Annual of the Faculty of Philosophy in Skopje

GMO1 - WHAT IS IT AND WHY DO WE NEED IT!?

2025-01-03T12:41:01+01:00

Bioethical thinking regarding biotechnology should play an important role
in our lives, views and legislation. The main debates have been and still are over the
regulation, safety and moral status of certain applications of modern biotechnology,
such as GMOs. There are fears about the technology being autonomous without public
control due to its strategic nature. Awareness of technological impact on modern life is
becoming more apparent as the application of biotechnology continues to develop. How
then can we create a platform for handling biotechnology in a way that aligns with our
views on the good life, ie. in a healthy, beneficial and environmentally sustainable way?
This article therefore raises for discussion some important issues to consider
regarding the ethical dimensions of technology and how it is used. Is it applied to the
greater good? And do current regulations, or the lack of them, violate our responsibilities
to others by not allowing them to choose whether they knowingly and voluntarily
assume the risks of ingesting these GM substances?

THE DAUGHTERS OF MEN AND THE SONS OF GOD: THE FALL OF THE ANGELS AND THE (NON)VEILING OF THE WOMEN ACCORDING TO TERTULLIAN

2025-01-03T12:41:55+01:00

Тhe text outlines Tertullian’s stances on the catastrophic unification (by way of
marriage) of the daughters of men with the sons of God from the story about the fallen
angels. The offspring produced by this merger is horrifically dangerous to the human
race on earth, and therefore, Tertullian’s aim is to prevent any sort of reactualization
of such a disastrous event. He communicates this through his positions on the primordial
sinfulness of the woman, and the blame cast onto the beautiful daughters of men,
who, with their unhumble and uncovered beauty tempted the angels so strongly, that
they caused them to abandon their celestial abodes and functions, and descend to earth,
thus disrupting the order in the world, and bringing people problematic knowledge and
various problematic capabilities, of which the еvilest were those most appealing to the
women.
Tertullian’s aim is to insist on the necessity of the covering of women, especially
virgins, since those were the errant daughters of men from the story, so that they do not
pose a danger to the chastity of men, and more importantly, to the innocence, morality
and the ontological stability of the angels, and with this, the structure and functioning
of the religious community. These objectives are overviewed through his polemic with
Marcion, and through his strong opposition to the customs of uncovering by a part of
the women within the church(es). Through chosen examples from Tertullian’s opus,
the instances in which he mentions the motif of the fallen angels through the blame and
sin of the daughters of men, and the need to prevent any such transgression are shown.

BEING A TEACHER IS MORE THAN A PROFESSION: REFLECTIONS ON THE TEACHING VOCATION IN THE XXI CENTURY

2025-01-03T12:42:56+01:00

This paper analyzes the position of the teaching profession within the broader
social reality in the 21st century, with particular reference to the contemporary Macedonian
pedagogical and social context. The paper first gives a summary presentation of
several central points related to the teaching profession in modern society: 1. Interpretation
of this year’s UNESCO theme: “The Transformation of Education Begins with
Teachers”; 2. Consulting several theories that give a broader perspective to the teaching
profession in general (Konrad Liessmann, George Steiner, John Dewey and Jerome
Brunner); 3. Criticism of the negative tendency to interpret the teaching profession from
the point of view of information transmission, and not within the broader educational
process, as the theory and history of pedagogy dictates. The rest of the paper deals with
the application of general pedagogical and philosophical theories to the contemporary
Macedonian contest in dialogue with the specific Macedonian pedagogical tradition.
The paper pays particular attention to the “Conception of Primary Education” (2021),
which is interpreted as an attempt to reinterpret and rehabilitate the position of the
teacher in contemporary Macedonian education.

THE LABOR MARKET AND THE SKILLS NEEDS DEVELOPMENT AMONG ADULTS IN THE REPUBLIC OF NORTH MACEDONIA

2025-01-03T12:44:14+01:00

In the rapidly evolving global economy, aligning labor market demands with
skills needs development among adults is critical for sustainable economic growth and
individual career success. This alignment ensures that the workforce remains competitive,
adaptable and capable of meeting industry requirements. A significant mismatch
between labor market demands and available skills can lead to increased unemployment,
underemployment, and diminished economic productivity. Addressing this gap necessitates
a comprehensive understanding of current and future labor market trends, coupled
with targeted educational and training programs.
Adult education and continuous professional development play pivotal roles
in this context, enabling workers to acquire new skills and upgrade existing ones in
response to technological advancements and changing job roles. Collaboration among
policymakers, educational institutions and industry stakeholders is essential to create
responsive training programs that reflect the dynamic nature of the labor market. Moreover,
effective skills development strategies can enhance job satisfaction, increase earning
potential and reduce socio-economic inequalities. By fostering a culture of lifelong
learning and adaptability, societies can better prepare their workforces for the challenges
of the future, ensuring economic resilience and improved quality of life for individuals.
This strategic approach ultimately benefits for both employers and employees, promoting
a more inclusive and robust labor market.

THE ROLE OF ICT IN THE TEACHING AND LEARNING OF MATHEMATICS IN ELEMENTARY EDUCATION

2025-01-03T12:45:36+01:00

Technology is an essential aspect of everyday life, thus the growth and integration
of information and communication technology (ICT) in learning and teaching is
expected. Beginning with the origins of technology based on mathematics as a science,
we narrow our focus in this scholarly study on the use of ICT in the teaching and
learning of mathematics in elementary education. We focused on studying the impact
of ICT on the teaching and learning process, as well as the usage of ICT tools in the
development of knowledge in mathematics. The goal of this systematic analysis is to
show the benefits of integrating ICT into mathematics teaching and learning, as well as
the constraints and challenges that elementary school teachers and students encounter.
Our comprehensive analysis of pertinent theoretical and empirical findings led
us to the general conclusion that teacher proficiency with the new technology plays a
major role in the integration of ICT. The positive impact of ICT on mathematics teaching
and learning is undeniable, because technology reduces logistics in the planning
and implementation of instruction, increases interaction in the classroom, and encourages
mathematics learning through the visualization of abstract concepts and processes,
while also allowing for independent study.

PSYCHOMETRIC PROPERTIES OF THE SHORT VERSION OF GENERIC CONSPIRACIST BELIEFS SCALE (GCB-15) TRANSLATED IN MACEDONIAN LANGUAGE

2025-01-03T12:46:35+01:00

This research evaluates the psychometric characteristics of the short version
of Generic Conspiracist Beliefs scale (GCB-15) translated in Macedonian language.
A convenient online sample of 615 ethnic Macedonians (53.2% women, average age
M=30.6; SD=20.4) from 18 cities participated voluntarily in the data gathering process.
The translation process involved two independent interpretations, a back-translation,
and consensus discussions.
The mean scores for GCB-15 subscales were higher compared to other studies,
possibly indicating elevated conspiracist beliefs in this population. The results from
the exploratory factor analysis suggested a two-factor structure, distinguishing general
conspiracist ideation and extraterrestrial beliefs. The confirmatory factor analysis
supported this model over one- or five-factor structures. The Cronbach Alpha indices
indicated acceptable internal consistency of all subscales (from α=.61 to α=.80) and very
high one for the overall scale (α=.91). Convergent validity was confirmed by examining
correlations with conspiracist mentality and populist attitudes, while discriminant validity
was demonstrated by non-association with emotional intelligence. Criterion-based
validity was confirmed by predicting belief in COVID-19 conspiracy theory, whereas
known groups’ validity showed differences in GCB based on education, economic status,
and life satisfaction, however, the hypotheses were supported only partially. In conclusion,
the GCB-15 translated in Macedonian proves to be a valuable instrument for
studying conspiracist beliefs in this cultural context, offering additional support for its
effectiveness across various cultures.

INTEGRATING MORALITY INTO INTELLIGENT MACHINES – CAN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE MAKE UNSUPERVISED MORAL DECISIONS?

2025-01-03T12:47:45+01:00

With the expansion of artificial intelligence and advanced technologies, the
world in the 21st century is rapidly changing and imposing new living dynamics. Although
such changes affect all age groups, younger generations accept them faster and
react more positively. The new cohorts - Generation Z and Alpha - live in a digital world
that affect their lifestyle, interpersonal relations, quality of mental health, psychological
well-being and everyday challenges. The presence of the so called “Frankenstein effect”
in some adults provoked by the fast development of artificial intelligence and robotics,
reflects a “humans versus machines” position, viewing artificial intelligence as a
threat to humanity. However, the reality is that digital and human world are not in
conflict, since many people are already using artificial intelligence tools on daily basis.
It is implemented in certain aspects of medicine, education, business, law, agriculture,
industry, space technology and in many other fields. With this in mind, the aspect of
morality pops up as a very important one. A frequently asked question is: Does artificial
intelligence have the capacity to make moral decisions independently? Therefore, integrating
morality into AI algorithms is one of the priorities that interdisciplinary teams
from engineering and computer sciences, psychology, philosophy, sociology, law, etc.
are intensively working on. This paper addresses this issue by presenting findings from
relevant research which discusses the challenges and possibilities for integrating the
dimensions of morality and introducing human values into autonomous systems that
perform complex tasks.

GOVERNANCE VS ABOLITION OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS: THE PEACE STUDIES APPROACH

2025-01-03T12:48:45+01:00

This article explores how peace studies deal with two interrelated issues: nuclearism
and militarism. Nuclearism assumes the practice of spreading nuclear threats
along with the security thinking and power structures that surround the doomsday
weapons. Militarism is about the deeply embedded belief that military power (including
the nuclear one) is the only way to preserve one’s national security. In short, today’s
world deals not only with stockpiles of existing weapons but also with the way of thinking
about their use, reduction or abolition. The general hypothesis is that the academic
and intellectual efforts invested in these issues are (self) limited and developed in a
climate of self-censorship and organized hypocrisy. This makes them not only ineffective
but also prone to the preservation of the global status quo as the best solution for peace in
the world. Scientists are involved in the technical aspects of the weapons management.
But scholars from the social sciences and humanities (i.e. where the peace researchers
mostly come from) are expected to deal with the deconstruction of the dominant way of
thinking (both in academia and out of it) and promotion of the idea that a different world
is possible. Or the alternative is nuclear holocaust.

POLICY ACTORS AND POLICY ISSUES FOR RELIGION IN PUBLIC DIALOGUE AND PEACEMAKING

2025-01-03T12:50:52+01:00

The purpose of this article is to establish a connection between key policy actors
and significant policy issues regarding religion in public discourse and peacebuilding
within a broader context. The challenge lies in addressing the dilemmas surrounding
whether discussions about religion, its impact on younger generations, and its role in
peacemaking are solely influenced by religious factors, or if other social and political actors
play a role as well. Through our research, we have identified ongoing political processes
that have the potential to enhance religious dialogue and peacemaking on various
levels. This mapping of actors and processes has been informed by literature, established
academic and social networks like Culturelink (a Network of Networks for Research
and Cooperation in Cultural Development, established by UNESCO and the Council
of Europe), web searches, and interviews with stakeholders. The result of this analysis
is a comprehensive list of over 300 actors documented in the RETOPEA Horizon 2020
project. We contend that current political processes offer opportunities to strengthen
dialogue, which is more robust in some European countries but lacking in others when it
comes to addressing issues related to the resurgence of religion in international politics
and peacebuilding efforts.

THE INTERDEPENDENCE OF PLANNING, PROGRAMMING AND BUDGETING

2025-01-03T12:51:45+01:00

Planning is a significant process function and counterpoises a very complex,
dynamic and specific activity, which means that its subject consists of all forms of social
activity, activities and life. Planning and programming are equally important to all
entities regardless of their size and goals, as they all have experienced painful problems
with their planning efforts. Some emerge from the planning process itself, and some
from the implementing procedure. Therefore the question arises: „How to help overcome
failures in planning from failures in implementation?” Hence, the management team
has no choice regarding the question: “Do they want to plan or not?” The sole alternative
is to carry out the planning completely, pragmatically and systematically. On
the other hand, programming connects planning with budgeting and execution, and
counterpoises a sort of rational assumption to “turn” plans from adopted plans into programs,
that is, projects and activities across main accounting categories, in accordance
with the desired capabilities and priorities. The analysis of the entire matter processed
in this paper is carried out in a very specific way through the prism of identifying not
only the problems related to planning, programming and budgeting, but also making
a scientific contribution to the foundation of this rather significant conditionality and
interdependence.

GREAT POWER STRATEGIC COMPETITION IN THE CONTEMPORARY SECURITY ENVIRONMENT

2025-01-03T12:53:04+01:00

The difference in attitudes, interests and influences of the great powers contributed
to greater uncertainty and fear for the future of nations and states. In the past
decade, revisionist and autocratic countries such as Russia and China have sought to
shift the focus from the West to the East and build a “post-Western world order” that
will reshape the world against American values and interests. In this new period of transition,
which resembles the time of the Cold War, the traditional security-military issues
of the balance of power, the arms race, the struggle for territories and the strengthening
of alliances are being emphasized again. A possible confrontation between the great
powers, where the United States of America is still the leading power in the world, while
the PRC is the second economic and military power, and Russia is one of the two most
powerful nuclear powers, could threaten global and regional security and stability.
The sharpened geopolitical rivalry between the “big three” will increase tensions
in their spheres of interest, that is, in the regions and countries that are located
on the strategic lines of separation. The focus of attention is on Eastern Europe and the
Indo-Pacific region, which are of great geostrategic importance for the great powers and
their alliances. Due to the historical connection with these “exclusive zones of interest”,
there is a possibility that the previous “competitive coexistence” will escalate into an
intense security rivalry.

THE POTENTIAL EXPLOITATION OF GENERATIVE ARTIFICAL INTELLIGENCE BY TERRORISTS AND VIOLENT EXTREMISTS

2025-01-03T12:54:12+01:00

This paper will analyze how and to what extent terrorists and violent extremists
have interacted with generative artificial intelligence so far and identify potential
ways in which they could misuse generative AI in the future. It is therefore necessary
to question assumptions that terrorist and violent extremist actors will quickly adopt
generative AI solely based on an assessment of the capabilities it may offer. Although
research has shown that technological capability and availability are key drivers of terrorist
innovation, terrorist and violent extremist actors also assess any new technology
on its compatibility (with both their modus operandi and ideology), relative complexity,
cost, and the context in which they are operating. Understanding these factors, both in
isolation and in relation to one another, will be a key aspect in monitoring the extent to
which terrorists and violent extremists adopt generative AI tools. In doing so, the paper
will seek to identify a likely trajectory for the abuse of this technology by terrorist actors
as well as conclude with some initial recommendations for policymakers.

TOTAL WAR

2025-01-03T12:55:08+01:00

Total war continues to be a topic of debate and research in modern conflicts.
Technological inventions and the interconnectedness of the global community amplify
the effect of the consequences of warfare. We reexamine the totality of modern armed
conflicts through an analysis of the achievement and level of destruction that pose new
ethical, legal and political challenges. The author answers the questions about: the deep
psychological and political implications that extend beyond the battlefield that transmit
in depth and encompass the entire (global) society. We define total war through the
criteria of: intentional targeting of civilians, civilian resources and infrastructure and
the firm control of the population’s behavior through the installation of fear, hatred and
trauma; through the political attempt through the war to gain and consolidate support
among the people, entailing debates about civil liberties and erosion of democratic principles;
the treatment of prisoners and the mass executions of the adversary as well as our
own insufficiently motivated forces and ideologically unfit population; and a possible
cataclysmic scenario of the use of atomic weapons. The analysis emphasizes the complex
roles of traditionally non-combatant categories and new technologies and doctrines and
their impact on the totality of warfare. The position remains that total war is an ideal
concept, but also the unanswered question if there are atypicalities of that concept,
which is the deviation from the benchmark for how limited the war and its constituent
elements are instead of total. The research concludes that total war changes cultures,
geopolitical views and international relations, and that its legacy changes the course of
history for generations to come.

TOWARDS A SUSTAINABLE CONFLICT OUTCOMES – CHALLENGES AND PERSPECTIVES

2025-01-03T12:55:54+01:00

Predictions and expectations about more peaceful, safer and cooperative relations
in the international system by the beginning of the XXI century, unfortunately,
did not come true. Namely, even today we are witnessing numerous violent internal as
well as conflicts between states, which solution is not even in sight. Hence, the dilemma
about the applicability, efficiency and sustainability of the existing approaches in conflict
managing and overcoming inevitably arises, i.e. do they offer an acceptable platform
for creating real solutions, as well, what are the main challenges and perspectives regarding
such issue. Starting from this point of view, the paper analysis goal is to explore
the possible answers to the indicated dilemma. In this regard, the focus is specifically
placed on the analysis of the existing challenges and perspectives from the theory-practice
relationship, as well as, from the so called exit solutions or outcomes related to the
applicability and sustainability of the instruments and methods of conflict settlement
and resolution approaches.

SMALL STATES AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF THEIR EXTERNAL SECURITY AND DEFENSE POLICY FROM THE ASPECT OF SECURITY MANAGEMENT

2025-01-03T12:57:02+01:00

Foreign security and defense policy is an interdependent component of security
management. According to the neo-classical definition of security management in the
field of external security-defense policy, it includes a series of practices, strategies and
principles aimed at protecting assets, information and resources from various threats
and risks through the development of civil and military skills. From the perspective of
the realist theory, the nature of the international structure is defined by its organizing
principle, that is, the balance and distribution of power between states and international
institutions. Hence, the question arises as to what is the position and role of small states
in the international system in terms of security management, from where the main hypothesis
of this paper derives, which highlights the need for appropriate management of
security trends, both at the national level and in wider international context.
Through the application of an inductive method of qualitative analysis of primary
and secondary sources, comparative presentation of combined data and identification
of causal influences, the role of the mechanisms that have the most potential to achieve
an optimal outcome in the positioning of small states with limited political influence and
a low security share is highlighted. Thus, through the application of appropriate models
for the implementation of security management functions, small states create space for
participation in security maneuvers.

GENDER BASED VIOLENCE IN NORTH MACEDONIA: CHALLENGES AND STRATEGIES FOR PREVENTION AND PROTECTION

2025-01-03T12:58:54+01:00

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a serious social and legal problem that affects all
societies, including North Macedonia. This type of violence is deeply rooted in unequal
power relations between the sexes and social norms that reinforce those inequalities.
Gender-based violence includes physical, sexual, psychological and economic violence
directed at a person because of their sex or gender. It not only causes direct harm to the
victims, but also affects their well-being, personal development and participation in
society.
North Macedonia, as a country that strives for European integration and adoption
of European values, takes significant steps to deal with this problem through legislation,
strategies and programs for prevention and protection of victims. However,
numerous challenges remain that hinder these efforts, such as insufficient public awareness,
cultural barriers, inadequate implementation of laws, insufficient support for victims,
as well as inequality in victims’ access to justice.
This paper aims to analyze the current situation regarding gender-based violence
in North Macedonia, to identify the main challenges the country is facing and to
propose specific strategies and measures to overcome them. Through the analysis of existing
data, the legislative framework and a case study, we will try to provide a complete
overview of the problem and offer recommendations to improve the situation.

FAMILY QUALITY OF LIFE: PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES

2025-01-03T13:12:28+01:00

In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on researching quality of life,
particularly within families that include members with disabilities. Family Quality of
Life (FQOL) has gained prominence in special education as researchers seek to understand
and improve the well-being of these families. This study aims to present findings
on the quality of life of parents raising children with disabilities.
Using a quantitative research approach and the validated BCFQOL tool, we
surveyed 205 parents. The results were unexpectedly positive, showing generally higher
levels of quality of life among participants. However, challenges were identified in specific
dimensions such as “Emotional well-being,” and “Material well-being”.

THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN MAINSTREAM AND SPECIAL EDUCATION

2025-01-03T13:13:21+01:00

Inclusive education is a process that integrates students with special needs in
mainstream schools, providing them with appropriate support and adaptations. This
paper discusses the differences between mainstream and special education, focusing on
the right to education, aims and approaches, responsibilities and competences, curricula,
focus of education, teacher preparation, learning conditions, teaching methods, learning
standards, assessment and evaluations, teacher competencies, educational research
and legislation. In Macedonia, inclusive education started in 1998 and is still in the
process of development, aimed at the full inclusion of students with disabilities, which is
stipulated in the Law on Basic Education passed in 2019.
The methodology includes an analysis of existing research and laws, as well as a
comparative study of regular and special education. Data from relevant sources such as
European and national education agencies, UNICEF reports and laws on special education
were used. This methodology enables a detailed overview of the current situation
and challenges in inclusive education.
The conclusion is that although significant efforts have been made for the
integration of students with special needs in mainstream schools, there are many
challenges that need to be overcome. Better support for teachers, more resources and
funding, and a change in attitudes of the society are needed. With appropriate measures
and policies, real inclusion and quality education for all students can be achieved.

VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN WITH DISABILITIES

2025-01-03T13:14:11+01:00

The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) with
its Optional Protocol is the first binding legal act and leading international instrument
regarding the rights of persons with disabilities. One of the principles of CRPD
is “respect for inherent dignity, individual autonomy including the freedom to make
one’s own choices and independence”, whereby persons with disabilities are recognized
as holders of rights taking into account their specific situation. CRPD recognizes in
Article 6 that “women and girls with disabilities are subject to multiple discrimination”
and mandates signatory countries to “take measures to ensure their full and equal
enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms.” The research was done in
order to examine the readiness of the state to institutionally cover the awareness of girls
and women with disabilities, their education on the issue of violence, access to services
and information appropriate to the needs of each category separately, as well as systemic
solutions for their protection from violence. A qualitative research strategy was applied,
and the research was conducted with representatives of the Centers for Social Work, representatives
from the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy, professionals who are direct
providers of services in the field of non-family protection, as well as the girls and women
with disabilities themselves. The main conclusions that emerge from the research say
that girls and women with disabilities are more susceptible to violence, especially by
their partners or family members. More awareness is needed to recognize and encourage
reporting of violence.

THEODOSIUS DOBZHANSKY AND THE EVOLUTION OF HUMANITY: A DIFFERENT APPROACH

2025-01-03T13:15:14+01:00

The text is a plausible presentation and critical review of the main work of
Theodosius Dobzhansky: “Evolution of Humanity”. It tries to show and proves that
Dobzhansky tries and largely succeeds in offering a different, let’s say, dialectical interpretation
of the biological evolution of humanity, i.e., the stages and differences in
the evolution of the human species and race. Following in the footsteps of, but also in
contrast to, traditional Darwinism and some similar evolutionary theories, Dobzhansky
insists on the claim that evolution, primarily biological, is not over, but that it is still
going on, despite human, i.e., a cultural intervention, namely simultaneous and together/
conjunctive with it, which seeks to influence and change the directions of the existing
natural flows and processes. During the multi-millennium history, biology and culture
became interdependent and interfering, with which man (woman and man) with his
appearance asserted himself as the main and most responsible factor/agent of the fate
of the human race and the survival of the human community/human species, namely
survival of oneself, but also of the totality and entirety of the planetary biodiversity, as
a necessary prerequisite for one’s own survival and existence.
In his research on the evolution of humanity, Dobzhansky starts from the inspiring
views of some famous predecessors, such as Pierre Teilhard De Chardin, but we
can argue that Dobzhansky influenced many of his contemporaries, including Noam
Chomsky, especially when it comes to linguistic research on the genesis and emergence
of human language, and the influence of transformative-generative grammar on the
development of the human mind, i.e., on the development of the human brain.
At the same time, we can state that Dobzhansky’s research and insights correspond
and coincide with the research and ethical attitudes of some modern bioethicists,
philosophers of biology and culturologists, as well as with the attitudes of many
like-minded people and followers.

FEMINISM AS AN IDEOLOGY THROUGH THE PRACTICES OF THE WOMEN’S MOVEMENT MACEDONIAN CONTEXT

2025-01-03T13:16:34+01:00

This study primarily focuses on feminism and the women’s movement and how
they manifest in Macedonian society. The feminist ideology reflects various forms of
activism, with the common goal of overcoming the subordinate status of women in society
and achieving equality between men and women. Hence, this study explores the
following questions: does feminist activism in Macedonian society contribute to the advancement
of women’s rights, and can every women’s movement be situated within the
framework of feminist theory? Consequently, through the analysis of specific activities,
actions, and movements in public discourse, the relationships of the women’s movement
with feminism will be explored, with an emphasis on their identification with the feminist
movement. At the same time, this study will address questions of gender as a central
analytical category in feminist discourse, as well as the discrepancy between equality
as a universal value, on the one hand, and entrenched patterns of domination regarding
gender and sexual orientation, on the other hand.

INDUSTRIALIZATION AND FAMILY TRANSFORMATION

2025-01-03T13:17:24+01:00

Throughout history, families have undergone significant and profound changes.
From the pre-industrial era to the present day, family structures have evolved due
to industrialization, technological advancements, and shifting societal values. In the
pre-industrial period, families focused on imparting essential skills to children, with
women primarily managing household affairs and men assuming authoritative roles.
However, industrialization brought about numerous changes in family life: family
members joined the workforce, women gained prominence in public life, and traditional
gender roles shifted. The emergence of capitalism altered economic dynamics, emphasizing
individualism. Technological progress further transformed society, impacting medicine,
communication, and daily life. Today, marriage rates have significantly declined,
divorce rates have increased, fertility rates are lower, and marriage and childbirth are
being postponed. This study aims to provide an overview of the characteristics and lifestyles
of families before industrialization and to analyze the influence and changes in
families brought about by the effects of industrialization.

MOBBING AND SEXUAL HARASSMENT IN THE WORKPLACE IN THE REPUBLIC OF NORTH MACEDONIA

2025-01-03T13:18:19+01:00

Mobbing, defined as psychological harassment occurring through repeated activities
aimed at degrading a worker on various grounds, represents a significant violation
of human rights and dignity. It adversely affects physical, mental, and social health
while also hindering the professional future of the victim.
Sexual harassment in the workplace includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests
for sexual favors, and other forms of verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
Such behavior results in a hostile work environment, making it challenging for the victim
to carry out their job effectively.
This paper elucidates the concept of mobbing, particularly focusing on its manifestation
as sexual harassment in the workplace. Furthermore, it presents recent statistical
data on mobbing worldwide and in our home country. Finally, the paper discusses
the results of a 2023 survey on mobbing and workplace sexual harassment awareness in
North Macedonia.

ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE IN THE FAMILY

2025-01-03T13:19:06+01:00

Alzheimer’s, accounting for 60-80% of dementia cases, presents a specific pathology
and a range of symptoms, including memory loss, impaired reasoning, and
other cognitive declines. The disease’s progression and management require a comprehensive
approach involving professional care, family involvement, and individualized
care plans.
The research focuses on methods for working with individuals with Alzheimer’s
disease and their families, highlighting the importance of communication in implementing
individualized care plans. It aims to show that a well-prepared care plan, coupled
with effective communication with family members, can improve quality of life and
potentially slow disease progression. It was conducted in two parts: a questionnaire for
caregivers working with Alzheimer’s patients and a semi-structured interview with 33
family members of individuals diagnosed with the disease. This approach provided both
quantitative and qualitative data, offering a comprehensive understanding of the issues.
To improve Alzheimer’s care, we recommend enhancing family involvement
through structured models and training, increasing the accessibility of specialized
services, promoting professional development, strengthening ethical communication
standards, implementing comprehensive support systems, and regularly evaluating
care plans. These measures aim to provide holistic and effective care strategies, improving
the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer’s and their families.