Academic literature on the topic 'Voluntary simplifiers'
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Journal articles on the topic "Voluntary simplifiers":
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Craig-Lees, Margaret, and Constance Hill. "Understanding voluntary simplifiers." Psychology and Marketing 19, no. 2 (January 17, 2002): 187–210. http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/mar.10009.
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Zamwel, Einat, Orna Sasson-Levy, and Guy Ben-Porat. "Voluntary simplifiers as political consumers: Individuals practicing politics through reduced consumption." Journal of Consumer Culture 14, no. 2 (March 20, 2014): 199–217. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1469540514526277.
Abstract:
This article seeks to contribute to the discourse on the politicization of voluntary simplifiers’ consumption patterns. Some scholars argue that voluntary simplifiers’ consumption practices are individualistic and escapist in nature, and therefore cannot be defined as political, and that they are likely to become such only if they organize for collective action. Conversely, we argue that voluntary simplifiers’ lifestyle is an individual political choice that should be analyzed using theories of political consumption. This article, based on interviews with voluntary simplifiers in Israel, identifies four characteristics of voluntary simplifiers that attest to their political nature: (1) multidimensional political discourse, (2) embracement of a holistic and uncompromising lifestyle of simplicity, (3) lifestyle changes as ongoing political process, and (4) the desire to exert influence. We therefore argue that voluntary simplifiers are not only political, but they represent a clear-cut instance of noninstitutionalized political activity realized through individual practices in the private realm.
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Rahman, Mohammad Ataur. "Purchase Intension of Second Hand Product that Unconsciously Move toward Voluntary Simplicity: A Netnographic Observation from Sweden and Bangladesh." American Journal of Trade and Policy 5, no. 1 (April 30, 2018): 21–24. http://dx.doi.org/10.18034/ajtp.v5i1.430.
Abstract:
Voluntary simplicity is one of the desired lifestyle that modern consumers wants to live. But, becoming voluntary simplifiers is not an easy task. There are several ways of becoming voluntary simplifiers and one of the common way is buying second hand products. Purchase intension of second hand consumers is maintained by consumers’ conscious and unconscious mind. Unconscious mind mainly decide whether a consumer will go for the second hand product or not? In this study, consumers of Sweden and Bangladesh has been focused to check their purchase intension of second hand product that unconsciously move them to become voluntary simplifiers. From the Netnographic observation, it has been found that, Bangladeshi consumers are more voluntary simplifiers than that of Swedish consumers because of their unconscious mind.
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Walther, Carol S., Jennifer A. Sandlin, and Kristi Wuensch. "Voluntary Simplifiers, Spirituality, and Happiness." Humanity & Society 40, no. 1 (January 8, 2015): 22–42. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0160597614565698.
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Kraisornsuthasinee, Suthisak, and Fredric William Swierczek. "Beyond consumption: the promising contribution of voluntary simplicity." Social Responsibility Journal 14, no. 1 (March 5, 2018): 80–95. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/srj-02-2017-0029.
Abstract:
Purpose Greater contribution of voluntary simplicity to sustainability may extend beyond the scope of consumption behavior. This paper aims to argue that work behavior is also important and it explores how and why personal consumption of the voluntary simplifiers relates to the way they work. Design/methodology/approach This qualitative study uses in-depth interviews to explore the consumption–work experience relationship and driving values of voluntary simplifiers. Thailand is the chosen context, as it represents an emerging economy aiming to converge economic growth and sufficiency. Findings The findings demonstrate that, driven mainly by contentment and integrity, simple living complements leisurely, meaningful and, most intriguingly, ethical work. In return, such work behavior provides enough earnings and fulfills the beginners, as well as the progressive and extensive simplifiers. Research limitations/implications The consumption–work relationship model of the voluntary simplifiers provides an alternative starting point for further research and practice to tackle overconsumption, inequality, inequity and corruption – the critical challenges of sustainability. Originality/value This research takes a more complete approach to study the voluntary simplifiers. The empirical results demonstrate the greater scope of voluntary simplicity literature beyond sustainable consumption and work–life balance. Based on the consumption–work relationship driven mainly by contentment and integrity, this paper proposes meaningful and ethical work as the promising contribution of voluntary simplicity to sustainability.
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McDonald, Seonaidh, Caroline J. Oates, C. William Young, and Kumju Hwang. "Toward sustainable consumption: Researching voluntary simplifiers." Psychology and Marketing 23, no. 6 (2006): 515–34. http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/mar.20132.
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Balsa-Budai, Nikolett, Marietta Kiss, Bence Kovács, and Zoltán Szakály. "Attitudes of Voluntary Simplifier University Students in Hungary." Sustainability 11, no. 6 (March 25, 2019): 1802. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su11061802.
Abstract:
The Lifestyle of Voluntary Simplicity (LOVOS) segment is composed of consumers who attempt to achieve sustainable consumption. The segment has been examined by only a few research studies so far, and none of them were conducted among Hungarian consumers. Therefore, the aim of our exploratory research is to examine the occurrence of the LOVOS consumer group among university students from Debrecen, Hungary. To achieve our aim, we first identified the five main value groups of the LOVOS lifestyle with an expert focus group interview. Based on the interview, a questionnaire survey was conducted among university students from Debrecen (N = 500). Based on the results, four value-based segments were identified, of which the Voluntary simplifiers’ cluster (39.6% of respondents) reflected the characteristics of the LOVOS lifestyle to the greatest extent. Based on the literature, it seemed necessary to segment this group further in terms of their commitment to individual values. As a result, three further clusters were created, of which, the Holistic simplifiers’ group (9.8% of respondents) showed the greatest commitment to the values of the LOVOS lifestyle. We concluded that the characteristics of voluntary simplifiers have already appeared among university students from Debrecen, but further research is needed to reveal the value orientation of the whole of Hungarian society.
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Peyer, Mathias, Ingo Balderjahn, Barbara Seegebarth, and Alexandra Klemm. "The role of sustainability in profiling voluntary simplifiers." Journal of Business Research 70 (January 2017): 37–43. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jbusres.2016.07.008.
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Ballantine, Paul W., and Sam Creery. "The consumption and disposition behaviour of voluntary simplifiers." Journal of Consumer Behaviour 9, no. 1 (January 2010): 45–56. http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/cb.302.
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Cua, Francisco Chia, and Steve Reames. "Why Technologists Resist Negative Change." International Journal of Information Systems and Social Change 3, no. 4 (October 2012): 84–96. http://dx.doi.org/10.4018/jissc.2012100106.
Abstract:
This paper is a critical and non-empirical review of innovation resistance and anti-consumption: the concepts, concerns, conflicts, and convergence. Both resistances to innovation and anti-consumptions converge to one another which influence the opinions (i.e., market mavens) of the market segment or non-adopters (voluntary simplifiers). Voluntary simplifiers or non-adopters represent over fifty percent (50%) of the market segment. This paper focuses on the embedded (hidden) assumptions of the resistance to innovation and anti-consumption and describes how the two concepts are different. When both converge, the exact reasons in favor of action will occur. The paper concludes that the technologist can adapt to negative change if they better understand why non-adopters resist innovation and consume products against their better judgment.
Dissertations / Theses on the topic "Voluntary simplifiers":
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Andriopoulos, Harry. "Individualism and Community for Voluntary Simplifiers." Thesis, The University of Sydney, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/2123/16871.
Abstract:
Voluntary simplicity is a cultural movement constructed around overt expressions of individualism in response to the excesses of ‘consumer society’. As the term also suggests, its general public recognition as a critical force against over-consumption appeals to a ‘moral good’. This has turned voluntary simplicity into a socially reflective movement which often appeals to ‘community’ and the social norms of collective action. This thesis explores historical developments in the theories of individualism and communitarianism which have influenced understandings of what constitutes a ‘voluntary simplifier’. The author contends that Ronald Inglehart’s (1977) theory of ‘postmaterialism’, the seminal theory underpinning voluntary simplicity, was quickly transformed into a concept which connoted various individual and social ‘goods’. This became a source of criticism for communitarian critics of consumerism, who associated this development with self-interest, further moral decline and a growing “culture of narcissism”. This is at odds with more recent theorists who view individualism in more pragmatic ways. Paul Lichterman’s (1996) notion of a “culture of personalism” and Clive Hamilton’s (2008) appeal to a kind of philosophical individualism have proven to be more compelling to both voluntary simplifiers and ‘self-help’ authors. This has not been a universally positive development, however. An examination of the “Simple Living Forums” within the thesis reveals a strong sense of modesty and commitment to pluralism amongst voluntary simplifiers, which reflects both an affirmation and a denial of self. Voluntary simplicity continues to lack adequate framing processes which are essential for maintaining a social movement. The thesis therefore concludes that voluntary simplicity is, ironically, associated with the excesses of consumer society and alienation from democratic processes. Because elements of consumer society have become part of the processes of late-capitalism, voluntary simplicity remains trapped between its critical centre and a culture of self-interest and insignificance.
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Sherry, Tania L. "The Life Satisfaction of Voluntary Simplifiers: Is Low Materialism a Path to Happiness?" The Ohio State University, 2012. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1342210577.
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Ben, Arbia Abir. "La conscience environnementale, sociale et économique comme vecteur motivationnel au comportement responsable des consommateurs collaboratifs et des simplistes volontaires." Electronic Thesis or Diss., Université de Lille (2022-....), 2023. http://www.theses.fr/2023ULILD020.
Abstract:
La présente thèse traite le rôle de la conscience environnementale, sociale et économique en tant que facteur de motivation dans l'adoption de comportements responsables par les consommateurs collaboratifs et les simplistes volontaires. Le contexte postmoderne actuel, caractérisé par une préoccupation croissante pour les questions sociales et environnementales, offre une opportunité unique d'étudier la transition vers des comportements socialement responsables. Cette recherche contribue à la compréhension de la manière dont la conscience pour une consommation socialement responsable peut motiver les consommateurs à adopter des comportements responsables. Les résultats de cette recherche fournissent des directives précieuses pour les différentes parties prenantes qui militent pour une consommation durable et socialement responsableThis thesis examines the role of environmental, social, and economic consciousness as a motivating factor in the adoption of responsible behaviors by collaborative consumers and voluntary simplifiers. The current postmodern context, characterized by a growing concern for social and environmental issues, presents a unique opportunity to study the transition towards socially responsible behaviors. This research contributes to understanding how consciousness of socially responsible consumption can motivate consumers to adopt responsible behaviors. These results provide valuable insights for various stakeholders advocating for sustainable and socially responsible consumption
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Nicolau, Raquel Rebouças Almeida. "When less becomes more: motivations, meanings and outcomes of voluntary simplicity adoption." Doctoral thesis, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/1822/75611.
Abstract:
Doctoral Programme in Marketing and StrategyProblems related to high materialism and unsustainable consumption are widespread globally nowadays. The consequences of this type of consumer behaviour pose challenges to environmental questions and social issues, such as the increase of social inequality, growth of global warming and scarcity of natural resources. Some consumer groups voluntarily reduce consumption and reflect critically about their daily choices in order to ensure to a better quality of life for themselves and others. Voluntary simplicity is a lifestyle focused on seeking a simple life by reducing consumption and other social and environmental practices. This group has different degrees of engagement with most of them being in transformation, adopting some lifestyle practices and not others. The current thesis is about consumers who are taking steps of voluntary life simplification. It tries to understand values, motivations, meanings and marketing outcomes, to better understand the process of change and the effects of this consumption lifestyle adoption. Three different studies involving in-depth interviews, focus group, and netnographic analysis of over 22 thousand online comments were carried out exploring voluntary simplicity adoption. The studies uncovered critical incidents that motivate lifestyle adoption and several aspects around VS first engagement levels organized into thematic networks. The results include recurrent discussions of VS definitions. We also found three main drivers, as critical factors to accomplishing a simple life. A map of practices was organised listing related products, services, and general preferences of this group regarding simplification. Finally, we discuss the VS adoption's buying decision process. Research about this conscious and low materialistic lifestyle of consumption can provide in-depth knowledge about how and why consumers become interested and engage in voluntary simplicity, as well as useful guidelines for initiatives that encourage more responsible and ethical actions.
Problemas associados aos altos índices de materialismo e ao consumo irresponsável possuem amplitude global na atualidade. As consequências desse tipo de comportamento de consumo geram desafios ambientais e sociais, como o aumento da desigualdade social, aquecimento global e escassez de recursos naturais. Alguns grupos de consumidores voluntariamente reduzem o consumo e refletem criticamente sobre escolhas cotidianas visando melhor qualidade de vida para si e para outros. Simplicidade Voluntária é um estilo de vida focado na busca de uma vida simples através da redução do consumo e de outras práticas sociais e ambientais. Esse grupo apresenta diferentes níveis de envolvimento, dentre os quais a maioria está em processo de transição, adotando algumas práticas do estilo de vida e outras não. A presente tese é sobre consumidores que estão voluntariamente dando passos em direção a uma vida simples. Este estudo busca entender valores, motivações, significados e consequências do marketing através do consumo, para entender melhor o processo de mudança e os efeitos da adoção desse estilo de vida. Três diferentes estudos foram desenvolvidos visando explorar a adoção do estilo de vida simples envolvendo entrevistas, grupo focal e uma análise netnográfica de cerca de 22 mil comentários online. Os estudos reuniram incidentes críticos que motivaram a adoção do estilo de vida e diversos aspectos em torno dos primeiros níveis de engajamento em uma vida simples. Os resultados incluem discussões sobre definições de simplicidade voluntária. Também identificamos três direcionadores centrais, como fatores críticos para uma vida simples. Um mapa de práticas foi organizado listando produtos, serviços e preferências relacionadas a este grupo de consumidores. Finalmente, discutimos o processo de decisão de compra sobre adoção do estilo de vida simples. A pesquisa sobre esse estilo de vida consciente e pouco materialista pode resultar em um conhecimento aprofundado sobre como e por que os consumidores se interessam e se engajam na simplicidade voluntária, assim como apresentar aspectos úteis para guiar iniciativas que encorajem ações responsáveis e éticas envolvendo o consumo.
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Seabra, Filipa Matilde Marinho de. "Environmental concerns and consumer behavior : a netnographic study on the Zero Waste online community." Master's thesis, 2019. http://hdl.handle.net/10400.14/29240.
Abstract:
Waste generation has become one of the most severe environmental problems of the century. Vast majority of waste produced worldwide ends up in landfills, increasing greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution and health problems. A growing number of consumers is joining the Zero Waste lifestyle and minimizing their consumption levels to reduce waste and plastic pollution. This thesis therefore aims to study the online community of Zero Wasters, understanding their behaviors and motivations, as well as challenges and advantages experienced by this consumer segment. Netnography was considered the most appropriate method to conduct the research. Results show that consumers are willing to change their consumption habits to reduce their environmental footprint by adopting a series of waste-reduction strategies. There is limited academic research addressing Zero Waste as a lifestyle and therefore the study fills a gap in existing literature. Moreover, it contributes to current academic debate by exploring other waste strategies that go beyond recycling. Despite recognizing the positive impact of their actions, Zero Wasters express frustration towards the lack of accountability and action by governments and manufacturers. The desired movement towards a circular economy requires behavioral change at a societal level, which can be fostered by Social Marketing. To maintain a positive reputation, companies must focus on redesigning the packaging of their products using more eco-friendly materials. Furthermore, measures must be applied to discourage landfilling, to limit the production of virgin plastics and to encourage a circular economy focused on reusing resources and minimizing waste.A produção de lixo é um dos problemas ambientais mais relevantes deste século. A maioria do lixo produzido mundialmente acaba em aterros sanitários, aumentando as emissões de gases nocivos, a contaminação aquática e causando problemas de saúde. A adesão ao movimento Lixo Zero tem crescido, com consumidores a minimizar consumo para reduzir o lixo e a poluição de plásticos. Esta dissertação pretende assim estudar a comunidade online Lixo Zero, explorando os seus comportamentos e motivações, e desafios e vantagens experienciadas. Netnografia foi o método mais apropriado para realizar a pesquisa. Os resultados mostram que os consumidores estão dispostos a alterar os seus hábitos de consumo para reduzir a sua pegada ecológica ao adotar várias estratégias para reduzir lixo. A pesquisa académica sobre o fenómeno Lixo Zero enquanto estilo de vida é limitada e como tal este estudo preenche uma lacuna na literatura existente. Adicionalmente, contribui para o atual debate académico ao explorar estratégias que vão para além da reciclagem. Apesar de reconhecerem o impacto positivo dos seus esforços, os consumidores expressam frustração devido à falta de ação por parte de governos e produtores. O movimento para uma economia circular implica uma mudança de comportamento por parte da sociedade que pode ser encorajada através de Marketing Social. Para manter uma reputação favorável, as empresas têm que redefinir o design das suas embalagens utilizando materiais sustentáveis. Adicionalmente, medidas devem ser aplicadas para desincentivar aterros, limitar a produção de novos plásticos e fomentar uma economia circular focada em reutilizar recursos e minimizar desperdício.
Books on the topic "Voluntary simplifiers":
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Cattanei, Elisabetta, and Stefano Maso. Paradeigmata voluntatis All’origine della concezione moderna di volontà. Venice: Fondazione Università Ca’ Foscari, 2021. http://dx.doi.org/10.30687/978-88-6969-583-4.
Abstract:
‘Will’ descends, etymologically, from voluntas. However, in the meaning of voluntas it is no longer possible to grasp the terminological plurivocity present in the Greek language. Consequently, the theory of action, which Aristotle and Greek thought in general had extensively dealt with, in the Roman context has adapted to a simplified conceptual framework. The essays collected here have allowed us to focus on a brand new articulated paradigm. Within it, we find a renewed concept of ‘will’: the voluntas which is explained in the modern interpretation of the ‘voluntary act’, and ‘voluntarism’ tout-court.
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Lorenzen, Janet A. The Limits of Household Change. Edited by Debra J. Davidson and Matthias Gross. Oxford University Press, 2018. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/oxfordhb/9780190633851.013.11.
Abstract:
Several factors limit the ability of households to conserve energy or transition to alternative energy sources, even when individuals are motivated to do so. This chapter is organized around several forms of fossil-fuel dependency: economic, organizational, and societal lock-in. For illustrative examples, it draws on 45 interviews from three groups who are attempting to reduce their consumption of energy, water, and consumer goods: voluntary simplifiers, religious environmentalists, and green homeowners. Economic, organizational, and societal constraints guide consumption patterns down certain paths and resist change. In order to make new paths more widely available, systemic changes and upstream solutions are required.
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Manieson, Victor. Accelerated Keyboard Musicianship. Noyam Publishers, 2021. http://dx.doi.org/10.38159/npub.eb20211001.
Abstract:
Approaches towards the formal learning of piano playing with respect to musicianship is one that demands the understanding of musical concepts and their applications. Consequently, it requires the boldness to immerse oneself in performance situations while trusting one’s instincts. One needs only to cultivate an amazing ear and a good understanding of music theory to break down progressions “quickly”. Like an alchemist, one would have to pick their creative impulses from their musical toolbox, simultaneously compelling their fingers to coordinate with the brain and the music present to generate “pleasant sounds”. My exploration leading to what will be considered Keyboard Musicianship did not begin in a formal setting. Rather it was the consolidation of my involvement in playing the organ at home, Sunday school, boarding school at Presec-Legon, and playing at weekly gospel band performances off-campus and other social settings that crystalized approaches that can be formally structured. In fact, I did not then consider this lifestyle of musical interpretation worthy of academic inclusivity until I graduated from the national academy of music and was taken on the staff as an instructor in September, 1986. Apparently, what I did that seemed effortless was a special area that was integral to holistic music development. The late Dr. Robert Manford, the then director of the Academy, assigned me to teach Rudiments and Theory of Music to first year students, Keyboard Musicianship to final year students, and to continue giving Piano Accompaniment to students – just as I have been voluntarily doing to help students. The challenge was simply this; there was no official textbook or guide to use in teaching keyboard musicianship then and I was to help guide especially non-piano majors for practical exams in musicianship. What an enterprise! The good news though was that exemplifying functionalism in keyboard, organ, piano, etc. has been my survival activity off campus particularly in church and social settings.Having reflected thoroughly and prayerfully, it dawned on me that piano literacy repertoires were crafted differently than my assignments in Musicianship. Piano literacy repertoires of western music were abundant on campus but applied musicianship demanded a different approach. Playing a sonata, sonatina, mazurka, and waltzes at different proficiency levels was different from punching chords in R&B, Ballard style, Reggae, Highlife or even Hymn playing. However, there are approaches that can link them and also interpretations that can categorize them in other applicable dimensions. A “Retrospective Introspection” demanded that I confront myself constructively with two questions: 1. WHAT MUSICAL ACTIVITIES have I already enjoyed myself in that WARRANT or deserve this challenging assignment? 2. WHAT MUSICAL NOURISHMENT do l believe enriched my artistry that was so observable and Measurable? The answers were shocking! They were: 1. My weekend sojourn from Winneba to Accra to play for churches, brass bands, gospel bands and teaching of Choirs – which often left me penniless. 2. Volunteering to render piano accompaniment to any Voice Major student on campus since my very first year. 3. Applying a principle, I learnt from my father – TRANSFER OF LEARNING – I exported the functionalism of my off-campus musical activities to compliment my formal/academic work. 4. The improvisational influences of Rev. Stevenson Alfred Williams (gospel jazz pianist), Bessa Simmons (band director & keyboardist) and at Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, Mr. Ray Ellis “Afro Piano Jazz Fusion Highlife” The trust and support from lecturers and students in the academy injected an overwhelming and high sense of responsibility in me which nevertheless, guided me to observe structures of other established course outlines and apply myself with respect to approaches that were deemed relevant. Thus, it is in this light that I selected specific concepts worth exploring to validate the functionalism of what my assignment required. Initially, hymn structures, chords I, IV, V and short highlife chordal progressions inverted here and there were considered. Basic reading of notes and intense audiation were injected even as I developed technical exercises to help with the dexterity of stiff fingers. I conclude this preface by stating that, this “Instructional guide/manual” is actually a developmental workbook. I have deliberately juxtaposed simple original piano pieces with musicianship approaches. The blend is to equip learners to develop music literacy and performance proficiencies. The process is expected to compel the learner to immerse/initiate themselves into basic keyboard musicianship. While it is a basic book, I expect it to be a solid foundation for those who commit to it. Many of my former and present students have been requesting for a sort of guide to aid their teaching or refresh their memories. Though not exhaustive, the selections presented here are a response to a long-awaited workbook. I have used most of them not only in Winneba, but also at the Callanwolde Fine Arts Center (Atlanta) and the Piano Lab (Accra). I found myself teaching the same course in the 2009 – 2013 academic year in the Music Department of the University of Education, Winneba when Prof C.W.K Merekeu was Head of Department. My observation is that we still have a lot of work to do in bridging academia and industry. This implies that musicianship must be considered as the bloodline of musicality not only in theory but in practice. I have added simplified versions of my old course outlines as a guide for anyone interested in learning. Finally, I contend that Keyboard Musicianship is a craft and will require of the learner a consistent discipline and respect for: 1. The art of listening 2. Skill acquisition/proficient dexterity 3. Ability to interpret via extemporization and delivery/showmanship. For learners who desire to challenge themselves in intermediate and advanced piano, I recommend my book, “African Pianism. (A contribution to Africology)”
Book chapters on the topic "Voluntary simplifiers":
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Albuquerque, Fábio, Maria Albertina Barreiro Rodrigues, Paula Gomes dos Santos, and Ana Morais. "The Reporting of Non-Financial Information by SMEs." In Modern Regulations and Practices for Social and Environmental Accounting, 90–109. IGI Global, 2022. http://dx.doi.org/10.4018/978-1-7998-9410-0.ch005.
Abstract:
Until now, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have largely been left out of non-financial information (NFI) disclosures. However, this will change significantly with the Non-Financial Reporting Directive. This chapter analyses the stakeholders' perspective about three core aspects related to this: the usefulness of a simplified NFI standard and/or reporting format for SMEs; if that is an effective means of limiting the burden on SMEs; and, finally, in case of implementing it, if it should be mandatory or voluntary. Data were obtained from the stakeholders' answers provided during the public consultation conducted by the European Union about possible revisions of the Directive 2014/95/EU, from February to June 2020. The results show that the most controversial topic is the mandatory or voluntary nature of the simplified standard for SMEs. Furthermore, there are different opinions about the usefulness and effectiveness of a simplified standard for SMEs, particularly between capital providers versus other entities.
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van Aardt, Willem. "Covid-19 Vaccine Mandates, International Human Rights Law and the Voluntary Consent Criterion." In Regional Law Review, 81–96. Institute of Comparative Law, 2023. http://dx.doi.org/10.56461/iup_rlrc.2023.4.ch6.
Abstract:
International human rights standards and bioethical norms with regard to informed consent for all medical interventions logically apply to COVID-19 vaccines. This invasive medical procedure carries both known and unknown risks. Over the past two years, COVID-19 vaccine mandates significantly infringed on the individual’s right to medical self-determination, violating Article 7 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and Article 5 of the Oviedo Convention. The COVID-19 era practices to ostracize, spurn, pressure, mandate, pay, fraudulently induce, and shame people into getting vaccinated against their will violated key Bioethical standards and long-established International Human Rights Law norms jus cogens and obligations erga omnes. Voluntariness, like so many other notions, is not an over-simplified yes-or-no concept but a matter of degree and understanding all the relevant facts in casu. Coercion itself encompasses a broad range of permutations, from applying physical force at one end to applying subtle emotional pressure on the other. Any kind of pressure put on an individual impedes and therefore nullifies the voluntariness of his or her decision, irrespective of the degree. When Government and Corporate COVID-19 biomedical medical paternalists pressured citizens to take the COVID-19 vaccines through threats of punishment if they did not and promises of reward if they did, it failed voluntariness on all counts.
Conference papers on the topic "Voluntary simplifiers":
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Chang, Hsiu-Hua. "Understanding voluntary simplifier's consumption behaviors: The scale development." In 2016 IEEE International Conference on Management of Innovation and Technology (ICMIT). IEEE, 2016. http://dx.doi.org/10.1109/icmit.2016.7605017.
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Chen, Kai, and Richard A. Foulds. "The Mechanics of Perturbed Upper Limb Movement Control." In ASME 2010 International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition. ASMEDC, 2010. http://dx.doi.org/10.1115/imece2010-37201.
Abstract:
The dependence of muscle force on muscle length gives rise to a “spring - like” behavior which has been shown to play an important role during movement. This study extended this concept and incorporated the influential factors of the mechanical behavior of the neural, muscular and skeletal system on the control of elbow movement. A significant question in motor control is determining how information about movement is used to modify control signals to achieve desired performance. One theory proposed and supported by Feldman et. is the equilibrium point hypothesis (EPH). In it the central nervous system (CNS) reacts to movement as a shift of the limb’s equilibrium posture. The EPH drastically simplified the requisite computations for multi-joint movements and mechanical interactions with complex dynamic objects in the context. Because the neuromuscular system is spring-like, the instantaneous difference between the arm’s actual position and the equilibrium position specified by the neural activity can generate the requisite torques, avoiding the complex “inverse dynamic” of computing the torques at the joints. Moreover, this instantaneous difference serves as a potential source of movement control related to limb dynamics and associated movement-dependent torques when perturbations are added. In this paper, we have used an EPH model to examine changes to control signals for arm movements in the context of adding perturbations in format of forces or torques. The mechanical properties and reflex actions of muscles crossing the elbow joint were examined during a planned 1 radian voluntary elbow flexion movement. Brief unexpected torque/force pulses of identical magnitude and time duration (4.5 N flexion switching to 50 N extension within 120ms) were introduced at various points of a movement in randomly selected trials. Single perturbation was implemented in different trials during early, mid, stages of the movement by pre-programmed 6DOF robotic arm (MOOG FCS HapticMaster). Changes in movement trajectory induced by a torque/ force perturbation determined over the first 120 ms by a position prediction formulation, and then a modified and optimization K-B-I (stiffness-damping-inertia) model was fit to the responses for predicting both non-perturbed and perturbed movement of elbow. The stiffness and damping coefficients estimate during voluntary movements were compared to values recorded of different subjects during trials. A least square nonlinear optimization model was designed to help determine the optimized impedance a subject could generate, and the identified of adapted of K-B-I in perturbed upper limb movements confirmed our assumption.
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Suzuki, Tetsuya, Arata Nishimura, and Hideo Nakajima. "JSME Construction Standard for Superconducting Magnet of Fusion Facility ”Quality Assurance”." In ASME 2009 Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference. ASMEDC, 2009. http://dx.doi.org/10.1115/pvp2009-77337.
Abstract:
This standard was developed to be applied the superconducting magnet structure of ITER, Tokamak type fusion facility. The standard for the conformity assessment and quality assurance was decided as a subsection of the standard, to ensure the quality of the superconducting magnet structure for fusion energy. Conformity assessment is indispensable as well as quality assurance for the products to perform their function satisfactorily. Most of Japanese voluntary consensus standards in nuclear field limited their contents to technical requirements only, so conformity assessment has been performed by regulatory authority. Ensuring conformance to the standard is necessary to satisfy Japanese responsibility for in-kind contribution to ITER. For this purpose, fundamental requirements for conformity assessment were defined. Role and responsibility of Owner, Manufacturer, Installer, Qualified Inspector, Standard-Expert Engineer were defined. The requirements of certification for Design Specification, Design Report, Fabrication Specification, Installation Specification, Data Report were defined as well. In conformity assessment, realistic Qualified Inspection and Design Certification were pursued, considering the legislation, infrastructure and prospective user of standard in Japan. These procedures of certification and qualified inspection specific to national system were separated from main body as appendix for international user to adopt their own alternative system. The quality assurance requirements consists of 18 articles, such as organization, quality assurance program, design control, document control etc. were used. Each article was designed to constitute simplified performance based requirement. In addition, guidance was given in non-mandatory appendix for the users to apply performance-based requirements effectively.
4
Vojtisek-Lom, Michal, and Jonáš Jirků. "Operating History Artifacts of Large Engine Particulate Matter Emissions Measurement." In ASME 2012 Internal Combustion Engine Division Spring Technical Conference. American Society of Mechanical Engineers, 2012. http://dx.doi.org/10.1115/ices2012-81168.
Abstract:
Exhaust emissions from internal combustion engines are one of the leading sources of fine particulate matter emissions in urban areas. Off-road engines account for a substantial portion of the total emissions, and are subject to increasingly strict legislation as well as voluntary emissions reduction programs. The benefits of various emissions reduction programs are typically quantified with simplified, short duration field tests. In an inquiry into the suitability of such tests, this paper examines experimental data collected by portable, on-board monitoring systems on truck, tractor, construction equipment, marine and locomotive diesel engines with rated power ranging from 130 to 1550 hp and displacement ranging from 4 to 163 liters. In engines operated extensively at low load, such as some locomotive engines, substantial amounts of solids and liquids accumulate inside of the engine and in the exhaust system. These deposits are then driven off during subsequent operation at high load. As a result, the emissions of particulate matter may be elevated for a rather long time, on the order of tens of minutes, which is longer than the duration of the individual modes of most field emissions tests. Therefore, the emissions of fine particles measured during short (units of minutes per mode) tests may be affected by the accumulated deposits. If this phenomenon is overlooked and not properly accounted for, the measurements may be less repeatable or comparable, and the particulate matter emissions based on such measurements may be overestimated. On the other hand, it is not clear that the problem can be remedied if the engine is diligently preconditioned prior to the measurement — in this case, the measured values do not account for “excess” emissions associated with extended low-load operation.
5
Lukaniuk, Coral, Reena Sahney, and Mark Jean. "A Practical Approach to Drive Consistency in the Pipeline Industry: CEPA Integrity First®." In 2016 11th International Pipeline Conference. American Society of Mechanical Engineers, 2016. http://dx.doi.org/10.1115/ipc2016-64176.
Abstract:
The Canadian Energy Pipeline Association (CEPA) is a voluntary, non-profit industry association representing major Canadian transmission pipeline companies. CEPA Integrity First® is an industry program developed by the CEPA member companies as a way to work to collectively to strengthen the pipeline industry’s performance, engagement and communications. Integrity First focuses on three main areas: safety, environment and socio-economics. Through Integrity First, members assess their internal systems, processes and practices using “guidance documents” developed through industry collaboration. These documents contain detailed, but not prescriptive “maturity tables” companies use to assess themselves against. The assessments result in the identification of areas of improvement, new standards at the member company level and for industry as a whole. After the first two self-assessments were completed in 2014, there was recognition that the foundation of the guidance documents needed improvement to ensure sustainability and value to all stakeholders. The new structure of the maturity tables is intended to have two philosophical underpinnings: scalability and relevance to the broad size and range of CEPA member company’s operations and practical maturity assessment approach for a company’s management systems. The main challenge in developing the maturity tables to form a sustainable structure lies in the broad range of jurisdictional and pipeline system requirements that are represented by CEPA’s membership. More specifically, the maturity tables needed to be flexible enough to apply to CEPA member companies with international operations crossing multiple jurisdictional boundaries with multiple pipeline networks as well as smaller scale operations encompassing pipelines operating within a single provincial jurisdiction. Further, there was recognition that multiple regulatory requirements and standards/practices existed, especially in the area of management systems, including (but not limited to) the National Energy Board Onshore Pipeline Regulations, Canadian Standards Association Z662, American Petroleum Institute 1173 and International Standards Organization 9000, 14000 and 55000 series. In light of these constraints, a key aspect of the approach was to map (cross-reference) requirements from key regulations and standards. Once alignment between the different standards was assessed, requirements were reconciled and simplified where possible. A final and thorough review of all requirements was completed to ensure that breadth, depth and wording of the maturity tables and associated criteria was consistent and comprehensive prior to engaging member companies to collect feedback. The intent with Integrity First is not to create another management system but to follow management system principles. Integrity First enables member companies to consistently assess their own systems and, through analysis and comparison, facilitates improvement across the industry. The paper will discuss the approach in more detail along with key challenges, areas of learning and outcomes.
Reports on the topic "Voluntary simplifiers":
1
Cho, Hyojung, and Hye-Young Kim. Toward Sustainable Consumption and Life Satisfaction: Understanding Apparel Consumption of Voluntary Simplifiers. Ames: Iowa State University, Digital Repository, 2017. http://dx.doi.org/10.31274/itaa_proceedings-180814-1852.
2
Bando, Rosangela, Otavio Canozzi, José Martínez, and Ana Lucía Dezolt. May I Calculate Your Taxes?: The Effect of Bookkeeping on Tax Compliance under a Simplified Regime. Inter-American Development Bank, May 2021. http://dx.doi.org/10.18235/0003386.
Abstract:
Many countries worldwide face significant miss reporting in tax declarations. Miss reporting leads to undesired low revenue and economic distortions. This paper discusses the extent to which the residual bookkeeping burden faced by small firms in simplified regimes influence tax declarations. A randomized control trial among 1,500 irregular firms in Piaui, Brazil showed that adding the tax amount due and records on transactions to a warning notification improved compliance in 21 percentage points and increased the reported revenue in 39 percent. Firms without an accountant were less likely to regularize their status without the added information. These findings suggest the use of third party information to support voluntary compliance may present an opportunity for digital services to improve tax revenue services.
3
Wezeman, Pieter D., Lucie Béraud-Sudreau, Alexandra Marksteiner, and Nan Tian. A Practical Guide to State Participation in the UN Report on Military Expenditures. Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, September 2022. http://dx.doi.org/10.55163/hqro4757.
Abstract:
The United Nations Report on Military Expenditures (UNMILEX) is a reporting Instrument established by the UN General Assembly. Each year all UN member states can voluntarily provide data on their military expenditures to enhance multilateral transparency in military matters. In recent years less than 50 states on average per year have participated in the instrument. However, most states release public information on their military spending at the national level, which could directly support submissions for UNMILEX. To assist the revival of the instrument and to contribute to transparency in military affairs, this guide aims to support officials in preparing their country’s annual submission for UNMILEX. It provides step-by step advice and concrete examples on how to use the information readily available in public government budget documents to fill in UNMILEX submissions. It discusses the definition of ‘military expenditure’ for UNMILEX purposes, shows where to find budget documents and explains whether to report on actual or planned expenditures. Most importantly, the guide gives instructions on how to transcribe data from national budget documents to the correct UNMILEX form. The focus is on making participation easy by using the simplified or single-figure form.