Positions Of Authority Research Articles

What Is Human Resources Law?

Abstract Human Resources (‘HR’) Law is not a term much used by legal scholars. In law schools throughout the English-speaking world, one encounters courses on employment law, labour law and, less frequently, work law, but no courses on ‘HR law’. Outside of law schools, however, the term is common parlance, at least in North America. But what is HR law? Is it nothing other than employment law, rebranded to appeal to firms and other employing organisations? In this paper, we argue that HR law reflects and reinforces a particular paradigm or vision of work relations that is quite distinct from traditional understandings of labour law’s defining purpose. When it comes to interpreting and applying employment law, moreover, human resource management professionals and HR lawyers assume positions of authority—positions of authority that might be recognised within firms by senior management and, beyond the firm, by courts, policy makers and legislatures. To what extent and with which consequences this is so, is likely to be jurisdiction-specific and demands further investigation.

What if we could eradicate cervical cancer?

Abstract Introduction WHO wants to achieve the elimination of Cervical Cancer: all countries must achieve and maintain an incidence rate of less than 4 per 100,000 women. Three key pillars: 90% of girls fully vaccinated against HPV by 15 years of age; 70% of women aged 35-45 years screened; 90% of women with pre-tumour lesion and invasive tumour treated. Our study assessed the position of the Tuscany South East Local Health Authority(LHA TSE) with respect to these three pillars and how to improve it. Methods A retrospective observational study was conducted. The following were used: ISTAT data of incidence of cervical cancer standardised by age from 2013 to 2017;data from ISPRO on screening(PAP and HPV test)from 2013 to 2022;data of vaccination coverage taken from the Health Information System of Collective Prevention(SISPC) from 2012 to 2023 for children<12 years, Results The incidence rate of cervical cancer in LHA TSE is 9.4 per 100 thousand. About HPV vaccine coverage by age 12, for girls it has been rising from 80.5% in 2012 to a peak of 84.8% in 2019 and then progressively decreasing to 76.3% in 2023.Coverage for boys has also been progressively increasing from 0.8% in 2012 to a peak in 2019 of 74.9% and then decreasing to 69.8% in 2023. A total of 52 thousand children are vaccinated. As for the adjusted adherence to screening, we started from an average adherence of 51.8% in 2013 (75 thousand women invited with 102% coverage) to 53.2% in 2022 (54 thousand women invited with 107% coverage). In 2013, ASC-US+ lesions were found in 6.4 % of women by PAP Test and in 2022 in 6.3 % of women. In the examined period, more than 90% of women with pre-tumour lesion and more than 90% with invasive tumour were treated. Conclusions LHA TSE will have to implement actions to increase vaccination coverage and screening adherence rates through awareness campaigns and open days, also considering whether a change in the age range for starting screening is necessary as vaccination coverage increases. Key messages • Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, but too few young women are vaccinated against HPV infection, the main causative factor. • Prevention through adherence to screening enables early identification of lesions caused by HPV virus.

Reflecting (on) power?Critical reflections by healthworkers in Germany on racial power and privilege

Abstract Background Healthcare users have increasingly reported on experiences of racial discrimination in healthcare encounters in Germany (Aikins et al. 2020). While research on the experiences of racialised users predominates, examining the perspectives of white professionals, especially those holding positions of authority, regarding their internalised stereotypes and discriminatory practices is also crucial. This study therefore investigated the prevalence of conscious or unconscious biases related to critical whiteness and anti-racism among healthcare workers (doctors, nurses and therapists) and how these attitudes shaped their professional practice. Methods Problem-centred expert interviews (Döringer 2021) with 20 healthcare professionals from medicine, nursing, and therapeutic professions working in hospitals or rehabilitation facilities across three German federal states. Data were analysed using documentary method (Bohnsack 2002). Results Respondents exhibited varying degrees of reflective abilities, and there are limited opportunities for structured self-reflection focused on recognizing and addressing racism. The research interview constituted a much-needed space for such reflection. Those who are sensitised about their own positions of privilege often are so due to external influences and personal trajectories (teenaged children, trade union activism) rather than through the values or structures of their institutions. Unconscious racism nonetheless still manifests, demonstrating the need to create more inclusive environments where critical self-reflection on racism is encouraged. Conclusions To effectively combat racism, German healthcare institutions must systematically implement anti-racist and intersectional interventions. This also entails creating spaces for reflection where staff can openly examine and acknowledge their own biases, fostering an environment conducive to collective action for promoting anti-racist workplace practices. Key messages • Opportunities for self-reflection critical of racism should also be offered across institutions in order to ensure trusting, non-hierarchical spaces. • Reflections on one’s own social positioning and privileges are not common in all circles, so the necessity of this attitude should be communicated in an error-friendly manner.

Analysis of the Interpersonal Meaning in the Teacher Discourse in Competition Videos

This study, grounded in Systemic Functional Linguistics, examines the form and distribution of mood and modality in English classroom discourse by the winner of the Special Prize at the 12th "Foreign Language Teaching Society Cup" National College Foreign Language Teaching Competition (English Major Group). It reveals how interpersonal meaning is realized in the teacher's discourse and explores teacher-student relationships. The analysis shows a predominant use of the declarative mood, followed by interrogative and imperative moods. This balance reflects the teacher's dual role as both knowledge disseminator and facilitator of student participation, steering away from a wholly authoritative position. Minimal use of the imperative mood suggests discussions are mainly informational, reducing student pressure and promoting an equal and harmonious classroom atmosphere. Declarative moods serve multiple functions, whereas interrogatives stimulate student engagement. Modal preferences indicate a balance between directive and facilitative communication, emphasizing low modal values to foster respect and a student-centered approach. This strategy illustrates the teacher's respect for students, embracing roles such as guide and observer, and offers insights for creating inclusive and effective university English classrooms.

The impact of a microaggressions-themed interprofessional education curriculum on attitudes, confidence, and collaboration competencies: A curricular resource for health professions learners

While attention has been paid to microaggressions (MAs) and interprofessional (IP) education independently, little attention has been paid to how training IP learners in MA can impact confidence and willingness to respond to MAs. We developed an online IPE activity, for six health professions, with asynchronous and synchronous components utilizing standardized patients (SPs) aiming to educate on MAs, their impacts, and how to appropriately respond as recipient, bystander, and source. Students from senior undergraduate nursing (BSN), second-year medical (MD), third-year pharmacy (PharmD), physician assistant/associate (PA) students, athletic training (BS), and graduate nursing (DNP) health professions programs participated.Objectives included: define MA; respond to a MA as the source, bystander, and recipient using Ackerman-Barger's Microaggressions Triangle model; respond to a MA when the source is lateral, in a position of authority, and a patient; and identify the ability of the activity to allow interprofessional collaboration across the six Interprofessional Collaborative Competencies Attainment Scale (ICCAS) domains. The synchronous virtual session began with a large group didactic mini lecture and transitioned to IP small group activities. Within groups, students completed SP simulations where students role played responding to MAs as the recipient, bystander, and source. The session concluded with a faculty-led large group debrief. Students were pleased with the learning experience and demonstrated improvements in attitudes/confidence responding to MAs and ICCAS domains. The curriculum can be customized to meet the needs of a variety of health profession learners and is available for use from the authors.

Анализ положения ведомственных периодических изданий с учетом новых методик ранжирования научных публикаций

The purpose of this work is to conduct a quantitative thematic analysis of published departmental scientific periodicals produced by organizations of the Federal Penitentiary Service of Russia in the context of the implementation of the recommendation of the Higher Attestation Commission (HAC) under the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia dated October 26, 2022 No. 2-pl/1 “On new criteria for applicants for academic degrees of Candidate of Sciences, Doctor of Sciences, to members of dissertation councils”, changes in the methodology for calculating the integral indicator Science Index and subsequent recalculation of bibliometric indicators for all journals. Monitoring of departmental scientific journals included in the List of Higher Attestation Commissions and the results of their categorization in 2023. Methodology: the methodological basis for the research is general scientific methods: integrity, consistency, universal connection, causality, methods of idealization, synthesis, comparative, qualitative, content analysis. Conclusions. The publication of departmental periodicals is one of the factors in the development of departmental science and education. The dynamics of a general increase in the number of journals at the same time does not directly affect the increase in the number of publications included in the List of Higher Attestation Commissions. An increase of 30% in the total number of journals had little effect on the growth of publications included in the List of Higher Attestation Commissions. The proportions of the distribution of departmental publications by category (more than half are classified in the second category) indicate the sustainable development of periodicals. At the same time, only one journal is classified as a leading journal, which clearly causes a desire to strengthen the position of authority among other departmental periodicals. Understanding the level of development of the journal in comparison with publications of the same thematic scope is important for building further editorial policy. It is clear that the development of a sovereign system of scientific assessment, rating, ranking, categorization of scientific periodicals, which began in 2022, is not static and will undergo more than one change in the process of searching for an optimal selection system that ensures the most objective assessment of the publication. Scientific and practical relevance. The choice of a fairly narrow locus of departmental publications demonstrates general trends. There is a direct relationship between categorization and the individual perception by authors and scientists of the prestige of the periodical and the difficulty of publishing research in it. The results of the quantitative and thematic analysis of published departmental scientific periodicals produced by organizations of the Federal Penitentiary Service of Russia, presented in the article, can be useful both to individuals engaged in editorial and publishing activities and to authors building a publishing career.

Understanding seafarers’ physical and mental health

ABSTRACT This study delves into the comprehensive examination of the quality of life of Turkish seafarers operating worldwide, utilizing the SF-36 health Survey to assess both physical and mental health components. Statistical analyses of the data, gathered from 955 Turkish seafarers, offer insights into the demographic factors influencing their quality of life. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to determine the association of demographic and work-related characteristics with psychological and mental health status. Findings indicate that Turkish seafarers exhibit a physical health status better than migrant female workers but worse than university professors, and approximately the same as aircraft manufacturing and healthcare workers, aligning with existing literature on other occupational groups. Moreover, older age groups, particularly those in authoritative positions such as master’s and chief engineers, demonstrate significantly poorer physical health. The study also highlights the mental health challenges faced by cadets, suggesting interventions to address their vulnerable state. Notably, while 25.2% of participants exhibit low physical health scores, a concerning 46.0% report poor mental health scores.

Implementation of Respect for Autonomy in Hospital Services Within the Indonesia National Health Insurance System

The principle of patient autonomy forms the foundation of medical ethics. However, its exploration within the context of national health insurance systems in developing countries remains under-researched. This study aimed to evaluate respect for patient autonomy within Indonesia's National Health Insurance (NHI/JKN) system. The study using a qualitative research interview analyzed thematically. Conducted in Depok, West Java, the study involved in-depth semi-structured interviews with 18 participants, encompassing patients from first-level health facilities (FLHF), general practitioners at FLHF, specialist doctors, and management of referral hospital (RH) officers, and staff members of the JKN. The data were transcribed and analyzed using a thematic approach. The study revealed substantial underutilization of respecting patient autonomy within medical contexts under the JKN. Five themes emerged: challenges in the referral system, knowledge and information dissemination, decision-making and autonomy, quality of healthcare services, and systemic constraints and impact. These themes highlight the lack of patient awareness, restricted medical choices, the dominant role of paternalism (a system in which the government or a person in a position of authority makes decisions for other people) in healthcare decisions, and improper informed consent process. The findings suggest that the principles of beneficence and paternalism often overshadow respect for patient autonomy in the JKN system. This raises concerns about the ethical aspect of patient treatment, particularly the need for greater focus on patient autonomy and shared decision-making to align more closely with global medical ethics practices. This study contributes to understanding autonomy in national health insurance systems in developing countries. It highlights the need for systemic reforms to enhance healthcare efficiency and effectiveness while respecting patient autonomy.

Teacher Professional Development Through Writing Scientific Papers

Objektive: This research aims to develop teacher professionalism through the writing of scientific papers. Theoretical Framework: Professional teachers will be reflected in the implementation of the service of tasks characterized by the presence of expertise, both in materials and methods. In addition, it is also shown through his responsibility in carrying out all his devotion. Professional teachers should be able to bear and carry out their responsibilities as teachers to their learners, parents, society, nation, state, and religion. Professional teachers have personal, social, academic, moral, and spiritual responsibilities. Method: The design used in this research is descriptive qualitative. The data sources are 139 Indonesian language teachers from the Gorontalo Province. The research data consists of scientific papers written as part of the development of teacher professionalism, with the sources being 139 teachers. Data analysis is based on three processes, namely data reduction, data display, and verification, focusing on scientific papers to develop teacher professionalism. Results and Discussion: The teacher is one of the components of education in schools that has an important and strategic role. Among a number of competencies of professional teachers, the most important thing we emphasize is competence in learning management. A profession is a skill and authority in a certain position that requires certain competencies (attitudes, knowledge, and skills) specifically obtained from intensive academic education. In relation with that compiling scientific work is one of the forms of teacher professional development activities. Writing scientific papers for teachers is actually a basic necessity for developing their profession. Furthermore, the development of the ability to write scientific papers for teachers will have two main impacts, namely (a) teachers earn additional income from writing scientific papers if they are published in the mass media and win competitions and (b) teachers’ insight and understanding of the world of education and learning more deeply and comprehensively. Research Implications: This research has implications for increasing teacher professionalism through the writing of scientific papers. Teachers' ability to correctly write scientific papers significantly impacts their professionalism in teaching. Teachers will have better teaching skills if their scientific writing skills are also good. Additionally, teachers will serve as exemplary role models for their students in scientific writing. Originality/Value: This research significantly contributes to the improvement of teacher professionalism. Teachers with previously low professionalism can be continuously improved through their ability to write scientific papers. Gradually but surely, the persistent training in scientific writing will lead to increased professionalism. This professionalism is

Концептуальные аспекты противодействия электоральному экстремизму

Manifestation of extremism elements in the course of preparation for and holding of elections and referendums can trigger destructive consequences irreversible for the state and society: from social upheavals and "orange revolutions" to disruption of the constitutional order and forced seizure of power. The electoral system of any civilized state not only creates conditions for the democratic transition of power in accordance with the will of the people but is also aimed at maintaining stability and law and order in complicated conditions of the transitional electoral cycle including combating manifestations of extremism in the course of electoral procedures and prevention of election of extremists to positions of authority. Extremism that is most aggressively, strongly and dangerously manifested in electoral procedures requires government authorities to take precise and coordinated action to assure and protect electoral rights and freedoms of citizens from illegal encroachments. Legally consolidated authorities and functions of election organizers in the extremism combating issue give an opportunity to suggest a new form of manifestation of political extremism during preparation for and holding of elections and referendums, which is electoral extremism. In this publication, the author makes an attempt at conceptual justification of electoral extremism and giving an author’s definition thereof for the purpose of further analysis of ways of combating electoral extremism to assure free elections and electoral sovereignty of the state from encroachments of political radicals who are often sponsored by intelligence services of hostile foreign states.

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s Leadership and Communication Skills

Leadership refers to the ability and capacity to direct, inspire and influence individuals or groups to achieve a common goal. However, leadership is a multifaceted concept that covers a wide range of qualities, behaviors and communication skills exhibited by individuals who are in a position of authority and naturally assume the leadership role. Communication skills are the ability to effectively and efficiently convey information, thoughts, ideas and feelings to others through verbal, non-verbal, written or visual elements. The combination of these components brings success in both personal and social interactions. One of the factors behind the success of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who built a modern, democratic and secular nation-state from the ruins of the Ottoman Empire, is that he had both leadership and effective communication qualities. Atatürk has always been an example to both his nation and the world with these qualities. These talents of his were instrumental in shaping modern Turkey, in putting forward the vision of the nation, in implementing bold reforms, in building a state after struggles and in instilling a sense of national unity and solidarity. Turkish people has made him a national hero while being respected by the world. The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's intellectual, political, charismatic, transformative, democratic and autocratic leadership types and his communication skills. In order to determine the above-mentioned characteristics, firstly, Atatürk's life and some of the revolutions he made were included. Then, in order to determine his leadership characteristics, his actions in the context of leadership theories were discussed. Afterwards, some of their behaviours were examined within the scope of basic communication skills in order to understand their communication skills. In the study, the descriptive research method, which is a method that aims to reveal the relationships between events by evaluating existing or past information in line with standards, was used. As a result of the examination, it was concluded that Atatürk had all of the basic leadership qualities and effective communication skills.

Reframing Genesis 3:16: Eve’s Creation Memoir

I will read Genesis 3:16 through the lens of Genesis 4. While Eve has become a fixed object in traditional interpretation as a dangerous temptress for man and the cause of humanity’s fall into sin, her story does not end in this chapter. Eve’s creative agency as “mother of all living” becomes the framework for the drama that unfolds in Genesis 4. Her body and her voice carry the story of life into the future. This essay shows the connection between Genesis 3:16 and the story in Genesis 4 by moving beyond a linguistic analysis of the common verbs, mashal and teshuqah. I will read the two texts together with the ancient scribes who distinguished Genesis 3:16 by placing this one verse between two setumah markers. Likewise, the story of Eve in Genesis 4:1–5:2 is placed between two setumah markers, thereby showing that ancient Hebrew readings emphasized a close relationship between Genesis 3:16 and Genesis 4:1–5:2. This is opposed to the Christian chapter division, which separates Genesis 3 from the story in Genesis 4, and places Genesis 3 in an authoritative position for the sake of extrapolating the doctrine of the fall into sin with the woman playing the central role in the fall story. I will further engage in deep reading, literary analysis, and performance criticism, and argue that Eve tells her own creation story with masterful subversiveness and creative audacity. The attempt of the essay is to reorient the dominant negative view of Eve toward a more positive, complex, and nuanced reading of her character in the Genesis text.

Implementation of Organizational Structure in Gantar District, Indramayu Regency

This research aims to discuss the implementation of the sub-district organizational structure after the expansion of sub-districts in Gantar District, Indramayu Regency in 2003. The results of this research show that the implementation of the sub-district organizational structure in Gantar District is not yet completely optimal. This can be seen from (a) type of organization, (b) organizational department, (c) position and type of authority of officials, (d) field and employment relationship, (e) line of orders and responsibilities, (f) range of control and organizational leadership system which in general still shows that it has not been implemented effectively.

Why did the Bosniaks Embrace Islam, Unlike the Serbs and Croats?

Abstract: This article discusses the reasons, why, unlike their Serb and Croat neighbors, the Bosniaks embraced Islam. Though somewhat gradual, the process was both collective and earnest, amounting to a phenomenon rarely witnessed in the latter periods of Islamic civilization in general, and the expansion of the Ottoman Caliphate in particular. Different scholars have provided different perspectives on the enduring mystery. However, as religion has been politicized and nationalized in the Balkan region, and politics and nationalism have become intertwined with religion, the task of reconciling conflicting perspectives and establishing the truth has become increasingly complex. This article posits that, besides, several secondary socio-political and economic factors, religion was the primary driver behind the conversion of the Bosniaks. The unique faith and rituals of the Patarens in Bosnia, along with their Bosnian Church, had a notable impact on a large number of Bosniaks, including those in positions of power and authority. The Bosniaks were distinguished by their inclination towards openness, inquisitiveness, and pursuit of truth, unlike the Serbs and Croats who often let ethno-nationalism and faith-based chauvinism shape their religious and socio-cultural choices. A research methodology that integrates descriptive, interpretative, and analytical historical methods is employed in the entire work.

한국 코미디 프로그램 속 다문화 가정의 고정관념 분석 - ‘외국인 며느리 니퉁의 인간 극장’을 중심으로

This study analyzes the stereotypes of multicultural families presented in the Korean comedy program ‘Foreign Daughter-in-Law Nitong’s Human Theater’. To achieve this, six episodes were transcribed, and the interactions and behaviors of the characters were examined to collect and categorize the stereotypes. The analysis revealed that the frequency of speech by the mother-in-law and the daughter-in-law Nitong was the highest, reflecting the authoritative position of the mother-in-law and the subordinate role of Nitong. In contrast, the husband's speech frequency was relatively low, indicating his role as a mediator in conflict situations and his lack of direct involvement in household affairs. The analysis of stereotype types identified those related to household labor, family roles, cultural elements, language issues, and appearance and age. Household labor stereotypes were reproduced through the mother-in-law's instructions and Nitong's compliance, emphasizing traditional patriarchal roles, the mother-in-law's authority, and the daughter-in-law's subordinate role. Additionally, cultural elements such as food culture, lifestyle differences, and language issues were found to be sources of conflict, with misunderstandings, conflicts, and pronunciation issues being major factors. Stereotypes related to appearance and age, including evaluations and derogations, were also present. This study elucidates how media forms and reinforces stereotypes about multicultural families, providing valuable insights into the discrimination and inequality faced by multicultural family members in society. It underscores the importance of multicultural education and media literacy, suggesting the need for viewers to critically engage with media. Ultimately, the study contributes to enhancing social inclusivity and respect for diverse cultural backgrounds.

Whispers of dedication; unraveling motivational narratives among midwives in reproductive healthcare: a qualitative exploration

Background: Family planning is an important component of reproductive health care. Midwives play a key role in bridging the gap between community and essential reproductive health services. However, our focus extends beyond their service and deeper into what motivates them in this important area of ​​healthcare. We seek to understand the motivations for their commitment, and the challenges they face in meeting the needs of their patients and communities. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted involving ten midwives with structured guide in a focus group discussion. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, coded and thematic analysis was done. Results: Four themes were derived. The theme “Pinnacle Aspirations" essentially presented the motivation for training as an expression of passionate desire for career advancement and self-interest. “Navigating the Terrain” derived the challenges faced by midwives and their expectations which were limited resources, strong beliefs, and misinformation within the community as well as family resistance hindered contraception intake. “Dismal work realities” portrays midwives’ expectations to be acknowledged in terms of higher salary, position and status in health care system. “Women Empowered” explored midwives’ readiness to raise awareness among women about their rights to choose spacing and appropriate methods available. Conclusions: The study revealed the motivations of midwives and explored the various challenges faced by them and their desire to be acknowledged and rewarded for their invaluable service either through formal recognition of position of authority, monetary incentive or financial support, to aid them in their professional endeavors.

Are companies ethically justified in offering nonmedical egg freezing as an employee benefit?

All over the world, many companies are including oocyte cryopreservation for nonmedical reasons, also popularly known as nonmedical egg freezing (NMEF), within their employee benefits packages. However, it is important to ask whether companies are ethically justified in offering NMEF as a benefit for their employees. The inclusion of NMEF within companies' employee benefits packages could be ethically justified in two ways. On the one hand, company-sponsored NMEF can serve as a strategy to mitigate or eliminate gender inequalities in the workplace, such as female underrepresentation in positions of authority and leadership and the so-called work/motherhood conflict. On the other hand, company-sponsored NMEF can be a means to expand women's reproductive autonomy by making egg freezing accessible to those women who are not able to afford it otherwise. This article calls into question these ethical justifications. We argue that by offering NMEF as an employee benefit, companies maintain current workplace inequalities and impose an option for women with multiple risks and externalities. Therefore, companies' offering of NMEF benefits cannot be ethically justified. Furthermore, we argue that companies that offer NMEF benefits incur fiduciary responsibilities related to the physiological, emotional, psychological, and financial costs of the use of company-sponsored NMEF.

Revisiting the Algorithms Behind the Headlines. How Journalists Respond to Professional Competition of Generative AI

ABSTRACT Due to its ability to process and create human-like texts, Generative AI such as ChatGPT is a potential game changer in news making. This paper re-examines central research areas that were analyzed around the emergence of earlier versions of automated news writing in the 2012 article The Algorithms behind the Headlines. The current paper employs a sociology of professions- and boundary work- perspective to understand how journalists (re)assert their professional authority in the face of Generative AI. An analysis of metajournalistic discourse where journalists reflect on their profession in the light of ChatGPT’s launch shows that journalists saw Generative AI as a larger threat to their profession than previous forms of automated news writing. They strongly defended their authoritative position over the societal task of information provision, either by reaffirming journalists as a professional collective, or by focusing on journalists as individuals with a unique tone of voice. While rejecting the idea of algorithmic objectivity, humanness served as a shortcut for originality. Journalists argued that they should remain firmly in the loop when Generative AI is integrated in news making. The new technical possibilities of Generative AI were not accommodated in the journalistic profession by broadening the understanding of journalism.

Atlas asunder? Neo-liberal think tanks and the radical right

Abstract How are neoliberal thought leaders reacting to the rise of radical conservatism? Looking at Atlas, a worldwide network comprising approximately 500 free market think tanks and campaign groups, this study examines how its affiliates prioritize threats. This is accomplished through a qualitative analysis of a sample of documents that Atlas partners published on their websites from 2017 to 2022. The findings range from expected to puzzling. First, there is a reliable adherence to core neo-liberal ideas such as globalization and marketization. Second, explicit evidence of ideological tension is scarce, as only a few think tanks openly signal alignment with illiberal and authoritarian positions. However, as a whole, the network appears consistently—and wilfully—apathetic towards the radical right. This indifference contrasts with the vigour and regularity with which the network confronts left-of-center ideas, parties and governments. Delving into this contrast and its political implications, the study highlights the twin concepts of strategic and selective ignorance and considers their analytical potential.

Politeness and Authority in 3 John: Epistolary Phraseology and Rhetoric Reconsidered

Abstract This paper examines the phraseology of three epistolary formulae—namely, the formula valetudinis initialis (opening health wish formula), the formula of joy, and the καλῶς ποιήσεις formula, in Greco-Egyptian private letters written between the first century bce and third century ce. In particular, we observe that the letter writers make an opening health wish customarily when the letter recipients’ position/status is higher or at least equal to the writers—but rarely when the recipients’ position/status is lower than the writers. Furthermore, when the opening health wishes were made in expanded and reconfigured forms, they signal intensified courtesy to the recipients. The formula of joy also reinforced the favourable atmosphere when persuasion or request was intended. In this vein, the expanded and reconfigured formula valetudinis initialis used together with the formula of joy in 3 John 2–4 shows that the Elder does not intend to write his letter from the position of a higher authority. Furthermore, in requesting hospitality, he uses the καλῶς ποιήσεις formula, indicating his intention to persuade Gaius, whom he also includes in ‘us’ (3 John 12). Thus, the epistolary rhetoric of 3 John fits better with a correspondence between partners rather than an exhortation in an institutionalised hierarchy, unlike the case of the Ignatian letters.