Yu Chen

Given the widespread occurrence of ethical dilemmas and moral distress in healthcare, it is crucial for educators to strengthen nursing students’ ethical education. However, there is little published research on the best practices for teaching nursing ethics. This study aims to determine whether the Presentation-Assimilation-Discussion (PAD) mode, compared to traditional lecture-based learning (LBL) teaching, increases nursing students’ moral sensitivity and ethical decision-making skills. A total of 100 eligible nursing students were randomized into two groups: the PAD model group (n = 50) and the LBL group (n = 50). Their moral sensitivity and ethical decision-making skills were evaluated using the Moral Sensitivity Questionnaire-Revised Chinese Version (MSQ-R-CV) and the Chinese Version of Judgment About Nursing Decision (JAND-CV), both before and after the course, and again three months later. After the course, the PAD group showed significantly higher scores in moral sensitivity and ethical decision-making compared to the LBL group, both immediately and at the 3-month follow-up (p < 0.05). Specifically, the PAD group demonstrated greater improvements in total scores and in most subdimensions, including moral responsibility, moral burden, ethical choice, and ethical action. While both groups showed some degree of improvement after the intervention, the changes were more substantial and longer-lasting in the PAD group. This study confirms that the PAD model is an effective method for teaching nursing ethics and developing nursing students’ moral sensitivity and ethical decision-making skills. This randomized trial was registered in Chinese Clinical Registry Center, under code (ChiCTR2400086717) in 07/09/2024.

Background Frontline nurses and nurse leaders faced profound psychological, ethical, and professional challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. Less attention has been given to how meaning in life supports moral resilience and ethical nursing practice during prolonged public health crises. Research question/aim This study aimed to explore how frontline nurses and nurse leaders experienced pandemic-related stress, constructed meaning in life, and developed moral resilience within pandemic clinical settings. Research design A descriptive phenomenological design was used, and data were analysed using Giorgi’s descriptive phenomenological method. Participants and research context Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 18 participants, including 14 frontline nurses and four nurse leaders, from four hospitals in southern Taiwan. Ethical considerations The study was approved by an institutional review board, and all participants provided informed consent. Findings Three major categories were identified: crisis conditions and ethical pressures, meaning-making as a source of moral resilience, and transformative meaning, professional identity, and moral agency. Meaning-making enabled frontline nurses to connect suffering with patient care, teamwork, and professional commitment, while nurse leaders constructed meaning through staff support, ethical decision-making, and reflective leadership. Discussion Meaning in life functioned not only as a psychological coping resource but also as an ethical resource supporting moral resilience, moral agency, and professional identity. Conclusions Meaning-centred reflection, moral resilience training, peer support, and reflective leadership development should be incorporated into organisational crisis preparedness to strengthen ethical nursing practice during future public health emergencies.

This is an interview with Guoqi Xu and her stepparents in Shanghai with a focus on her story. She was an athlete leader of Special Olympics and a champion through hard working and participation in different sports activities. As an orphan, the love and great efforts of her foster family changed her life and inspired her to achieve great success in Special Olympics games. As the interview details her continuous pursuit of an associate degree despite the negative experience in early regular education and a job she loves, her story reveals true barriers to the capacity building of persons with intellectual and development disabilities and direction for change.

This article, “From Iron to AI: The Evolution of the Sources of State Power,” examines the progression of fundamental resources that have historically underpinned state power, from tangible assets like land and iron to modern advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). It traces the development of state power through three significant eras: the ancient period characterized by land, population, horses, and iron; the industrial era marked by railroads, coal, and electricity; and the contemporary digital age dominated by the Internet and emerging technologies. Focusing on AI, the article explores its similarities and differences compared to previous sources of power, highlighting its transformative nature, potential for new industries, and unique challenges related to intellectual resources, rapid advancements, and global interconnectedness. The impact of AI on state power is analyzed through economic competitiveness, military capabilities, governance, ethical and social implications, and geopolitical shifts.

This article explores the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on deterrence theory, introducing 10 groundbreaking concepts that are reshaping global security dynamics. As traditional deterrence strategies face challenges in an increasingly complex and interconnected world, these innovative approaches leverage AI, complex systems theory, and emerging technologies to create more sophisticated and adaptive deterrence mechanisms. From Chaos Deterrence, which harnesses unpredictability, to Möbius Deterrence, which blurs the lines between offense and defense, these concepts represent a paradigm shift in conflict prevention and strategic stability. The article examines each concept in detail, discussing their potential applications, historical precedents, and contemporary relevance. It also addresses the ethical implications, challenges, and potential risks associated with implementing these AI-driven deterrence strategies. By analyzing these cutting-edge concepts, the article provides valuable insights into the future of global security in the age of artificial intelligence.

The rapid proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies has ushered in a new era of opportunities and challenges, prompting nations to grapple with the concept of AI sovereignty. This article delves into the definition and implications of AI sovereignty, drawing parallels to the well-established notion of cyber sovereignty. By exploring the connotations of AI sovereignty, including control over AI development, data sovereignty, economic impacts, national security considerations, and ethical and cultural dimensions, the article provides a comprehensive understanding of this emerging paradigm. The potential controversies surrounding AI sovereignty, such as the tension between national interests and global cooperation, technological protectionism, human rights and privacy issues, and the risk of exacerbating global inequalities, are critically examined. To navigate these complexities and facilitate responsible AI governance, the article proposes a multifaceted international governance framework. Key recommendations include fostering multilateral cooperation and standards-setting, implementing transparency and accountability measures, establishing ethical guidelines and human rights protections, developing mechanisms for technology transfer and capacity building, and instituting robust dispute resolution and enforcement protocols. Ultimately, this article underscores the need for a balanced and collaborative approach to AI governance that aligns technological advancement with ethical integrity and global solidarity.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI), disparities in access and benefits are becoming increasingly apparent, leading to the emergence of an AI divide. This divide not only amplifies existing socio-economic inequalities but also fosters the creation of AI caste systems, where marginalized groups—referred to as AI Dalits—are systematically excluded from AI advancements. This article explores the definitions and contributing factors of the AI divide and delves into the concept of AI caste systems, illustrating how they perpetuate inequality. Furthermore, it proposes comprehensive strategies for bridging this divide through inclusive and equitable approaches. Key strategies include promoting equal access to AI education and resources, enhancing diversity and representation in AI development, implementing fair and transparent AI policies, promoting public awareness and engagement, and empowering AI Dalits through targeted initiatives. By championing an "All in AI" and "AI for All" paradigm, this paper envisions an inclusive future where the benefits of AI are universally shared, ensuring that no group is left behind in the AI-driven world.

This article explores the profound impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the realm of religion, exploring the potential for AI to catalyze the birth of new world religions and break the "Solomon's Cycle." Drawing inspiration from King Solomon's timeless declaration, "There is nothing new under the sun," the article examines the challenges faced by new religions in a world dominated by established faiths and traditions. By leveraging the transformative capabilities of AI to inspire creativity, foster cross-cultural dialogue, provide ethical guidance, build virtual communities, and personalize spiritual experiences, individuals are empowered to transcend historical barriers and forge new paths of spiritual exploration. The fusion of AI and human ingenuity holds the promise of birthing diverse, inclusive, and dynamic belief systems that resonate with the complexities of our contemporary world.

This article delves into the concept of "Egocloism," a term that amalgamates an inflated sense of self-importance ("ego") with a disposition towards isolation and resistance to external influences ("cloister"). It explores how this mindset manifests not only in individuals but also at the communal level, leading to insularity and a reluctance to embrace diversity and progress. Drawing inspiration from Anton Chekhov's narrative of "The Man in a Case," the article introduces the metaphor of "The Race in a Case" to critique communities entrenched in their historical narratives and cultural identities to the detriment of inclusivity and growth. Through historical examples such as the Spanish Inquisition, the Tokugawa Shogunate’s Sakoku Policy, the Ottoman Empire’s late reforms, and the fall of the Qing Dynasty, the article illustrates the adverse effects of Egocloism. It concludes with strategies for individuals and communities to overcome this mindset, advocating for a shift towards an open horizon that embraces diversity, inclusivity, and global interconnectedness.

"Sapiolatry," the excessive reverence and idolization of historical figures renowned for their wisdom, poses a significant challenge to critical thinking and innovation. In the article "Say Goodbye to Plato," we delve into the concept of sapiolatry and its implications for our engagement with the teachings of revered figures like Plato. By exploring the roots, consequences, and the case of Plato, we highlight the necessity of moving beyond uncritical adoration towards a more dynamic and contextual interpretation of ancient wisdom. The article advocates for a balanced and critical approach to studying the teachings of revered figures, emphasizing the importance of adapting their wisdom to address contemporary issues and foster innovation.