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Humanities and Social Sciences. Bulletin of the Financial University

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Vol 15, No 6 (2025)
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COVER STORY: GLOBAL GOVERNANCE AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: NEW PERSPECTIVES

6-18 72
Abstract

The purpose of this study is to identify risks in global public administration under conditions of uncertainty using mathematical analysis methods that allow recognizing threats and thereby acting as a mechanism for their identification and mitigation. The modern global world order, which sets the trends for the transformation of world economic relations, is characterized by a high degree of turbulence and active confrontation between the Global North and the Global South in the struggle for resources and the rules of their distribution. Contrary to the stereotype of the omnipotence of digital tools capable of making longterm forecasts, the problem of recognizing the potential risks of decisions made and their relevance to a particular situation remains unresolved. Perhaps there has been a reassessment of the role of digital technologies used in global forecasting and not everything is as optimistic as we would like? Obviously, the possibilities for calculating various scenarios have become disproportionately greater, and the amount of information received about the world is growing daily, but for some reason all this does not give the desired effect. The methods used in the research are: mathematical modeling and forecasting, case study. The main conclusions of the study are the next: mathematical tools can provide significant support in identifying optimal solutions or constructing trends, while the results of their use are highly dependent on the attitudes and cognitive abilities of decision makers and experts who use them. The use of such tools correlates with the “picture of the world”, a set of attitudes towards reading the problem, which reduces the adequacy of the search for “optimal” solutions, increases the window of opportunity for the appearance of “black swans”, by the terminology of N.Taleb, difficult-to-predict and rare events with special characteristics and generating significant consequences. By the term “Average”, he understood the reality in which the sample population is large, and a single case does not significantly change the total amount. On the contrary, the term “Extremistan” refers to a reality where a single event can disproportionately affect the aggregate or overall indicator. In such conditions, the most effective solutions lie in the non-standard approach of human thinking. The theoretical significance of the study lies in identifying the predictive potential of using mathematical tools in the public management of digital society as a means of overcoming uncertainty, recognizing the opportunities and risks of using such tools in global management.

19-33 58
Abstract

Central banks play a key role in achieving long-term economic growth goals through currency policy instruments. Modern economic conditions require a rethink of classical approaches to regulating foreign exchange markets, especially in the light of global financial crises. The BRICS countries have accumulated a unique experience in the effective use of currency instruments to support the sustainable growth of their economies. The purpose of this article is to evaluate the currency policy of the BRICS countries in terms of its impact on the growth of national economies. Methods: comparative historical analysis and case-study analysis. Results: the most effective measures have been identified that have made it possible to ensure the stability of national currencies and maintain economic stability in order to achieve the long-term growth goals of the national economies of the BRICS countries: For China, interventions and administrative controls over the convertibility of the yuan have shown the best results; India, using combined measures — interventions and rate changes — has managed to reduce volatility; Brazil has been most successful through spot market operations and currency swap programs.; South Africa’s monetary policy has confirmed the need for reserve accumulation; in Russia, a combination of interventions and stricter controls has allowed for a much faster stabilization of the exchange rate. A set of exchange rate management measures based on the experience of the BRICS countries is proposed for the Russian economy.: interventions through state-owned banks, the use of derivatives and currency swaps (as in Brazil), periodic intervention in low-volatility pricing to stimulate investment inflows (as in India), trade flow control and administrative measures (as in China). The analysis shows that the combination of direct and indirect instruments reduces volatility, strengthens investor confidence and increases the stability of currency regimes. China and Brazil show shorter time to stabilize the exchange rate in the face of external shocks, while India requires a longer adjustment period and the currencies of South Africa and Brazil remain the most vulnerable. The effectiveness of policy is determined by the scale of intervention and the ability of the central bank to respond quickly and independently to changing conditions, which is critical for long-term economic sustainability.

34-45 56
Abstract

The article presents the results of an empirical study on the role of the Russian Federation’s international educational projects in achieving UN Sustainable Development Goal 4, using countries in Asia and Africa as examples. The authors analyze the impact of educational exports on human capital formation and explore the interrelationship between education, economic growth, and social development, based on human capital theory and data from the Human Development Index (HDI). Based on the statistics of the Russian Ministry of Education, a trend towards a steady increase in the number of students from Asia and Africa in Russian universities has been identified. A regression analysis was conducted, which made it possible to obtain a forecast estimate of the number of international students in 2025–2026. The role of branches of leading Russian universities in increasing the competitiveness of Russian education, providing access to high-quality educational standards in Russia, strengthening the role of the Russian language, etc. is noted. The role of Russian educational projects in achieving the UN SDG 4 is analyzed on the example of a number of Asian and African countries. Special attention is paid to the impact of geopolitical competition between hegemonic states and information threats on the perception of Russian education. The results of the study indicate the continuing impact of external destabilizing factors, which actualizes the task of developing comprehensive measures to neutralize the destructive information influence, improve the international competitiveness of the national educational system and strengthen Russia’s position in the market of international education.

46-54 61
Abstract

The article is devoted to the study of the evolution of China’s foreign trade strategies and the specifics of the formation of its new face in the global economy. The focus is on the analysis of the country’s historical path from the period of decline in the 19th — first half of the 20th century, associated with unequal treaties and the loss of trade sovereignty, to the modern stage, when China has become the largest trading power in the world. Based on the theory of life cycles of national development, five key stages of foreign trade development are identified: decline, preparatory growth, rapid growth, prosperity and transition to high-quality development. The author shows that China’s transformation in foreign trade was due to a number of factors: industrialization and the formation of its own production base; institutional reforms of the “reform and openness” period; accession to the WTO and the subsequent rapid growth of exports and imports; as well as a strategy of digitalization, greening and diversification of trade relations. Particular attention is paid to the impact of geopolitical challenges and technological breakthroughs, including artificial intelligence, quantum computing and the “new three” of exports (electric vehicles, lithium batteries, photovoltaic systems). The article points out that despite the growth of protectionism, the restructuring of global trade rules and crises in global logistics, China has managed to demonstrate resilience and adaptability. This is facilitated by an integrated production system, a huge domestic market, the active development of the “One Belt, One Road” initiative and the diversification of trade directions. A special role is played by the transition from quantitative indicators to qualitative growth, which is manifested in the increase in the share of high-tech products and services in the country’s export basket. It is concluded that modern China not only follows global trends, but also actively participates in the formation of new rules of world trade, strengthening its influence through the qualitative development of foreign economic activity. The work is relevant in the context of global instability and technological revolution, since China’s experience can serve as a model for other countries seeking to strengthen their positions in the global trading system.

55-65 77
Abstract

Subject. The relevance of the study of urban mobility in the context of the increasing number of urban residents and the growing transportation flows in major cities of Russia necessitates the application of artificial intelligence (AI) for the optimization of transportation systems. This article examines the challenges of urban mobility, the potential of AI to enhance transportation flows, and the impact of these technologies on the quality of life in megacities such as Moscow. Objectives. The aim of the research is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of urban mobility and to develop recommendations for its improvement through the use of AI. The study focuses on identifying deficiencies in existing systems and exploring potential solutions. Methodology. The research employs traditional scientific analysis methods, including analysis, synthesis, and comparison, as well as the results of an original sociological study based on in-depth interviews with 18 respondents conducted between September 10 and October 25, 2024. Results. The study revealed that the implementation of AI in urban mobility contributes to reduced travel times, optimized routes, and increased user awareness. Respondents noted significant improvements in Moscow’s transportation infrastructure over the past 2–3 years and expressed confidence that AI technologies will provide more benefits than potential drawbacks. Conclusions. For the effective development of urban mobility, it is essential to consider recommendations for the implementation of AI, including the establishment of cloud storage solutions, ensuring algorithmic impartiality, integrating technologies into emergency response services, and optimizing navigation systems. It is anticipated that further advancements in AI will lead to improvements in transportation infrastructure and an enhanced quality of life for urban residents.

FUNDAMENTAL SCIENTIFIC KNOWLEDGE

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Abstract

The article raises the issue of the attractiveness of investing through crowdfunding platforms for Russians. The authors present the results of quantitative online surveys conducted in 2025 with the participation of individuals, namely private investors, potential investors, and non-investors. The research is aimed at determining the prospects for the development of crowdfunding in Russia by solving the following tasks: 1) identification of motivation and description of investor behavior; 2) identification of factors that increase the investment activity of citizens on investment platforms; 3) identification of factors that deter citizens from investing through investment platforms; 4) identification of factors determining the choice of an investment platform; 5) analysis of factors affecting confidence in crowdfunding and how platforms can adapt to the needs of investors. The sampling method is a non–random, streaming (spontaneous) sampling with quota elements. The sample for private investors in the CFP was 532 people. The sample for potential and non-CFP investors was 1,027 and 1,004 people, respectively. 5 main groups of factors that deter citizens from investing through investment platforms have been identified and described: 1) risk perception and trust factors; 2) legislative and protective factors; 3) information and educational factors; 4) economic and market factors; 5) platform infrastructure and service. Increasing the investment activity of citizens on investment platforms is possible by taking into account the five factors identified in the survey.: 1) economic and market factors; 2) offers of investment products and companies; 3) infrastructure and platform service; 4) legislative and protective factors; 5) educational and socio-cultural factors.

79-89 43
Abstract

The relevance of the research problem is determined by socio-demographic trends, expressed in an increase in the proportion of elderly people in the structure of workers and the need to maintain their social activity. Modern researchers of the silver age point to the complexity of its categorization, as well as the difference in the social experience of older people. The novelty of the research presented in the article lies in the choice of an empirical object — men over the age of 60 who are employees of a Financial University. The choice of this empirical object is due to the fact that among the studies of the silver age there is a lack of knowledge of specific and limited samples, which include university staff. The purpose of the study is to analyze the qualitative characteristics of the social activity of this group and develop practical recommendations. The research method was an informal interview followed by an open and axial coding procedure. The survey was conducted in the fall of 2024 at the Financial University (n = 35). As a result of the study, it was revealed that this group of informants has favorable characteristics of staying in the “silver age” stage both in terms of activity and general living conditions. A typical university employee over the age of 60 is a strong family man and a patriot who takes an active civic and pro–social position. Work forms the main area of social activity for him, filling his life with the value of self-actualization. He has some concerns about his own health and the health of his loved ones, the future of his country and his children, and social inequality. One of the main drivers of activity is the family. At the same time, there is a tendency towards group leisure in the format of volunteer work (environmental practices, participation in patriotic clubs). Work is considered as a part of self-realization, aimed not only at providing income in the family, but also at realizing internal, valuable needs. Communication with colleagues is becoming an important channel for updating professional competencies. The study’s findings support the scientific hypothesis that older men’s employment contributes to maintaining social activity and ensuring a higher quality of life. The survey results create the prerequisites for further study of the “silver age” in the gender context and may be of interest to researchers in the field of sociology, gerontology, and social psychology.

90-102 46
Abstract

In recent years, there has been an increase in the popularity of artificial intelligence technologies, which have transformed from highly specialized tools into an object of widespread public discussion. Artificial intelligence has become the subject of public rhetoric not only by technology experts, but also by representatives of the political elite, which indicates its transformation into a significant element of socio-political discourse. In the modern Russian political space, there is an active discussion of the development of artificial intelligence technologies, which requires studying the positions of the political elite. There are no works in Russian science that would systematically analyze the statements of Russian politicians about AI technologies through the methods of discourse analysis. There is a significant gap in understanding how the political field of technological development in the field of artificial intelligence is being formed. The relevance of the research is determined by the fact that political statements directly influence the creation of laws and technology development programs, as well as the need to understand hidden ideological attitudes in the statements of political figures. The research is aimed at identifying and analyzing the ways in which representatives of the Russian political elite construct the political field for the development of artificial intelligence technologies in their public statements. The empirical base includes more than 100 statements by eight key Russian political figures in the period from 2022 to 2025. An integrated approach was applied, combining critical discourse analysis and semantic content analysis. The material was collected by targeted selection from the official websites of government agencies, transcripts of speeches, press conferences and interviews in the media. Five main areas of AI discussion have been identified: technological sovereignty, economic efficiency, ethical regulation, educational transformation, and eschatological concerns. The hypothesis of the formation of a special Russian model of understanding AI, which combines technocratic, state and traditionalist approaches, is confirmed. Significant differences have been identified between the stated installations and actual actions in the field of technology policy. The most likely scenario is the formation of a mixed AI development model with the dominance of public-private partnership while maintaining the principles of technological independence. Increased government control in strategically important areas is projected, while granting freedom to the private sector in commercial projects. The practical implementation of this model will be characterized by the concentration of AI technologies in several large companies under government supervision, the gradual introduction of technology into education while maintaining the role of teachers, as well as the development of international technological cooperation with friendly countries.

103-111 51
Abstract

The relevance of this study stems from the need to find effective models for managing spatial development in federal states, where balancing the interests of the center and the regions is a key challenge. Despite the extensive body of research devoted to various aspects of federalism, the influence of regional elites on spatial optimization processes in rapidly changing political and economic conditions remains underexplored. This article aims to identify the key factors, mechanisms, and models of regional elite influence on spatial development policy in a federal state. The study utilizes a combination of methods: historical and genetic analysis to identify the evolution of the role of elites, an institutional approach to studying the formal and informal practices of their interaction with the center, and a comparative analysis to compare case studies from the Russian Federation, the United States, Germany, Canada, Brazil, and Nigeria. The empirical basis of the study is comprised of sources including federal and regional regulatory acts, statistical data, analytical reports from governmental and non-governmental organizations, as well as materials from scientific conferences and publications in specialized journals. The study revealed that regional elites exert a dual influence on the spatial development of federal states. On the one hand, they can act as drivers of innovation, initiators of promising projects, and “growth points” contributing to increased regional competitiveness and improved quality of life. On the other hand, regional elites often become a source of conservatism, hindering necessary reforms and supporting outdated economic models. Furthermore, the clash of interests between various regional elites can lead to conflicts that hinder the implementation of national goals and objectives. Key factors determining the effectiveness of regional elites’ influence on spatial development include the mechanisms for their integration into decision-making systems (including party and advisory ones), the incentive system for regional leaders aimed at encouraging innovation and attracting investment, and the degree of elite circulation between the center and the regions, which ensures the exchange of experience and the dissemination of best management practices. The scientific novelty of this study lies in its comprehensive interdisciplinary analysis of the role of regional elites through the prism of three methodological approaches. The results of the study can be used by federal and regional authorities to improve interaction mechanisms, as well as by scholars and experts in the field of federalism and regional policy.

CURRENT SOCIO-POLITICAL RESEARCH

112-119 56
Abstract

The article is devoted to a comprehensive review of the concept of “electoral culture”, in particular, the consideration of this phenomenon on the example of the US presidential election in November 2024. The article analyzes both a more general concept — political culture, and a particular one — electoral culture, which is particularly emphasized. The purpose of the study is to consider the concept of electoral culture both in the theoretical field and in the empirical one, based on the specifics of culture in the US presidential election. The electoral culture in the United States has its own distinctive features that distinguish it from the cultures of other countries, which is of interest in the study. The study is based on a sociological approach that includes secondary data analysis, as well as monitoring the behavior of US citizens, particularly young people, during the presidential campaign. The analysis of statistical data, as well as scientific and historical publications for different time periods are used. The research becomes relevant due to the ambiguity in the interpretation of the phenomenon of electoral culture in political science, as well as in connection with the consideration of the well-established features of the electoral culture of the United States in the present. The results of the study showed that the younger generation based their choice on rational estimates, seeking to maximize their own benefits from one candidate or another. The authors’ conclusions show the importance of studying electoral culture as a separate concept in political science, and the example of the US presidential election showed the importance of this phenomenon for studying electoral processes in any country.

120-129 50
Abstract

The article discusses the theoretical and practical aspects of the elements of sustainable rural development. The author conducts a systematic analysis of the existing elements that ensure the sustainability of rural territorial formations, and identifies key institutional, economic and social factors that affect their effectiveness, as well as provides recommendations on the use of mechanisms that will have the most effective impact on the problem. Special attention is paid to strategic planning tools and regional specifics of the use of mechanisms, as well as the sphere of intersectoral interaction and participation of local communities in sustainable development processes. The paper analyzes in detail the existing models of rural management, including mechanisms of state support, infrastructural development and social protection of rural population, including mechanisms of state support, infrastructural development and social protection of rural population. The author explores current trends in rural digitalization, the development of the agro-industrial complex and environmental well-being. Based on the results of the study, specific recommendations are proposed for improving the elements of sustainable development, taking into account regional specifics. The practical significance of the work lies in the possibility of using the proposed recommendations in the development of regional rural development programs and the formation of an effective agricultural management system. Based on the results of the work, conclusions were drawn about the current state of state policy in the field of sustainable rural development, and the main elements implemented in various regions of the Russian Federation were highlighted.

130-136 49
Abstract

This article used statistics on several factors to determine the reality of private school education in the United Arab Emirates—the Emirate of Dubai as an example. The study analyzed the data using both descriptive and statistical methods. The most important criteria included in this study were the number of private schools that use English as the language of instruction for all subjects and the annual tuition fees in both private and public schools. The research results revealed the following: From 2015 to 2024, the number of private schools increased from 169 to 220, an increase of 51 private schools, while the number of public schools remained unchanged at 98. In 2024, the lowest annual tuition fees in private schools (English-American) were approximately AED 43,000, while the highest was AED 12,000. Education in public schools remained free for all UAE citizens. Private schools attract highly qualified teachers (Masters and PhDs) with at least ten years of extensive international experience. This study demonstrated the need to intensify efforts to support public education and the necessity of using the mother tongue (Arabic) in all academic subjects, especially in the early years. Later, students can transition to learning using English to keep up with the latest subjects and benefit from the vast scientific content available in English.

HISTORICAL EXCURSUS

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Abstract

There are many bright and significant pages in the history of the formation and development of the physical culture movement in the USSR. A special place in the 1920–1930s is occupied by industrial physical education, the formation of which was directly related to the economic need to increase labor productivity and improve industrial production indicators. The article examines in detail the goals, methods and key aspects of the formation and development of the industrial physical education system in this period. The developed methods for applying various forms of physical education in production were tested at enterprises, subjected to careful analysis, received scientific justification and were subsequently distributed in the form of official instructions for widespread use. Industrial gymnastics was not only a tool for caring for the health of workers, but also an effective means of forming a collectivist identity within the framework of the concept of building a “new man”, which corresponded to the key ideological principles of the Soviet state of that time.

146-152 46
Abstract

This article analyzes Alexey Varlamov’s novel “Odsun. A Novel Without Borders” in order to explore the historical relationship between Germany and the Czech Republic, the dilemma of defining, searching for and understanding one’s identity by the characters, historical memory and its impact on interethnic relations. The author examines historical events related to the Sudetenland, a region that has become a symbol of ethnic conflicts, cultural dominance and forced assimilation. Particular attention is paid to the fate of the Sudeten Germans, whose expulsion after World War II highlights the fragility of collective identity and the destructive impact of politicized historical memory. Using professional approaches — postcolonialism and cultural memory theory — the internal logical connections and deep cultural implications of various themes are interpreted, which emphasizes the unique value of the novel in reflecting social and cultural ecology, analyzing the intricacies of human nature, inspiring the reader to reflect on history, providing a reference point for studying contemporary Russia and the cultural landscape of Eastern Europe. The study contributes to the discussion of the postcolonial dimension of Eastern European literature and the problem of the “difficult past” in the context of globalization. The novel, combining artistic depth with philosophical reflection, becomes a relevant reference point for studying ethnic conflicts, migration crises and ways to achieve intercultural understanding. The work confirms that overcoming stereotypes and dialogue with history are key conditions for building a multicultural society.

153-156 99
Abstract

The article is devoted to the study of the interrelations between music and society based on the analysis of processes involved in constructing social reality. It examines the place of musical culture within the overall culture of society, its functions, historical development from ancient times to the present, and highlights the role of musical education in shaping cultural values and aesthetic preferences within the social context. The evolution of musical trends is considered as a dynamic process determined by the interaction of technological, social, and cultural factors. The mechanisms of formation and dissemination of musical trends are analyzed, including the influence of technological innovations, socio-cultural institutions, the music industry, and communication channels. The role of musical media and digital platforms in contemporary processes of music content distribution is also explored. Special attention is given to the cognitive impact of music at individual, collective, and social levels. Psychological tools of music’s influence on consciousness are analyzed, as well as its functions as a mechanism of cognitive structuring that contributes to the formation of group identity and emotional self-regulation of the individual. The role of music as a mechanism of cognitive structuring of consciousness, facilitating group identity formation and emotional self-regulation, is further revealed. The article also discusses the influence of music on social behavior and processes of social adaptation. In conclusion, the thesis is put forward on the significance of musical culture as an integral part of human life that promotes personal development and reinforces social bonds and cultural identity. Prospective directions for further research in the field of musical culture and its influence on the spiritual state of society are outlined, including the study of the effects of digitalization and globalization on musical culture and its role in maintaining the spiritual well-being of society. The work holds practical value for researchers interested in the instruments of social reality construction, as well as for the study of sociocultural changes in society. The article may serve as a basis for further research in the field of social and political philosophy, deepening the understanding of the mechanisms of interaction between culture and power, as well as the role of musical practices in the formation of collective identity, models of social control, and processes of social consolidation amid contemporary transformations.



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ISSN 2226-7867 (Print)
ISSN 2619-1482 (Online)