The value of democracy in sociologists' focus: International conference held at YSU

Dean of the Sociology Faculty Artur Mkrtichyan, spoke about the choice of the theme, stating, "Democracy is a political system — a regime of governance. However, over the years, this term has acquired multiple meanings, and now it is a complex concept that each person interprets and presents in their own way. From this, the oscillations of the pendulum emerge. This is why we titled the conference 'The Pendulum of Democracy.'" 

Artur Mkrtichyan emphasized that democracy has come to be regarded as a value. Presenting the ideology of democracy, the dean stated, "Democracy is a mindset, a method for solving issues, which involves mutual discussions, interactions, and the search for truth through these interactions."   

Within the framework of the conference, Professor Timothy Levonyan from Rowan University in the United States presented the role of sociology in examining humanity's experience with democracy and in matters of human rights. He began his speech by posing questions about the origins of sociology and its purpose.

Professor Gevorg Albers from Catholic University of Applied Sciences in North Rhine–Westphalia, Germany, introduced the topic "Narrative Approaches to Empowerment in Conflict Societies".

Associate Professor Nvard Melkonyan from the Chair of Social Work and Social Technologies spoke about the 2023 events in Artsakh and how they were presented in Russian media discourse.

The invited speakers, along with those from YSU, addressed topics such as the challenges and opportunities of applying artificial intelligence in shaping public opinion, psychological barriers to the advancement of women in academia, the crisis of diaspora identity, and its social and economic consequences in Armenia.

After listening to the reports, the conference participants had the opportunity to ask questions to the speakers, leading to an engaging discussion.