Societies

20 pages, 272 KiB

Open AccessConcept Paper

Uncommon World Production: In Search of Freedom and Recognition

by Antonio A. R. Ioris

Societies 2024, 14(12), 274; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14120274 - 22 Dec 2024

The socio-spatiality of capitalist modernity is the embodiment of pressures to eliminate common, spatially adapted institutions in the name of an allegedly more rational world demarcated by the prospect of having everything private and predisposed to be exploited. The vital element of these [...] Read more.

The socio-spatiality of capitalist modernity is the embodiment of pressures to eliminate common, spatially adapted institutions in the name of an allegedly more rational world demarcated by the prospect of having everything private and predisposed to be exploited. The vital element of these pressures to legitimise economic inequalities to extract more and more value from labour and nature is the phenomenon of uncommoning. This article has several interconnected goals, especially, an interpretation of the meaning and practices of uncommoning—making use of classical, contemporary, and decolonial academic and grey literature—and a critical reflection on the frontiers of the modern world, where uncommoning is clearly the key socio-spatial driving force underpinning a deceitful democracy and providing justification for the encroachment of private properties upon the commons. This focus on the commons facilitates and radicalises the comprehension of how societies and communities deal with the allocation, use, and preservation of cherished elements of their material and immaterial reality. It can be constructively reached from the perspective of Global South societies, indigenous nations in particular, with solid experiences and knowledge of the commons. They have the outstanding intellectual and moral authority, and the main job for most is to listen, learn, and act together. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Sociology — Achievements and Challenges)

27 pages, 506 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Exploring How Educational Preparedness Affects the Attitudes of Nurses Regarding Sexual and Gender Minorities: A Systematic Review

by Monica Nikitara, Marileni Kenteli, Evangelos Latzourakis and Costas S. Constantinou

Societies 2024, 14(12), 273; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14120273 - 21 Dec 2024

Abstract

Numerous sources report that patients belonging to sexual or gender minority (SGM) groups often do not receive proper healthcare services due to negative attitudes from healthcare providers, including nurses. This literature review aims to explore the gaps in the existing curriculum and educational [...] Read more.

Numerous sources report that patients belonging to sexual or gender minority (SGM) groups often do not receive proper healthcare services due to negative attitudes from healthcare providers, including nurses. This literature review aims to explore the gaps in the existing curriculum and educational preparedness, including ehealth and mhealth trainings and how such educational preparedness affects the attitudes of nurses toward SGM groups. The search strategy included the electronic databases CINHAL, PubMed, Medline, EBSCO, and ProQuest. After reviewing and removing duplicates and irrelevant studies, 21 articles were selected to be included in this literature review. The findings of this research indicate that the provision of educational resources, including ehealth and mhealth trainings, falls short of meeting the requirements of caring for a patient who identifies with a sexual and gender minority (SGM) group. Consequently, nurses feel less confident and prepared to provide care in such situations, resulting in low comfort levels and readiness. It also reveals the nurses’ attitudes towards SGM patients affected by the lack of preparation. Key educational interventions, including targeted seminars and online modules, are recommended to enhance nurse preparedness. Implementing these interventions can foster improved attitudes and cultural competence in healthcare settings. Full article

28 pages, 713 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Supervisor Support and Work-Family Practices: A Systematic Review

by Daniela Geraldes, Maria José Chambel and Vânia Sofia Carvalho

Societies 2024, 14(12), 272; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14120272 - 20 Dec 2024

Abstract

In recent decades, in response to changes in work dynamics, demographics, and technological advancements, organizations have sought to implement practices that facilitate transitions between work and family—so-called work-family practices. Previous research has focused on identifying antecedents for a more positive work-family relationship, employees’ [...] Read more.

In recent decades, in response to changes in work dynamics, demographics, and technological advancements, organizations have sought to implement practices that facilitate transitions between work and family—so-called work-family practices. Previous research has focused on identifying antecedents for a more positive work-family relationship, employees’ well-being, and positive organizational outcomes. Nevertheless, the development of this research framework over the decades has brought a main conclusion and concern: the availability of these practices is not a measure of organizational success and, to some extent, is dependent on the supportive behaviors of supervisors. To address the growing interest in this topic, a systematic review was conducted to qualitatively analyze the relationship between work-family practices and supervisor support, as well as their subsequent impact on employees and organizations. Following a PRISMA methodology, this review examined 39 articles (40 studies) and corroborated the positive and essential role of supervisor support in enhancing the effectiveness of work-family practices. The findings further clarified its influence on employee well-being and health, workplace attitudes (e.g., commitment, job satisfaction, turnover intention), and the work-family relationship (e.g., conflict and enrichment). Consequently, supervisor support proved imperative for employees and organizational contexts to benefit from work–family practices, going beyond their provision by organizations. Therefore, this research is the first systematic review focusing on recognizing and confirming the importance of work-family practices and supervisor support as foundational components of a family-supportive work environment. Theoretical and practical implications, as well as future research paths, will be discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Revitalizing Workplaces: The Intersection of Public Health and Sustainable Wellbeing in Organizations)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 3835 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Perception and Ethical Challenges for the Future of AI as Encountered by Surveyed New Engineers

by Hisham O. Khogali and Samir Mekid

Societies 2024, 14(12), 271; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14120271 - 18 Dec 2024

Abstract

Our extensive history of embracing AI technological advances demonstrates that AI may be a useful tool if humans learn to use it intelligently, and that concerns about it replacing human occupations may be unwarranted. Indeed, a range of remarkable new AI approaches are [...] Read more.

Our extensive history of embracing AI technological advances demonstrates that AI may be a useful tool if humans learn to use it intelligently, and that concerns about it replacing human occupations may be unwarranted. Indeed, a range of remarkable new AI approaches are fast transforming diverse human experiences and fundamentally disrupting our lives, but not without some drawbacks. This study reflects on how new engineers view AI’s influence on trust and ethical attitudes. Data-driven perceptions drive educated debates, education initiatives, and legislative decisions aimed at effectively addressing non-scientific AI concerns. This contributes to improving the future of AI-based learning through transdisciplinary research that considers the evidence of ethical challenges raised by AI misapplication. Our analysis of quantitative data from a survey of 715 recently graduated engineers from diverse fields, who often use information technologies, reveals that many believed AI-related difficulties were scientifically uncertain. According to this study’s findings, the observed variance in the trend relating to reduced fear of job losses due to AI (R² = 0.1121) suggests that specialties heavily impacted by crucial decision making have a lower level of fear. This provides strong evidence for an optimistic path to AI breakthroughs boosting the level of confidence in and acceptance of AI across many industries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Research and Communication in the Social Sciences and Humanities)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 2123 KiB

Open AccessReview

Integrating Paths: Enhancing Deliberative Democracy Through Collective Intelligence Insights

by Mikko Rask and Bokyong Shin

Societies 2024, 14(12), 270; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14120270 - 18 Dec 2024

Abstract

This literature review critically examines the potential of collective intelligence (CI) to enhance theories of deliberative democracy and participatory governance through academic discourse. We employed PRISMA guidelines for systematic article selection, complemented by a narrative approach for in-depth thematic analysis and supplemented by [...] Read more.

This literature review critically examines the potential of collective intelligence (CI) to enhance theories of deliberative democracy and participatory governance through academic discourse. We employed PRISMA guidelines for systematic article selection, complemented by a narrative approach for in-depth thematic analysis and supplemented by quantitative methodologies such as Sankey diagrams and keyness analysis. Reviewing 61 scholarly articles focusing on CI within the public sector, this study identifies theoretical insights that could significantly impact the field of democratic innovations and participatory governance. Our analysis reveals that CI methodologies can make governance more inclusive and dynamic by integrating advanced digital tools that foster broader and more effective citizen participation. We conclude that integrating CI with deliberative democracy and participatory governance theories holds substantial promise for developing more responsive and adaptive governance models. Future research should focus on measuring deliberative quality in real time, deploying CI tools to empower underrepresented groups and address specific governance challenges, and examining CI’s ethical and social implications, especially concerning privacy, security, and power dynamics in technology-driven public decision-making. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Embedding Public Participation in Planning, Governance and Climate Action: A Cross-Disciplinary Overview)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 2035 KiB

Open AccessReview

Trust in Healthcare, Medical Mistrust, and Health Outcomes in Times of Health Crisis: A Narrative Review

by Elisavet Souvatzi, Magdalini Katsikidou, Aikaterini Arvaniti, Spyridon Plakias, Anna Tsiakiri and Maria Samakouri

Societies 2024, 14(12), 269; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14120269 - 18 Dec 2024

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The concepts of trust and distrust in health systems during health crises are significantly related to public adoption of health behaviors and health outcomes. The aim of this review is to examine trust and mistrust during times of health crisis, such [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: The concepts of trust and distrust in health systems during health crises are significantly related to public adoption of health behaviors and health outcomes. The aim of this review is to examine trust and mistrust during times of health crisis, such as periods of viral pandemics and epidemics, and how these concepts relate to public health behaviors and, by extension, affect health outcomes. Methods: A focused search was conducted in PubMed and Scopus using a Boolean expression to identify relevant articles written in the English language and published between 2003 and 2023. The research methods comprised content analysis, thematic analysis, and a word cloud visualization to identify frequent themes related to trust and mistrust in healthcare systems. Results: The analysis included 57 studies and revealed that trust in healthcare systems, institutions, and professionals plays a significant role in shaping public health behaviors during health crises. The study also highlighted how mistrust leads to negative health outcomes, such as increased belief in conspiracy theories, vaccine hesitancy, and non-compliance with public health measures. Conclusions: The review emphasizes the importance of building and maintaining trust in healthcare systems to ensure better public health outcomes during crises. It calls for further research to better understand the nuances of trust and mistrust, aiming to inform public health strategies and interventions that could lead to more effective crisis management and improved health outcomes. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1853 KiB

Open AccessConcept Paper

Generative Artificial Intelligence and Regulations: Can We Plan a Resilient Journey Toward the Safe Application of Generative Artificial Intelligence?

by Matteo Bodini

Societies 2024, 14(12), 268; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14120268 - 18 Dec 2024

Abstract

The rapid advancements of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) technologies, such as the well-known OpenAI ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot, have sparked significant societal, economic, and regulatory challenges. Indeed, while the latter technologies promise unprecedented productivity gains, they also raise several concerns, such as job [...] Read more.

The rapid advancements of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) technologies, such as the well-known OpenAI ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot, have sparked significant societal, economic, and regulatory challenges. Indeed, while the latter technologies promise unprecedented productivity gains, they also raise several concerns, such as job loss and displacement, deepfakes, and intellectual property violations. The present article aims to explore the present regulatory landscape of GenAI across the major global players, highlighting the divergent approaches adopted by the United States, United Kingdom, China, and the European Union. By drawing parallels with other complex global issues such as climate change and nuclear proliferation, this paper argues that the available traditional regulatory frameworks may be insufficient to address the unique challenges posed by GenAI. As a result, this article introduces a resilience-focused regulatory approach that emphasizes aspects such as adaptability, swift incident response, and recovery mechanisms to mitigate potential harm. By analyzing the existing regulations and suggesting potential future directions, the present article aims to contribute to the ongoing discourse on how to effectively govern GenAI technologies in a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence in Participatory Environments: Technologies, Ethics, and Literacy Aspects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 242 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Generative AI in Education: Assessing Usability, Ethical Implications, and Communication Effectiveness

by Maria Matsiola, Georgios Lappas and Anastasia Yannacopoulou

Societies 2024, 14(12), 267; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14120267 - 17 Dec 2024

Abstract

The rapid expansion of generative artificial intelligence tools for textual production, such as ChatGPT, has been accompanied by a proliferation of similar tools used for creating images, audiovisual content, and motion graphics. These tools, valued for their creativity, are increasingly employed in the [...] Read more.

The rapid expansion of generative artificial intelligence tools for textual production, such as ChatGPT, has been accompanied by a proliferation of similar tools used for creating images, audiovisual content, and motion graphics. These tools, valued for their creativity, are increasingly employed in the fields of art, education, and entertainment to enhance content creation, particularly on social media, while also reducing production costs. However, their use is not without controversy, as they raise significant ethical concerns, including the potential for generating fake news and disinformation. This paper presents an analysis of higher education students’ perspectives on the use of generative artificial intelligence tools within the context of a university course. The research was conducted through semi-structured interviews with 10 fourth-year students from the Department of Communication and Digital Media at the University of Western Macedonia. The study aims to provide an initial understanding of the impact of these tools in both education and communication, focusing on students who are future professionals in the communication field. The interviews explored the potential benefits of these technologies, which were valued highly, and the challenges presented such as privacy and credibility issues, which concerned the participants. Misinformation and deception were cited as the most significant risks, while these tools were evaluated positively in terms of communicative purposes, but still maintaining skepticism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence in Participatory Environments: Technologies, Ethics, and Literacy Aspects)

16 pages, 1065 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Digital Transformation for Era Society 5.0 and Resilience: Urgent Issues from Indonesia

by Yeti Rohayati and Abdillah Abdillah

Societies 2024, 14(12), 266; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14120266 - 16 Dec 2024

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the development of digital transformation in Society 5.0 in Indonesia to identify challenges and opportunities in its implementation. This research method uses a qualitative exploratory approach with a case study on digital developments in Society 5.0 in Indonesia. [...] Read more.

This research aims to analyze the development of digital transformation in Society 5.0 in Indonesia to identify challenges and opportunities in its implementation. This research method uses a qualitative exploratory approach with a case study on digital developments in Society 5.0 in Indonesia. The analysis in this study uses interactive techniques and is assisted via Nvivo 12 Plus. The results of this research show that the era of Society 5.0 has forced Indonesia to carry out digital transformation in various public sectors, such as governance and administration, economics, and socio-culture. In line with the demands of the Society 5.0 era, digital transformation in Indonesia seeks to realize super smart Society 5.0 in 2024 to develop capabilities to solve social problems that occur as a result of the emergence of the Industrial Revolution 4.0 to 5.0. This is intended to create ideal conditions in various public sectors, such as government, economics, and social culture. However, in line with these efforts, Indonesia faces challenges in digital transformation, such as digital transformation efforts, which to date have not been optimal including in human resources. In various regions in Indonesia, there are still problems with inadequate infrastructure for encouraging digital transformation in Indonesia. The contribution of this research is a reference in the development of the concept of digital transformation and Society 5.0. Apart from that, this research is also an evaluation material for the Indonesian government regarding the digital transformation that has been attempted. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 3477 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Potaxies and Fifes: The Formation of New Subcultures on TikTok

by Pablo Santaolalla-Rueda and Cristóbal Fernández-Muñoz

Societies 2024, 14(12), 265; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14120265 - 10 Dec 2024

Abstract

This study explores the Potaxie, Fifes, and Tilinx subcultures on TikTok, examining their origins, characteristics, and cultural significance. Originating from a viral video in 2020, the Potaxie subculture emerged within the Spanish-speaking LGBTQ+ community and evolved to symbolise inclusivity and gender equality. Potaxies [...] Read more.

This study explores the Potaxie, Fifes, and Tilinx subcultures on TikTok, examining their origins, characteristics, and cultural significance. Originating from a viral video in 2020, the Potaxie subculture emerged within the Spanish-speaking LGBTQ+ community and evolved to symbolise inclusivity and gender equality. Potaxies use vibrant aesthetics influenced by Japanese and Korean pop culture to express their identities and resistance. In contrast, Fifes, associated with cisgender heterosexual men, embody traditional patriarchal values, often sexist and homophobic, creating a narrative of resistance between the groups. The Tilinx, symbolic descendants of the Potaxies, are inspired by ballroom culture and drag houses, with “Potaxie mothers” continuing the fight for inclusion and diversity. Using a mixed-methods approach, including quantitative analysis through the TikTok API and qualitative content analysis via MAXQDA and Python, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of the subculture that accumulates over 2.3 billion interactions. The findings highlight how TikTok serves as a platform for identity construction, cultural resistance, and the redefinition of social norms. Additionally, the study examines how digital platforms mediate intersectional experiences, favouring certain types of content through algorithms, and how participants navigate these opportunities and constraints to express their intersecting identities. The implications for communication strategies, youth policies, educational plans, and research on the commercialization of these subcultures are profound, offering insights into the transformative potential of social media in shaping contemporary cultural and social narratives. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 834 KiB

Open AccessReview

Telehealth for Rural Veterans in the United States: A Systematic Review of Utilization, Cost Savings, and Impact of COVID-19

by Bright Parker Quayson, Jill Hough, Rebecca Boateng, Isaac Duah Boateng, Ranjit Godavarthy and Jeremy Mattson

Societies 2024, 14(12), 264; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14120264 - 10 Dec 2024

Abstract

Veterans living in rural areas of the United States face various health challenges that demand timely access to care to improve their well-being and quality of life. Telehealth (i.e., the use of telecommunications technology to connect people with care providers remotely) has become [...] Read more.

Veterans living in rural areas of the United States face various health challenges that demand timely access to care to improve their well-being and quality of life. Telehealth (i.e., the use of telecommunications technology to connect people with care providers remotely) has become vital in addressing the accessibility gap for people constrained by vehicle ownership, income, geographic isolation, and limited access to specialists. This study aims to examine the current evidence on rural veterans’ use of telehealth for their healthcare needs, evaluates the cost savings associated with telehealth, as well as veterans’ use of telehealth during COVID-19. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a systematic search was conducted on three databases (Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus) to select relevant articles published from 2017 to 2023. A total of 36 articles met the inclusion criteria and were categorized into three objectives: veterans’ medical conditions managed through telehealth (n = 24), veterans’ transportation cost savings using telehealth (n = 4), and telehealth use during the COVID-19 pandemic (n = 8). The results indicated that telehealth is a viable option for managing various medical conditions of rural veterans, including complex ones like diabetes and cancer. Additionally, telemedicine was a useful platform in bridging the healthcare accessibility gap during disasters or pandemics like COVID-19 evident from its increased usage during the pandemic. Lastly, telehealth was associated with cost and time savings between USD 65.29 and USD 72.94 per visit and 2.10 and 2.60 h per visit, respectively. However, the feasibility of telehealth for veterans’ medical conditions such as rheumatism, cancer, HIV, and diabetes is underexplored and calls for further investigation post-COVID-19. Lastly, the limited literature on rural veterans’ transportation cost savings using different mobility options—taxi, Uber, public transportation, and rides from friends and family—is another critical gap. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 7006 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Visual Representations of Older People’s Sexuality in Popular Cartoons

by Eugène Loos and Ateret Gewirtz-Meydan

Societies 2024, 14(12), 263; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14120263 - 9 Dec 2024

Abstract

This study explores the portrayal of older adults’ sexuality in popular cartoons, a medium often overlooked in discussions about aging and sexual representation. The research examines how visual and textual signs in cartoons produce humor by reinforcing stereotypes and normalizing judgments about later-life [...] Read more.

This study explores the portrayal of older adults’ sexuality in popular cartoons, a medium often overlooked in discussions about aging and sexual representation. The research examines how visual and textual signs in cartoons produce humor by reinforcing stereotypes and normalizing judgments about later-life sexual behavior. Using a visual social semiotic approach, the study analyzes a selection of cartoons, focusing on how these depictions reflect societal attitudes towards aging and sexuality. The findings reveal that older individuals are often portrayed in a stigmatized manner, with their sexual desires and activities depicted as either comical or abnormal. This contributes to the marginalization of older adults in sexual discourse and perpetuates ageist stereotypes. The study concludes that while these representations may appear harmless, they play a significant role in shaping public perceptions and can negatively impact the self-image and sexual well-being of older individuals. Future research should further investigate how older adults perceive these portrayals and their implications for societal attitudes towards aging and sexuality. Full article

9 pages, 196 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Causes and Effects of Psychoactive Substance Abuse Among the Youth in Zimbabwe: The Case of Makokoba High Density Suburb, Bulawayo

by Ishmael Mugari and Rejoyce Bushu

Societies 2024, 14(12), 262; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14120262 - 9 Dec 2024

Abstract

Psychoactive substance abuse has become a pandemic in most parts of the globe. This study sought to assess the contributory factors and impacts of psychoactive substance abuse among the youth in Makokoba—a high-density residential area in Zimbabwe’s second largest city, Bulawayo. A mixed [...] Read more.

Psychoactive substance abuse has become a pandemic in most parts of the globe. This study sought to assess the contributory factors and impacts of psychoactive substance abuse among the youth in Makokoba—a high-density residential area in Zimbabwe’s second largest city, Bulawayo. A mixed methods research design was used on a sample of 122 respondents who were invited to participate in the study. Data were gathered using questionnaires and semi-structured in-depth interviews. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25 was used to analyse quantitative data, while the qualitative component was analysed using thematic analysis. Findings revealed peer pressure, broken homes, poor parental care, and poverty as the main causes of psychoactive substance abuse among the youth. Development of health problems, violent behaviour, disrespect for the elderly, and teenage pregnancies were considered as the major effects of psychoactive substance abuse. Given the roles that peer pressure and the family environment played in psychoactive substance abuse among the youth, the study recommends family and community-based measures. Close monitoring at the family level in educational and religious institutions as well as socio-economic development are the key prescriptive measures recommended by this study. Full article

16 pages, 2169 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing Housing Preferences and Living Conditions of Migrant Workers in the Fringe Areas of Bengaluru City, India

by Jayprakash Chadchan, Nabil Hossiney, Praveen Kumar Tamil Selvan and Anagha Vijayan

Societies 2024, 14(12), 261; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14120261 - 6 Dec 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the housing preferences and its impact on living conditions of migrant industrial workers in the fringe areas of Bengaluru, India, where rapid urbanization and economic expansion have led to a significant demand for affordable housing. Using the Analytic Hierarchy Process [...] Read more.

This study investigates the housing preferences and its impact on living conditions of migrant industrial workers in the fringe areas of Bengaluru, India, where rapid urbanization and economic expansion have led to a significant demand for affordable housing. Using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), a multi-criteria decision-making framework, this study analyzed key factors influencing housing choices, such as proximity to the workplace, affordability, and access to essential amenities. Data were collected from 400 respondents through a combination of surveys, complimented by field observations and expert consultations. The findings indicate a strong preference for affordable housing close to employment hubs, with “proximity to workplace” emerging as the most critical criterion with a priority weight of 43.36%, followed by “affordability” with a priority weight of 12.47%. However, field insights reveal a trade-off with housing quality and living conditions. Many migrant workers are confined to overcrowded and poorly ventilated rental units, often provided by employers, which compromises their health and well-being. Our results contribute to the understanding of urban housing challenges in rapidly growing economies and emphasize the importance of sustainable, health-oriented housing policies that can mitigate environmental impacts and improve the quality of life for low-income migrant populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Health, Well-Being and Environmental Justice)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 554 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diversity, Local Wisdom, and Unique Characteristics of Millennials as Capital for Innovative Learning Models: Evidence from North Sumatra, Indonesia

by Muryanto Amin and Alwi Dahlan Ritonga

Societies 2024, 14(12), 260; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14120260 - 5 Dec 2024

Abstract

This study examines the intersection of identity politics, local wisdom, and millennial engagement in fostering social cohesion in North Sumatra, Indonesia. Against the backdrop of ethnic and religious diversity, identity politics has often served as a tool for polarization, particularly during elections, targeting [...] Read more.

This study examines the intersection of identity politics, local wisdom, and millennial engagement in fostering social cohesion in North Sumatra, Indonesia. Against the backdrop of ethnic and religious diversity, identity politics has often served as a tool for polarization, particularly during elections, targeting vulnerable millennial demographics. Utilizing a qualitative approach with in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, this study highlights how local wisdom values, including gotong royong (mutual cooperation) and Dalihan Na Tolu (Batak cultural values), support social harmony and mitigate divisive identity-based narratives. These findings underscore the unique potential of millennials to bridge social divides if they engage in community programs that incorporate these values. Additionally, this study proposes an innovative education model that integrates local wisdom and digital technology to enhance millennials’ awareness and resilience against identity politics. This approach enhances social cohesion and positions millennials as agents of positive social change. This study contributes to the broader discourse on multiculturalism, identity politics, and generational roles in national unity within Indonesia’s socio-political landscape. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 973 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Training in Co-Creation as a Methodological Approach to Improve AI Fairness

by Ian Slesinger, Evren Yalaz, Stavroula Rizou, Marta Gibin, Emmanouil Krasanakis and Symeon Papadopoulos

Societies 2024, 14(12), 259; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14120259 - 3 Dec 2024

Abstract

Participatory design (PD) and co-creation (Co-C) approaches to building Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems have become increasingly popular exercises for ensuring greater social inclusion and fairness in technological transformation by accounting for the experiences of vulnerable or disadvantaged social groups; however, such design work [...] Read more.

Participatory design (PD) and co-creation (Co-C) approaches to building Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems have become increasingly popular exercises for ensuring greater social inclusion and fairness in technological transformation by accounting for the experiences of vulnerable or disadvantaged social groups; however, such design work is challenging in practice, partly because of the inaccessible domain of technical expertise inherent to AI design. This paper evaluates a methodological approach to make addressing AI bias more accessible by incorporating a training component on AI bias in a Co-C process with vulnerable and marginalized participant groups. This was applied by socio-technical researchers involved in creating an AI bias mitigation developer toolkit. This paper’s analysis emphasizes that critical reflection on how to use training in Co-C appropriately and how such training should be designed and implemented is necessary to ensure training allows for a genuinely more inclusive approach to AI systems design when those most at risk of being adversely affected by AI technologies are often not the intended end-users of said technologies. This is acutely relevant as Co-C exercises are increasingly used to demonstrate regulatory compliance and ethical practice by powerful institutions and actors developing AI systems, particularly in the ethical and regulatory environment coalescing around the European Union’s recent AI Act. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence in Participatory Environments: Technologies, Ethics, and Literacy Aspects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 279 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mapuche Worldview, Territory, and Language: Narratives of Mapuche Speakers and Elders

by Fabiola Maldonado García, Susan Sanhueza Henríquez and Carolina Aroca Toloza

Societies 2024, 14(12), 258; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14120258 - 2 Dec 2024

Abstract

This article addresses the relationship between worldview, territory, and language among the Mapuche people. Our research aims to explore, through the voices of Mapuche elders, the sociocultural, political, and territorial knowledge that guides the teaching and transmission of Mapuzugun to new generations. In [...] Read more.

This article addresses the relationship between worldview, territory, and language among the Mapuche people. Our research aims to explore, through the voices of Mapuche elders, the sociocultural, political, and territorial knowledge that guides the teaching and transmission of Mapuzugun to new generations. In alignment with the proposed objective, we have adopted a socio-critical approach to explore Mapuche identity through the territorial and communal dimensions that underpin linguistic revitalization. The findings reveal that the elders possess a vast source of knowledge, serving as primary cultural bearers through epistemology centered on the unity of language and territory. Full article

14 pages, 277 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Social Impact of Sports Habits on Sustainable Tourism Perceptions: A Case Study in Alt Urgell

by Sergi Cerezo-Esteve, Xavier De Blas and Francesc Solanellas

Societies 2024, 14(12), 257; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14120257 - 2 Dec 2024

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between residents’ sports habits and their attitudes toward sustainable tourism in the rural region of Alt Urgell. Recognizing the importance of physical activity for health and well-being, this research aims to understand how regular participation in outdoor sports [...] Read more.

This study examines the relationship between residents’ sports habits and their attitudes toward sustainable tourism in the rural region of Alt Urgell. Recognizing the importance of physical activity for health and well-being, this research aims to understand how regular participation in outdoor sports influences perceptions of sustainable tourism and how demographic factors moderate this relationship. A quantitative survey was conducted with a sample of 416 residents, achieving a 95% confidence level and a 4.8% margin of error. Inferential statistical analysis revealed significant correlations between sports habits and attitudes toward sustainable tourism. Results highlight slight differences in perception between genders, with men showing stronger support for community-driven economic initiatives. Variations based on years of residency were observed, with long-term residents expressing greater concern for sustainability. Participation in outdoor sports and attendance at sports events positively influenced perceptions of sustainable tourism. While some hypotheses were confirmed, others were rejected, indicating complexities in the relationship between sports habits and sustainable tourism perceptions. This study concludes by emphasizing the need for targeted educational interventions and inclusive policies to promote sustainable development in the region and suggests directions for future research to further explore these dynamics. Full article

15 pages, 1142 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Participatory Methodologies as People-Centered Social Innovation: Listening to Voices of People in Policy Practice

by Swati Banerjee, P. K. Shajahan, Pravin Ghunnar and Mariya Shaikh

Societies 2024, 14(12), 256; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14120256 - 29 Nov 2024

Abstract

Participatory methodology is an important methodological paradigm to understand the diversity and plurality of people’s knowledge. Through a policy study, this article explores the creativity and dynamism of participatory methodology to center people and their voices, and conceptualises the same as people-centered social [...] Read more.

Participatory methodology is an important methodological paradigm to understand the diversity and plurality of people’s knowledge. Through a policy study, this article explores the creativity and dynamism of participatory methodology to center people and their voices, and conceptualises the same as people-centered social innovation (PCSI). The process of engagement elucidated in the article is not only a new way of performing research but also a process of co-creating tangible outcomes of the research in the form of a policy which affects the life and livelihood of the community in question. The empirical evidence is drawn from the study referred to here, ‘Compensation Policy and its Implementation Plan for Project Affected Fisherfolk of Mumbai Coastal Road Project (South)’. The article highlights the use of an optimal mix of different participatory tools and the nature of community engagement as social innovation in understanding the experiences of the fisherfolk and their lives and livelihoods and how it was impacted by the said project, subsequently co-creating a compensation policy for the affected communities. The approach adopted in the study attempts to reimagine empirical studies with a social innovation frame as ‘doing’ people-centered social innovation, which gives voice and visibility to the project-affected fishing communities in particular and marginalised actors in general in policy and practice in claiming their rights and entitlements. Through this process of co-production of knowledge, the study captured the multi-faceted impact of the project on the lives and livelihoods of various actors in the value chain, thereby paving the way for individualized compensation rather than household compensation, as is the case with many compensation policies in vogue. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social Innovation in Urban and Rural Areas: Empowerment, (Disruptive) Transformative Processes and Impact on Community Development)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Description

Societies

Latest Articles

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Highly Accessed Articles

Latest Books

E-Mail Alert

News

Topics

Conferences

Special Issues

Topical Collections

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI