Collective Welfare Research Articles

Ramrajya: A Vision of Ideal Governance and Social Harmony

'Ramrajya' represents an ancient Indian ideal of governance symbolizing a just, equitable, and harmonious society rooted in righteousness, justice, and collective prosperity. Originating from the epic Ramayana, where Lord Rama’s rule exemplified ethical leadership, the concept was later revitalized by Mahatma Gandhi as a framework for an ideal society. Transcending religious and cultural boundaries, Ramrajya emphasizes dharma (righteousness), social equity, and collective welfare. This paper explores the historical, philosophical, and cultural dimensions of Ramrajya and its application in modern governance. Using a qualitative methodology, it analyzes primary sources like the Ramayana and Gandhian writings alongside secondary data from political discourses and global governance frameworks. Findings highlight key principles such as ethical leadership, justice for all, participatory governance, environmental sustainability, and economic equity. The research underscores how Ramrajya’s ideals address contemporary challenges like corruption, inequality, and environmental degradation. Its focus on transparency, compassion, and accountability aligns with democratic ideals, while its emphasis on collective welfare complements sustainable development goals. The study concludes that integrating Ramrajya’s principles into policymaking can foster a governance model that balances moral integrity with practical needs. As a timeless vision of governance, Ramrajya offers a blueprint for achieving peace, prosperity, and social harmony, inspiring leaders to build equitable and just societies in the 21st century.

Abstract 3693: Modeling VEGF dynamics in cancer: An evolutionary game theoretic approach

Abstract Cancer cells in rapidly growing tumors often experience nutrient deprivation and hypoxia. They adapt by upregulating pro-angiogenic factors such as VEGF, which promote blood vessel formation within the tumor. Targeting angiogenesis, therefore, aims to starve cancer cells and inhibit tumor growth. This was the driving principle behind the development of anti-angiogenics like bevacizumab and sunitinib. While anti-angiogenics have shown modest improvements in progression-free survival, patients often relapse within the first year of treatment. This underscores the need to understand “why” and “how” VEGF expression evolves in cancer to better inform therapy. Empirical, conceptual, and mathematical models of angiogenesis often assume that VEGF expression by cancer cells represents cooperative behavior towards a shared public good. To evaluate this assumption, we develop an evolutionary game theoretic model to explore how nutrient sharing among cancer cells influences VEGF expression. We find that habitats with high nutrient sharing—where nutrients redirected from blood vessels are evenly distributed among cells—support larger cell population sizes. In contrast, in habitats with low nutrient sharing—where nutrients are distributed in proportion to each cell’s investment in VEGF—cells over-invest in VEGF expression in an attempt to outcompete their neighbors. Individual cancer cells are incentivized to increase VEGF expression not to enhance overall blood supply but to pre-empt the blood supply that otherwise would have gone to others. This over-expression of VEGF comes at the cost of lower cell population sizes. This phenomenon, where individual cells prioritize their own fitness over collective welfare, is known as the tragedy of the commons (TOC). Using the model we evaluate the efficacy of different dosing regimens of anti-angiogenics, glucose transporter (GLUT) inhibitors, and chemotherapy. We find that the TOC diminishes the effectiveness of therapy in habitats with proportional nutrient sharing. Moreover, anti-angiogenic drugs that neutralize VEGF are ineffective at controlling the tumor size. Instead, combining anti-angiogenic drugs with GLUT inhibitors shows greater promise. We are using patient-derived histology samples to observe these trends ex vivo and validate the relevance of our findings in a clinical setting. Our modeling efforts highlight: 1) how mathematical models can provide fresh insights into well-studied biological phenomena, 2) how testing alternative hypotheses about the interactions in the tumor microenvironment is important, and 3) how understanding cancer cell traits as adaptations to selective pressures in the tumor microenvironment aids in developing effective therapeutic strategies. Citation Format: Ranjini Bhattacharya, Anuraag Bukkuri, Joel S. Brown. Modeling VEGF dynamics in cancer: An evolutionary game theoretic approach [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2025; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2025 Apr 25-30; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2025;85(8_Suppl_1):Abstract nr 3693.

Perspektif Antropolinguistik tentang Pancasudha: Praktik Budaya dalam Penentuan Waktu Bisnis di Tlogorejo

The Pancasudha tradition, a cultural practice preserved in Tlogorejo Village, Indonesia, remains notable for its integration with the business sector—a vital domain of human socioeconomic activity. This study aims to investigate the linguistic dimensions and sociocultural perspectives embedded within the Pancasudha tradition, focusing on its role in shaping communal beliefs and practices within the local business sphere. Employing a qualitative descriptive methodology, this research was conducted in Tlogorejo Village, with primary data derived from recorded interviews with key informants, including the village’s petungan shaman (ritual numerologist) and community members. Supplementary data included textual analysis of speech acts and ritual incantations associated with Pancasudha. Data were analyzed through an ethnographic lens, incorporating hermeneutic interpretation to decode symbolic meanings, while triangulation techniques ensured methodological rigor. Findings reveal that language functions as a pivotal conduit for transmitting and legitimizing Pancasudha’s spiritual and ethical frameworks, thereby reinforcing communal adherence to the tradition. Central to its preservation is the tradition’s emphasis on peace (rukun), a value that harmonizes individual aspirations with collective welfare, fostering social cohesion in business practices. This study underscores the significance of linguistic anthropology in elucidating how cultural traditions interface with economic activities, offering critical insights for policymakers and cultural custodians seeking to sustain indigenous practices. By foregrounding the interplay of language, belief, and communal values, the research contributes to broader discourses on cultural sustainability and the role of local wisdom in contemporary socioeconomic systems.

Perencanaan Kerja Sama Lembaga Pendidikan Islam

This study explores the significance of planning and collaboration in enhancing the effectiveness of Islamic educational institutions. Systematic and effective planning serves as a critical element in achieving educational goals. Collaboration principles rooted in Islamic values, such as ta'awun (mutual assistance in goodness), play a vital role in fostering synergy among educational institutions, communities, governments, and private sectors. Identified challenges include lack of coordination, limited resources, and sustainable commitment, which can be addressed through visionary leadership, active parental involvement, and external support. This study emphasizes that collaborative and well-planned approaches can improve the quality of Islamic education and support the achievement of collective welfare.

Fundamentos de la gestión de bienes públicos

This paper explores the foundations of public goods management, essential for collective welfare and social development. A descriptive non-experimental research design is implemented, gathering information from various academic sources and public policy documents, highlighting fundamental theories such as those of Samuelson and García Arias. Despite recognizing limitations in the variability of sources and the lack of recent empirical data, the documentary analysis facilitates a broad understanding of the topic. The findings highlight that adequate management of public goods directly influences sustainable development, equitable access to resources and services, and social cohesion. It highlights measures implemented, performance indicators, the importance of cooperation among key actors and the use of technologies to improve results. In conclusion, the research underlines that the proper management of public goods is not only vital to guarantee effectiveness and efficiency in the provision of services, but also to promote equity and citizen participation, ensuring that these resources benefit society as a whole in a sustainable and fair manner.

Motherhood and money: How motherhood shapes everyday financial practices

This article contributes to the growing everyday financialisation literature by exploring how motherhood shapes financial practices and household financial management. Existing literature on finances in different-sex partnerships has identified gendered practices, echoing the unequal gendered division of labour. We contribute to this literature by demonstrating that it is not simply gender but more specifically norms of motherhood that formulate inequities in how family finances are managed. Based on interviews conducted by and co-analysis sessions with community researchers, we explore how the economic reality and social construct of motherhood places the responsibility for family wellbeing on mothers as individuals rather than collective welfare solutions. The three impact areas we identify – reduced income, increased financial, emotional and cognitive labour, and internalised responsibility – show the financial and mental burden that falls on mothers while conveying a sense that the resulting pressure is a personal, rather than societal, failure. Our findings highlight the need to find ways to support mothers without furthering the internalisation of responsibility. They also raise questions how other socio-cultural constructions shape financial practices and exacerbate inequalities, which should be taken account in everyday financialisation literature.

Consumption Solidarity: Healing Cultural Trauma Following Marketplace Violence

Abstract Targeted acts of violence in the marketplace disrupt the status quo and unravel the very fabric of community and consumption spaces. Despite the growing frequency of these shocking events, they remain underexplored in consumer research, particularly regarding their impact on consumer well-being and collective welfare. This research explores how individual reactions and choices in the face of incomprehensible violence can pave the way for consumer healing and collective regeneration through the re-establishment of community ties and marketplace exchanges. Our ethnographic inquiry grounds these findings in the consumer response and solidarity that occurred in one community directly affected by the November 2015 Paris terrorist attacks. Our findings highlight how market spaces provide the scaffolding for communities to develop and foster interdependence through exchanges and shared moments. We also delineate cultural trauma as a subset of collective trauma. While both occur when a community one identifies with faces an existential threat, cultural trauma goes further by irrevocably altering the collective identity and transforming the community members. Furthermore, we investigate cultural violence in a marketplace setting, when violent acts target culturally significant consumption practices and communal spaces.

Sharia-Based Digital Economic Policies: A Maqasid Shariah Approach to Achieving Sustainable Development

The emergence of the digital economy as a form of technological advancement has created opportunities to support sustainable development. To achieve sustainable development and reduce economic disparities, guidance through economic policies becomes essential. This study aims to explore the potential of Sharia-based digital economic policies in supporting sustainable development by addressing economic inequality. Using a normative jurisprudence approach, this research examines Islamic norms, principles, and evolving doctrines within the digital economy context. The research method applied is normative legal analysis with a conceptual approach. Digital economic policies grounded in Maqasid Shariah are expected to positively impact sustainable development, as they emphasize principles of justice, balance, and collective welfare. Therefore, implementing Sharia-based digital economic policies should be a primary focus within sustainable development efforts. Such policies should encompass the five dimensions of Maqasid Shariah—preserving religion, life, intellect, lineage, and property—and include essential aspects such as digital infrastructure development, comprehensive quality enhancement, strengthening Sharia-based financial systems, and adherence to good governance principles. Thus, Sharia-based digital economic policies hold significant potential to contribute to achieving sustainable development goals.

Studi Kualitatif Tentang Peran Filsafat Ekonomi Islam dalam Pengelolaan Sumber Daya Alam

This study aims to analyze the role of Islamic economic philosophy in the management of natural resources using a qualitative approach. Islamic economic philosophy offers a holistic and transcendental perspective that integrates spiritual, moral, and social values into every aspect of the economy, including natural resource management. This research employs a descriptive qualitative method with data collection techniques such as literature reviews, in-depth interviews, and participatory observations. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key patterns and principles of Islamic economic philosophy relevant to natural resource management. The findings reveal that Islamic economic philosophy emphasizes justice, sustainability, and social responsibility as the primary foundations for managing natural resources. These principles are reflected in the concepts of trust (amanah), benevolence (ihsan), and public benefit (maslahah), which guide the responsible utilization of natural resources for collective welfare without compromising environmental balance. Moreover, spiritual values such as monotheism (tauhid) and awareness of accountability before Allah SWT motivate individuals and institutions to manage natural resources ethically and sustainably. Thus, this study contributes to the development of new insights into how Islamic economic philosophy can serve as an alternative solution to addressing challenges in natural resource management in the increasingly complex modern era.

AN ANALYSIS OF THE IMPACT OF THE MACRO-ENVIRONMENT ON THE EFFICIENCY OF SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES IN THE REPUBLIC OF SERBIA

This paper analyses the influence of macro-environment on the efficiency of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Republic of Serbia (RS) in period from 2004 to 2021. The aim of the paper is to identify the factors that have a positive impact on the SMEs’ business i.e. encourage their development, as well as factors with negative impact which limit their further growth. Our starting assumption is that the macro-environment has a positive impact on the development of SMEs due to the fact that number of SMEs and number of their employees and their business performances has been constantly increasing throughout the observed period. By applying regression method, on the sample of 75,000 SMEs (in 2004) to a sample of 109,000 SMEs (in 2021), impact of legal-political, economic, social, technology-related factors on ROA of SMEs in RS is examined. The results show that political instability and inefficiency in relation to the law application are a great hindrance in the development of SMEs in the Republic of Serbia, while the continuous growth of the economic activity (accompanied by an increase in the standard of living), social change (accompanied by collective welfare) and technological improvement have positive effect on the efficiency of SMEs in RS.

Epistemologi Ekonomi Islam: Integrasi Al-Qur'an, Sunnah, Ijma', dan Qiyas dalam Pembangunan Ekonomi Syariah

This study aims to explore how the integration of the Qur'an, Sunnah, Ijma', and Qiyas becomes the main foundation in building a sharia economic framework that is relevant to modern challenges. The Qur'an, as the main source of Islamic law, provides holistic and transformative guidelines, while the Sunnah serves as an explanation and reinforcement of the principles contained in the Qur'an. On the other hand, Ijma' and Qiyas play a crucial role in formulating new laws that are not explicitly mentioned in the sacred texts, thus enabling the application of sharia in the context of contemporary economic problems that continue to develop. This study uses a literature study approach to analyze various theoretical and empirical perspectives related to the application of the four sources of law in sharia economics. The research findings show that the integration of the four sources of Islamic law not only forms a strong normative basis but also provides an understanding in responding to the needs of modern society. In this way, sharia economics can accommodate the principles of justice, poverty, and inclusiveness, which are the essence of building an economic system oriented towards collective welfare. In addition, this study critiques the challenges in implementing sharia principles, especially in the process of interpretation and adaptation to global dynamics. The limitations of conventional methodologies in integrating legal sources often become obstacles in creating solutions that are appropriate to local and global contexts. Therefore, this study suggests the need for a multidisciplinary approach involving collaboration between scholars, economists, and policy makers to ensure that sharia economics can develop consistently and relevantly to the needs of the times. These findings not only enrich academic discourse but also provide practical contributions in efforts to build a more just, sustainable, and Islamic-value-based economic order.

The Efficacy of Ubuntu-Based Governance Frameworks in Combating Systemic Corruption in Africa: A Theoretical Discourse

This paper examines the potential of Ubuntu philosophy—a culturally rooted African ethos emphasizing communal values, interconnectedness, and ethical leadership—as a framework for combating systemic corruption in Africa. While corruption remains a pervasive challenge undermining governance and development, conventional anti-corruption measures often fail to address its root causes. By integrating Ubuntu principles such as communal accountability, restorative justice, and transparency into governance reforms, this study proposes a culturally resonant approach to fostering integrity and public trust. Methodologically, the paper employs qualitative content analysis, drawing on secondary data and theoretical lenses like Principal-Agent Theory, Institutional Theory, and Network Theory. Findings reveal that Ubuntu’s emphasis on collective welfare and ethical leadership can mitigate corruption by aligning governance with indigenous values. The study concludes with actionable recommendations, including policy reforms grounded in Africanism, capacity-building for public officials, and collaborative partnerships. This work contributes to the discourse on culturally sensitive governance models and offers a roadmap for sustainable anti-corruption strategies in Africa.

Exploring the Synergy between Appropriate Technology and Entrepreneurship in Islamic Community Development: A Bibliometric Analysis

The rapid advancement of technology has profoundly influenced socio-economic dynamics, particularly within Islamic societies. This study explores the relationship between appropriate technology, entrepreneurship, and Islamic community development through a bibliometric analysis. Utilizing Publish or Perish and VOSviewer, 600 articles published between 2019 and 2024 were analyzed to identify trends, key themes, and research opportunities. The findings reveal that entrepreneurship plays a crucial role in Islamic community development, driven by principles of self-reliance and collective welfare rooted in Islamic teachings. Appropriate technology emerges as an enabler of sustainable solutions tailored to local needs, promoting inclusivity and effectiveness. Furthermore, the analysis highlights the transformative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which accelerated the adoption of digital solutions and emphasized the importance of resilience in Islamic finance. Overlay and density visualizations provide additional insights, identifying emerging themes such as the integration of Islamic finance with technology and the application of innovative solutions in rural contexts. These findings underline the importance of aligning technological advancements and entrepreneurial practices with Islamic values to foster sustainable and inclusive development. This study offers actionable insights for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners seeking to address socio-economic challenges within Islamic communities.

A game-theoretic analysis of whistleblowing: competitive and cooperative models

This paper presents an analysis of whistleblowing through game theory, examining the strategic dynamics between whistleblowers, organizations, and other stakeholders. We develop both competitive and cooperative models, demonstrating how institutional trust and incentive structures influence whistleblowing behaviors. Using the Shapley power index, we quantify the marginal contribution of each actor in determining system equilibria and the effectiveness of reporting mechanisms. Our results highlight that whistleblower protection represents not only an ethical-legal imperative but also an optimal strategy for maximizing collective welfare within organizations. Finally, we propose a formal "trust management" model that predicts conditions under which whistleblowing emerges as a stable equilibrium in organizational contexts.

Charity: Public or Private?

Is the charitable sector an aspect of the public or private sectors? Or is it sui generis, and deserving of its own category? If the former is the case, to which sector does philanthropy more closely resemble? These inquiries are of paramount importance, as both proponents of the public and private sectors assert that charity constitutes an integral component of their respective domains. These are the issues to be addressed in the present paper. Charity can be defined as organizations primarily focused on providing social, educational, religious, or other charitable services to the community. These entities primarily aim to address social issues and enhance the well-being of individuals and communities through non-profit means. Consequently, the initial inquiry pertains to the category in which this type of activity most closely resembles. This paper will examine the question of whether the charitable sector should be considered a part of the public or private sector, or whether it stands as a distinct "third sector." While there are some similarities between charities and the public sector, such as the delivery of services to public needs, this analysis ultimately positions charity more closely within the private sector due to its reliance on voluntary contributions and private property rights. In contrast to public institutions funded through compulsory taxation, charities rely on donations, aligning them with private enterprises in terms of autonomy and the voluntary nature of their support. The paper also considers, and refutes, the argument that charity exists in a unique category by highlighting significant overlaps in purpose and function with the private sector. This perspective underscores the notion that, while charity contributes to the public good, it does so without the coercive mechanism characteristic of the state, thereby affirming its compatibility with the values of a free-market economy. In conclusion, the categorization of charity within the private sector underscores its role as a voluntary, civic-minded entity, offering value through its independence from state control and fostering a bridge between individual liberty and collective welfare.

The Philosophy of Atadiken in the Lamaholot Tribe of East Nusa Tenggara: A Proposition for an Epistemological Foundation of Religious Moderation in Indonesia

This study aims to explore the Atadiken philosophy in the Lamaholot community, especially on their perspectives and practices on humanity. A qualitative research was conducted, employing field observations and structured interviews with 45 informants from three islands in East Flores Regency: East Flores mainland, Adonara, and Solor. Research participants include traditional leaders, religious figures, educators, and youth from the two main religions in East Flores. The study finds that the Lamaholot Atadiken philosophy can serve as an epistemological foundation to support and develop religious moderation in Indonesia. Atadiken’s philosophy views humanity as kin, recognizing, valuing, respecting, and protecting individuals as dignified beings. This reinforces key terms in religious moderation, such as humanity, collective welfare, justice, tolerance, commitment to shared agreements, non-violence, and love for the nation and tradition. With its core emphasis on humanity, Atadiken’s philosophy promotes religious moderation and social harmony, aligning with both local and global religious ideals.

Review of Maqāshid al Syarī’ah Regarding Grants Counted as Inheritance in Article 211 of the Compilation of Islamic Law

A gift (hibah) involves the transfer of property to another without compensation during the giver's life, often to prevent disputes after their death. In Islamic law, hibah to non-heirs, like adopted children, can create issues. Article 211 of KHI limits hibah to a maximum of one-third of the benefactor's wealth, safeguarding legitimate heirs' rights. Maqāshid al-syarī’ah views hibah as a means to ensure the welfare of all, including the protection of wealth and lineage. This study examines hibah in Article 211 of KHI and analyzes it through maqāshid al-syarī’ah. Using a qualitative library approach, findings show that hibah given during the benefactor's lifetime may be counted in the inheritance to maintain fairness among heirs. Maqāshid al-syarī’ah stresses justice, family harmony, and collective welfare, aiming to prevent conflict and uphold balanced rights among heirs and the benefactor’s intentions.

Multidimensional Analysis of Charitable Behavior: Integration of Altruism, Religiosity, and Economy in Global Social Context

This research employs the Theory of Planned Behavior approach to analyze factors influencing charitable behavior in Bulukumba Regency. The background of this research is the importance of Islamic philanthropy, such as charitable giving, in addressing social inequality and improving collective welfare. This study aims to identify the influence of altruism, religiosity, and economic dimensions on charitable behavior, focusing on multidimensional integration. The research involved 110 respondents selected through purposive sampling technique. Data were collected through online questionnaires and analyzed using multiple linear regression. Results show that religiosity has the most dominant influence on charitable behavior, followed by altruism and economics. The determination coefficient of 76% indicates that the three independent variables significantly influence charitable behavior. This research confirms the importance of religion-based subjective norms in motivating philanthropy and highlights the relevance of local values in strengthening community participation. These findings provide important implications for philanthropic institutions and local governments in designing inclusive and sustainable policies.

Eksistensi Koperasi Syariah di Kota Mataram

This study aims to explore the implementation of Sharia principles in cooperatives as an alternative for communities transitioning to Sharia cooperatives in Mataram City, using a qualitative phenomenological approach. Through a descriptive-analytical method, this research focuses on collecting data from cooperative administrators, managers, and members selected through purposive sampling. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation, and then analyzed using data reduction, presentation, and conclusion techniques with credibility validation through triangulation. The results indicate that Sharia cooperatives operate based on principles of justice, transparency, prohibition of interest, and social responsibility, forming a profit-sharing business model oriented toward collective welfare. Additionally, the growth of Sharia cooperatives in Mataram is supported by government regulations and increasing market demand for Sharia-based financial services, prompting many conventional cooperatives to adopt the Sharia system. This research contributes to the development of Sharia economic policies and practices as an inclusive, sustainable business model that can enhance financial inclusion in society.

Merits and Demerits of Public Law

1This study provides an overview of the concept of public law in India. Public law is a fundamental pillar of any democratic society. Public law governs the relationship between individuals and the state. In India, a nation known for its diverse culture, historical heritage, and evolving legal framework, This analysis of multifaced dimensions of public law in India, governs constitutional law, administrative law, criminal law various other branches that shape the interactions between the government. It exercises the power of the government and public authorities. It examines the evolution of public law in India from its colonial legacy to its modern avatar as enshrined in the Constitution of India, which serves as the supreme legal document guiding the nation. This analysis also discusses the role of the judiciary, particularly the Supreme Court of India, in interpreting and safeguarding public law principles. Additionally, it explores the challenges and complexities associated with public law enforcement, including issues related to administrative transparency, fundamental rights, and the balance between individual liberties and the collective welfare of society.