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Worldwide Perspectives on Geographical Indications: Crossed views between researchers, policy makers and practitioners
by Emilie Vandecandelaere Delphine Marie-Vivien Erik Thévenod-Mottet Maria Bouhaddane Valérie Pieprzownik Florence Tartanac Ida PuzoneGeographical Indications (GI) are distinctive signs that associate products of quality and reputation with their place or area of production and thereby help identify and distinguish such products on the market. In July 2022, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le dével oppement (CIRAD) in collaboration with the Swiss Intellectual Property Institute (IPI) and oriGIn (Organization for an International GI Network), brought together more than 200 representatives of researchers, public authorities, producers and their collective organizations, public authorities and international organizations from 47 countries to discuss recent research and practices on global perspectives on Geographical Indications. This book is a collection of selected contributions from those discussions authored by academics, practitioners and policy-makers and presenting key research and developments in the practices of geographical indications from across the globe. The book presents a rich analysis of GI’s from the nature and legal definition to public and private management, market forces, sustainable development, intellectual property rights as well as consumer rights and welfare. This is an open access book.
Teaching and Learning with Research Cognitive Theory: Unlocking Curiosity and Creativity for Problem-Solving Skills (SpringerBriefs in Education)
by Zubair Ahmad Noora J. Al-ThaniThis open access volume explores the transformative role of Research Cognitive Theory (RCT) in education, emphasizing its application in fostering curiosity, creativity, innovation, problem-solving skills, and cognitive development across all educational levels in students and professional development in teachers. Through detailed discussions on integrating research-based learning with STEM education, the book offers practical insights for educators, researchers, and policymakers aiming to enhance teaching methodologies and student outcomes. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, this work serves as a vital resource for those seeking to cultivate inquiry-driven learning environments. Readers benefit from actionable strategies, case studies, and a comprehensive understanding of how RCT can revolutionize modern education.
The Fragmentation and Solidity of Islamic Parties in Indonesia: Looking into the First Decade of the Reformasi
by Firman NoorThis book delves into the background of fragmentation and solidity of Indonesia’s Islamic parties. By examining the National Awakening Party (PKB) and the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) as a research subject, this book exhibits the critical nature of a party’s internal institutionalization, both in fragmentation and solidity. In addition, this book challenges popular perceptions that individuals or actors are the primaries, if not the only, factors that impede or promote a party’s unity. In short, this book explores and scrutinizes the many aspects and reasons for the division and cohesion of Islamic political parties concerning the presence of a party institutionalization throughout the first decade of the Reform Era (1998–2008). The book gives the readers insights and understandings into the dynamics of Islamic parties in Indonesia’s contemporary politics and contains numerous interesting facts and studies. The first set of sections discuss the causes behind Islamic parties’ inability to maintain the integrity and internal cohesion and the impacts of consistency in upholding the party’s constitution and procedures that ensure a high degree of trust in the party. The second explores the effect of the presence of competent and institutionalized conflict mechanisms on the stirring of an internal sense of justice. The next set of chapters investigate the influence of systematic cadreization on the development of esprit de corps, in which accomplishments rather than likes or dislikes define a cadre’s position, and finally, the effect of commitment to the party’s shared values or agreed-upon ideology on putting the party’s interests first is examined. This is a must-read book for undergraduate students, lecturers, researchers of politics and religion, Islamic studies, political science, political sociology, and Asian studies.
Emergence of Sustainable Biomaterials in Tackling Inflammatory Diseases (Smart Nanomaterials Technology)
by Anil K. Suresh Nadeem Akhtar Md. Meraj AnsariThis book presents the latest technology of sustainable nanomaterials for applications as drug delivery cargos in tackling various inflammatory diseases. The chapters in this book describe nanotechnology-based drug delivery strategies, the mechanistic insights of nanoformulations and their application in managing inflammation diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, cancer and neurological disorder. It looks into the challenges of using nanomaterials-based smart materials for enhanced therapeutic efficacy while maintaining safe and sustainable procedures. The book is divided into three main sections: A) Fundamental of smart nanocarriers and nanoformulations targeted drug delivery in inflammatory disease; B) Smart nano drug delivery therapy- an emerging approach towards inflammatory diseases and C) Novel nano delivery strategies in targeting major inflammatory diseases. The book targets early researchers and clinical practitioners who are interested in the management and treatment of inflammatory diseases using nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems.
Black Women’s Bodily Autonomy, Sexual Freedom, and Pleasure: Explorations of the Hot Girl Movement (Leading Conversations on Black Sexualities and Identities)
by Clarissa E. FrancisThis text explores scholarship, practice, and advocacy for Black women’s pursuit of bodily autonomy, sexual freedom, and pleasure. Inspired by Megan Thee Stallion’s song "Hot Girl Summer" and pleasure activism, Dr. Clarissa E. Francis ("The Real Hot Girl Doc") examines the cultural and social impacts of "hot girl" music and its transformative effects on Black women’s sexual liberation journeys. Francis introduces readers to the Hot Girl Movement, addressing intergenerational trauma, denial of bodily autonomy, and pleasure politics.This book offers a historical review and current documentation of Black women’s role in the evolving movement for sexual liberation in the United States, with a particular focus on Atlanta, Georgia. Chapters delve into the history of systemic oppression, presenting research on Black women’s experiences with gendered racism while demonstrating the socio-cultural influences shaping Black women’s sexual liberation. The book centers Black women’s narratives, featuring the work of sexologists, clinicians, somatic practitioners, and community organizers in guiding Black women to achieve sexual liberation.The final chapter outlines conclusions of the research on the Hot Girl Movement and provides recommendations for participating in and supporting this movement. This interdisciplinary text is essential reading for scholars, clinicians, healing practitioners, birthworkers, and activists, including those in fields of sexuality, sex therapy, sociology, gender studies, Black/Africana studies, public health, and social justice. Exercises and additional resources are available on the product page under Support Material.
Dampness in Dwellings: Causes, Effects and Remedies (Routledge Focus on Environmental Health)
by Stephen Battersby Véronique EzrattyThis revised and updated book provides a definition of dampness in each of its forms; it details the various potential sources and causes that can result in damage to the building and damage to the health of the occupiers. It is both practical and provides an outline of the possible solutions, looking at aspects of building design and construction that can reduce or avoid the risk of dampness. It also discusses why dampness is a risk to the health of occupiers and so justifies the need to protect health by reducing or removing it.This book: Provides a valuable resource for housing, legal, and medical professionals Discusses possible solutions in aspects of building design and construction that can reduce or avoid the risk of dampness and also the safe removal of mould Provides an explanation of the legal framework in the UK and potential legal remedies for adverse health effects as a result of dampness The new edition of Dampness in Dwellings includes expanded details on the health implications of dampness in the home, legal updates, and new thinking in the wake of the tragic death of Awaab Ishak. It provides a pivotal resource for active professionals in housing, medical, and legal sectors.
Stuck in a Role: Releasing Trauma in Teens through the ENACT Drama Therapy Method
by Diana J. FeldmanStuck in a Role illustrates how adolescents, especially those who have experienced developmental trauma, can become “stuck” in protective roles that can distance them from their authentic selves, and how the ENACT Drama Therapy Method can help them break free from these confining roles.Using innovative methods of dramatic play, improvisation, and finely honed methods of communication, Feldman shares her unique method of drama therapy, developed over more than 30 years working in the NYC school system, as well as her moving and inspiring case histories.This book will support all professionals working with children and adolescents, including creative arts educators and therapists, psychotherapists, school counselors, parents, and teachers. It illustrates how to help teens learn crucial coping and relationship skills, moving them toward new and productive ways of being. Through compelling case histories based on Feldman’s work with thousands of adolescents labeled hard-to-reach, this book models empathy for youth behavior.
Sexual Offenders and the Criminal System: Perceptions, Beliefs, and Science
by Barry MaletzkyThis book demonstrates that the criminal justice system in the United States has allowed the natural emotions surrounding sexuality to allow the minority of sexual offenders who are truly dangerous to be merged with the majority of offenders who pose little, if any, risk to be at large. Such aggregations force the system to exhaust resources while ignoring the burgeoning research into the assessment and treatment of such offenders. Relying on research in the literature combined with his many years of experience, Maletzky details how the system operates at present and offers suggestions for change to re-align what we know about sexual offending with how such offenders might be better managed within the criminal justice system. The work provides an overview of the process from the original apprehension of sexual offenders through the determination of their guilt, their detention in prisons or jails, and their supervision following incarceration. Allowing scientific advances to inform decisions in these matters will not only enhance public safety but will spare unnecessary expense, save taxpayers money, and actually serve to prevent future recidivism among such offenders. This work is thought-provoking for attorneys, prosecutors, legal assistants and law clerks, members of the judiciary, those who teach or are students of the administration of justice, those who assess or treat sexual offenders, and offenders and their families affected by the system.
The Lieutenant Nun: Annotated Translation of the Play, Historical Accounts and Documents about Antonio/Catalina de Erauso (New Interdisciplinary Approaches to Early Modern Culture)
by Sherry Velasco Simone Chess Sawyer K. KempThis volume contains the English translation of the seventeenth-century literary and archival materials about a Basque person who died under the name Antonio de Erauso (b. ~1580, d. 1650), bringing readers closer to an individual who could be considered a trans ancestor.Born into a noble family in San Sebastian, Spain, as Catalina de Erauso, Erauso lived most of their life as a man, serving as a soldier in Peru and Chile, and working as a muleteer in Mexico until their death in 1650. This book provides – for the first time – an English translation of texts related to Erauso: the contemporary play Famosa comedia de la monja alférez (The Famous Play of the Lieutenant Nun), contemporary Accounts (Relaciones) about Erauso, selected archival documents about Erauso’s Petition for a Pension to the Council of the Indies, and contemporary letters mentioning Erauso.This book presents early modern scholars working in English with new material essential to understanding the historical and literary figure of Erauso, and historical documentation that provides a glimpse into the terms Erauso (and others) seemingly chose for themselves.
Mad Studies: The Basics (The Basics)
by Merrick Daniel PillingMad Studies: The Basics provides an introductory account of a field that emerged from, and must remain grounded within, community knowledge, activism, and the perspectives of those who have experienced madness and mental health systems.It is a concise text that introduces the field through an exploration of some origins of Mad Studies, as well as two interrelated queries: what does Mad Studies help us understand, and what does Mad Studies help us do? This exploration reveals that Mad Studies is an interdisciplinary, intersectional, and multi-vocal field that demands different answers to the very meaning of the beliefs, behaviours, and bodymind experiences that are currently characterized as being indicative of mental illness. At the heart of Mad Studies is a liberationist desire to resist, transform, and abolish the systems that create marginalization, and implement responses to madness that are grounded in the collective knowledge of those deemed Mad. This book shows that the contributions of Indigenous, Black, racialized, queer, and trans people must be understood as central to, and already embedded within, Mad Studies and activism rather than as add-ons, expansions, or efforts to make Mad Studies more inclusive.It will be of interest to all scholars and students of disability studies, social work, gender studies, education, health sciences, sociology, and psychology, as well as practitioners in mental health care, and those with lived experience of madness and mental health systems.
Young Masculinities and Sexual Health in Southern Africa (Routledge Studies on Gender and Sexuality in Africa)
by Deevia Bhana Kaymarlin Govender Morten SkovdalThis book examines the complex relationships between young masculinities and sexual health within Southern Africa. It considers how socio-cultural and economic factors shape young men’s experiences of masculinity and the effects on relationship dynamics, gender norms and sexual health.Through thematic chapters covering love, pleasure, social norms, risk, and HIV, the book emphasises the global importance of engaging young men in fostering gender equity and promoting healthier sexual practices. Readers will benefit from a diverse range of methodologies and perspectives that highlight the plurality and fluidity of masculinities, challenging monolithic accounts of young men in the region whilst illustrating the global relevance of understanding local contexts in shaping masculinities. The book provides valuable insights for developing effective sexual health interventions that recognise and embrace 'other' masculinities. Sexual health approaches that resonate with the lived realities of young men can potentially enhance young men’s engagement and participation in promoting healthier relationships and practices.With important insights for theory, policy, and practice, this book will be of interest to researchers across the fields of critical masculinity studies, sexual and reproductive health, gender studies and African studies, as well as policymakers, development practitioners, and activists.
Documents on Israeli-Soviet Relations, 1954–1967: Part 4: 1965–1967 (Routledge Histories of Central and Eastern Europe)
by Boris Morozov Yaacov Ro’i Yehoshua FreundlichThis book, spanning the years 1965–1967 – the years leading up to and culminating in the June 1967 Six-Day War – is the fourth in a four-volume collection of documents from the Russian Federation and the Israeli State Archive portraying relations between the Soviet Union and the State of Israel.Most of the documents are communications composed by successive Soviet ambassadors in Israel and Israeli ambassadors in Moscow and their respective staff. They illustrate the way Soviet ideology placed Israel irreparably in the enemy, western camp in the Cold War. Moscow’s attempt to manipulate Israel into a seemingly neutral position in the international arena was therefore a ploy, the failure of which was a foregone conclusion. Israel’s efforts to normalise relations between the two states were by turns genuine and unserious and similarly doomed to fail, both because of ongoing Soviet arms supplies to Egypt and Syria – which Israel perceived as a major threat to its security – and because the Israeli government and public felt a commitment to the well-being of the Soviet Jewish minority that they saw as deprived of basic rights.The book will be of interest to scholars and students of Soviet foreign policy, Israel’s formative years, the Arab–Israeli conflict and Soviet Jewry, and it will be a must for university libraries.
Image Processing, Computer Vision, and Pattern Recognition and Information and Knowledge Engineering: 28th International Conference, IPCV 2024, and 23rd International Conference, IKE 2024, Held as Part of the World Congress in Computer Science, Computer Engineering and Applied Computing, CSCE 2024, Las Vegas, NV, USA, July 22–25, 2024, Revised Selected Papers (Communications in Computer and Information Science #2262)
by Hamid R. Arabnia Leonidas Deligiannidis Soheyla Amirian Farzan Shenavarmasouleh Farid Ghareh MohammadiThis book constitutes the proceedings of the 28th International Conference on Image Processing, Computer Vision, and Pattern Recognition, IPCV 2024, and the 23rd International Conference on Information and Knowledge Engineering, IKE 2024, held as part of the 2024 World Congress in Computer Science, Computer Engineering and Applied Computing, in Las Vegas, USA, during July 22 to July 25, 2024. The 19 IPCV 2024 papers included in these proceedings were carefully reviewed and selected from 98 submissions. IKE 2024 received 40 submissions and accepted 10 papers for inclusion in the proceedings. The papers have been organized in topical sections as follows: Image processing, computer vision and pattern recognition; image processing, computer vision and pattern recognition - detection methods; and information and knowledge engineering.
Recent Trends in Intelligence Enabled Research: Proceedings of the 5th International Symposium on Signal and Image Processing, ISSIP 2024 (Lecture Notes in Electrical Engineering #1269)
by Siddhartha Bhattacharyya Debabrata SamantaThis book gathers selected papers presented at the Fifth International Symposium on Signal and Image Processing (ISSIP 2024). It presents fascinating state-of-the-art research findings in signal and image processing. It includes conference papers covering many signal-processing applications involving filtering, encoding, classification, segmentation, clustering, feature extraction, denoising, watermarking, object recognition, reconstruction, and fractal analysis. It addresses various types of signals, such as image, video, speech, non-speech audio, handwritten text, geometric diagram, and ECG and EMG signals; MRI, PET, and CT scan images; THz signals; solar wind speed (SWS) signals; and photoplethysmography (PPG) signals, and demonstrates how new paradigms of intelligent computing, like quantum computing, can be applied to process and analyze signals precisely and effectively.
Emerging Trends in Information System Security Using AI & Data Science for Next-Generation Cyber Analytics (Information Systems Engineering and Management #32)
by Inam Ullah Khan Shashi Kant Gupta Oroos Arshi Faisal RehmanThis book is a comprehensive exploration into the intersection of cutting-edge technologies and the critical domain of cybersecurity; this book delves deep into the evolving landscape of cyber threats and the imperative for innovative solutions. From establishing the fundamental principles of cyber security to scrutinizing the latest advancements in AI and machine learning, each chapter offers invaluable insights into bolstering defenses against contemporary threats. Readers are guided through a journey that traverses the realms of cyber analytics, threat analysis, and the safeguarding of information systems in an increasingly interconnected world. With chapters dedicated to exploring the role of AI in securing IoT devices, employing supervised and unsupervised learning techniques for threat classification, and harnessing the power of recurrent neural networks for time series analysis, this book presents a holistic view of the evolving cybersecurity landscape. Moreover, it highlights the importance of next-generation defense mechanisms, such as generative adversarial networks (GANs) and federated learning techniques, in combating sophisticated cyber threats while preserving privacy. This book is a comprehensive guide to integrating AI and data science into modern cybersecurity strategies. It covers topics like anomaly detection, behaviour analysis, and threat intelligence, and advocates for proactive risk mitigation using AI and data science. The book provides practical applications, ethical considerations, and customizable frameworks for implementing next-gen cyber defense strategies. It bridges theory with practice, offering real-world case studies, innovative methodologies, and continuous learning resources to equip readers with the knowledge and tools to mitigate cyber threats.
Mixed Cultures in Industrial Bioprocesses (Advances in Biochemical Engineering/Biotechnology #189)
by Elias HakalehtoThis book reviews the potential of mixed microbial cultures in industrial bioprocesses, offering groundbreaking insights and practical applications. It addresses different applications and challenges and discusses potential solutions for utilizing mixed cultures. Through this book, readers will learn about the latest advancements in microbial bioprocessing, from innovative fermentation techniques to sustainable waste management solutions. Divided into 10 chapters, the book covers topics such as mixed strain fermentation and metabolomics, and the dynamic nature of the human gut microbiota. Expert contributors also explore critical issues like selenium removal from wastewater, simultaneous CO2 absorption and wastewater treatment, and the production of novel energy gases using undefined mixed cultures. This book highlights the power and benefits of microbial communities and their metabolic networks by describing how they can be harnessed for food and forest industry waste reuse and the upgrading of products from bio-refinery pilots. The combinations of economically feasible and sustainable processes in ecosystem engineering are also discussed. Finally, the future of biorefinery industries as a part of circulation economies and healthier environments is discussed. Given its breadth, the book is a valuable resource for researchers in biochemical engineering and biotechnology fields, as well as anyone dealing with industrial R&D, construction projects or sustainable food and feed production. The empirical research and its outcomes presented here address pressing environmental challenges, making this volume a must-read for anyone committed to advancing sustainable biotechnological solutions.
Financial Politics in the United States in the 1890s: The Golden Web
by Wyatt WellsIn the 1890s, the choice between the gold standard and the free coinage of silver upended American politics. The gold standard linked the United States to the larger international financial system, in which gold was the common denominator. The free coinage of silver would effectively sever these ties by devaluing the dollar. The gold standard allowed the U.S. to secure vast amounts of foreign capital on good terms to build railroads and develop industry, but at the cost of deflation. The free coinage of silver would raise prices, particularly for cotton and wheat, whose cultivators carried heavy debts and were hard-pressed. The struggle would define the United States. Would it continue to develop industrially, or would it return to its agricultural roots? The combatants—among them Grover Cleveland, William Jennings Bryan, J.P. Morgan, and William McKinley—understood what was at stake. This book deals both with well-known aspects of the contest, such as the 1896 Presidential election between McKinley and Bryan, and lesser-known ones, such as how the currency issues interacted with racial politics and international negotiations over the role of silver in the world&’s monetary system. The result is the most comprehensive account of financial politics in the United States in the 1890s yet published.
China's Belt and Road Initiative in Africa: Aid Policies and Economic Development
by Julien Rajaoson R. Mireille Manga EdimoThis book provides insight into the economic partnerships between African governments and China offered by the Belt and Road Initiative. It examines the Belt and Road Initiative from a macro and microeconomic perspective to present a detailed understanding of the transformation of African development policies since the initiative began. Particular attention is given to the historical context behind the Belt and Road Initiative, the financing of infrastructure and public services in Africa, the spread of technology from China to Africa, China’s position within the global political order, African energy markets, and the development of special economic zones. This book grounds analysis of the Belt and Road Initiative within specific policies and case studies from Africa. It will be relevant to students, researchers and practitioners interested in development economics and the political economy.
Higher Structures and Operadic Calculus (Advanced Courses in Mathematics - CRM Barcelona)
by Bruno ValletteThis book presents the notes originating from five series of lectures given at the CRM Barcelona in 21-25 June, 2021, during the “Higher homotopical structures” programme. Since their introduction 60 years ago, the notions of infinity algebras (Stasheff, Sugawara), higher categories (Boardman-Vogt), operads (May), and model categories (Quillen) have given rise to powerful new tools which made possible the resolution of open problems and prompted revolutions in many domains like algebraic topology (rational homotopy theory, faithful algebraic invariants of the homotopy type of spaces), deformation theory (formality theorems, formal moduli problems), and mathematical physics (quantization of Poisson manifolds, quantum field theories), to name but a few. This theory of higher structures using operadic calculus is currently under rapid development. The aim of this book is to provide the community with an accessible state-of-the-art, while at the same time giving interested researchers and advanced students a brief overview on the subject.
Design of Soft–Rigid Devices for Rehabilitative and Assistive Robotics (Springer Theses)
by Mihai DragusanuThis book describes a comprehensive research project in which different devices for rehabilitation, assistance, and haptic applications are designed and developed. The fil-rouge is the user-centered perspective, that has been employed in all the design and development phases, and the exploitation of soft robotics solutions allowing for a safe and comfortable interaction with the user. Extensive information concerning the design, the practical application and the assessment of various assistive devices for upper limb are included throughout the book, which also offers an up-to-date reference guide for dealing with future interdisciplinary research projects involving soft robotics and user-centered perspectives for enhancing robotic assistance capabilities
Log-Linear Models and Logistic Regression (Springer Texts in Statistics)
by Ronald ChristensenThis book examines statistical models for frequency data. The primary focus is on log-linear models for contingency tables but also includes extensive discussion of logistic regression. Topics such as logistic discrimination, generalized linear models, and correspondence analysis are also explored. The treatment is designed for readers with prior knowledge of analysis of variance and regression. It builds upon the relationships between these basic models for continuous data and the analogous log-linear and logistic regression models for discrete data. While emphasizing similarities between methods for discrete and continuous data, this book also carefully examines the differences in model interpretations and evaluation that occur due to the discrete nature of the data. Numerous data sets from fields as diverse as engineering, education, sociology, and medicine are used to illustrate procedures and provide exercises. A major addition to the third edition is the availability of a companion online manual providing R code for the procedures illustrated in the book. The book begins with an extensive discussion of odds and odds ratios as well as concrete illustrations of basic independence models for contingency tables. After developing a sound applied and theoretical basis for frequency models analogous to ANOVA and regression, the book presents, for contingency tables, detailed discussions of the use of graphical models, of model selection procedures, and of models with quantitative factors. It then explores generalized linear models, after which all the fundamental results are reexamined using powerful matrix methods. The book then gives an extensive treatment of Bayesian procedures for analyzing logistic regression and other regression models for binomial data. Bayesian methods are conceptually simple and unlike traditional methods allow accurate conclusions to be drawn without requiring large sample sizes. The book concludes with two new chapters: one on exact conditional tests for small sample sizes and another on the graphical procedure known as correspondence analysis.
Communications, Signal Processing, and Systems: Proceedings of the 12th International Conference on Communications, Signal Processing, and Systems: Volume 2 (Lecture Notes in Electrical Engineering #1033)
by Wei Wang Baoju Zhang Xin Liu Zhenyu NaThis book brings together papers presented at the 2023 International Conference on Communications, Signal Processing, and Systems, which provides a venue to disseminate the latest developments and to discuss the interactions and links between these multidisciplinary fields. Spanning topics ranging from Communications, Signal Processing, and Systems, this book is aimed at undergraduate and graduate students in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science and Mathematics, researchers and engineers from academia and industry as well as government employees (such as NSF, DOD, DOE).
Drug Policy Revolutions: Trajectories in Argentina, Portugal, and Uruguay
by Sebastián A. Cutrona Nilda M. GarcíaCoinciding with a wave of drug policy liberalization around the world, this book analyzes the experiences of Argentina, Portugal, and Uruguay in their efforts at depenalization, decriminalization, and legalization/regulation of recreational drugs. The authors present the successes and challenges of the approaches and their impacts on drug use, public health, and security, debunking some of the myths surrounding flexible drug policies along the way. Contrasting the three liberalization cases with the criminalization approach of the US at federal level, the book offers policy recommendations and lessons learned from the historical trajectories and policy reforms in addressing drug consumption and its associated harms.
Global Development and Environment
by Joe Williams James DuminyAvailable open access digitally under CC-BY licence. Development and environmental challenges are often framed at the global or planetary scale, but in a vague or apolitical manner. This book develops a theoretically rigorous and politicized concept of the planetary to intervene in contemporary debates on global development and to enhance our critical understanding of development as we approach the second quarter of the twenty-first century. Chapters explore key themes and processes including urbanization, demographic change, health, financialization, and infrastructure development. Referencing diverse cases and examples drawn from across the world, the book argues that the futures of global development are inseparable from environmental challenges and transformations.
The Realities of Autonomous Weapons
by Thomas Christian Bächle and Jascha BareisAvailable open access digitally under CC-BY-NC-ND licence. The realities of autonomous weapons are a complex blend of both existing military technologies and visions of their future capabilities. The expected ramifications are profound and always point to the interplay between fact and fiction, actual developments and creative imagination. This book explores how these realities shape and become themselves shaped by popular culture, regulatory and ethics debates, military doctrines, policies and research. It examines phenomena ranging from film and artistic interpretations to warfare scenarios and weaponized artificial intelligence. Intended for researchers (including the disciplines of political and social sciences, media, culture and technology), policy makers, educators and journalists, this is a key resource that uncovers how autonomous weapons are constructed as both a technological reality and a futuristic possibility.