Global Social Change Research Articles

Advancing Global Social Change: Systems Approaches to the Role of Nonprofits in Climate Policy

Abstract The existential threat of climate change requires reimagining foundational aspects of society, including jobs, transportation, energy, the built environment, natural resources, health, and water and food supplies. We argue that to realize such broad scale change requires systems thinking. In this introduction to the special issue on Nonprofits and Climate Policy, we outline four systems-based views of global social change, organized by source of change and assumptions about the technical rationality of the system: engineering, evolutionary, social constructivist, and (critical) realist. By elaborating this framework, we shed light on the fundamental assumptions embedded in climate advocacy and policymaking. Along with describing key scholarship and practice-based examples for each approach, we align the articles in this special issue with the four views of global social change to inspire systems-based research and practice at the nonprofit and climate policy intersection. We hope that creating more explicit accounts of the key beliefs and expectations about how social change occurs at a global systemic level will help to advance research and practice in sustainability.

Assessment of surgical, anesthesia, and obstetric workforce in Somalia.

One of the core indicators recommended by the Lancet Commission is surgical workforce density, aiming to improve the number of surgery, anesthetists, and obstetric (SAO) providers to 20 per 100,000 population by 2030. We assessed SAO workforce capacity in Somalia and made recommendations for improvement. A cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured questionnaire from the WHO Program for Global Surgery and Social Change (PGSSC) Surgical Assessment Tool. All hospitals that offer surgical care services were included. A descriptive analysis was conducted using the statistical software SPSS. Of the 55 surveyed facilities providing surgical care services, 28 (50.9%) were public, mainly in urban areas. We found that there were 474 SAO specialists and non-specialists (SAO providers) and 446 other important personnel (e.g., midwives, radiologists, and pathologists). Out of 474 SAOs, Banadir had 288. Overall, surgery specialties were the most prevalent profession among SAO providers' workforce, accounting for 160 (33.7%) surgery specialists, with 1.2 per 100,000 population. The six states of Somalia have 54 OB/GYN specialists (0.4 per 100,000 population). There were a total of 22 anesthesia specialists, with a ratio of 0.2 anesthesia specialists per 100,000 population. We found a serious shortage of the SAO workforce in Somalia, and it is unlikely to meet the 2030 Lancet Commission on Global Surgery targets. There is a need for additional training of SAO providers who can offer effective leadership in surgical care services to combat the extremely avoidable surgical-related morbidities and mortalities.

War and the new world order: variants of expected scenarios in the context of the complexity paradigm

The situation in the world after the start of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine can be characterized as an ever-increasing chaos, undermining the foundations of the global order that existed in the world before the start of this war. The theme of the inevitable change of the world order becomes one of the main ones in the world narrative space, actualizing the question — what can the new global order be? The paradigm of complexity as a methodological basis for the construction of the latest sociological concepts allows us to propose conceptual schemes and models of social changes that are able to work with the concepts of social chaos, bifurcation and social order. The basis of the proposed forecast of the expected possible scenarios of the development of events is a model of social changes built on the basis of the paradigm of complexity, which asserts the existence of two mechanisms for creating and maintaining social order — organizational and self-organizing. The organizational mechanism is based on human subjectivity, rational thinking, intelligence, classical scientific forecasting models, logic and evidence. Culturally legitimized during the Modern era. Self-organization is based on mythological thinking, irrationality, belief in a suprapersonal force that is the subject of order creation (God, gods, hero, charismatic leader, higher idea, etc.). The culture of Tradition was based on this. According to the chosen approach, it can be argued that the next arrangement can be predicted only in the form of several equally probable options for global social change. It is assumed that these options will be formed from different variations of the combination of organization and self-organization. There are three of them: 1). Hypermodernity, significant strengthening of organizational mechanisms, further marginalization of self-organization. 2). Neo-tradition (integral Tradition), dominance of self-organization, decline of organizational levers of regulation. 3). Tradomodern, a balanced dialectical unity of self-organization and organization. The points of possible growth of each of the options are indicated, which are currently in the margins of the world socio-cultural space, but at bifurcation points, the new always grows from the marginal. The unique example of the self-organization of the Ukrainian Maidans, volunteer and voluntary movement, which is an experience of combining organization and self-organization, reason and faith, which brings new meanings to the European semantic space, is emphasized. It was emphasized that there is no way to predict which option will be implemented. A small random event can decide everything, but knowing such patterns does not exclude the possibility of at least preparing for all the mentioned possibilities, and maybe working for one of them.

Global Social Change at the Crossroads of Campus Internationalization and Diversity Initiatives: Unveiling Equity Practices in US Universities

Global Social Change at the Crossroads of Campus Internationalization and Diversity Initiatives: Unveiling Equity Practices in US Universities

Global Social Movements (GSMs) and Non-Governmental Organizations: Investigating the Impact on Global Social Change

Global Social Movements (GSMs) have become integral to the study of Sociology and International Politics, reflecting the interconnectedness of global communities on diverse issues. Orchestrated by NGOs and INGOs, GSMs encompass environmental, women’s, human rights, racial, fair trade, and refugee movements, among others, reflecting the breadth of global concerns. However, challenges arise from political affiliations between civil society members and state authorities, as well as pressures from donor countries and ruling elites in economically disadvantaged nations. This study, employing content analysis methodology, aims to delineate the causes of GSMs, investigate the roles of INGOs and civil society, and explore the interplay between GSMs and global governance. Through critical analysis, it provides insights and recommendations to enhance the effectiveness and inclusivity of GSMs in addressing global challenges, thus contributing to the advancement of global democracy and governance structures.

Ocean Planning and Conservation in the Age of Climate Change: A Roundtable Discussion

Synopsis Over recent years, recognition of the need to develop climate-smart marine spatial planning (MSP) has gained momentum globally. In this roundtable discussion, we use a question-and-answer format to leverage diverse perspectives and voices involved in the study of sustainable MSP and marine conservation under global environmental and social change. We intend this dialogue to serve as a stepping stone toward developing ocean planning initiatives that are sustainable, equitable, and climate-resilient around the globe.

Advancing Global Social Change: Systems Approaches to the Role of Nonprofits in Climate Policy

Advancing Global Social Change: Systems Approaches to the Role of Nonprofits in Climate Policy

Research on the Influence of Douyin on Teenager in China

In today's dynamic digital landscape, the influence of social media on adolescents has emerged as a central focus of research, education, and parenting. Douyin, a prominent short-form video platform, has become a key player in shaping teenagers' online experiences. This qualitative study undertakes a comprehensive exploration of the intricate relationship between Douyin and teenagers, shedding light on both its advantages and challenges. With a thorough review of pertinent literature, this research investigates Douyin's multifaceted impact on teenagers' psychological, social, and educational spheres. The study is guided by specific research objectives, including the examination of how Douyin fosters global connections and cross-cultural interactions, serves as a platform for promoting social awareness, contributes to skill development and informal learning, shapes teenagers' engagement with current events, and explores potential negative consequences such as addiction, physical harm, mental health issues, privacy concerns, and exposure to inappropriate content. The findings underscore the dual nature of Douyin's influence on teenagers, elucidating its role as a catalyst for global connections and social change, while also highlighting potential pitfalls related to addiction, safety, and privacy. As Douyin continues to play a pivotal role in the digital lives of teenagers, this research serves as a timely reminder of the importance of responsible use and guidance from educators, parents, and guardians. It underscores the need for a balanced approach to harnessing the platform's benefits while safeguarding against its potential drawbacks, emphasizing the broader significance of navigating the digital world with mindfulness and intentionality.

Implementation of Finite State Machine Models on the Artificial Intelligence System of Characters in The Game "MMORPG" using RPG Maker

Technological developments are the main drivers of global social, economic, and cultural change, including in the rapidly growing gaming industry. The Role-Playing Game (RPG) genre, in which players portray characters in the game's story, is gaining popularity. The application of FSM Models and AI technology in character development and RPG game interaction not only resulted in exciting entertainment, but also inspired similar uses in various fields. With AI, characters interact dynamically with players and environments, and FSM Models govern complex character behavior, the game experience is even more immersive. RPG Maker, one of the popular engines, simplifies the process of creating RPG games with an easy user interface. The implementation of the FSM Model is done through events and switches, directing storylines and character situations with structured logic. This study analyzes the application of FSM Model in MMORPG RPG games. Through the design, testing, and analysis stages, FSM proved effective in creating games that combine entertainment with learning. This game invites players to look for requirements and challenges to proceed to the next level. The result is an MMORPG game played on a PC with a Windows operating system, providing an educational and entertaining gaming experience.

Skeletal and muscular manifestations of post-COVID syndrome: literature review

The 2019 outbreak of a novel coronavirus infection in Wuhan City has resulted in a pandemic that has not only brought about global social change, but has also been a challenge for the entire medical community. The accumulation of material on this disease has revealed the multisystemic nature of internal organ damage with the development of new associated conditions, particularly those related to immunopathology and rheumatologic diseases. This review describes the literature on musculoskeletal symptoms during different periods of new-onset coronavirus infection (COVID-19). The paper defines the terms post-COVID syndrome and Long COVID, and describes clinical observations and the most common symptoms in adults and children. Clinical cases of joint syndrome are described in patients who have had a new coronavirus infection and no history of rheumatologic disease. Possible molecular pathogenesis of autoimmunity activation (cellular and humoral immune response as well as direct cytotoxic effect of the virus) both in acute period of coronavirus infection as well as during recuperation is also considered. Literature analysis of peculiarities of course of COVID-19 in patients with rheumatological diseases was carried out, in particular the risk of infection, its severe course and unfavourable outcome. In general, according to the analysis of the literature, musculoskeletal lesions occur more frequently between 3 and 10 weeks after the end of the acute stage of infection, most often manifested by muscle and joint pain, while the incidence of true reactive arthritis associated with COVID-19 is low. The pathogenesis of musculoskeletal damage requires further investigation and patients should be followed up for a longer period of time.

Preservice teachers’ professional beliefs in relation to global social change: Findings from Finland and Germany

This article presents empirical findings on orientations that guide Finnish and German preservice teachers’ professional action in the face of global social change. Drawing on group discussions interpreted with documentary method, the findings show that education under the conditions of global social change is discussed in relation to four thematic categories: the self in the world-relation, culture, social change and teaching praxis, each of which are connected to five distinctively different types of orientations. The findings shed light on how preservice teachers see themselves as change makers, and the importance of addressing each of these four perspectives in teacher education.

Assessment of essential surgical and anaesthesia care capacity: a cross-sectional study in five Pacific Island Countries

Pacific Island Countries (PICs) face unique challenges in providing surgical care. We assessed the surgical care capacity of five PICs to inform the development of National Surgical, Obstetric and Anaesthesia Plans (NSOAP). We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 26 facilities in Fiji, Tonga, Vanuatu, Cook Islands, and Palau using the World Health Organization - Program in Global Surgery and Social Change Surgical Assessment Tool. Eight referral and 18 first-level hospitals containing 39 functioning operating theatres, 41 post-anaesthesia care beds, and 44 intensive care unit beds served a population of 1,321,000 across the five countries. Most facilities had uninterrupted access to electricity, water, internet, and oxygen. However, CT was only available in 2/8 referral hospitals, MRI in 1/8, and timely blood transfusions in 4/8. The surgical, obstetric, and anaesthetist specialist density per 100,000 people was the highest in Palau (49.7), followed by Cook Islands (22.9), Tonga (9.9), Fiji (7.1), and Vanuatu (5.0). There were four radiologists and 3.5 pathologists across the five countries. Surgical volume per 100,000 people was the lowest in Vanuatu (860), followed by Fiji (2,247), Tonga (2,864), Cook Islands (6,747), and Palau (8,606). The in-hospital peri-operative mortality rate (POMR) was prospectively monitored in Tonga and Cook Islands but retrospectively measured in other countries. POMR was below 1% in all five countries. Whilst PICs share common challenges in providing specialised tertiary services, there is substantial diversity between the countries. Strategies to strengthen surgical systems should incorporate both local contextualisation within each PIC and regional collaboration between PICs. None.

Working Out of the Silo of Global Neurosurgery

The field of global surgery has gained attention since the publication of the Lancet Commission landmark report in 2015. The authors estimated that 5 billion people worldwide do not have access to safe, affordable surgical and anesthesia services. The paper “Global Neurosurgery: The Unmet Need,” published in 2016, launched the modern global neurosurgery era by advocating for the system-level thinking and programs required to address limited neurosurgical care in low-resource settings.
 
 At present, many individuals, academic institutions, governmental agencies, and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) are involved in the global neurosurgery movement. These include the Program in Global Surgery and Social Change at Harvard Medical School, Duke Global Neurology and Neurosurgery, Weill Cornell Tanzania Neurosurgery Project, CURE Children’s Hospital of Uganda, and the Virtue Foundation in Mongolia. Nonetheless, as global neurosurgery efforts continue to expand, it is essential to align global neurosurgery activity in order to prevent duplication of effort.
 
 In 2019, the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) established the Global Neurosurgery Committee (GNC) to promote access to safe, affordable, and timely neurosurgical care worldwide. The GNC initially included five primary objectives – Amplify, Align, Advance, Assimilate, and Advocate – with the sixth objective, Communication, added in 2021. In this manuscript, we provide an update on the Align objective team.

The Role of Neurosurgeons in Policy Development: Addressing Unmet Neurosurgical Needs in Low-and-Middle Income Countries

Introduction: Global Neurosurgical (GNS) publications can be classified into two broad categories: 1) clinical research and 2) public health research. To date, most papers and manuscripts have been clinical in nature. However, over the past 5 years, the focus of GNS manuscripts have changed dramatically. A recent scoping review identified public health-oriented GNS manuscripts from 1999 to 2019 and categorized them by the WHO’s six Health System domains (service delivery, workforce, infrastructure, financing, information management, and governance). The objectives of this follow-up study include: 1) updating the literature search done in the scoping review and 2) discussing the importance of comprehensive policy recommendations.
 Methods: We searched three databases – PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL, and EMBASE – for GNS literature published from June 2019 (the end of previous search date) to December 2020. Afterwards, a title & abstract screening was conducted.
 Results: A total of 246 references were found across the three aforementioned databases. After the title & abstract screening, 68 GNS manuscripts were identified. Although a full-text review was not conducted, this cursory search supports the notion that the GNS community is now shifting towards a more holistic, health systems-oriented approach.
 One limitation to this search method is the exclusion of commentaries and policy briefs that discussed governance within GNS. For example, the study excluded the Comprehensive Policy Recommendations that have been released by the Program for Global Surgery and Social Change (PGSSC). The first set of recommendations were about head and spine injuries. The second set of recommendations – published at the end of 2021 – focused on policy related to the management of Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus.
 Discussion: The Comprehensive Policy Recommendations clearly highlight how neurosurgeons can influence policy development and implementation. While these publications are a step forward, it is not enough. Moving ahead, the GNS community should: 1) widely disseminate the document to all, 2) selectively distribute the document to Ministries of Health, and 3) conduct more policy-focused research. To adequately address the unmet neurosurgical needs in LMICs, collaboration is paramount. It is time for neurosurgeons to think beyond the operating room.

A race to the finish line

A race to the finish line

Implications of the sustainability transition on the industry value creation logic – case of Finnish pulp and paper industry

Global economic, social and environmental change drivers have tremendous effects on the dynamic and nested business environment calling for a sustainability transition to a circular bioeconomy. The transition will pressurise established industries to alter their value creation logic to consider sustainability holistically. The study follows a case study research strategy and investigates how an established Finnish pulp and paper industry reconfigures its communicated value creation logic. The findings of a qualitative document analysis suggest that the pulp and paper industry has started to explore new sustainable path-breaking innovations and create a common development agenda, which has resulted in incremental adaptations in the value creation logic. However, the industry’s narrative of already being sustainable has hampered the reconfiguration and stabilisation of the adapted value creation logic. From a theoretical perspective, adopting an interdisciplinary and systemic perspective is necessary to understand the changing business environment. From a managerial perspective, cross-sectoral collaboration and including perspectives of different actors can help in creating a holistically sustainable value creation logic.

Introduction to the Special Issue of “TikTok and Social Movements”

This Special Issue of “TikTok and Social Movements” emerges from an attempt to map out the landscape of social movements happening on TikTok, drawing from the online symposium “TikTok and Social Movements” hosted in September 2021 by the TikTok Cultures Research Network, a research portal for interdisciplinary scholarship on TikTok cultures. The recent growing popularity of TikTok has transformed the cultures and practices of social movements worldwide. Through the platform’s participatory affordances, many users find meaningful ways to engage with the platform and its cultures, by leading and participating in a variety of activist initiatives for global awareness, social change, and civic politics. Within this context, this introduction to the Special Issue titled “TikTok and Social Movements” begins by thinking about how social media pop cultures have served as a vehicle for mobilizing and engaging in social movements for social (in)justice and politics in the era of social media. By situating TikTok, a nascent platform and culture of short video, within the ongoing discussion of digitally mobilized movements and social justice, this introduction addresses several crucial points to consider when discussing TikTok cultures and social movements that are happening or interrupted on the platform. These points are interrogated with more details and cultural contexts in the five case studies and three expert commentaries in this Special Issue. Specifically, the collection of papers interrogate how TikTok’s interactive and creative affordances have augmented and altered our cultures, practices, politics, and power dynamics of engaging with publics for various beliefs and social agendas.

Global Struggles and Social Change: From Prehistory to World Revolution in the Twenty-First Century

Global Struggles and Social Change: From Prehistory to World Revolution in the Twenty-First Century

Not just a liberal – Social philosophy as antiauthoritarian and utopian social criticism: Richard Rorty’s Achieving Our Country today

Rorty understands pragmatism in philosophy and social science, literature and art, to be intertwined with the political project of changing the world. Achieving Our Country, together with a lecture on the 150th anniversary of the Communist Manifesto, has become Rorty’s political testament. Rorty understands the leftist American project as the incomplete one of all those who fight for a classless society of boundless diversity (1). At the centre of Achieving Our Country is the tragic division between old and new, social and cultural Left (2). Rorty’s patriotism is progressive and cosmopolitan (3). The American project can only be realized if the Left breaks the hegemony of the political Right (4). For that, America must be understood as a utopia that makes itself the avant-garde of global political, economic, social and cultural change (5). This utopia can be realized only by a new kind of unity between leftist centres in the university and leftist organizational power in the rest of society. In this respect, America could become a model for the rest of the world again (6).

Christopher Chase-Dunn and Paul Almeida: Global Struggles and Social Change: From Prehistory to World Revolution in the Twenty-First Century

Article Christopher Chase-Dunn and Paul Almeida, Global Struggles and Social Change: From Prehistory to World Revolution in the Twenty-First Century was published on August 2, 2022 in the journal New Global Studies (volume 0, issue 0).