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Ethics beyond the Human ; A post- humanist reading of lan McEwan's machines like me
(2025) Giri, Manisha; Laxman Bhatta
This research analyzes the ethical, societal, and relational consequences of artificial intelligence in Ian McEwan’s Machines Like Me through a post-humanist perspective. Utilizing Rosi Braidotti’s post-anthropocentric ethics, alongside insights from Donna Haraway, the study investigates how the novel questions conventional ideas of moral agency and human superiority. By employing textual analysis, it
examines the moral capabilities of humanoid robots, focusing on their emotional intelligence and capacity for independent decision-making. The results indicate that McEwan regards AI as subjects of ethical importance, which aligns with Braidotti’s perspective on non-human agents as members of an extended moral community. The novel encourages a reevaluation of legal accountability, interpersonal relationships,
and ethical standards in a society that is rapidly advancing technologically, providing important literary insights into modern debates surrounding AI.
Key words: Ethics Dilemma, Humanoids, Post-Humanism, Artificial Intelligence,
Identity, Morality
Social capital and practice of Housing loan from banks in Kathmandu
(2025) Gartaula, Milan Raj; Kailash Nath Pyakuryal
Social capital is a critical component of social interaction and it influences other non-social aspects of day-to-day life as well. This dissertation is an effort to examine the influence of social capital on housing loan from banks, which is essentially understood to be a purely economic undertaking. Banking is frequently
regarded as an economic institution, yet the non-economic dimensions of the banking sector are gaining increasing attention in academic discourse. A key question arises: How does social capital, a non-economic aspect, influence the banking landscape in Nepal? Social capital refers to the social resources gained through relationships and networks in a social setting. While sociologists have produced various findings on
social capital, this dissertation aims to explore its specific interpretation and relevance within the context of the Nepalese economy. The first objective of the study was to investigate the provisions of social
capital in banks in Kathmandu. The next objective was to describe how social capital is embedded in the economic relationships between banks and borrowers, particularly in obtaining loan facilities. The final objective was to elucidate the role that social capital plays in securing housing loans. It was found that almost all banks and financial institutions offering housing loans in Kathmandu incorporate elements of social capital, with some similarities and differences in their implementation. Social capital manifests differently across various demographic factors, including education, health, family size, and monthly income,
influencing the economic relationships between banks and borrowers. Subsequent analysis shows that aspects of borrowers' social capital significantly affect key housing loan parameters: the loan volume, repayment duration, and interest rates. The social dimensions of banking represent a critical non-economic
phenomenon that influences banking practices. These social attributes vary based on time and regional settings. Nepal, with its rich tapestry of diverse cultures and varying levels of social capital, presents a unique context for examining these phenomena. Housing loans are a primary instrument through which banks operate, encompassing two categories: retail and real-estate housing loans. In Nepal, banks heavily invest in retail housing loans, which come with specific policies influenced by factors such as age, health, gender, education, professional background, family size, and monthly income. These seven variables are central to the study's exploration of social capital's impact on banking. For this dissertation, a purposive sample of 700 borrowers from selected banks was analyzed using both qualitative and quantitative methods to test multiple hypotheses. The study focused on banks with additional housing loan provisions linked to social capital components like age, family size, salary, and gender. Eleven financial institutions were identified for their notable provisions in these areas, with approximately 700 individuals reported as having taken out housing loans in the previous year. The research findings reveal that all banks and financial institutions in Kathmandu incorporate provisions based on social capital, with some similarities in policy between different banks. However, respondents exhibit varying interpretations of social capital in relation to housing loans. Dependent variables analyzed include loan duration, interest rates, and loan amounts, while independent variables encompass age, gender, health status, education, professional history, monthly income, and family size. Statistical analyses, including p-tests, established the significance of associations among these variables, though not in all cases. While these findings may not universally apply across all global contexts or timelines, this dissertation offers valuable insights into the impact of social capital in economic domains, particularly regarding housing loans. Theoretically, the concept of embeddedness has gained traction as a conventional idea; this dissertation enriches that notion by situating it within the unique socio-economic landscape of Nepal.
Geopolitics of Nepal; Opportunities and challenges to its National Security
(2025) Tandul, Gaurab; Ishwori Prasad Kandel
Nepal, a landlocked country nestled on the southern slopes of the Himalayas, holds a strategic position between two major global powers: India and China. The country's northern border is entirely demarcated by the Himalayas, separating it from the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) of China. This unique geographic positioning, coupled with the presence of vital mountain passes such as Kuti and Kerong, underscores Nepal's significant role in regional geopolitics. Historically, Nepal's attempts to control these passes have been thwarted, leading to their strategic occupation by Tibetan and Chinese forces. The construction of the Kathmandu- Kodari road with Chinese assistance further highlights the geopolitical importance of
these routes. In terms of security, Nepal lacks a substantial defense establishment and has historically relied on maintaining friendly relations with its neighbors. Treaties with China and India, including the 1950 Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship, reflect Nepal's strategy to safeguard its sovereignty. Nepal's strategic significance has grown with China's rise as a global power, positioning Nepal as a potential flashpoint
in Sino-Indian rivalry. However, economic interdependence between China and India has thus far mitigated the risk of direct confrontation. Nepal‘s geopolitical leverage is both an opportunity and a challenge. The
nation‘s location enables it to draw economic and infrastructural support from both India and China. China‘s investments in Nepal and the strategic Kathmandu-Kodari road illustrate Beijing's interest in Nepal's stability and economic development. Conversely, India's historical and economic ties with Nepal make it a crucial partner, evident in India's role in Nepal's political developments. The geopolitical dynamics involving Nepal extend beyond regional tensions. The United States' strategic interests in South Asia, particularly in containing China's influence, add another layer of complexity. China's support for Pakistan serves to
keep India preoccupied in the region, indirectly impacting Nepal. Despite the opportunities for economic growth and infrastructure development through engagement with both India and China, Nepal faces significant challenges. Political instability, governance issues, and internal ethnic divisions weaken its
capacity to address security threats. Border disputes and the risk of natural disasters further exacerbate these vulnerabilities. To navigate these complex dynamics, Nepal must adopt a balanced approach,
balancing diplomatic engagement with both neighbors while strengthening internal cohesion and security infrastructure. Leveraging international platforms such as the United Nations and regional organizations like SAARC and BIMSTEC can enhance Nepal's strategic positioning. It is in this context; the study explains the significance of Nepal‘s geopolitical location. It explores the opportunities for Nepal due to its geopolitical location and inspect the challenges to Nepal‘s National Security due to its geopolitical location.