bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shedding Light on Dataset Influence for More Transparent Machine Learning
Authors: Settibathini Venkata Surendra Kumar , Virmani Ankit , Kuppam Manoj , S. Nithya , Manikandan S. , C. Elayaraja
Published: May 2024

From healthcare to banking, machine learning models are essential. However, their decision-making processes can be mysterious, challenging others who rely on their insights. The quality and kind of training and evaluation datasets determine these models' transparency and performance. This study examines how dataset factors affect machine learning model performance and interpretability. This study examines how data quality, biases, and volume affect model functionality across a variety of datasets. The authors find that dataset selection and treatment are crucial to transparent and accurate machine learning results. Accuracy, completeness, and relevance of data affect the model's learning and prediction abilities. Due to sampling practises or historical prejudices in data gathering, dataset biases can affect model predictions, resulting in unfair or unethical outcomes. Dataset size is also important, according to our findings. Larger datasets offer greater learning opportunities but might cause processing issues and overfitting. Smaller datasets may not capture real-world diversity, resulting in underfitting and poor generalisation. These views and advice are useful for practitioners. These include ways for pre-processing data to reduce bias, assuring data quality, and determining acceptable dataset sizes. Addressing these dataset-induced issues can improve machine learning model transparency and effectiveness, making them solid, ethical tools for many applications.
An Optimized Clustering Quality Analysis in K-Means Cluster Using Silhouette Scores
Authors: Ilyas F. Mohamed , Priscila S. Silvia
Published: May 2024

Data-driven problem-solving requires the capacity to use cutting-edge computational methods to explain fundamental phenomena to a large audience. These facilities are needed for political and social studies. Quantitative methods often involve knowledge of concepts, trends, and facts that affect the study programme. Researchers often don't know the data's structure or assumptions when analysing it. Data exploration may also obscure social science research methodology instruction. It was essential applied research before predictive modelling and hypothesis testing. Clustering is part of data mining and picking the right cluster count is key to improving predictive model accuracy for large datasets. Unsupervised machine learning (ML) algorithm K-means is popular. The method usually finds discrete, non-overlapping clusters with groups for each location. It can be difficult to choose the best k-means approach. In the human freedom index (HFI) dataset, the mini batch k-mean (MBK-mean) using the Hamely method reduces iteration and increases cluster efficiency. The silhouette score algorithm from Scikit-learn was used to obtain the average silhouette co-efficient of all samples for various cluster counts. A cluster with fewer negative values is considered best. Additionally, the silhouette with the greatest score has the optimum clusters.
Comparative Analysis of Belief Propagation and Layered Decoding Algorithms for LDPC Codes
Authors: E. Channaveeramma , Palaniswamy K. M.
Published: May 2024

Wireless digital communication enables instantaneous connections and conversations between people all over the world. In a digital communication system, the channel code is used to detect and fix errors. The most widely used error-correcting codes are LDPC channel codes, which are represented by a sparse parity-check matrix and have performance close to the Shannon limit. The sophistication and versatility of decoders determines the error-correcting codes' efficacy. LDPC codes are used in a wide variety of broadcasting, satellite communication, LAN, and PAN applications because of their capacity-approaching properties. Sparsity allows for the use of LDPC codes; however, simplified decoding algorithms play a crucial role in achieving high-speed, error-free communication. In this work, we focus on locating a decoding algorithm with the lowest possible complexity and the fewest possible iterations. The belief propagation algorithm and layered decoding or turbo decoding algorithms are with the code rates ½, ¾,5/8, and 13/16, which are compatible with the WLAN (IEEE Std 802.11™-2016 (Revision of IEEE Std 802.11-2012, 2012) standard. In terms of bit error rate, layered decoding or turbo decoding of the message forwarding method performs better. It is also seen that performance improves with an increase in the number of iterations.
Design and Development of Compensation Topologies in WPT Using MATLAB Programming and MATLAB Simulink
Authors: Somashekar B. , D. Moger Ganapathy
Published: May 2024

Wireless power transmission devices are growing in acceptance and usefulness. This chapter will discuss, examine, and contrast various compensation topologies for the transfer of inductive power. The classification of topology is changed. The difficulties of the five primary topological needs, standards, safety, and the physical underpinnings of compensatory labour are given considerable emphasis. The IPT is found to favour topologies with a series of main compensations over the four conventional systems for charging devices. If the output voltage is low, the series-parallel method is preferable since it allows for the smallest possible size of the secondary side coil. The resonance load and the magnetic coupling coefficient frequency do not affect the series-series solution. The comparative results are given in tables, graphs, and dependencies for ease of display and understanding utilising Matlab programming and Matlab Simulink. Each application has its own set of core topologies. A “one-stop” information source and selection guide for compensatory topologies in terms of devices and power level are two potential uses for the results of this research, which is the primary benefit of the study. The literature review and recent market trends for wireless power transmission devices point to the most promising future paths for topologies.
Short Time Comparison of Item Sets With Market Basket Analysis Using Frequent Pattern (FP) Growth Method
Authors: Ali A. Ashraf , Priscila S. Silvia
Published: May 2024

Supermarket analysis examines purchasing patterns to identify relationships among the various goods in a customer's shopping cart. The results of these correlations have assisted businesses in developing a successful sales strategy by grouping goods that customers commonly buy. Due to the expanding volume of data and its widespread utilization in the retail sector to enhance marketing strategies, Data Mining (DM) has become increasingly important in recent years. Transaction data analysis from the past yields a wealth of knowledge about consumer behaviour and commercial choices. The rate at which data is saved doubles every second that the fastest processor is available for its analysis. In a huge dataset or database, the Market Basket Analysis (MBA) approach of DM seeks out a group of items that commonly appear together. This technology is employed in a variety of sectors, including retail, to encourage cross-selling, assist with fraud detection, product replacement, and certain purposes. Based on this technology, it is simple to understand the buying trends of consumers and their preferences. Technology has advanced, and current business practices have significantly changed as a result. By figuring out the connections among the various things in the consumer's buying baskets, this approach examines their purchasing behaviours. Businesses must increase the accuracy of their operations as a result of changes in customer demands. This research focuses on FP growth, which performs better in mining frequent itemsets than apriori. Hence, this paper focuses on analyzing frequent patterns using conditional FP-Tree in FP growth and compares it with improved and traditional apriori with minimum support as the threshold for identifying the frequently occurring item sets. Moreover, the time consumption of the Associative Rule Mining (ARM) model has been compared with the FP Growth algorithm for identifying the short-time comparison model.
Efficient Noise Removal in Palmprint Images Using Various Filters in a Machine-Learning Approach
Authors: Mercy J. Sheela , Priscila S. Silvia
Published: May 2024

A biological identification technique, palm print identification, takes advantage of the distinctive patterns on a person's palm for authentication. It falls under the broader category of biometrics, which deals with evaluating and statistically assessing each individual's distinctive personality characteristics. The efficiency of three well-known noise-removal methods the non-local mean (NLM) filter, Wiener filter, and median filter when utilized on palmprint images are examined in the present research. Peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR), mean squared error (MSE), and structural similarity index measure (SSIM) were used to evaluate the performance. The objective is to identify the best technique for reducing noise in palmprint photos without compromising important details. NLM filter beat the Wiener and Median filters by producing an MSE of 0.000143, PSNR of 41.79, and SSIM of 0.998, respectively and also the tool used for executing Jupyter Notebook and the language used is Python. Regarding the various types of noises frequently present in palmprint photos, the NLM filter demonstrated superior noise reduction abilities. The NLM filter successfully improved image quality while maintaining the images' structure.
Analysis of Cyber Attack on Processor Architecture Through Exploiting Vulnerabilities
Authors: Hema L. K. , Kumar Dwibedi Rajat , Regilan S. , K. Dheenadhayalan , Vinay Kumar Kommera , Satish Kumar Survi
Published: May 2024

A computer exploit exploits a system vulnerability to attack processor architectures including ARM, AMD, and Intel. The main CPU architectures nowadays are 32-bit (x86) and 64-bit (x86-64, IA64, and AMD64). Processor data route width, integer size, and memory address width vary per architecture. The chapter exploits processor architecture flaws. This study examines ARM and INTEL processor vulnerabilities. Modern processors like Intel, AMD, and ARM are vulnerable to Spectre. A malicious application can read data from an inaccessible area by breaking inter-process and intra-process isolation. Hardware and software protection prevents such access (for inter-process isolation). CPU architecture has a weakness that allows bypassing defences. The hardware fault makes it tough to rectify without replacing the CPUs. Spectre is a breed of CPU design vulnerability. Security education benefits from them and the Meltdown issue. In this chapter, the authors executed Spectre and Meltdown on ARM and INTEL processors to explore their vulnerabilities. The ARM processor was not vulnerable because the chip was patched, but the INTEL processor was vulnerable and retrieved the information.
Convolution Neural Network-Based Efficient Development of Intrusion Detection Using Various Deep Learning Approaches
Authors: Gowthami G. , Priscila S. Silvia
Published: May 2024

As internet usage has increased, firewalls and antiviruses are not alone enough to overcome the attacks and assure the privacy of information in a computer network, which needs to be a security system with multiple layers. Security layers are a must for protecting the network system from any potential threats through regular monitoring, which is provided with the help of IDS. The main objective of implementing intrusion detection is to monitor and identify the possible violation of the security policies of the computer system. Working preventively rather than finding a solution after the problem is essential. Threat prevention is done using intrusion detection systems development based on security policies concerning integrity, confidentiality, availability of resources, and system data that need to be preserved from attacks. In this research, three algorithms, namely Artificial Neural Network (ANN), Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP), and Convolution Neural Network (CNN), have been used. From the results obtained, the proposed Convolution Neural Network (CNN)produces an Accuracy of 90.94%, MSE of 0.000242, Log Loss of 0.4079 and Mathews Coefficient of 0.9177. The tool used is Jupyter Notebook, and the language used is Python.
A Visualization Approach for Analyzing Decision-Making in Human-Robot Interactions
Authors: Godbole Madhavi , Bammidi Tirupathi Rao , Kumar Vadlamudi Anil
Published: May 2024

In an era where human-robot interactions are becoming increasingly integrated into our daily lives, gaining insights into the decision-making processes of robots is paramount. This chapter introduces an innovative visualization approach designed to cater specifically to the analysis and comprehension of decision-making mechanisms in human-robot interactions. This methodology combines cutting-edge visualization techniques with valuable insights from the field of robotics, creating an intuitive platform for users. This platform allows for a transparent and accessible understanding of the underlying mechanisms that govern robot behaviour. The significance of transparency in robot decision-making cannot be overstated. It fosters trust between humans and robots, which is essential for effective and seamless collaboration across various environments. By offering this level of transparency, this approach paves the way for more harmonious interactions between humans and their robotic counterparts, whether it's in industrial settings, healthcare, or everyday life. The visualization techniques employed in this approach enable users to dissect and interpret the intricate decision-making processes of robots. This includes understanding how sensors, algorithms, and environmental data contribute to the actions taken by robots. By gaining insights into these processes, users can better predict and anticipate robot behaviour, which is crucial for ensuring safety and efficiency in human-robot collaborative tasks. Also, this approach bridges the gap between the complex inner workings of robots and the human operators who interact with them. It promotes trust, enhances collaboration, and empowers users to harness the full potential of human-robot partnerships. As we continue to integrate robots into our daily lives, understanding and visualizing their decision-making processes will be instrumental in achieving seamless and productive interactions.
Addressing Stigma and Help-Seeking Barriers for Men
Authors: Wiggins Arika Yvette
Published: May 2024

When seeking care for mental health challenges, it is common for men to encounter emotional obstacles and self-stigma. Men are often reluctant to express their vulnerability or ask for help because of rigid cultural gender stereotypes. As a result, it has become common for men to postpone or avoid getting help, even when circumstances require it. To improve the rates and results of men seeking care, stigmas must be actively addressed, as well as ideas about masculinity. Through the lenses of key theories including feminist theory, the theory of planned behavior, and the health belief model, this chapter will examine the distinct stigma that males experience in relation to seeking help. The chapter will also explore how traditional masculine ideals of toughness, independence, and avoidance of femininity along with practical concerns such as money and time can discourage men from seeking assistance, therefore creating barriers to receiving physical and mental health care. Above all, men's lower rates of seeking medical and mental healthcare will manifest the magnitude of the issue.
Counseling School-Age Boys
Authors: Utterberg Max
Published: May 2024

As a subset of men, school-aged boys face a unique set of issues. There exists competing socialization pressures to adhere to feminist norms as well as adopting traditional gender roles to appease different groups. This, along with the ordinary challenges of growing up, can be very confusing for young men. The present chapter will focus on two topics: One, the social context for boys and young men. As they progress through different phases of gender identity development, they receive socialization from three main sources: parents, peers, and the media. In addition, this chapter outlines concrete counseling suggestions for boys in each level of grade school (elementary, middle, and high school). Intersectionality is also discussed.
I Am a Man
Authors: Johnson Rommel
Published: May 2024

Despite the historical and perpetual trauma, racism, discrimination, socio-economical, and socio-political disparities they have experienced in the United States, Black men have consistently forged ways to demonstrate resilience and assert their own sense of autonomy and masculinity. Nevertheless, their ecological context of living in a country that has historically sought to dehumanize them and eradicate their manhood is cumbersome to their mental wellbeing. Furthermore, the tendency by researchers to pathologize Black males obfuscates the reality of their situation in the United States, minimizing their mental needs. Understanding both the complexity of their ecological context as well as their adaptability and resilience will give behavioral health providers better insight into the realities of Black men's sense of masculinity and implications for their mental health. This chapter elucidates on the complexities of the Black male experience, Black masculinity, and implications for their mental health. The chapter concludes with recommendations for treatment.
Substance Use Counseling Among Men
Authors: Yunus Ahmad , Rusmiyati Siti Nurleli , Shafie Amin Al-Haadi , Baharudin Dini Farhana
Published: May 2024

This chapter explains the process of substance use counseling for male clients. Counseling for substance use among men is crucial to discuss due to the high prevalence of substance use among men compared to women worldwide. Men experience a “silent pandemic” related to substance use. Unfortunately, men face many challenges in seeking help through the counseling process. Stigma and entrenched ideologies of masculinity around men have hindered them from seeking assistance. Moreover, men also face challenges in expressing their feelings, thoughts, and conditions during substance use counseling sessions. Outside the sessions, men also confront the reality that social support or even family acceptance may be something they need to fight for. In general, this chapter seeks to make counselors and practitioners involved in the substance use recovery process more sensitive to these various challenges. The hope is that the planning of counseling sessions as an integrated part of the recovery process can be more optimally executed.
Supporting First Responder and Veteran Men
Authors: Foley Jill , Ward Rochelle
Published: May 2024

First responders and veterans are exposed to stress and trauma at rates higher than the general public. This exposure highlights the need for counsellors to understand how these issues impact male-identifying first responders and veterans. This chapter will focus on supporting readers in developing an understanding of how the enhanced exposure to stress and trauma that is common in these roles can impact these men in their ability to seek mental health support. The categories explored throughout this chapter include exploring the role of first responders and veterans and commonly used coping strategies among these populations. Additionally, a review of how stigma and traditional views of masculinity have influenced and impacted these men will be examined. An overview of treatment implications, including a discussion on best practices pertaining to resilience-oriented care, will be included. Finally, this chapter will conclude with an overview of culturally responsive care and how it can be implemented in a treatment setting.
A Critical Analysis of Educational Equity in India
Authors: Ghosh Soumya Sankar
Published: May 2024

India's history is marked by social stratification, with the caste system limiting education for marginalized communities. NEP 2020 emerges as a groundbreaking effort to rectify historical inequities. Framed collaboratively, it introduces a '5+3+3+4' model, emphasizing early education and technology integration. The policy prioritizes foundational literacy, aligning with global initiatives, and embraces multilingualism for inclusivity. The current chapter, drawing on Rawls and Sen's theories, seeks distributive justice and enhanced capabilities. Using case study modeling, the work further aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of NEP 2020, contributing insights for an equitable and inclusive education system.
Educational Challenges and Visibility of Vulnerable Groups and Unaccompanied Migrant Children and Adolescents
Authors: Serrano García Jennifer , Olmedo Moreno Eva Mª , Aires Luisa , Expósito López Jorge
Published: May 2024

The research study provides a reflection on individuals who find themselves at risk of social exclusion, with the aim of exposing the lived reality of this group, especially those in regions where ARSSCI (Andalusian strategy for social cohesion and inclusion) is being applied, highlighting highly vulnerable individuals such as UMCA (unaccompanied migrant children and adolescents). With regards to the latter, critical analysis is used to establish a set of potential measures for tackling the different educational challenges faced by teachers and educational institutions. This approach strives to give visibility to the ignored reality of a population that finds itself excluded from Spanish society, especially vulnerable minors and UMCA. Only through greater awareness and collective action will it be possible to implement educational policies and programs to promote social inclusion. This requires giving a voice and visibility to those who are marginalized by society and, from the educational setting, remove barriers to enable fair and equitable coexistence for the whole population.
Equity in University Programs for Older People in Latin America
Authors: Lirio Castro Juan , Portal Martínez Esther , Medina Bernáldez Luis
Published: May 2024

This work presents a qualitative study on equity and accessibility in university programs for older adults in Latin America. Seven semi-structured interviews were carried out that collect the different barriers, difficulties and adaptations that are made within these educational devices. Among the results, the authors find the limited access of people with disabilities or diversities as well as the lack of educational support to address diversity in these organizations. Therefore, it is necessary to work to achieve greater levels of equity in these programs.
Revitalizing Education
Authors: Singha Surjit , Singha Ranjit , Ruben V. Muthu
Published: May 2024

Educational equity, school transformation, and policy and practice alignment are crucial in the evolution of educational systems. It requires an all-encompassing comprehension that transcends historical contexts, technological impacts, and conceptual frameworks to address students' varied requirements and eliminate inequalities. Acknowledging educational equity as a moral imperative underscores the ethical obligation of stakeholders. School transformation necessitates the presence of forward-thinking administrators, the active involvement of stakeholders, and a comprehensive reassessment. A cohesive approach to equity requires the utilization of robust frameworks, ongoing professional development, and continuous assessment to align policy and practice. Overcoming obstacles requires confronting opposition, capitalizing on technological advancements, deriving lessons from past failures, and establishing the foundation for a future characterized by greater inclusivity.
Teacher Training in Technological Media for Creative and Inclusive Practices
Authors: Blasco-Serrano Ana Cristina , Sierra Natalia Sobradiel , Sales Lucía Torres
Published: May 2024

The use of digital tools has become commonplace and is now considered normal for most people, including in education where adaptations to these changes have been made. However, access to digital media is not uniform across all populations, and there are social and digital gaps between different areas or social strata, as is evident in schools with special complexities. Technological progress should promote creative and inclusive teaching practices that encompass the processes of relevance, appropriation, control, and innovation. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the lack of training for many teachers, as well as the lack of digital competence, availability of digital media, and connectivity for a significant portion of the population. This study aims to investigate how teachers are trained to use digital media in centers with special complexity. The authors analyze the training topics, contexts, and spaces, as well as the resources available to teachers that influence these processes.
The Digital Environment
Authors: Sabariego Puig Marta , Cano‐Hila Ana Belen , Masanet Jorda Maria Jose
Published: May 2024

The digital environment has the potential to guarantee inclusion in child participation initiatives and decision‐making processes. This chapter looks at findings from a recent research project on child participation in the local area in Spain, and from a participatory diagnosis with children and adolescents from vulnerable neighbourhoods in the metropolitan area of Barcelona. Based on these findings, the authors explore the roles, uses, and specific areas of youth participation in the digital sphere. The results indicate that children and adolescents from vulnerable areas use social networks to communicate, entertain themselves, and share information, but not usually to participate, be socially active, or express active citizenship. The chapter reflects on the need for education to contribute to young people's digital literacy to increase the opportunities for participation and to create diverse, inclusive, and participatory spaces and strategies from a perspective of equity in the digital environment.
Nature of Conditions and Characteristics to the Politics of Party Alliances and Coalitions in Formation of Governments in Africa
Authors: Bharti Sushant Shankar , Bharti Mukesh Shankar
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this study is to discuss the politics of party alliances and conditions in the formation of the government in the countries of Africa. Since the 1990s, many African countries have adopted either parliamentary or presidential forms of democratic rule to strengthen the rule of law, respect human rights and the rights of minorities, children, and women. After the end of colonial rule, the South African countries started the development process and good governance for the establishment of the welfare of the people. The democratic and democratization process has been strengthening the government institutions of countries' public and private entities for better governance. This chapter used a theoretical approach of debate to discuss Samuel P. Huntington's third wave of democratization and coalition theory to understand the democratization process which has been led by democratic government through general elections. In this electoral process, only one party was unable to form the government because it did not obtain a majority in parliament. This is why many emerging coalition governments have been established in many African countries. Moreover, this research uses the qualitative approach to describe and answer many research questions about the success and failure of the coalition governments in Africa. The case study also imposed and scanned to study of the various coalition governments in the countries of Africa. As a result, the formation of coalition governments is unusual in African countries because parties are not getting the popular vote to form a single-party government.
Governments of National Unity (GNU) as the Democratic Governance Model in Selected Africa Countries
Authors: Tshishonga Ndwakhulu Stephen
Published: May 2024

This chapter interrogates the notion of government of national unity (GNU) as an emerging model for democratic and coalition governance in Africa. Considering Africa's dismal record of governance, coupled with socio-economic developmental challenges, coalition governance is imperative. African countries such as Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, South Africa, and Zimbabwe were selected as case studies to demonstrate the opportunities and challenges of government of national unity or coalition governance. GNU is a co-governance mechanism often adopted over contested election results between the incumbent and opposition parties. Amongst the countries under study, only Kenya showcases a semi-successful story of how a coalition can be formed, maintained, and sustained to the next elections. Other governments of national unity, such as those in South Africa, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe, formed coalitions with opposition parties to unset the dominant parties. In the case of Zimbabwe, Malawi, South Africa, and Lesotho, GNU was adopted as both a democratic governance and conflict resolution strategy to govern better and ensure peace and stability over contested election results and simmering political violence. This chapter argues that the dominance of the ruling parties and weak opposition parties undermines coalition formation to challenge the incumbent parties through electoral democracy. The chapter concludes that GNU in these countries not only showed dismal evidence of being notoriously tyrannical in creating pseudo-space but was also a pace-setter for bad and undemocratic governance in Africa. Data for this chapter was collected through secondary sources.
Israel's Coalition in Power and Its Implications on Israel-Palestinian Relations and Conflict
Authors: Tshishonga Ndwakhulu Stephen
Published: May 2024

This chapter discusses Israel's recent coalition government and its implications for internal governance, its conflictual agenda to destabilize the Middle East region, and particularly, its relations to the raging war between Israel and Palestine in the Occupied Gaza and West Jerusalem respectively. Considering how the state of Israel was formed, the chapter argues that the far-right coalition formed in 2022 post-general elections led by Netanyahu is bound to entrench Palestinian oppression and Apartheid as well as sour relations in the region. The inclusion of ultra-nationalists and ultra-Orthodox parties in Israel's formed coalition has far-reaching implications for Israel's democracy and its ability to manage peace and stability in the Middle East and with Palestinians. Evidence from the raging Israel-Hamas war leads one to conclude that the coalition is being used and abused to undermine the international organisations and laws that prohibit Israel's illegal occupation of Palestinian land. Secondary data was used to comprehend the complex dynamics of the coalition formed under the Netanyahu leadership, focusing on Israel's internal democracy and conflictual relations with Palestine and the region.
Critical Reflections on Coalition Politics
Authors: Mngomezulu Bhekie
Published: May 2024

Political coalitions have a deep history which transcends geographical boundaries. The rationale for establishing them varies. In the absence of a guiding framework, coalitions become unsustainable. The aim of this chapter is threefold. Firstly, it traces the history of coalition politics. Secondly, it discusses prospects for successful coalitions. Thirdly, it considers challenges involved in coalition politics. While conceding that coalitions are a global phenomenon, the chapter focuses on Africa. It argues that since the dawn of democracy in Africa, different forms of coalitions have been used with different results. As the number of political parties increase in each election, coalitions have become a reality.
Strides and Struggles of Coalition Governments in Southern Africa
Authors: Musendekwa Menard
Published: May 2024

Coalition governments have emerged as a mechanism for peaceful resolution following disputed elections, offering insights into addressing political disputes and legitimacy crises. In Zimbabwe, historical contexts such as the Gukurahundi War, which exacerbated tensions between the Ndebele and Shona communities, underscore the significance of coalition governance. The Unity Accord between ZANU-PF and PF-ZAPU provided temporary respite from tribal conflicts. Subsequently, the Government of National Unity (GNU) was established after the 2008 disputed election, aiming to transition towards fresh elections. Following Mugabe's tenure, Mnangagwa's victory amid accusations of election rigging prompted legal intervention. Mnangagwa's initiation of the Political Actors Dialogue (POLAD) aimed to incorporate ideas from losing parties, yet faced rejection by the main opposition. Criticism of the 2023 elections has intensified calls for a transitional authority or another GNU to prepare for reruns. This research will employ qualitative analysis, including historical review and document analysis, to investigate the advantages and disadvantages of coalition governments in Africa. Findings aim to provide valuable insights for political actors to make informed decisions in navigating political transitions.
The Confluence of Soft Power Diplomacy and Coalition Politics
Authors: Zreik Mohamad
Published: May 2024

China's growing influence through soft power diplomacy is a parallel storyline to Africa's current experience with coalition politics and electoral democracy, especially in the Middle East and East Asia. This chapter examines how China employs coalition politics to enhance its larger diplomatic efforts in Africa with the goal of connecting these two crucial storylines. This chapter uses examples from the Middle East and East Asia to explore the complexities of coalition governments in Africa and how they might help or hurt China's soft power ambitions. This study, which takes an interdisciplinary approach, will shed new light on the complex dynamics at play when coalitions of politicians, democratic governments, and foreign governments interact. The chapter finishes with concrete suggestions for policymakers, stressing the importance of a comprehensive knowledge of these overlapping domains for the development of effective and democratic approaches to government in Africa. Policymakers, academics, and practitioners in the fields of politics, international relations, development studies, and sociology are among the many who will find value in this chapter.
Navigating Coalition Dynamics in the City of Johannesburg
Authors: Tladi Mpho
Published: May 2024

This chapter offers a theoretical analysis of coalition politics in South Africa, with a focus on the City of Johannesburg's Metropolitan Municipality. It uses Claude Lefort's political theories to examine the fluctuating dynamics of political power in the nation's coalition governments, particularly at the local government level. The chapter traces the emergence and instability of coalitions, highlighted by the African National Congress' (ANC) loss of majority and the subsequent power shifts in Johannesburg. These changes, including the formation of different coalition arrangements and the 2021 Local Government Elections' outcomes, reflect the unstable nature of coalitions in South Africa. The chapter aims to discuss the impacts of these coalitions on governance quality and service delivery, addressing the broader socio-political and economic challenges of the country. Two case studies, focusing on fiscal management and trust in Johannesburg's coalition government, will provide deeper insights into the practical implications of such political arrangements.
The Role of Coalition Governments as Sustainable Democracy Enhancing in South Africa
Authors: Bharti Mukesh Shankar
Published: May 2024

The aim of this study is to discuss the nature of coalition government and its role in strengthening the norms of democracy in South Africa. Over the past two decades, South Africa has continued to focus on the progressive development of the country's political institutions under the ethos of the democratic principle of coalition government. This chapter also discusses the various South African governments' roles in the establishment of democratization in the country. The research method used in this study is the qualitative approach to search for actual research output. The empirical method would also involve discussing research gaps on the nature and characteristics of coalition government for better governance. Moreover, this study will answer the following research questions: How is the coalition government in South Africa paving the way for the healthiest democracy? There is the second question: Why are the people of South Africa electing a coalition government in the country? This study also uses the third wave of democratization theory of Samuel P. Huntington, which contributed to the democratic transition and the establishment of democratic governments in the late 1980s in developing countries, namely in Africa, Latin America, and Central and Eastern Europe. Apart from Samuel P. Huntington's idea on democratization, this study also utilises other modern democratic theories to discuss South Africa's democratization process under the coalition government. Finally, the chapter outlines how political alliances are conceptualized and operationalized for the democratization of South Africa.
Investigating the Dynamics of Coalition Governance in South African Local Government
Authors: Selelo Mohale Ernest , Lebotsa Khutso Piet
Published: May 2024

The dynamics of coalitions in South Africa's democratic landscape can be attributed to the ANC government's shortcomings or failure in providing services to communities and its pervasive issues of corruption. The chapter argues that enhancing governance, service delivery, and fostering unity in South Africa requires a political centre, consistent policy agenda, and capable politicians. This is essential to fulfil the service delivery mandate, and it also suggests the need for a legislative framework to regulate coalition governments, considering their inevitability in the current political climate of South Africa. The current South African political climate of coalitions is clouded by political immaturity which is a receipt for poor service delivery. An analysis of several motions of confidence passed in coalition governance in many municipalities across the country shows that coalition governance in the contemporary South African political climate is characterized by instability, political egos, no commonality of interest, and political patronage which are ingredients of poor service delivery, particularly as the next 2024 national and provincial elections draw near. Coalition governments typically include parties with varied ideological orientations and policy preferences. The task of reconciling these differences to establish a unified policy agenda can pose significant conundrums and delays in service delivery. What ordinary people need on the ground is very simple, which is just the provision of basic services not political ideologies. However, different policy agendas from political parties haunt the delivery of basic services to the constituencies. This chapter sees it as imperative to demonstrate contextual and institutional effects that supplement emergent discoveries in the literature of coalition governance. Thus, it adopts a literature-based approach, which is conceptual, to assess the dynamics of coalition governance in South African local government, looking at policy implementation, political stability, and service delivery inter alia.
Balancing Acts
Authors: Bhatnagar Mukul , Rajaram Rajendra , Taneja Sanjay , Kumar Pawan
Published: May 2024

Credit, debit, financial literacy, and financial well-being are all examined, along with the complex links between them in this study. The research takes a snapshot of people's financial patterns using a cross-sectional approach and stratified random sampling. Electronic administration of a structured survey instrument guarantees both efficiency and respondent confidentiality. The results suggest complex relationships across variables; for example, credit behaviour is only mildly associated with financial knowledge and well-being. There seems to be a striking connection between debit behaviour and both financial literacy and well-being. The correlation between financial knowledge and prosperity is modest at best. Implications for management include adapting financial offerings to customer preferences and bolstering financial literacy initiatives. This research highlights the social potential of financial literacy programmes that aim to bridge specific knowledge gaps and make communities more financially secure.
Does ESG Impact the Financial Well-Being of Companies?
Authors: Gidage Mithilesh Kishor , Bhide Shilpa
Published: May 2024

The primary aim of this chapter is to investigate the influence of ESG factors on the financial well-being of Indian companies. Research utilizes a sample of 352 Indian firms that are consistently included in the Thomson Reuters Asset 4 ESG database. To assess the impact of ESG on firm profitability, an empirical multivariate panel data model is developed. The study endeavors to determine if firms with high sustainability rankings outperform their low-ranked counterparts, a comparison made through the application of parametric t-tests. The investigation uncovers a statistically significant positive correlation between ESG factors and a firm's financial well-being, as measured by indicators such as return on invested capital, return on equity, return on assets, and earnings per share. Empirical data indicates that firms implementing robust sustainable development strategies tend to exhibit higher profitability and maintain lower levels of leverage.
Enhancing Financial Literacy
Authors: Manoharan Geetha , Nithya G. , Razak Abdul , Durai Subhashini , Sharma Seema , Ashtikar Sunitha Purushottam
Published: May 2024

Modern financial literacy is necessary for making smart financial decisions, navigating complex markets, and planning ahead. Financial literacy's history and importance in today's complex financial systems and diverse investment options are examined in this chapter. Financial literacy knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors are examined, as well as international campaigns. The history, benefits, methods, and components of financial literacy are covered in this chapter. The complex global economy has boosted US financial education credibility. The chapter claims financial literacy prevents mistakes, prepares for disasters, and helps achieve financial goals. To improve financial literacy, it covers credit, budgeting, and saving. Financial education can protect the Indian economy, boost growth, and reduce poverty. Financial literacy efforts by the Indian government and regulators are also examined. The authors found that financial education helps people make smart financial decisions and build wealth.
Exploring the Dynamics of Financial Behaviors in Romantic Partnerships
Authors: Saini Anchal , Kulshrestha Nitin , Yadav Shubhanker
Published: May 2024

Financial well-being is a multifaceted concept that is influenced by various factors, including individual and relational dynamics. While households are indeed vital to understanding economic dynamics, they often do not provide sufficient insight into the complex decision-making processes of romantic partners. In light of this, the chapter places its focus squarely on romantic partners as the primary unit of analysis within households, considering romantic partners to be the building blocks of the households. This chapter seeks to address a critical aspect of financial well-being by focusing on the complex dynamics of financial behaviors within romantic partnerships. By delving into the unique challenges and opportunities faced by couples in managing their finances, this chapter strives to bridge the gap by summing the current state of our knowledge proposes a comprehensive conceptual model to elucidate the factors affecting financial behaviors and, consequently, financial well-being among romantic partners.
Financial Well-Being and Personality Traits
Authors: Singh Shuchita , Srivastava Nidhi , Gupta Bindiya
Published: May 2024

Financial well-being is a multifaceted concept that holds significant importance in contemporary society. This chapter delves into the relationship between personality traits and financial well-being. Personality traits impact the ideal financial decisions of investors by being behaviorally biased, due to which individuals take inappropriate financial decisions, which eventually affect the financial wellbeing. By investigating how specific personality traits contribute in shaping investor personalities, the authors aim to uncover the nuanced ways in which psychological characteristics influence financial actions and, consequently, financial well-being. Ultimately, this research offers valuable insights that can inform interventions aimed at enhancing financial well-being and decision-making strategies tailored to individual personality profiles. The practical application of the study is for academicians, practitioners, and students having an interest in behavioral aspects of investing and leadership theories.
Navigating the Tension of Holistic Sexual Reproductive Health Curriculum in Three States of SADC Using Rogers Diffusion of Innovation Theory
Authors: Chakabwata William , Mumbire Ronika
Published: May 2024

The chapter explores the provision of comprehensive sex education (CSE) and the antecedent challenges. A case of three states, namely Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe, is undertaken, in order to illuminate the obstacles related to the implementation of this curriculum. The aims of comprehensive sexuality education are also explored in order to demonstrate the indispensable nature of this curriculum. CSE has faced resistance in many countries, due to the way it was implemented. The chapter argues for implementation of CSE curriculum, using Rogers's theory of diffusion of innovation (DIO), to overcome challenges related to the implementation of this indispensable curriculum for young people. The chapter is undergirded by the poststructural feminism, social cognitive and diffusion of innovation theories.
Texts, Critical Literacy, and Their Effect on Students' Insight of Gender Equality
Authors: Hà Tú Anh , Huertas-Abril Cristina A.
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the effect of critical literacy on university students' insight of gender equality. It aims to propose a guideline to teach critical reading, and assesses the influence of texts and critical reading on students' perception of gender equality. Students (n = 40) were guided to identify the author's purpose behind the text by delving into the text itself and connecting it with the background surrounding the text. Then students' perceptions of gender equality and their opinions about the influence of critical reading on their understanding of gender equality were collected through a survey. Qualitative content analysis was employed to analyze the data collected from students. The findings showed that critical reading not only offered students more perspectives and new ideas to see an issue, but also helped them reflect on the topic of gender equality itself and what they had already understood of gender equality. This benefits students' metacognition and showcases an effective way of gender equality education.
Spanish Contemporary Women's Writing as a Tool to Teach CSE
Authors: Oaknín Mazal
Published: May 2024

This chapter presents a pedagogical proposal for a contemporary Spanish literature lesson in which students work on key social-emotional skills while carrying out textual analysis. Taking selected excerpts from Montero's Crónica del desamor and Etxebarria's Amor, curiosidad, prozac, y dudas, the chapter will capitalize on women's writing's potential to educate students on gender-based violence and raise awareness of the importance of sexuality education as a preventative measure. The proposed text-based discussions raise key issues of comprehensive sexuality education and give students the ability to reflect on what constitutes a healthy relationship and how to identify signs of an unhealthy relationship.