Alma Mater Press carries out publishing activities in accordance with the provisions of the valid Rules on publishing activity of Alma Mater Press at Alma Mater Europaea Maribor. It publishes scientific and professional works, collections and teaching/study materials prepared by higher education teachers and students. It is Alma Mater’s Mission to exchange knowledge in science, art and education; we therefore publish books in the Open Access system, thus confirming a great step forward towards accessibility, knowledge sharing and new findings. In publishing scientific papers, the editorial board of Alma Mater Press follows the standard of preparation required to include works in the Web of Science index in cooperation with the Institute for Local Self-Government and Public Procurement Maribor. The publishing house Alma Mater publishes around 10 books annually. In accordance with the policy of Alma Mater Europaea University and the objective of the proper dissemination of scientific works by faculty members of Alma Mater Europaea, any scientific work published under the Alma Mater Press will be proposed for inclusion in the Book of Citation Index.
Justice and Political Order by Dr. Luka Đekić opens one of the oldest and yet most urgent questions of political thought: how to design a political and economic order that is simultaneously just, democratic, and socially responsible. The author guides the reader through debates on normative political theory, political economy, the role of politics, democracy, economic inequality, and justice, while critically analysing statism, welfare capitalism, and neoliberalism. The work was written at a time of rising economic inequalities, political distrust, democratic crisis, and a growing sense that existing political-economic arrangements no longer offer convincing answers to the defining challenges of the contemporary world — challenges that demand a renewed and deepened reflection on how society might be organised differently, and on what politics must become if it is to serve as an instrument for the just governance of our common life. In dialogue with the most influential thinkers of contemporary political theory and political economy — from John Rawls and Thomas Piketty to Karl Polanyi, Amartya Sen, and others — the book develops the concept of liberal socialism as a possible alternative to existing political-economic arrangements. This is not merely a book about economics, the state, or theories of justice. It is a book about what kind of politics we need, what kind of order we want, and what kind of society we are still capable of imagining. Justice is not an abstract idea. It is a question of power, democracy, economy, and common life. It is for this reason, too, that the book is grounded in a reopening of the question of what a just society looks like — and what kind of politics can make it possible.
Copyright (c) 2026 Univerza Alma Mater Europaea, Alma Mater Press, 2026. https://cretivecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/
MAJHNE DRŽAVE V SVETU TEKTONSKIH SPREMEMB: Diplomacija 21. stoletja na primeru Slovenije
Small states live in a world that was not made for them. They lack systemic weight, do not set the rules of the game, and possess no strategic depth that would allow them to make mistakes. The world is changing rapidly, often without their consent, yet they remain part of the international system – exposed, vulnerable, and responsible for their own decisions. In the book Majhne države v svetu tektonskih sprememb: Diplomacija 21. stoletja na primeru Slovenije (ang. Small States in a World of Tectonic Change: 21st-Century Diplomacy in the Case of Slovenia), diplomat Dr Božo Cerar explores how and why some small states nevertheless succeed. Drawing on decades of diplomatic experience – from the end of the Cold War and the breakup of Yugoslavia to the rise of the new Slovenian state – the author outlines fifteen principles according to which small states do not become great powers, but can become secure, influential, and credible. The book offers no illusions about the fairness of the world; instead, it presents a sober view of the international system, where rules are often applied selectively and power is once again returning to the forefront. At a time when the multilateral order is fragmenting, neutrality is losing its protective role, the information sphere is becoming a battlefield, and artificial intelligence is accelerating both opportunities and risks, strategic orientation has become more important for small states than ever before. The book demonstrates why internal cohesion, professional diplomacy, a clear identity, alliances, and the ability to say NO at the right moment are crucial elements of their survival. This is not a manual for moral posturing. It is a compass for a world without illusions. A book for diplomats, decision-makers, students of international relations – and all those who understand that smallness is not an excuse, but a condition that demands strategic maturity.
Copyright (c) 2026 Univerza Alma Mater Europaea, Alma Mater Press, 2026. https://www.almamater.si
INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE IT'S ABOUT PEOPLE 2024–2025: Humanities: Peer-Reviewed Proceedings Book
The peer-reviewed proceedings book from Humanities, edited by Dr Daniel Siter and Blaž Podobnik, brings together four research contributions presented within the framework of the 12th and 13th International Scientific Conference »It’s About People« in 2024 and 2025. The volume reflects the thematic openness and methodological diversity that have long marked the conference’s humanities sections. The collected articles address topics such as democratic values and political culture in post-communist Albania, public attitudes towards surrogacy in Slovenia, the relationship between economy and artistic production through the case of the Forma viva sculpture symposium in Maribor, and inherited occupational skills explored through autoethnographic research. The publication offers insight into the diversity of contemporary humanistic inquiry and the discussions emerging within the conference’s humanities and social sciences sections.
Copyright (c) 2026 Univerza Alma Mater Europaea, Alma Mater Press, 2026. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/
Strateško komuniciranje: Znanost praktične modrosti
The book Strateško komuniciranje: Znanost praktične modrosti (ang. Strategic Communication: The Science of Practical Wisdom) by Associate Professor Luka Martin Tomažič presents an innovative approach to strategic communication grounded in the Aristotelian concept of practical wisdom (phronesis). The author critically evaluates the limitations of traditional empirical and procedural models, which often prove insufficient in volatile, rapidly changing environments marked by informational asymmetries. Instead, he proposes a normative, ethically grounded approach that integrates rational argumentation, values, virtues, intuition, and timeliness (kairos). The book develops a practical model of phronetic strategic communication based on five key elements (perception, evaluation, communication, maneuvering, reflection), enabling effective and ethical action in complex situations such as crises or digital discourse. The work offers an interdisciplinary synthesis of philosophy, communication studies, and applied ethics, while also providing practical guidance for communicators.
INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE IT’S ABOUT PEOPLE 2025: PHYSIOTHERAPY AND HEALTH SCIENCES: Peer-Reviewed Proceedings Book
The publication INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE IT’S ABOUT PEOPLE 2025: PHYSIOTHERAPY AND HEALTH SCIENCES: Peer-Reviewed Proceedings Book presents a peer-reviewed collection of contributions in the fields of physiotherapy and health sciences, developed within the framework of the international scientific conference It’s About People 2025. The volume (edited by Dr Tine Kovačič) reflects the conference’s central orientation: that scientific progress, technological innovation, and organisational improvement must ultimately remain centred on the human person, health, dignity, and quality of life. The contributions address a broad range of contemporary topics, including remote physiotherapy, early intervention for children with perinatal risk factors, therapeutic approaches for Parkinson’s disease, nanomedicine, ergonomics, medication safety, dementia care, and support for parents of children with autism spectrum disorders. In this way, the publication brings together clinical, preventive, technological, and organisational perspectives, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary and evidence-based approaches to current healthcare challenges. Particular emphasis is placed on the relationship between technological development and human well-being. The authors do not treat technology as an end in itself, but rather as a means of improving healthcare delivery, patient safety, quality of life, and systemic effectiveness. At the same time, the publication underlines the importance of methodological rigour, ethical responsibility, and collaboration across professional fields. Overall, the proceedings volume represents a valuable contribution to contemporary discussions on the resilience of healthcare systems, sustainable development, and the role of science in the service of people. It also opens space for further research, professional dialogue, and cooperation among scholars and practitioners at both national and international levels.
Na poti razumevanja - 90 let Slovenskega filozofskega društva
Zbornik Na poti razumevanja: 90 let Slovenskega filozofskega društva (ur. dr. Gašper Pirc, Gaja Lukacs Čufer, dr. Marko Markič in Lara Božak) je delo, ki je izšlo v počastitev 90. obletnice ustanovitve najstarejše tovrstne humanistične organizacije pri nas. Delo vključuje informacije o zgodovini in delu društva in slovenske filozofije, spomine nekdanjih predsednikov ter krajše eseje vidnih članov, jedro pa predstavljajo številni znanstveni prispevki vidnih avtorjev v strogi znanstveni formi, ki prinašajo relevantne premisleke o naravi jezika oz. komunikacije v sodobni družbi, razmerja med pojmoma skupnosti in družbe, oblikah nasilja v sodobni družbi in nekoliko bolj specializirani razmislek o odnosu med analitično in kontinentalno filozofijo.
Svet kot eksistencialni fenomen je prva monografija dr. Marka Markiča, ki je posvečena problemu pristne, fenomenološko-hermenevtične utemeljitve odnosa do sklenjenosti smisla biti, izhajajoč iz tega, kako se v govorici sami javlja struktura te smiselne sklenjenosti. Delo predstavlja eno redkih monografskih obravnav Heideggerjeve eksistencialne analize v našem prostoru in prinaša kritično diskusijo o reprezentativnih obravnavah zgodnjega obdobja Heideggerjevega dela.
INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARLY SYMPOSIUM NUREMBERG TRIALS 80 YEARS LATER AND NAZI ‘PERVERTED SCIENCE’: Book of Abstracts
The publication International Scholarly Symposium: Nuremberg Trials 80 Years Later and Nazi 'Perverted Science': Book of Abstracts presents a concise summary overview of the key discussions from the international scholarly symposium marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Nuremberg Trials and addressing the misuse of science in the service of totalitarian ideology. The symposium took place on 27 February 2026 at Alma Mater Europaea University under the umbrella of research, scholarly and publicistic activities of the Programme Group »Research of Cultural Formations« (P6–0278, A, ARIS). The volume brings together contributions from both Slovenian and international scholars, who approach the topic from historical, legal, ethical, and broader civilisational perspectives. At its core, the publication highlights Nuremberg's significance as a turning point in the development of international law, while also framing it as a moral and ethical warning. Particular attention is given to the phenomenon of so-called "perverted science," that is, the instrumentalisation of scientific disciplines for the legitimisation of violence, the development of racial theories, and the conduct of medical experiments without ethical constraints. The symposium brought together several distinguished guests, including Prof. Dr Gideon Greif as the keynote speaker, alongside researchers and experts such as Dr Luka Martin Tomažič, Dr Dr Igor Grdina, Dr Alja Brglez, Dr Ferenc Miszlivetz, Dr Mónika Mátay, Boris Hajdinjak, Dr Sebastjan Kristovič, Dr Ludvik Toplak and Dr Daniel Siter, the latter also organised the conference. Their contributions range from legal-philosophical dilemmas (e.g. the Kelsen–Radbruch debate) to historical analyses of Nazi structures and local contexts, as well as reflections on memory, responsibility, and the ethics of science. The publication thus represents more than a record of a scholarly conference. It offers an important insight into the continuing relevance of the Nuremberg legacy in the contemporary world. In an era marked by renewed political tensions, technological transformations, and ethical challenges, it reopens the fundamental question of the relationship between science, law, and human dignity.
Copyright (c) 2026 Alma Mater Europaea University, Alma Mater Press https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/
The book Patient Safety Culture – Hospitals is a scientific monograph that addresses one of the key challenges of modern healthcare: how to establish and sustain a work environment in hospitals where patient safety truly comes first. The authors demonstrate, clearly and with evidence-based reasoning, that patient safety is not merely a set of protocols and instructions, but above all a reflection of organizational values, attitudes, communication, and leadership. As part of a project funded by the Ministry of Health and ARIS, the authors developed and validated a questionnaire for measuring perceptions of patient safety culture in Slovenian hospitals. Based on an extensive survey among healthcare professionals, they analyse crucial factors such as workload and staffing shortages, supervisors’ attitudes toward safety, quality of communication, reporting of safety incidents, and overall safety assessments at the ward level. The study employs advanced statistical methods (e.g., chi-square and the Agresti–Caffo Z+4 test) and identifies critical thresholds of negative evaluations that help hospitals pinpoint areas of heightened risk. This book is intended for hospital leaders, healthcare professionals, quality and safety specialists, and policymakers, as well as researchers and students interested in systematic approaches to patient safety. Published as an e-book by Alma Mater Europaea (series MEORL, no. 51), it represents an important resource for everyone aiming to transform patient safety culture in Slovenian hospitals from strategic ambition into everyday practice.
STUDY REPORT: Assessing the Maturity and Impact of Project Management Offices (PMOs)
The publication Study Report: Assessing the Maturity and Impact of Project Management Offices (PMOs) presents a systematic and theory-informed examination of the role and assessment of Project Management Offices (PMOs) in contemporary project-based organisations. The author team, led by Dr Reinhard Wagner (Germany) in collaboration with an international research group, critically analyses prevailing PMO assessment practices, which remain largely dominated by maturity-based approaches. The study demonstrates that, in the literature, maturity models—while useful diagnostic tools for diagnosing capabilities and supporting internal development—are frequently treated as proxy measures of effectiveness or value. However, limited empirical evidence supports a causal relationship between higher maturity and greater organisational impact. Based on a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) of peer-reviewed academic literature, complemented by insights from professional discourse, the study clarifies key concepts and explicitly distinguishes maturity from impact, while also addressing the relationship between performance, maturity, and impact. It highlights the need to move beyond normative maturity assumptions toward theory-driven and context-sensitive impact models. Particular attention is given to impact understood as contribution to benefits realisation, strategic alignment, decision quality, and long-term organisational performance. The study offers implications for both practice and research. For practice, organisations are encouraged to complement maturity and performance assessments with impact-oriented evaluations that explicitly link PMO activities to strategic objectives and benefits. For research, the study calls for longitudinal and mixed-methods designs capable of capturing indirect and long-term effects, as well as stronger collaboration between academia and practice. Overall, the publication provides a robust foundation for advancing both scholarly understanding and practical evaluation of PMOs. It ultimately calls for a shift from capability-centric to impact-oriented assessment perspectives, better reflecting the strategic role PMOs play in today’s project-based organisations. License: CC-BY-SA
Copyright (c) 2026 Alma Mater Press https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/
INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE IT'S ABOUT PEOPLE 2024–2025: Project Management, Strategic Communication Management, Web And Information Technologies: Peer-Reviewed Proceedings Book
Zbornik recenziranih prispevkov s področja Projektni management, Strateški komunikacijski management ter Spletne in informacijske tehnologije predstavlja prvo spletno izdajo izbranih raziskovalnih prispevkov z 12. in 13. mednarodne znanstvene konference “Za človeka gre”, ki sta potekali v letih 2024 in 2025. Zbornik It’s About People 2024–2025 (uredili: dr. Mladen Radujković, dr. Božidar Veljković, dr. Matej Mertik in dr. Daniel Siter) združuje 20 prispevkov, ki celostno obravnavajo sodobne izzive navedenih tematskih oz. predmetnih področij v obdobju pospešenih družbenih in tehnoloških sprememb. V prispevkih s področja projektnega managementa avtorji analizirajo premik od klasičnega metodološkega optimiziranja k razumevanju projektov kot kompleksnih družbeno-tehnoloških procesov. Posebna pozornost je namenjena vplivu umetne inteligence, kvantnega računalništva in digitalnih orodij na načine sodelovanja, vodenja, izobraževanja projektnih managerjev ter trajnostno usmerjenega razvoja projektov, pri čemer raziskave poudarjajo potrebo po ohranjanju človeške vloge in odgovornosti v digitalnem okolju. Prispevki s področja strateškega komuniciranja obravnavajo komunikacijo kot ključen družbeni proces, ki oblikuje zaznave, stališča, vedenje in raven zaupanja med različnimi javnostmi. Raziskave zajemajo teme digitalnega, političnega in organizacijskega komuniciranja, kriznega komuniciranja v zdravstvenem sistemu, sociolingvistike digitalnega diskurza ter etičnih in družbeno odgovornih komunikacijskih praks. Skupni imenovalec prispevkov je poudarek na zaupanju, transparentnosti in verodostojnosti komunikacije v kontekstu zdravstvenih, družbenih in političnih kriz ter vprašanj trajnosti in človekovih pravic. Poglavje s področja spletnih in informacijskih tehnologij umešča umetno inteligenco in digitalne tehnologije v širši družbeni in etični okvir. Prispevki obravnavajo uporabo naprednih modelov, podatkovnih sistemov in algoritmov v izobraževanju, zdravstvu in drugih aplikativnih okoljih, pri čemer izpostavljajo pomen človeku usmerjenega razvoja tehnologij, interdisciplinarnega dialoga ter odgovornega inoviranja. Zbornik tako poudarja razumevanje umetne inteligence kot socio-tehnološkega sistema, ki mora ostati tesno povezan s človeškimi potrebami, vrednotami in družbenimi konteksti. Zbornik predstavlja pomemben znanstveni prispevek k razumevanju razmerij med ljudmi, tehnologijo in družbo ter ponuja teoretične in empirične vpoglede, ki so relevantni tako za raziskovalce kot za strokovnjake in oblikovalce politik, usmerjene v trajnostni, vključujoč in družbeno odgovoren razvoj.
Znanstvena monografija predstavlja rezultate raziskave, katere namen je bil razviti instrument v obliki vprašalnika za merjenje zaznavanja kulture varnosti v lekarnah s ciljem doseganja večje varnosti pacientov, kar pomeni izboljšanje njihove varnosti zdravstvene obravnave z zmanjševanjem preprečljivih škodljivih dogodkov v času, ko so pacienti v stiku zdravstvenim sistemom. Merjenje zaznavanja kulture varnosti pacientov je ključnega pomena, ker pomaga lekarnam prepoznati prednosti, slabosti in vrzeli ravnanja ter pomagajo najti področja za izboljšave. Oblikovale so se ankete z Likertovo lestvico možnih odgovorov (5 ocen in brez odgovora) na trditve in vprašanja po izbranih institucijah in s presečno raziskavo zaznavanja kulture varnosti pacientov v lekarnah na temelju anket z zaprtim vprašalnikom in dodatkom odprtih vsebin izvedli statistiko porazdelitev ocen situacij, ki lahko pripeljejo do neželenih dogodkov. Za testiranje odstotka negativnih ocen ter razlik v teh odstotkih med vrstami institucij smo uporabili pretežno hi-kvadrat in Agresti-Caffov Z+4 test. Statistična analiza je pokazala, da je kritična zgornja meja za odstotek negativnih ocen kulture varnosti v vsej slovenski populaciji zaposlenih v lekarnah določen z Z+4 testom pri tveganju α=0,025 za lekarne 3,7%. Poglobljene študije so v prilogah 1-10, ki se obvezno berejo skupaj s poročilom. Iz podrobnejše analize in primerjave med vrstami institucij sledi, da je pri vseh še posebej zaskrbljujoča kadrovska zasedba delovnih mest po lekarnah (pomanjkanje kadra, kar vodi do presežnih obremenitev, preutrujenosti delavcev in nevarnosti, ki zaradi tega ves čas prežijo nad pacienti). Uvedba predlaganih anket kot obveznega orodja v institucijah slovenske zdravstvene mreže bi pomagala na lokalnem in državnem nivoju dvigniti kulturo varnosti pacientov.
Kultura varnosti pacientov - Domovi starejših občanov
Znanstvena monografija predstavlja rezultate, katere namen je bil razviti instrument v obliki vprašalnika za merjenje zaznavanja kulture varnosti v domovih starejših občanov s ciljem doseganja večje varnosti pacientov, kar pomeni izboljšanje njihove varnosti zdravstvene obravnave z zmanjševanjem preprečljivih škodljivih dogodkov v času, ko so pacienti v stiku zdravstvenim sistemom. Merjenje zaznavanja kulture varnosti pacientov je ključnega pomena, ker pomaga socialnovarstvenim zavodom prepoznati prednosti, slabosti in vrzeli ravnanja ter pomagajo najti področja za izboljšave. Oblikovale so se ankete z Likertovo lestvico možnih odgovorov (5 ocen in brez odgovora) na trditve in vprašanja po izbranih institucijah in s presečno raziskavo zaznavanja kulture varnosti pacientov v socialno varstvenih zavodih na temelju anket z zaprtim vprašalnikom in dodatkom odprtih vsebin izvedli statistiko porazdelitev ocen situacij, ki lahko pripeljejo do neželenih dogodkov. Za testiranje odstotka negativnih ocen ter razlik v teh odstotkih med vrstami institucij smo uporabili pretežno hi-kvadrat in Agresti-Caffov Z+4 test. Statistična analiza je pokazala, da je kritična zgornja meja za odstotek negativnih ocen kulture varnosti v vsej slovenski populaciji zaposlenih po institucijah socialnega varstva določen z Z+4 testom pri tveganju α=0,025 za socialno varstvene zavode 3,7%. Poglobljene študije so v prilogah 1-10, ki se obvezno berejo skupaj s poročilom. Iz podrobnejše analize in primerjave med vrstami institucij sledi, da je pri vseh še posebej zaskrbljujoča kadrovska zasedba delovnih mest po institucijah (pomanjkanje kadra, kar vodi do presežnih obremenitev, preutrujenosti delavcev in nevarnosti, ki zaradi tega ves čas prežijo nad pacienti). Uvedba predlaganih anket kot obveznega orodja v institucijah slovenske zdravstvene mreže bi pomagala na lokalnem in državnem nivoju dvigniti kulturo varnosti pacientov.
Hierarhična zasnova socialne infrastrukture za medgeneracijsko sožitje in blažitev socialnih pritiskov na podeželju - Financiranje
Monografija obravnava enega ključnih družbenih izzivov sodobne Slovenije – hitro staranje prebivalstva in z njim povezano potrebo po vzdržnem, pravičnem in učinkovitem sistemu dolgotrajne oskrbe. Avtorji skozi ustavne temelje socialne države izpostavljajo vprašanje, kako zagotoviti primerno bivanjsko in socialno varnost starejših ter kakšna naj bo delitev odgovornosti med državo, posameznikom in družino. Poseben poudarek je namenjen starejšim prebivalcem slovenskega podeželja, kjer se zaradi odseljevanja mladih in skromnih pokojnin starejši pogosto soočajo z osamljenostjo, tveganjem za nezgode in omejenimi možnostmi oskrbe na domu. Monografija proučuje potencial kmetijskih gospodarstev pri razvoju dopolnilnih dejavnosti, ki bi lahko prispevale k razbremenitvi sistema dolgotrajne oskrbe, izboljšanju lokalne zaposlitvene slike in upočasnitvi praznjenja podeželja. Na podlagi analiz stanja in prostorskih projekcij avtorji predlagajo hierarhično zasnovo mreže oskrbnih možnosti – od oskrbe na domu in kmetijah, preko »srebrnih vasi«, do domov starejših občanov in negovalnih bolnišnic. Predlogi temeljijo na dobrih praksah iz več evropskih držav ter opozarjajo tudi na pomanjkljivosti nekaterih modelov v tujini. Knjiga je del obsežnega niza dvanajstih regionalnih monografij, ki skupaj ponujajo celovito podlago za oblikovanje sodobnega, socialno pravičnega in finančno vzdržnega sistema dolgotrajne oskrbe v Sloveniji.
Patient safety culture - Primary healthcare
The present scientific monograph is situated within the contemporary paradigm of understanding patient safety. It focuses on primary health care, a field that has often been overlooked in research on safety culture compared with the hospital setting, despite the fact that the majority of health-care encounters take place at the primary level. The authors of the monograph address this research and professional challenge systematically, with methodological rigour and a clear aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of how employees in various forms of primary health-care provision perceive safety culture. This monograph is therefore essential reading for all those working in primary health care—from health-care professionals and managers of health-care institutions to researchers, students, and health-policy makers. Its insights are timely, its findings applicable, and its fundamental contribution lies in the fact that it treats patient-safety culture not as an abstract concept but as a living process that is reflected daily in primary health-care practice.
Copyright (c) 2025 Alma Mater Press https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/
INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE IT'S ABOUT PEOPLE 2024–2025: Sustainable Development: Peer-Reviewed Proceedings Book
The peer-reviewed proceedings book Sustainable Development, edited by Dr Tanja Bagar and Dr Daniel Siter, presents the first online edition of selected research contributions from the 12th and 13th Annual “It’s About People” International Scientific Conferences, dedicated to sustainability, dignity, and the cultivation of social and technological resilience. The publication brings together 11 scholarly contributions, each addressing a distinct yet interconnected dimension of sustainable development. Grounded in the editorial introduction’s assertion that sustainability extends far beyond public discourse and political rhetoric, the volume frames it as a profound scientific, ethical, and personal commitment. The editors emphasise that sustainability requires humility, critical thinking, and a renewed respect for the visible and invisible networks – ecological, biological, economic, and social - that sustain life on Earth. Drawing on lessons from the microscopic world, the introduction highlights that even the smallest actors can significantly reshape entire environments, just as individual lines of research, even if modest in scale, can make meaningful contributions to global sustainability transitions. The 11 contributions included in the volume reflect the broad and inherently interdisciplinary nature of sustainability science. They explore themes such as innovative models of sustainable entrepreneurship, meta-synthesis approaches to sustainable construction, and the reimagining of tourism planning through the Tourism 4.0 framework to balance development and resident quality of life. Other papers address environmental resilience, including sustainable flood and landslide recovery, heavy-metal contamination in industrial waste, and new perspectives on waste-to-fuel quality based on behavioural and seasonal factors. Several contributions analyse sustainability within technological and policy frameworks, examining digitalisation and resilience among small enterprises, adapting low-emission urban mobility concepts for healthier cities, the formation of ESG strategies aligned with EU guidelines, and the roles of stakeholders within Baltic food systems under evolving EU regulations. Forward-looking material innovations also feature prominently, such as the use of hemp as a sustainable construction material that can reduce carbon footprints and enhance carbon sequestration. Taken together, the studies offer a multifaceted view of how societies, technologies, and economies can evolve in harmony with ecological systems. Through its interdisciplinary scope, rigorous methodologies, and ethically grounded perspective, the volume reaffirms sustainability as a shared responsibility – one that demands collaboration, scientific integrity, and a commitment to ensuring that human progress and ecological stewardship advance together rather than at each other’s expense.
Biomedical Foundations of Aging and the Pursuit of Healthy Longevity
Editor’s Foreword Before you lies a scientific monograph that seeks to shed new light on one of the most complex and, at the same time, most pressing areas of contemporary science: understanding ageing and exploring pathways to healthy longevity. Biomedicinski temelji staranja in iskanje zdrave dolgoživosti (Biomedical Foundations of Ageing and the Pursuit of Healthy Longevity) by Prof. Dr. Tadej Strojnik represents the first comprehensive Slovenian scholarly work that unites biological, medical, and gerontological perspectives on ageing into a coherent concept of healthy longevity. This interdisciplinary monograph weaves together insights from genetics, epigenetics, cell biology, physiology, and regenerative medicine with contemporary behavioural sciences. The book’s greatest value lies in its emphasis that ageing is a process that can be scientifically understood, monitored, and influenced. The author guides the reader from fundamental biological mechanisms to recommendations, supported by the latest research, on how lifestyle, nutrition, physical activity, stress management, sleep, and balanced daily habits can support biological processes and help preserve functional youthfulness. He clearly highlights that the goal is not merely to extend lifespan, but above all to extend the healthy period of life, those years in which we remain physically, mentally, and socially active. The monograph makes an important contribution to the development of contemporary gerontology in Slovenia and is intended for a broad audience: students and researchers in biomedical sciences, physicians and health professionals, as well as experts in the social sciences, health economics, and all those seeking scientifically grounded guidance on how to maintain vitality, mental clarity, and physical capacity throughout life. As the editor, I believe that Prof. Dr. Strojnik’s work represents a milestone in Slovenian scientific and professional literature, a bridge between the fundamental biology of ageing and modern biomedical approaches. May this monograph inspire new research questions, foster dialogue across disciplines, and contribute to the development of gerontology as a science of the future. This is a book for the researchers of tomorrow, the physicians of today, and for everyone who wishes not only to understand how long we may live, but above all, how long we may live in good health. Editor, Suzanna Mežnarec Novosel Download PDF
INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE IT'S ABOUT PEOPLE 2024–2025: Education and Mental Health: Peer-Reviewed Proceedings Book
Peer-Reviewed Proceedings Book Education and Mental Health from It's About People international scholarly conference production examines the vital relationship between learning and psychological well-being in a world marked by uncertainty, digital overload, and social transformation. It approaches education not merely as the transmission of knowledge but as a process of shaping the human being, fostering inner stability, empathy, and ethical awareness in times of growing mental distress. Drawing on interdisciplinary research presented at the It's About People conference, the volume explores how pedagogy, psychology, technology, and philosophy converge to address the challenges of the digital age. Twenty contributions from 2024 and 2025 highlight topics such as youth mental health, mindfulness, the role of sleep in learning, the impact of family dynamics, and the ethical implications of artificial intelligence in education. At its core, the volume (edited by Dr Sebastjan Kristovič and Dr Polonca Serrano) advocates for a profoundly human education. It calls for pedagogical and therapeutic practices that cultivate dignity, compassion, and self-reflection, essential for maintaining mental balance and meaning in contemporary society. Through its diverse perspectives, Education and Mental Health reaffirms that actual progress in education lies not only in technological innovation but in nurturing the emotional and moral integrity of the individual.
Arheologija Starega Bližnjega vzhoda - Od predkeramičnega neolitika do konca zgodnje bronaste dobe
This scientific monograph offers an introduction to the cultural and historical development of the Ancient Near East, presented in the Slovenian language. Covering more than eight millennia—from the Pre-Pottery Neolithic to the Early Bronze Age—the book provides a comprehensive overview of the social, cultural, and material transformations that shaped one of the world’s earliest cradles of civilization. The chronological framework ends with the appearance of the first written sources in the mid-third millennium BCE, which not only represent a turning point in content but also mark the boundary between prehistory and history. The study traces the succession of populations with diverse social structures, innovations, and intercultural connections that emerged in this region, while highlighting the challenges of reconstructing long-term historical processes within such a vast chronological scope. It outlines the most significant archaeological sites, monuments, and aspects of material culture, while also reflecting on how new scientific discoveries and archaeological data continuously reshape our understanding of the Ancient Near East. Special attention is given to the role of rivers, landscapes, and ecological zones, with a focus on the fertile crescent as a key area where farming, herding, and sedentary communities first developed. The book explains how irrigation systems and environmental adaptations laid the foundations for advanced civilizations in Mesopotamia and its neighboring regions. The volume emphasizes the broader relevance of this early cultural development: Mesopotamia has long been regarded as the “cradle of civilization,” with lasting influence on the later trajectories of human societies, including the foundations of Western culture. At the same time, the book highlights the urgency of studying and preserving this heritage today, as the core areas of ancient Mesopotamia have for decades been affected by political instability and armed conflict, leading to the destruction of cultural heritage and with it collective cultural memory. By combining archaeological, historical, and cultural perspectives, this monograph provides students, researchers, and interested readers with an accessible overview of the Ancient Near East as both a geographical and cultural landscape. It highlights not only the historical importance of the region but also its enduring role in shaping debates about heritage, identity, and the origins of human civilization.
King Samo in Historical Context: 1400th Anniversary of the Beginning of his Reign
A multiauthor scholarly book is based on a symposium with international participation, organised in collaboration between Alma Mater Europaea University and the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts to mark the 1400th anniversary of the beginning of King Samo's reign. The publication offers a comprehensive view of King Samo, the first known ruler of the Slavs, who established the Slavic kingdom in the 7th century. The work delves into his life, reign, and influence on the Slavic territory from a political, historical, literary, and cultural perspective. The chapter's authors are esteemed and respected Slovenian and international experts from different institutions. Dr Peter Štih focuses primarily on his connections with early Slovenian history and the wider Slavic region, and how Samo's reign among the Slavs reflects the beginnings of political organisation in the Eastern Alpine region. About the cultural and communication space of Samo's kingdom, Dr Marko Snoj also initiated a discussion on the Slavic and Proto-Slavic language in the 7th century, and the meaning of Samo's name based on linguistic elements from that time. Dr Jakub Izdný emphasises the symbolic power of Samo's empire in Czech and Slovak historiographical literature and historiography and its significance as a historical symbol. In her contribution, Dr Naďa Profantová also presents an archaeological insight into the trade routes and long-standing contacts of 7th-century Bohemia. At the same time, Dr Darja Mihelič focuses on preserving Samo's reign in historiography between the 15th and 18th centuries. An analysis of the only direct source, Fredegar's chronicle, and its various interpretations, thus leads to a deeper understanding of his role in shaping early Slavic identity and political independence. The book was reviewed by Dr Aleš Maver and Dr Janez Mlinar, and Dr Daniel Siter edited it. Much about King Samo remains unknown to this day, yet his reign's power as a symbol is growing, while discussions and interpretations of his life are rapidly increasing. Given that historians have found only one relevant historical source on King Samo, the work calls for new discussions by authors and serves as an incentive for further research into early medieval political and cultural views of the Slavs. The publication is intended for researchers and students of history, archaeology, linguistics, literary studies, and cultural studies, experts on the early Middle Ages in Europe, teachers and educational institutions dealing with the history of the Slavs, and the general public interested in the symbolism of the first known Slavic ruler. The publication also invites reflection on King Samo's role and historical and symbolic significance.
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The Internet in the Middle East and North Africa: A Study of Usage, Threats and Restrictions during the First Decade of the 21st Century
Scholarly book by Dr Tal Pavel comprehensively explores the Internet’s multifaceted role in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, situating technological developments within the broader historical, political, and cultural context. It demonstrates how the rapid diffusion of digital technologies at the turn of the 21ˢᵗ century introduced new opportunities for education, commerce, and civic participation, while simultaneously posing significant challenges to traditional governance structures. The Internet in MENA was initially perceived as a symbol of openness and progress, offering unprecedented access to information, global connectivity, and platforms for dialogue that transcended borders. Civil society, human rights advocates, and activists quickly adopted digital tools to amplify marginalised voices, challenge entrenched power relations, and mobilise for social change. In doing so, the Internet emerged as a technological innovation and a transformative medium, reshaping public discourse across the region. Structural inequalities, including uneven infrastructure development and limited digital literacy, created significant disparities in access. The scarcity of Arabic-language content further constrained the Internet’s inclusive potential. Most critically, state authorities, initially cautious observers, came to view the internet as both a vehicle for modernisation and a threat to political stability. Governments responded by implementing censorship, surveillance, and restrictive measures designed to curtail dissent, regulate information flows, and safeguard regime authority. This persistent tension between openness and control defines the digital experience in MENA. On the one hand, the Internet empowered individuals and civil society to engage in new forms of participation; on the other hand, it became subject to sophisticated mechanisms of restriction and regulation. International and local countermeasures, ranging from technological solutions to advocacy for digital rights, sought to resist these pressures and preserve the internet as a space for freedom of expression and civic engagement. The book argues that the internet in MENA should not be understood solely in terms of infrastructure or technology but as a profoundly political and social process. Tracing the historical trajectory of digitalisation in the region highlights how technological adoption is inseparable from governance, cultural identity, and social transformation issues. Ultimately, the study underscores that the future of the Internet in MENA will continue to be shaped by the unresolved balance between state control and societal aspirations for openness, innovation, and freedom.
Older Adults, Families, and Social Networks
How do we experience aging, care, and interconnectedness today in modern European societies? How important is proximity to home, people, and a supportive environment? And how do family ties, spatial characteristics, and the accessibility of social infrastructure and care impact this? These and many other pressing questions are addressed by the new monograph Older Adults, Family, and Social Networks, which, based on original research, sheds light on the daily lives of older adults and the significance of social relationships as a protective factor against loneliness, isolation, and psychosocial decline. The publication brings together three original research contributions that discuss: the role of family in preventing social isolation of older adults (Sopić), the effects of family communication and involvement in nursing homes (Lučan), and the importance of nurses for the quality of life of older adults in rural areas (Ostović). All three studies are supported by quantitative analyses and are linked to the findings of Geo-gerontological Observatories, which gives the monograph regional breadth and scientific weight. The editors of the publication (Bogataj and Mežnarec Novosel) provide an extensive introductory reflection, placing the content in the broader European and national context of long-term care and highlighting the importance of social networks, spatial accessibility, and family relationships as key elements of the sustainable development of future care models. Why is this publication important now? European care strategies, demographic trends, and the increasing demand for long-term care require us to restructure care systems with a greater role for communities and families, develop local care models tailored to spatial, social, and cultural specifics, and invest in quality human resources, not only in institutional settings but also in community and home-based care. Who is this publication intended for? Researchers and students in the fields of gerontology, sociology, social work, and nursing, decision-makers and social policy planners, professionals in practice, particularly in long-term care, nursing, family support, and local service development, civil society organizations working on active aging and the inclusion of older adults, as well as anyone interested in understanding what it means to age with support, dignity, and in relationships. This monograph is a call to renew our views on aging, not as a burden, but as a valuable part of society that primarily needs relationships, proximity, and respect.
Virtualni svetovi in vrednote digitalne prihodnosti
In his new work Virtual Worlds and the Values of the Digital Future, university lecturer and researcher Dr. Gašper Pirc explores current trends in technological development and evaluates them through legal, ethical, and social perspectives. In doing so, he raises key questions of the digital age, such as issues of internet law and moral standards in the digital environment, online violence, the ethics of artificial intelligence, the status of digital agents, and the internal structure of online and virtual worlds. The book addresses very concrete problems of the digital era, such as the rise of often overlooked online violence, inadequate internet legislation, and the specific socio-political challenges brought about by rapid technological change at a time when knowledge, truth, and values are often being relativized. Particular emphasis is placed on understanding the ethical, technological, and social dimensions of the metaverse, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence—topics that are no longer confined to experts and artists, but are increasingly of interest to—and perhaps must concern—the broader public.
It's About People 2025: Social and Technological Resilience for Health and Sustainable Development (Book of Abstracts)
The Book of Abstracts from 13th international scholarly conference "It's About People 2025: Social and Technological Resilience for Health and Sustainable Development" in organisation of Alma Mater Europaea University, European Academy of Sciences and Arts and World Academy of Art and Science, reflects our shared commitment to addressing the key challenges of our time – strengthening the resilience of society and technology for a healthier and more sustainable future, with a particular focus on artificial intelligence. "In a rapidly changing world, resilience has become essential. Recent events have shown us how closely health, technology, and sustainable development are interconnected. Especially in these turbulent times, when faced with dark clouds, the call for peace is the first task for everyone, including the academic community, policymakers, the economy, media, and opinion and religious leaders. It is our duty to respond and adapt for the individual's benefit, particularly to involve students in actively addressing these issues. This is crucial for the development of communities and society as a whole. The conference It's About People brings together experts from various fields – researchers, professionals, decision-makers, and representatives from the economy – to exchange knowledge, ideas, and solutions. As you can see, the conference follows the principles of the European Academy of Sciences and Arts: interdisciplinarity, transnationality, and building bridges, as well as the call of the World Academy of Art and Science for education for peace. Through collaboration, we can bridge the gap between technology and social well-being and ensure that technological advancement sustainably serves humanity. The conference will also pay special attention to implementing the Global Peace Offensive, signed by the presidents of both leading academies, Klaus Mainzer and Garry Jacobs, at the inauguration of the Alma Mater Europaea University on 21 October 2024 On behalf of the organising committee, I would like to express my gratitude to all the participants and speakers and request that you share your ideas and vision for the 14th Alma Mater It's About People conference, which is expected to take place during the second weekend of March 2026." Emeritus Professor Dr. Ludvik Toplak, Rector of Alma Mater Europaea University
Varstvo avtorskih pravic pred slovenskimi sodišči
Avtorsko pravo je temeljna veja prava intelektualne lastnine, ki ureja razmerje med ustvarjalci intelektualnih del – kot so literarna, znanstvena, umetniška in digitalna dela – ter uporabniki teh del. Njegov namen ni zgolj varstvo avtorskih interesov, temveč tudi omogočanje širšega dostopa do kulturnih in znanstvenih dobrin. Avtorska pravica tako združuje pravno varstvo, ustvarjalno svobodo ter gospodarski potencial, saj pomembno prispeva k razvoju kulture, znanosti in gospodarstva. Pravice intelektualne lastnine, med katere sodi tudi avtorska pravica, so posebne narave – gre za izključne pravice, ki imetnikom omogočajo nadzor nad uporabo njihovih stvaritev in pravno zaščito v primeru kršitev. Za razliko od fizičnih predmetov se uporaba intelektualne dobrine ne izčrpa z eno samo uporabo, zato monopol nad njeno uporabo ustvarja šele pravni red. Slovenski avtorskopravni sistem temelji na Zakonu o avtorskih in sorodnih pravicah (ZASP), sprejetem leta 1995, ki je zakonodajno področje uskladil z evropskimi standardi. Pomembno vlogo pri oblikovanju razumevanja zakonskih določb je imel prvi komentar zakona, vendar se je konkretna sodna praksa začela oblikovati šele v naslednjih letih. Nova znanstvena monografija prvič sistematično predstavlja in analizira ključne sodne odločitve slovenskih sodišč od začetka veljavnosti ZASP do danes. Avtorja knjige izpostavljata tako vsebinske kot postopkovne vidike sodne prakse Višjega in Vrhovnega sodišča ter, kjer je pomembno, tudi stališča Ustavnega sodišča. Poseben poudarek je namenjen razmerju med slovenskim pravnim redom in pravom EU – bralci bodo ob posameznih določbah našli tudi primerjave z evropskimi direktivami in sodbami Sodišča EU. Knjiga je dragocen vir za pravnike, ustvarjalce, uporabnike avtorskih del in vse, ki se želijo poglobljeno seznaniti z avtorskopravno ureditvijo, aktualnimi pravnimi izzivi in razumevanjem avtorskih pravic v sodobni družbi.
Hierarchical design of social infrastructure for intergenerational coexistence and alleviation of social pressures in rural areas - Comparison of legislation
How can we ensure dignified ageing and a sustainable long-term care system in rural areas? This monograph explores the development of an integrated social infrastructure for older adults, with a focus on a hierarchical approach to housing and care – ranging from in-home assistance and supplementary on-farm activities, to community-based models such as “silver villages” and regional solutions like nursing hospitals. Particular attention is given to the challenges faced by elderly people living on farms, including limited income, lack of care, and social isolation, as well as the opportunities for revitalizing rural areas by engaging younger generations in caregiving roles. The authors also examine the financial and systemic dimensions of long-term care, emphasizing the need for efficient use of public resources. A comparative legal analysis highlights legislative frameworks and best practices from several European countries (Austria, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, and Spain), along with lessons learned from less effective approaches.
Hierarchical design of social infrastructure for intergenerational coexistence and alleviation of social pressures in rural areas - Projections of needs and social farms
Most Slovenian municipalities—excluding Ljubljana and Maribor—are predominantly rural and face growing challenges related to population aging, elderly isolation, and youth migration to urban areas. This new scientific monograph addresses these pressing issues by proposing a modern, intergenerational, and sustainable model of social infrastructure. Following the guidelines of the World Health Organization (WHO), the monograph emphasizes the importance of: · Age-friendly built environments (housing, transportation, digital access), · Efficient service ecosystems (home care, employment policies), · Inclusive social environments (social participation, communication, information networks). Key highlights include: · Demographic projections of aging by region, · Analysis of long-term care needs and caregiver demand, · Survey results revealing the preferences and financial capacities of older adults, · Concepts for developing smart silver villages and integrating social farms as supplementary on-farm activities. The publication also explores opportunities for new employment that would encourage younger generations to remain in rural areas, thereby contributing to the revitalization of the Slovenian countryside. The monograph raises critical questions about the future of elder care in Slovenia and offers concrete strategies for building a more inclusive and sustainable long-term care system—centered on intergenerational harmony and rural development. This monograph is intended for municipalities, policymakers, researchers, and all stakeholders involved in rural development and long-term care systems.
Different Aspects of Dignity Perception in Old Age
ABOUT THE BOOK The scientific monograph Different Aspects of Dignity Perception in Old Age explores the complex and multidimensional concept of dignity in older adulthood, reflecting on how social, cultural, institutional, and communication-related factors influence its preservation and experience in contemporary society. The volume brings together contributions from experts in the fields of social gerontology, nursing, ethics, communication, and social work. The authors address the topic from various perspectives – from the effects of language (e.g., the use of diminutives when speaking to older adults) to the importance of intergenerational cooperation, cultural competence, quality of care, and the environment's impact on the well-being of elderly residents in care institutions. In their reviews, Assist. Prof. Danijela Lahe and Assoc. Prof. Jadranka Stričević emphasize the scientific and societal relevance of the collected contributions, particularly in light of growing demographic changes and the need for a holistic approach to the dignity of older adults. HIGHLIGHTED TOPICS PDF Dignity and quality of life in institutional care Cultural competence in gerontology The use of diminutives in communication and its implications Intergenerational tourism and the role of art therapy in preserving cognition Ethical issues in treating older adults in a changing society WHO IS THIS BOOK FOR? This monograph is a valuable resource for researchers, students of social gerontology, healthcare and social care professionals, and policy-makers working in the field of aging and quality of life in old age. Its interdisciplinary nature also makes it an engaging read for a wider audience interested in dignified aging. Language: Bilingual (Slovenian-English) edition Length: 176 pages
International Scientific Conference SOCIETY AND TECHNOLOGY 2024 - CREATIVE INDUSTRIES AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: Proceedings book with peer review on scholarly papers
From the editor's address: The Alma Mater Europaea University, in collaboration with the journals Media Research and Media, Culture and Public Relations, the Faculty of Croatian Studies of the University of Zagreb, the Faculty of Graphic Arts of the University of Zagreb, the Croatian Catholic University, the company Media Net Ltd., and the Croatian Community of Innovators, as well as the journals Interdisciplinary Description of Complex Systems and Acta graphica, the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, and the Agency for Electronic Media, organized the international scientific conference "Society and Technology 2024: Creative Industries and Artificial Intelligence", held on April 18–19, 2024, at ZICER, the Zagreb Innovation Center. The event brought together experts, scientists, and practitioners to share new insights and ideas about the development of artificial intelligence and creative industries as drivers of modern society. In a world where the boundaries between technology, culture, and science are increasingly blurred, hosting international scientific conferences is not only an academic honor but also a vital tool for fostering innovation, economic development, and international cooperation. Such conferences offer a unique opportunity to exchange knowledge and the latest achievements, opening doors to new research, projects, and technologies with far-reaching societal impacts. /…/ Abstracts of the papers were published in the Proceedings of the 29th International Scientific Conference Society and Technology 2024 - Creative Industries and Artificial Intelligence: Book of Abstracts, issued by the Alma Mater Europaea University. Papers accepted for publication were published in the journals supporting the conference, while works by authors who chose to publish within the conference proceedings were included in this publication. These papers make a significant contribution to understanding the interconnection between technology, the creative industry, and society. By analyzing the role of artificial intelligence, the authors explore its impact on the creation, distribution, and consumption of content, economic models, and social structures while simultaneously addressing ethical challenges and innovation opportunities. Through a multidisciplinary approach, the papers offer practical solutions to the challenges brought by the intersection of artificial intelligence and creative industries, paving the way for new research and technological solutions. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ivan Balabanić