No. of Pages:16
  • Keywords:Boeing 737 MAX; Crisis Communication; Situational Crisis Communication Theory;
  • Summary/Abstract:This exploratory study seeks to critically analyze the Boeing 737 MAX crisis of 2018–2019. The study uses Situational Crisis Communication Theory (SCCT) and Image Restoration Theory to frame Boeing's strategic response. Using content analysis methods, the study identifies the evolution of public perception of the crisis and the evolving media narrative during the crisis timeframe. The study focuses on the relationship between Boeing's crisis response and stock valuation. It suggests that Boeing's initial denial, followed by the delayed acknowledgment of responsibility—all framed through SCCT and Image Restoration Theory—significantly impacted the company's market valuation compared to its primary competitor, Airbus. The study underscores that crisis communication is a complex endeavor, highlighting the importance of timely and transparent communications to restore public confidence in the case of high-stakes crises.
A Value Theory of Art

A Value Theory of Art
(A Value Theory of Art)

  • Author(s):Julia M. Puaschunder
  • Language:English
  • Subject(s):Financial Markets, Sociology of Art
  • Page Range:71-78
  • No. of Pages:8
  • Keywords:Art; Costs & Benefits; Collateral; Discounting; Economics; Law & Economics; Security;
  • Summary/Abstract:Price is the hallmark in economics. Discounting under growing uncertain risk over time dominates finance. While finance structures objective measures to perceive price patterns and market trends, it is striking to have no theory of what art becomes more valuable over time. As there is no value theory of arts, we have no structured knowledge about what and how arts become more valuable over time. As for the growing importance of arts as an economic multiplier and systemically-widespread collateral, the need for discounting arts’ future value has gained unprecedented momentum [1]. Solving the question of why some arts survive, and particular art pieces become more valuable over time could help integrate discounting elements in classic public goods theory in welfare economics that focuses on creating lasting common value over time.
Multi-Year Impact of Health Obstructions on COVID-19 Fatalities in Post-Coup Myanmar

Multi-Year Impact of Health Obstructions on COVID-19 Fatalities in Post-Coup Myanmar
(Multi-Year Impact of Health Obstructions on COVID-19 Fatalities in Post-Coup Myanmar)

  • Author(s):Rachel Set Aung
  • Language:English
  • Subject(s):Civil Society, Government/Political systems, Health and medicine and law
  • Page Range:79-95
  • No. of Pages:17
  • Keywords:COVID-19; Multivariate Regression; Human Rights; Public Health; Myanmar;
  • Summary/Abstract:Myanmar’s coup d’état of February 2021 deposed the democratically elected civilian administration with a military dictatorship, destabilizing the region with internal conflict and undue political imprisonments in the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic. Consequently, the sudden overthrow of the government revealed the fatal implications of politicizing public health crises and serves as a prominent modern representation of an unjust seizure of power and bio-weaponization. However, existing literature has relied predominantly on qualitative data to describe the unsettling humanitarian crisis in Myanmar, insufficiently highlighting a fraction of a multifaceted campaign against human rights. To address this significant gap in understanding, the current work departs from the qualitative focus of existing studies and instead leverages quantitative methodology to draw relationships between socio-political factors, healthcare obstruction (e.g., 'Health Workers Killed', 'Forceful Entry into Health Facility'), and multi-year COVID-19 fatalities in Myanmar (2020-2023). Multivariate regression analysis results show significant associations between healthcare obstruction, vaccination uptake, testing, new cases, and COVID-19 fatalities, signaling that every additional incident of either healthcare obstruction, new COVID-19 case, or recorded testing incident is related to a staggering increase in COVID-19 fatalities. The findings emphasize the urgent need to address the weaponization of pandemics through political and public health interventions by authoritarian powers. Furthermore, this study highlights yet another large-scale humanitarian crisis in Myanmar and sparks a debate on the fundamental constitution of preventing the effects of disease weaponization and bio-warfare at the national and international levels.
Crimes That Can be Committed Online: Crime Against the Person

Crimes That Can be Committed Online: Crime Against the Person
(Crimes That Can be Committed Online: Crime Against the Person)

  • Author(s):Nicoleta-Elena Heghes
  • Language:English
  • Subject(s):Criminal Law, Criminology
  • Page Range:96-103
  • No. of Pages:8
  • Keywords:Crimes; Online; Injured Person; Immediate Follow-Up;
  • Summary/Abstract:The present article proposes a brief presentation of the criminalization rules in Romania that address incidents and provide protection against possible illegal conduct that can be committed online, with reference only to the most common crimes against the person in the online environment. To con-textualize the problem that is the subject of this study, preliminary aspects regarding crimes against individuals in general and those likely to be committed online will be presented initially. Subsequently, general considerations will be made regarding the active subject, the passive subject, and the immediate follow-up of the crimes relevant to the matter, as well as procedural aspects. The purpose of this article is to raise an alarm signal and highlight the importance of acts committed in the online environment that could be criminalized from a legal perspective, along with the means available for individuals to protect themselves against the potential illicit conduct of malicious persons.
Participatory Mechanisms that Transcend Classic Representation in Kenyan Counties

Participatory Mechanisms that Transcend Classic Representation in Kenyan Counties
(Participatory Mechanisms that Transcend Classic Representation in Kenyan Counties)

  • Author(s):Gloria Nyambura Kenyatta
  • Language:English
  • Subject(s):Economic policy, Government/Political systems
  • Page Range:104-116
  • No. of Pages:12
  • Keywords:Contextual Factors; Devolved Governments; Kenyan Constitution; Poli-cymaking; Public Participation;
  • Summary/Abstract:Governments are increasingly using participatory mechanisms to further the goals of democracy and good governance. These mechanisms, particularly the informal ones, extend the possibilities for participation beyond the confines of classic representation because they tend to be more frequent and dynamic than the formal ones. In 2010, the Constitution of Kenya was broadly supported by Kenyans because it allowed for public participation in local policymaking. However, the Constitution did not include the implementation procedures for public engagement because of the distinct con-textual features of the newly established devolved governments. The absence of an implementation framework means each government interprets the notion differently, impacting its overall execution. Hence, it is imperative to establish the informal participatory mechanisms established by these administrations to engage the public and their efficacy in policymaking. Based on in-depth fieldwork conducted in Kenya’s two devolved governments in 2022 and 2023, as well as secondary sources, this paper uses qualitative analysis to map out the main informal participatory mechanisms established in these governments. The paper acknowledges that the administrations primarily consider production and participation costs when choosing and executing these mechanisms due to their financial capacities. As such, the financial resources at hand significantly influence the mechanisms selected. Based on the findings, the paper concludes that the mechanisms chosen should consider not only the financial capacities but also other local contextual factors. Therefore, these mechanisms should adjust to the configuration of the place where participation takes place for quality participation.
Uncontrolled Eating in Young Women: Advancing Dimensional Approach on Internalizing Spectrum of Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology

Uncontrolled Eating in Young Women: Advancing Dimensional Approach on Internalizing Spectrum of Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology
(Uncontrolled Eating in Young Women: Advancing Dimensional Approach on Internalizing Spectrum of Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology)

  • Author(s):Ligiana Mihaela Petre
  • Language:English
  • Subject(s):Behaviorism, Psychoanalysis
  • Page Range:117-125
  • No. of Pages:9
  • Keywords:HiTOP; Uncontrolled Eating; Internalizing Spectrum; IDAS-II;
  • Summary/Abstract:This study aims to investigate the relationship between uncontrolled eating and the internalizing spectrum of psychopathology among young women, framed within the Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology (HiTOP) model. In a cross-sectional study, 215 Romanian women aged 19–30 were assessed using the Inventory of Depression and Anxiety Symptoms (IDAS-II) and the Reward-Based Eating Drive Scale-13 (RED-13). Pearson correlation coefficients and multiple linear regression analyses were employed to examine the associations between uncontrolled eating behaviors and internalizing psychopathological symptoms. Significant correlations were found between uncontrolled eating and internalizing symptoms, with appetite gain exhibiting a strong positive association with uncontrolled eating. In addition, both Body Mass Index (BMI) and internalizing symptoms significantly predicted uncontrolled eating, accounting for a substantial portion of the variance in these behaviors. The study's findings support the HiTOP model's dimensional approach to psychopathology, demonstrating a significant relationship between uncontrolled eating and internalizing psycho-pathological symptoms in young women. These results highlight the need for integrated treatment strategies that address both eating behaviors and internalizing psychopathologies. The study's limitations, including its sample homogeneity and cross-sectional design, suggest caution in generalization and point towards the need for longitudinal research across diverse populations.
A New Regulation of the Lawyer’s Profession. Draft Convention Regulating the Protection of the Profession of Lawyer

A New Regulation of the Lawyer’s Profession. Draft Convention Regulating the Protection of the Profession of Lawyer
(A New Regulation of the Lawyer’s Profession. Draft Convention Regulating the Protection of the Profession of Lawyer)

  • Author(s):Simona Franguloiu
  • Language:English
  • Subject(s):Constitutional Law, International Law
  • Page Range:126-136
  • No. of Pages:11
  • Keywords:International Law; International Convention; Legal Profession Protection; Fundamental Rights;
  • Summary/Abstract:The rule of law, fundamental to the majority of states today, cannot be conceived without justice. Lawyers, by exercising the prerogatives at their disposal, are a central element of the justice system, with the right and obligation to ensure that the rights of individuals are not neglected or jeopardized, while the judiciary has the task and the right to resolve legal disputes arising from actions that fall within the ambit of unlawful. In this system of justice, the right to a defense is an ancient concept firmly rooted in legal mentality, without which the very idea of justice is inconceivable. The development of this right has culminated in its elevation to the status of a fundamental principle of the trial, compliance with which must be absolute. Only in this way is it possible to respond to the imperative requirement imposed by the rule of law. One of the necessary conditions for its full realization, in the context of globalization, is the protection of the legal profession through a flexible and efficient international instrument, with effective and dissuasive guarantees for those who violate these rules and easy to integrate into the national laws of the States parties.
The Topicality of Asbestos from the Perspective of the Administrative Law

The Topicality of Asbestos from the Perspective of the Administrative Law
(The Topicality of Asbestos from the Perspective of the Administrative Law)

  • Author(s):Elena Emilia Ștefan
  • Language:English
  • Subject(s):Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, EU-Legislation, Administrative Law
  • Page Range:137-145
  • No. of Pages:9
  • Keywords:Public Authorities; Asbestos; Decent Standard Living, Directive' European Court; Human Rights;
  • Summary/Abstract:Nowadays, people place increasing emphasis on the quality of life. This is why the environment in which we live and work must be safe and comply with legal requirements to ensure that life is not endangered. There is public concern that asbestos—a material found in buildings built up many years ago—is still present in the walls of those buildings, making it dangerous during renovations or even demolitions. Asbestos is one of the dangerous substances from a double perspective: it not only affects the environment but also poses a major risk to human health. International studies show that asbestos exposure can cause serious diseases such as cancer and even death. Given this background, the aim of this paper is to analyze the legal regime of asbestos from an interdisciplinary perspective, starting from administrative law, in order to know how the legislator relates to this substance. The subject is highly relevant for the scientific community as well as for the general public and has practical applicability, as it provides crucial information to raise awareness of the dangers posed by asbestos. The research methodology of the paper proposes a structure consisting of several parts: Part I analyzes the national regulatory framework on asbestos; Part II presents the international normative acts on the protection of workers against the risks related to asbestos exposure at work; and Part III brings to the forefront several case studies settled by the European Court of Human Rights, highlighting the danger asbestos poses to human health.
Legal Protection of Derivative Works and the Condition of Their Originality in Romanian Law

Legal Protection of Derivative Works and the Condition of Their Originality in Romanian Law
(Legal Protection of Derivative Works and the Condition of Their Originality in Romanian Law)

  • Author(s):Ciprian Raul Romitan
  • Language:English
  • Subject(s):Civil Law, Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, Labour and Social Security Law
  • Page Range:146-154
  • No. of Pages:9
  • Keywords:Derivative Work; Intellectual Creation; Originary (Pre-Existing) Work; Originality; Mark of Personality;
  • Summary/Abstract:According to Romanian law, creative intellectual work is acknowledged and protected, independent of its public disclosure, by the mere fact of its creation, even in unfinished form. From the multitude of intellectual creations protected by the special law in this field, in this study, the author analyzes how derivative works are protected when they are realized by using an original (pre-existing) work. The analysis considers both national legislation and European Union regulations, alongside numerous scholarly contributions from Romanian authors and relevant decisions of the Court of Justice of the European Union and national courts. The study aims to clarify the conditions under which an intellectual creation qualifies as a derivative work and examine whether the creation of such works infringes upon the patrimonial or moral rights of the original author. At the same time, given that the making of a derivative work without the written consent of the author of the original (pre-existing) work is unlawful and may entail civil or criminal liability, this paper briefly addresses the implications of this offense.
History and Memory of Portuguese Social Work. Social Work Training in Coimbra During the Dictatorship (1937-1974)

History and Memory of Portuguese Social Work. Social Work Training in Coimbra During the Dictatorship (1937-1974)
(History and Memory of Portuguese Social Work. Social Work Training in Coimbra During the Dictatorship (1937-1974))

  • Author(s):Dulce Serra Simões, Maria Rosa Tomé
  • Language:English
  • Subject(s):Public Law, Labor relations, Labour and Social Security Law
  • Page Range:155-163
  • No. of Pages:9
  • Keywords:Portuguese SW; SW Training School; Resistance Strategies; Coimbra;
  • Summary/Abstract:The paper explores the history and development of Portuguese Social Work at the Miguel Torga Institute of Higher Education (ISMT) in Coimbra, Portugal, during the Estado Novo dictatorship. Documentary research in the archives of ISMT–Coimbra, Portugal, made it possible to carry out a socio-historical analysis of social work (SW) training in times of dictatorship (1937-1974). The course was created by French nuns, under the influence of municipal socialism and Catholic trade unionism, to support pregnant women and children in need. The dictatorial regime regulated training from 1939 until 1956, allowing a curriculum with medicine, law, religious culture, and corporate philosophical morality. The duration of the training increased from three to four years in 1940, and by 1962, it had transitioned from a technical program to higher education. The study highlights significant changes, including the introduction of sociology, the compulsory apprenticeship, and the inclusion of male students, as a result of profound changes in the world and, consequently, at the national level. Despite the regime's tight police control, international relations of various influences developed, generating resistance with the support of allies opposed to the regime.
"Breaking With Old Ideas": Revisiting a Cultural Revolution-Era Movie to Explore the Present-Day Resonance of Maoist Educational Ideals in China

"Breaking With Old Ideas": Revisiting a Cultural Revolution-Era Movie to Explore the Present-Day Resonance of Maoist Educational Ideals in China
("Breaking With Old Ideas": Revisiting a Cultural Revolution-Era Movie to Explore the Present-Day Resonance of Maoist Educational Ideals in China)

  • Author(s):Haotian Zhang, Sibo Lu, Zhongkai Qian
  • Language:English
  • Subject(s):Government/Political systems, State/Government and Education
  • Page Range:164-175
  • No. of Pages:12
  • Keywords:Educational Ideologies; Cultural Revolution; China;
  • Summary/Abstract:The film “Breaking with Old Ideas” critically portrays the educational reforms at Jiangxi Agricultural University, embodying Mao Zedong's vision for youth as successors of the revolutionary cause and his advocacy for educational equality. Released in the 1970s, the film initially received public acclaim but was later banned post-1978 after being labeled a "poisonous weed" during China's neoliberal shift. This reflected a significant transformation in the perception of revolutionary narratives. In contemporary China, the education system grapples with severe competition, pronounced inequalities, and authoritarian tendencies. The digital age and the resurgence of social media have facilitated the rediscovery of this film, highlighting its critical and reflective qualities that provoke discussions on educational ideologies. By juxtaposing traditional and revolutionary educational leaders, the film exposes the stark contrasts between Mao's reform-minded educational ideas and the so-called "modern education system." This study revisits these contrasting educational paradigms: the "old ideas" of monopolistic discourse knowledge and Mao's practical education model. Through an analysis of key scenes depicting these ideological and practical confrontations, the paper explores, through the prism of the Maoist critique, pre-sent-day aspects and challenges of Chinese education and assesses the potential of Mao's educational philosophy to inform and transform contemporary education practices.
Political Bias in Large Language Models: A Comparative Analysis of ChatGPT-4, Perplexity, Google Gemini, and Claude

Political Bias in Large Language Models: A Comparative Analysis of ChatGPT-4, Perplexity, Google Gemini, and Claude
(Political Bias in Large Language Models: A Comparative Analysis of ChatGPT-4, Perplexity, Google Gemini, and Claude)

  • Author(s):Tavishi Choudhary
  • Language:English
  • Subject(s):Politics and communication, ICT Information and Communications Technologies
  • Page Range:176-209
  • No. of Pages:34
  • Keywords:Large language models (LLM); Generative AI (GenAI); AI Governance and Policy; Ethical AI Systems;
  • Summary/Abstract:Artificial Intelligence large language models have rapidly gained widespread adoption, sparking discussions on their societal and political impact, especially for political bias and its far-reaching consequences on society and citizens. This study explores the political bias in large language models by conducting a comparative analysis across four popular AI models—ChatGPT-4, Perplexity, Google Gemini, and Claude. This research systematically evaluates their responses to politically charged prompts and questions from the Pew Research Center’s Political Typology Quiz, Politi-cal Compass Quiz, and ISideWith Quiz. The findings revealed that ChatGPT-4 and Claude exhibit a liberal bias, Perplexity is more conservative, while Google Gemini adopts more centrist stances based on their training data sets. The presence of such biases underscores the critical need for transparency in AI development and the incorporation of diverse training datasets, regular audits, and user education to mitigate any of these biases. The most significant question surrounding political bias in AI is its consequences, particularly its influence on public discourse, policy-making, and democratic processes. The results of this study advocate for ethical implications for the development of AI models and the need for transparency to build trust and integrity in AI models. Additionally, future research directions have been outlined to explore and address the complex AI bias issue.
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