bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Generational shifts in scientific atheism: Ideology and strategy in 20th century Czechoslovakia
Authors: Kalajtzidis Ján 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The paper delves into scientific atheism, distinguishing between atheist thought as mere opinion and its development into a comprehensive worldview under Marxist-Leninist influence. It explores scientific atheism’s role as both a philosophical discipline and an ideology that has significantly impacted philosophers from our region across generations. Initially, scientific atheism represented an ideological commitment to materialism and rationalism. However, for subsequent generations, it evolved into a pragmatic strategy for consolidating political power, fostering social unity, and enhancing state control. This study not only outlines the integration of dialectical and historical materialism into Czechoslovakia’s mid-20th-century scientific and education systems but also examines the shifting perception of scientific atheism through different philosophical generations, highlighting its practical significance in Marxist-Leninist-dominated regions.
Slovak philosophical generations: From the middle of the 19th to the middle of the 20th century
Authors: Dupkala Rudolf 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The leitmotif of the article is an analysis and interpretation of disputes about the nature of Slovak philosophy in the contexts of the formation of individual philosophical generations from the middle of the 19th to the middle of the 20th century. In the content core of the article, the dispute is about the nature of Slovak philosophy in the first generation of its representatives, which was represented by the followers of the so-called “Štúr School”. As a follow-up to this dispute, the article analyzes the ideological confrontations of followers of religious and secular philosophical thought in Slovakia during the first Czechoslovak republic. It is a dispute between followers of classical (European) positivism and, partly, Masarykism with the representatives of contemporary religious philosophy in Slovakia. At the end of the paper, the trend of disputes about the nature of Slovak philosophy is outlined even in the period after the Stalinist, and, later, the so-called normalization indoctrination of Slovak philosophy.
Jaroslav Čelko and his role in the development of scientific atheism as secular humanism in Slovakia
Authors: Švaňa Lukáš 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The post-war generation of Marxist Slovak intelligentsia was formed from people who had experience with the war and this experience in the fight against fascism, together with the pre-war social situation, were the main reasons of their inclinations towards the theory of socialism and at the same time caused their sharp criticism of the Church and its ideas. Jaroslav Čelko can also be included in the generation of these authors, and this paper describes and explores his ideas and their influence on the development of secular humanism during the existence of the Czechoslovak Socialist Republic and after its disintegration. At the same time, the aim of the paper is to evaluate the influences and connections between the ideas of scientific atheism (including examples of the works of Jaroslav Čelko) and secular humanism in Slovakia.
The Importance of Selected Clauses in International Sales Contracts from the Point of View of Risk Perception and Attitude
Authors: Hinčica Vít , Řezanková Hana , Janků Dominika 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Research background
Universally, it remains unknown which clauses used in international sales contracts are seen by the business sector as crucial for reducing perceived risks. It is also unknown whether there is a relationship between companies’ attitudes toward risks and the number of clauses they consider essential in international sales contracts for this purpose.

Purpose
The paper surveys how Czech companies assess the importance of selected clauses in an international sales contract when trying to reduce the risks they perceive. The primary purpose is to learn whether there is a concordance with the available literature on the number of clauses considered important, key, or necessary for reducing risks.

Research methodology
Companies were offered nine clauses commonly used in international sales contracts and were asked to rate them according to their importance for reducing risks. Furthermore, possible relationships between companies’ attitudes toward risk and the number of clauses these companies perceive as important from the point of view of their risk attitude were investigated.

Results
Whereas the existing literature provides different numbers of key clauses a sales contract shall include to make such a contract safe enough from the perspective of the perceived risks, the 114 surveyed Czech companies mostly gave the highest level of importance to four of the nine assessed clauses only. These clauses are the identification of parties, price setting, the object of sale and payment terms. There is an indication that companies with an aggressive attitude toward risks could consider fewer clauses as important.

Novelty
The study suggests that the number of clauses that are formulated with enough care for the sake of risk reduction is lower than the numbers proposed by the existing sources. The authors contradict extant academic business literature and expert texts on the issue in question by launching the first survey among companies ever.

Note
This paper is a significantly modified and extended version of a text presented at the 48th EIBA Annual Conference – Oslo, in December 2022.
Life Situation of Polish Seniors – Their Subjective Assessment
Authors: Przybysz Klaudia , Stanimir Agnieszka 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Research background
Seniors wield influence across a spectrum of social spheres. Understanding their attitudes, needs, challenges, and expectations emerges as imperative for shaping effective social policies and social inclusion. Their significant heterogeneity necessitates the repetition and deepening of analyses for an objective picture possible.

Purpose
The main aim of our studies was to broaden the knowledge about seniors, their life situation, life satisfaction, quality of life and everyday problems and challenges.

Research methodology
Two rounds of pilot studies were conducted. The first taking place in the Q1 2020, and the second in the Q1 2024. The same interview questionnaire for both rounds was used. Sampling for each study was conducted using the snowball method.

Results
The image of seniors depicted in our research aligns with that of seniors across the EU. While there have not been many changes observed over time, we observed their increased willingness to engage in social interactions post – COVID-19 pandemic.

Novelty
The study’s significance stems from its direct engagement with seniors, enabling candid discussions wherein they shared insights into numerous facets of their lives. We discovered seniors’ aversion to self-identifying as ‘seniors’ and their reluctance towards utilizing services explicitly aimed at their demographic age group. The study underscored the imperative of addressing seniors’ needs holistically, as exemplified by Stanimir’s House of Seniors’ Needs framework.
Income Inequalities Between Women And Men In Selected European Countries
Authors: Trzcińska Kamila 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Research background
Income inequalities between women and men often constitute an important area of research related to social inequalities. Differences in incomes between genders are frequently analyzed in the context of gender equality, social justice, and economic equity. Disparities in wages between women and men are observed in many societies. A key tool in studying wage and income distributions, as well as income inequalities, is the approximation of theoretical models to empirical data. Another important tool is the use of income inequality measures. Research on income distributions between women and men is significant for various reasons, including facilitating an understanding of social and economic inequalities.

Purpose
In Europe, there is diversity in economic models, with individual countries adopting different approaches to organizing their economic systems. The paper considers four European countries representing diverse economic approaches. A comparative analysis of income inequality between men and women was conducted in the countries under consideration.

Research methodology
The study used data from the Central European Bank from 2017. All analyzes were based on the Dagum model. The maximum likelihood method was used to estimate the model parameters. The Theil coefficient decomposition was also applied.

Results
The analysis reveals that men earn the highest incomes in all countries. Visualization of the Lorenz and Zenga curves, along with calculated inequality indices, showed that the greatest income inequalities occur in women’s incomes in all cases. Interestingly, it was found that men’s incomes make the largest contribution to the overall income inequalities.

Novelty
The paper explores the topic of income inequality, which is a significant and contemporary socioeconomic challenge. It utilizes statistical information from the Eurosystem Household Finance and Consumption (HFCS) to examine and assess the financial status of households, focusing on both genders, in Finland, Germany, Poland, and Spain.
Value Co-Creation In E-Commerce Platforms: The Role Of Personality Traits And Trust
Authors: Widyastuti Widyastuti 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Research background
It is important for companies to pay attention to the value of co-creation in order to encourage innovation and the development of new products where the source of ideas for innovation and new products comes from consumers. Participation in value co-creation is voluntary and depends on the consumer’s willingness to be involved, so there needs to be motivation within the consumer to carry out value co-creation. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the consumer’s personality which can encourage co-creation.

Purpose
This study aims to analyze the factors that influence online value co-creation in e-commerce platforms. This study attempts to examine the value co-creation that occurs online by emphasizing the interaction between consumers. In addition, the researcher examines the role of personality traits on value co-creation.

Research methodology
The population in this study are consumers aged 16 to more than 40 years who have experience in purchasing products in e-commerce and have given ratings, reviews, or comments on products and services in e-commerce. The Purposive sampling technique was used to select the sample of 152 consumers. PLS-SEM was used as an analytical technique.

Results
The results reflect that personality traits and beliefs are the driving factors for online co-creation. This study also reveals that trust does not act as a mediator in the influence of personality traits on value co-creation. Conscientiousness is the dominant trait in the influence of personality traits on trust and value co-creation. This study only uses two dimensions of personality traits, namely conscientiousness and agreeableness. Future research should consider using the five dimensions of personality traits. The implication of this research is to enrich knowledge about the factors that influence the occurrence of value co-creation online and it is projected for marketers to provide ease of use features for further co-creation.

Novelty
This research discusses interactions between consumers in e-commerce as a form of co-creation that has not been widely done.
Unlocking Multilingual Classrooms: Preprimary Teachers’ Perspectives on Inclusive Pedagogy in Spain
Authors: López-Medina Beatriz , Agustín Mercedes Pérez 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
This study addresses the challenges faced by pre-primary teachers (specialists and non-specialists in additional languages) in multilingual settings, with a specific focus on attention to diversity. Nowadays, schools are becoming more diverse both linguistically (Robinson-Jones, Duarte & Günther-van der Meij, 2022) and through the inclusion of special educational needs (SEN) students (Ramberg & Watkins, 2020). This study aims to identify the teachers’ needs in these contexts and to bring to light emergent topics on multilingualism and diversity. Ten focus groups were conducted for this purpose, and participants (pre-primary teachers) were asked to reflect on their competencies to address groups of young learners in multilingual settings. The participants originate from five different locations in Spain, characterized by different linguistic and social realities. The discussions were recorded and transcribed verbatim, and the software MAXQDA was used to facilitate the content analysis of the obtained data. Information was gathered from two perspectives: specialists and non-specialist teachers of additional languages. The findings reveal the complexity of adopting and incorporating the tailored approaches required by the increasingly linguistically diverse students and by those with special educational needs. Several key findings emerged, including the difficulties of the teachers when adapting to changing educational contexts, the lack of guidelines to facilitate teaching in multilingual contexts, and the teachers’ concern about diverse students. The results of this research underscore the importance of providing pre-primary teachers in multilingual contexts with multifaceted support (specific legal framework, training sessions, and classroom assistants, among others) to facilitate the inclusiveness of diverse young learners. The research, embedded in a national research project on pre-primary teachers’ competencies in multilingual contexts, contributes insights into teaching strategies in diverse multilingual settings.
EMI Dynamics: An Empirical Study on Students’ Perspectives at Tertiary Level in Türkiye
Authors: Özçelik Arzu Ekoç , Kavanoz Suzan , Yılmaz Selahattin 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The unprecedented adoption of English-Medium Instruction (EMI) in higher education on a global scale has brought about challenges as well as opportunities for students, which necessitates a careful consideration of factors impacting their perceptions and experiences. Recognizing this critical need, our study attaches significant importance to delve into the attitudes of tertiary-level students towards EMI and aims to evaluate the attitudes and language-related challenges encountered by students in full EMI undergraduate programs. Data were collected from 278 undergraduate students in various full EMI programs at a Turkish public university. Utilizing the culturally and linguistically adapted form of Yeh’s (2014) EMI questionnaire, the study focused on students’ backgrounds, motivations, and attitudes towards EMI courses, challenges, learning strategies, and beliefs about EMI policies. The findings indicate generally positive attitudes towards EMI. Students perceive EMI as beneficial to their academic and professional development, viewing it as an opportunity to enhance their English proficiency. Nevertheless, challenges arise from coping with specialized terms, heavy learning load, and lecturers’ accents. These results offer valuable insights into the experiences of undergraduate students in full EMI programs at a state university, highlighting both the positive facets and challenges they encounter in settings where English is used as a vehicle for academic growth.
Does Political Stability Matter for the UK and the USA? The Time Variant Analysis through Rolling Window Causality Approach
Authors: Ali Sajid , Raza Syed Ali , Ahmed Maiyra 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The study aims to examine the time-varying causality between political stability and economic growth. Secondly, study also evaluates the effect of political stability on economic growth of the United Kingdom and the United States. Therefore, a time-series model is proposed to assess the framework’s constancy with time, which assumes that the coefficients are stable throughout time. A rolling window technique has been applied to the dataset from the year 2002 to 2019, respectively. The results indicate that the time-varying positive bidirectional causality is present between political stability and economic growth for a particular subsample, verifying the effect of political stability on economic growth and vice versa. Hence, our results exhibit that the connection between two-series would benefit the economy due to the positive yet significant relationship. Therefore, uncertain political conditions would directly affect the economy’s growth rate in terms of tourism, currency value, investment, and other growth factors. Whereas, if the uncertainty regarding the political environment reduces, it would be advantageous for economic development.
Perfect Competition and Competitive Dynamics in Europe; Analysing the Gap Between Theory and Reality
Authors: Tomić Daniel 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
While the construct of market is one of the basic concepts in Economics, the term competition became the elemental paradigm in apprehending the organisation of markets. For economic assessment, it is crucial to understand how markets are organized, how they function, and how firms operating within them behave. Economists remain interested in how different market structures and the concentration of sellers affect market prices and quantities. Long before the advent of neoclassical economics and its equilibrium in a perfectly competitive economy, Adam Smith advocated for competitive markets as the preferred market structure because they lead to socially optimal economic outcomes. This concept essentially encapsulates the entire theoretical background of microeconomics. There are numerous arguments for clarification of the EU competitions rules as some of them are pointed at improving market efficiency for the benefit of consumers while others are driven by purely political and/or competitiveness scrutiny. Hence, the goal of this study is to test perfect competition conditions and therefore the competitive dynamics among European countries, as to analyse the disparity between the theoretical positions and empirical reality. Evaluation is based on testing the equality of prices and marginal cost in the long run, as well as in the short run within a panel structured sample of 38 European countries for the period of 1960-2022. Various estimation methods indicated the absence of the equality between prices and marginal costs across the panel sample and different sub-samples, but with the presence of long term cointegration between these variables, indicating that these variables share a common long run trend.
The Unending Methodological Debates in Economics
Authors: Sharma Soumitra 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Economic science, its contents, scope, and significance have been, for over a century and a half, dominated by intense methodological debates among scholars concentrating over issues of positivism, normativity, optimality, and empiricism. The debates are still going on. In this brief review, the author wishes to refresh the ongoing methodological debates that have haunted thewider field of social sciences.
The Role of Demographics and Entrepreneurial Motives in Digital Sales Adoption
Authors: Plecko Samuel , Hojnik Barbara Bradač , Tominc Polona 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Digital transformation gradually changes businesses, which is also connected with sales. Despite these advancements, the motives to accept digitalization in sales are undiscovered. In our study, we examine demographic factors (gender, age, education), entrepreneurial motives, and the developmental stage of entrepreneurs using data from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM), encompassing 25,633 entrepreneurs from 47 countries. Logistic regression and subsequently Cramer’s V were employed for a more precise determination of the relevant influences of the explanatory variables. The findings indicate that younger and early-stage entrepreneurs more often accept digital technologies in sales. This also applies to entrepreneurs who are motivated by higher income and wealth and the desire to make changes in the world. These results suggest that digital technologies can contribute to reducing the divergence between profitable and sustainable goals, as entrepreneurs perceive their utility in achieving both sets of objectives.
Mastering Computing in the Presence of Functional vs. Emotional Technostress: The Moderating Influence of Technology and Task Dependency
Authors: Techmanska Alicja , Ortner Elisabeth , Stöckmann Christoph 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Our study investigates the moderating effects of perceived task interdependence (PTI) and ICT-Dependence (ICTD) on the relationship between various technostress creators and computer self-efficacy. We advance the technostress literature by introducing a framework that categorizes technostress creators into emotional (techno-insecurity, techno-uncertainty) and functional (techno-invasion, techno-complexity, techno-overload) dimensions. Using data from 187 employees and a cross-sectional design with two measurement points, we confirmed distinct inhibitory effects depending on the type of technostress creator. Our findings highlight the need to consider individual perceptions of technostress and demonstrate that different technostress creators trigger varied stress responses. Additionally, the study emphasizes the critical role of organizational measures in managing technostress within digitalization strategies. By distinguishing between different technostress causes and identifying key interactions with organizational factors, this research provides a foundation for future studies to further refine and test our framework.
Impacts of Regional Trade Agreements on the Trade Effects of Financial Development
Authors: Zhang Juan , Chen Jiahui , Liu Zuanshi 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Regional trade agreements (RTAs) significantly reduce tariff and non-tariff barriers, facilitate capital flow and improve financing conditions, which can help exporters ease financing constraints and promote export. This paper studies the impacts of RTAs signed by member countries of Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP) on the trade effects of financial development, using the gravity model with industry level bilateral trade data from 2000 to 2021. The results show that with RTAs, exporters’ dependence on financial development of home countries has decreased, and there is a similar mechanism in importing countries. However, exporters’ decreasing dependence on financial development is different, i.e., the decreasing dependence of exporters in industries rely heavily on external financing is smaller than that in other industries.