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Copyright of Revista de Sociologia e Política is the property of Revista de Sociologia e Politica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In this paper, we analyze the diffusion and adoption of paper making machinery in the Indonesian pulp and paper industry, from 1923 till 2000. We develop a machine level index of technological sophistication (math), which measures the technological distance of each paper machine to the world technological frontier. The data reveal a pattern of rapid technological catch up. But catch up was not an industrywide phenomenon. Some modern firms installed state-of-the-art machinery, while others installed older vintages. The paper argues that industrial policy has played an important role in the speed and nature of diffusion of paper making machinery. Key words--Asia, Indonesia, pulp and paper industry, technology diffusion, technology adoption, industrial policy, machine index

This study examines the recent dynamics in the rapidly growing handmade paper industry in Nepal. The paper argues that the industry is sustainable from social responsibility as well as natural resources and economic perspectives. Five principle sources of socially responsible practices are identified: (1) traditional commitment to community development, (2) fair trade codes of conduct, (3) corporate social responsibility, (4) the industry's business service organization (Nepal Handmade Paper Association), and (5) the general policy and legal framework. The paper concludes with a discussion of this industry as a case study of 'positive deviance' and with lessons for contemporary innovation systems theory and for development policy and practice. Key words--Asia, Nepal, handmade paper, fair trade, positive deviance, innovation

To link to full-text access for this article, visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.worlddev.2010.03.008 Byline: David A. Raitzer Keywords: impact assessment; policy research; evaluation; forests; Asia; Indonesia Abstract: Qualitative and quantitative methods are applied to assess the impact of CIFOR's political economy research on the Indonesian pulp and paper sector. Key-informant interviews triangulated by trend-series tests suggest important influence through advocacy intermediaries and counterfactuals of slower adoption of improvements. Effects on conservation set-asides, overcapacity, and plantation establishment are estimated to avert loss of 76,000-212,000hectares of natural forest (135,000 under main assumptions). Application of an economic-surplus framework for environmental benefits of forest conservation and avoided implicit wood subsidies finds benefits of US$19 to US$583 million (US$133 million main estimate), compared with US$500,000 of direct research costs. Author Affiliation: International Rice Research Institute, Philippines Article History: Accepted 21 March 2010

This comment provides a critical analysis of Van Beukering and Bouman's [World Development 29 (2001) 1717] article on global paper recycling and trade. We first question their notion that developing countries specialize in waste paper utilization and developed countries in recovery activities primarily because of different patterns of waste paper trade. An increased focus on relative waste paper availability, we argue, provides us with a better understanding of global paper recycling. We also criticize some of the implicit assumptions made in their regression analysis of waste paper utilization rates. An alternative regression model is therefore derived and estimated. In contrast to the approach used by Van Beukering and Bouman our analysis (a) is consistent with basic microeconomic theory; (b) distinguishes clearly between short- and long-run impacts; and (c) produces results that support our initial conjecture that waste paper availability is the most important determinant of waste paper use. Key words--waste paper, recycling, trade, developing countries, developed countries, utilization

New data collected on passport costs in 127 countries reveal enormous variation. One in every 10 countries have passport costs exceeding 10% of annual per capita income. High passport costs are found to be associated with poor governance, especially in terms of the quality of the bureaucracy, and with lower levels of migration. Countries which place legal restrictions on the rights of women to emigrate are also found to have lower migration rates. This suggests scope for developing countries to receive greater migration benefits by tearing down the paper walls they place around their own citizens. JEL classification--O15, F22 Key words migration, passport costs, barriers to exit, world

Poverty reduction strategy papers represent both a primary policy device of international development institutions, and an instance of a wider international convergence of public policy around global integration and social inclusion. Charting the emergence of these approaches, this paper argues that this convergence has a number of structural predilections which favor the technical and juridical over the political economic, and a disciplinary framework over a practical contest. Drawing extensively on decentralized governance and poverty reduction programs in Uganda, this paper shows how these predilections obscure power relations and restrict practical and political options, while exacting heavy establishment and compliance costs. Key words--poverty reduction, PRSP, governance, Africa, Uganda

The article examines the use of European Commission Article 82 for action against exploitation of oligopolistic dominance. To make a clear distinction between unilateral abuses of collective dominance another clause that is using practices like advance price notification or adopting a favorable customer clause should be added to Article 82 as abuse of oligopolistic dominance.

This paper analyzes China's new approaches of education aid to Africa through a case study of Cameroon. China's cooperation has been characterized by different discourses and different historic relationships with recipient countries than those of traditional donors. Sino-African policies have gone through different stages, each connected to wider political and economic realities. Currently, a broadening of China's engagement with Africa can be noticed through increasing aid packages and the inclusion of African countries other than those that had traditionally been close to China. Cameroon has been one of the countries that have had a relatively extended cooperation with China. Four types of Chinese education aid to Africa are illustrated by this paper: (i) Confucius Institutes, which are providing language and culture-related training in host countries; (ii) longer term scholarships and short-term training for Africans in China; (iii) school construction; and (iv) stand-alone education projects. By analyzing how these three different types of aid are taking place in Cameroon, various and apparently contradictory strategies and discourses materialize.

Provides a critique of Culbertson's paper on international trade (see SO516710). Critiques Culbertson's treatment of national sovereignty and the general welfare, international wage differentials, and prices and competition. (JDH)

Offers a response to Culbertson's paper (SO516710). Devotes particular attention to the difficulty of teaching Culbertson's alternative view. Offers five recommendations for improving high school and college economic instruction on international economics. (JDH)

Reflects on a social studies teacher's experiences during a Fulbright professorship in Ghana. Relates how, as an outsider from the United States, she learned about Ghanian perspectives of history, economics, women's issues, and culture, and was reminded of the dominating power of Western cultural and economic imperialism. (DSK)

For foreign policy observers, US President George Bush's human rights rhetoric strikes a chord distinctly reminiscent of the Reagan administration. First impressions, however, can be deceiving. With respect to human [...]

Suggests which perceptions and realities of the complex economic relationship between the United States and Japan are most important. Questions the use of opinion surveys to understand perceptions of U.S. and Japanese citizens about the economic relationship. Discusses characteristics of each nation's economy that inhibit successful economic relations. (DK)

There is a 'Europe.' The European Union is an entity through which 15 states now share elements of sovereignty. A European identity is being forged, most powerfully expressed by a [...]

Latin America may become an unintended casualty of September 11. Before the terrorist attacks, US policy-makers were warming toward their hemispheric neighbors. The meeting between US President George W. Bush [...]

Criticizes college textbooks for adopting a "party line" of laissez-faire economic doctrine which asserts the benefits of free trade. Offers an alternative interpretation of international trade, covering such topics as the effect of unregulated international trade on wage levels, and international lending. (JDH)

In recent decades most countries have experienced substantial increases in recycling. During the same period, international trade of recyclable materials between developed countries and developing countries has also grown. Increasingly, waste materials recovered in developed countries are exported for utilization in developing countries. We investigate the causes of this trend, focusing on two materials: paper and lead. Trade patterns of these materials are analyzed for the developed and developing world. We find that countries that have actively participated in trade of recyclables have higher recycling rates than those with closed recycling systems. Other factors that contribute to the intensity of recycline are geographic and economic conditions. Key words -- recycling, international trade, North-South, industry, economic development, In recent decades most countries have experienced substantial increases in recycling. During the same period, international trade of recyclable materials between developed countries and developing countries has also grown. Increasingly, waste materials recovered in developed countries are exported for utilization in developing countries. We investigate the causes of this trend, focusing on two materials: paper and lead. Trade patterns of these materials are analyzed for the developed and developing world. We find that countries that have actively participated in trade of recyclables have higher recycling rates than those with closed recycling systems. Other factors that contribute to the intensity of recycline are geographic and economic conditions. Key words -- recycling, international trade, North-South, industry, economic development

Concern about regaining international economic edge and maintaining a comfortable margin for defense capacity have translated themselves into recognition of the key role of education, research, and development in the country's life. The election of 1984 and what fiscal constraints and runaway deficit will allow in educational spending are discussed. (MLW)

Recent trends that affect the U.S. system of industrial relations are examined. The most important of these is internationalization. The U.S. industrial relations system is compared with that of Europe and Japan, and suggestions for improving our competitiveness in international markets are made. (Author/RM)

Taking into consideration what our founding fathers thought concerning civic education, the authors discuss what the curriculum for training civic teachers should include. Teachers should study history, social and political thought, economics, human motivation and organizational behavior, and the American experience as seen in an international context. (RM)

Examines the immorality of apartheid and what (if anything) nations are required to do about it. Focusing primarily on the United States as an example, the author concludes that there is an obligation to fight apartheid through carefully chosen foreign policy measures. (JDH)

Historical, psychological, geographical, and economic aspects of the relationship between Canada and the United States are discussed. Suggestions are presented to help American geographers planning to attend the upcoming National Council for Geographic Education conference in Toronto, Canada, enhance their understanding of Canada. (RM)

This article argues that by taking into account the environmental perspective in fundamental development issues pertinent to Third World countries, economics may play a more powerful and positive role in shaping the future of these countries. (JDH)

Reviews classical economists' views on the issue of public debt. Notes that from antiquity to modern times, it has always been rare for a state not to be in debt. Includes an examination of a state's repudiation of its debt and the impact such an action might have on its international relations. (JDH)

In the first of three articles, Bearman discusses trends, policy issues, and implications of policy developments for the library and information community. Jacob and Rings discuss copyright law, regulations, culture, language, recent technological developments, economic aspects, and privacy legislation. Burger provides background on evaluating policy analysis in the information field. (EM)

Discusses the rationale and major economic and political effects of turning the European Community into a true common market. Outlines the proposals of the European Commission on how to achieve this goal and states that implementation will result in large scale adjustment problems for the nations of the European Community. (GEA)

U.S. economic strength and national security will depend on knowledge of other nations and peoples and the ability to deal intelligently with them. Failures in the curriculum, the federal government's role, the Reagan assault, international exchanges, and initiatives in higher education are discussed. (MLW)

Examines persistence-related problems of American Indian poverty using metropolis-satellite (urban-rural) and world-system explanations. Links federal-Indian relationship and reservation economics to worldwide socioeconomic processes. Illustrates United States-world system relations as basis for alternative federal policies and addressing Indians' cultural dilemma of industrialization. (TES)

Examines the "New York Times" coverage of 18 Southern African nations for the first six months of 1960, 1965, 1970, and 1975. Indicates that violence and economic issues receive the most coverage. (JMF)

Presents the Third World approach and calls for self-reliance and sovereign control in the informatics field. (PD)

The deficit of second language speakers in the United States is felt: (1) politically, where a need for speaking the other country's language is not met; (2) economically, evident in the United States trade deficit; and (3) socially, where feelings of nationality and superiority may endanger foreign relations. (PJM)

This research paper investigates the essential role of diplomatic think tanks in shaping Pakistan's foreign policy. Think tanks are non-profit and non-partisan research organizations that perform extensive research regarding issues such as social policy, political strategy, foreign affairs, economy, defense, technology and culture etc. The primary objective of this study is to assess the degree, scope and level of influence exerted by various diplomatic think tanks on the policy makers involved in formulating foreign policy of Pakistan. It examines in details the evolution of these entities, contextual factors influencing their effectiveness, and various strategies to enhance their impact. Over recent decades, Pakistani diplomatic think tanks have proliferated, offering timely analyses yet facing limitations in directly influencing policy outcomes. The study utilizes case studies of Pakistani diplomatic think tanks, comparative analysis with global counterparts, and secondary literature review, employing elitist, statist, pluralist, and institutional approaches. Diplomatic think tanks in Pakistan affect foreign policy-making by generating new ideas, providing expertise, facilitating debates, educating citizens, and contributing to conflict resolution. To bolster effectiveness, these think tanks should prioritize financial sustainability, forge partnerships, increase transparency, and engage a broader array of stakeholders in the policy process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reviews the Multilateral Agreement on Investment (MAI) being negotiated by member states of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Describes the contents of the MAI, including draft articles on the rights of transnational corporations. Critiques the Agreement on economic and political grounds, and suggests how this is relevant to educators. (DSK)

Discusses the influence of Japan on educational reform in the United States. Identifies economic self-interest and global competitiveness as the motivations for increased U.S. instruction about Asia and the Pacific region. Expresses concern that such a competitive outlook is unlikely to produce a global perspective. (DK)

Norway is widely accepted as a global leader in peacemaking, due to its lengthy track record of involvement in complex peace processes. Its predilection for peacemaking is usually interpreted as a form of 'status-seeking' by a smaller state, aimed at enhancing Norway's influence and reputation in the international system. However, this perception offers a limited view and obscures other motivations that drive Norway to peacemaking. Aimed at addressing this gap, this paper dissects Norwegian peacemaking efforts in Myanmar between 2011 and 2019. The paper utilises a critical political economy lens to uncover the deeper motivations underpinning Norwegian peacemaking, drawing on new interview fieldwork with diverse stakeholders in Myanmar's peace process. The paper finds that material interests, including the desire to access new markets in the Global South, have played a significant role in influencing Norwegian peacemaking, highlighting the instrumental potential of 'status-seeking' in foreign policy. Concerningly, this strategy has served the interests of dominant power groups in Myanmar, contributing to the subordination of minority actors, thus compromising their engagement and revealing an image of Norway that belies constructivist perceptions of its status as a moral or humanitarian 'great power'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Clinton administration’s drive to enact reform in Ukraine during the 1990s was viewed at the time as being necessary for the nation’s revitalization and re-integration into Western Europe. Decades later, these policies have been critiqued for antagonizing the Kremlin, causing it to seek political control over its former satellite. This paper addresses the viability of the Clinton administration’s efforts and the reasons for their ultimate failure. It finds that despite its best intentions, the administration’s economic strategy faced unanticipated resistance from the Kremlin, as long-standing ties with Kiev undermined US-led efforts for economic and political reform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, the influence of conflict on the economies of neighbouring countries is discussed. The results from previous papers show a strong negative effect for an entire area around a country suffering from conflict, but this paper reaches a different conclusion, by using more recent data and adjusting the methodology previously employed. Additionally, a new type of contiguity matrix is constructed and used in the actual analysis. The final analysis consists of a large number of regressions and concludes that conflict actually has two opposing effects. First, like conflict countries themselves, directly contiguous countries actually suffer from the negative effects of proximate conflict. Secondly, however, there is also a positive spillover of conflict, which affects non-contiguous countries and this effect is larger for countries that are closer to the conflict country. The results from the paper predominantly hold for the most violent kind of conflict. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Contexto Internacional is the property of Pontificia Universidade Catolica do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Relacoes Internacionais and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)