1. The Times Context: Why Social Flourishing Emerges

To situate the emergence of Social Flourishing, this section examines how deepening global interconnectedness and structural transformation have reshaped prevailing understandings of both “society” and “flourishing”. It clarifies the journal’s founding rationale and its commitment to addressing contemporary international challenges through systematic academic inquiry.

1.1 Rethinking the Global Dimension of “Society” in Interconnectedness

Never in human history has the world been so densely interconnected. Submarine fiber-optic networks now enable instantaneous communication across continents; global supply chains operate as highly integrated systems linking production, distribution, and consumption worldwide; and the COVID-19 pandemic starkly demonstrated that humanity has entered an era of shared vulnerability and shared destiny, in which risks and benefits are rapidly transmitted across borders (Cocito & De Hert, 2023).

At the same time, global integration has not eliminated fragmentation. Ideological polarization, civilizational misunderstandings, and tensions between unilateralism and multilateralism persist and, in some contexts, intensify (Lyu et al., 2022). Technological change further complicates this landscape (Bourdieu, 1990, 2018). Artificial intelligence is reshaping labor structures and ethical frameworks; digitalization simultaneously expands access and deepens inequality through the global digital divide; and emerging technologies such as blockchain are altering foundational assumptions of governance, trust, and institutional coordination (Gordon, 2023).

The international system is thus undergoing a profound period of transition. The rise of new actors intersects with the inertia of established orders, producing shifts in power relations, interest configurations, and normative frameworks (Dianshi Moses et al., 2025; Zhang et al., 2023). In this context, individual life choices, community development trajectories, and national policy decisions can no longer be understood in isolation from global networks (Celeste, 2024). The concept of “society” has therefore expanded beyond the territorial boundaries of the nation-state, evolving into a multilayered field in which local realities are embedded within global structures (Goffman, 2023; Granovetter, 1985).

What is at stake is not merely the relative ascent or decline of particular states, but a systemic reconfiguration of the global order—from digital governance norms and climate responsibility allocation to trade regimes and security paradigms (Du Bois & Eaton, 1899). The foundational “operating system” of human coexistence is being recalibrated. Under such conditions, no major global challenge can be effectively addressed through isolated national governance. Whether this moment yields expanded capabilities or deeper stratification turns on how social structures interact with rapid change, and on who is protected, who is exposed, and whose voices count when new rules are written (Li et al., 2025). This structural reality underpins the journal’s focus on the international community as a necessary analytical and normative horizon.

1.2 Reshaping the Core Essence of “Flourishing” in Transformation

Against this backdrop of interdependence and complexity, the meaning of “flourishing” itself is undergoing a fundamental redefinition. Development models narrowly centered on economic growth have proven insufficient to address persistent and interconnected challenges such as inequality, ecological degradation, and social fragmentation. Rising GDP figures coexist with widespread food insecurity affecting hundreds of millions of people worldwide (Tilly, 1998); technological innovation generates unprecedented wealth while exacerbating distributive disparities; and expanded human capacity to transform nature has contributed to climate-induced disasters that undermine livelihoods and security (Perez & Wimer, 2024).

In this context, flourishing must be understood as an inclusive and multidimensional condition of development. It entails material sufficiency to secure basic rights to survival and development, but it also requires substantive social justice and equal opportunity. It emphasizes the equitable distribution of technological dividends while safeguarding humanistic values against the erosion of dignity by efficiency-driven logics. It recognizes the importance of national development while affirming the intrinsic worth and autonomy of individuals (Teubner, 2017) .

As climate change threatens ecological sustainability, artificial intelligence transforms work and governance, public health crises expose institutional fragilities, and geopolitical conflicts endanger peace, a fundamental question emerges: what models of flourishing can ensure that diverse societies, social groups, and future generations share the benefits of development in a sustainable manner (AMHLAIGH, 2016)? Flourishing can no longer be reduced to a single indicator of growth; it has become a comprehensive normative objective encompassing collective well-being, social progress, and civilizational continuity.

1.3 Responding to the Imperatives of the Era: The Founding of Social Flourishing

It is in response to these structural transformations and conceptual reorientations that Social Flourishing is founded. The journal proceeds from the conviction that periods of uncertainty demand not only policy responses but also sustained intellectual engagement grounded in humanistic concern and academic rigor. Scholarly inquiry, when pursued with integrity and openness, remains a vital source of orientation in times of transition.

The title Social Flourishing reflects a deliberate commitment to overcoming fragmented disciplinary perspectives through a holistic analytical approach. The journal addresses power dynamics in international politics while examining their implications for everyday life; it analyzes global governance institutions while critically assessing their capacity to promote equity and rights; and it tracks economic trends while interrogating their contribution to shared human well-being. In such a landscape, social science must be both imaginative and reliable. We need research that travels across settings, research that can be reproduced and scrutinized, and research that remains attentive to lived experience—especially for those who bear the highest costs of transformation.

Here, “society” functions as the primary analytical reference point, capturing complex relational structures across local and global scales. “Flourishing” serves as the normative benchmark for evaluating institutions, policies, and practices. Together, they define the journal’s central mission: to explore pathways toward inclusive global flourishing through sustained academic engagement.

1.4 An Intellectual Platform for the Global Public Good

With a focus on international issues, Social Flourishing seeks to establish an open, inclusive, and forward-looking platform for scholarly exchange. The journal welcomes both macro-level analyses of global structures and micro-level studies of community governance and social practice. It values innovative reinterpretations of established topics as well as pioneering research in emerging fields.

Three forms of integration guide the journal’s orientation: the integration of theoretical depth with practical relevance; the integration of global perspectives with local experience; and the integration of methodological rigor with accessible scholarly communication (Fan, 2025). The journal encourages research that not only explains complex global transformations but also identifies viable pathways for reform and improvement, combining analytical precision with normative reflection.

In this sense, Social Flourishing is conceived not merely as a publication venue, but as an ongoing intellectual endeavor. It invites scholars and practitioners committed to the future of humanity to contribute to a shared knowledge project aimed at advancing collective well-being.

2. Academic Commitments and Editorial Orientation

To fulfill this core mission, the journal upholds the following five core positions, aiming to lay a solid foundation for rigorous, open, and constructive academic dialogue and provide a trustworthy platform for the global academic community.

2.1 Thematic Relevance: Focusing on Pressing Contemporary Issues

We consistently focus on issues of genuine contemporary significance—those that illuminate the structural conditions of the present era and shape the trajectories of social development at multiple levels. These include, but are not limited to, macro-level transformations in the international system, such as shifts in global power configurations, crises of multilateralism, and the reconfiguration of international norms; meso-level reforms of global and regional governance institutions, including legal, economic, and regulatory frameworks; and micro-level practices concerning community governance, social inclusion, and the protection of individual and collective rights. Rather than privileging any single scale of analysis, the journal recognizes that contemporary challenges are inherently multi-layered and interconnected, requiring sustained scholarly attention across levels and contexts. We want scholarship that explains how societies absorb disruptions, how new norms and institutional arrangements form, why some communities develop resilience while others are systematically deprived of it, and what kinds of governance structures can protect rights and expand capabilities under rapid change (Liu et al., 2025).

Accordingly, Social Flourishing embraces a broad yet analytically focused conception of relevance. Topics that meaningfully capture the spirit of the times, engage with widely shared public concerns, and deepen understanding of fundamental social problems fall within the journal’s scope, regardless of whether they emerge from global, national, or local settings. We are particularly attentive to issues that reflect structural tensions and long-term transformations—such as digitalization, climate change, demographic shifts, social inequality, and evolving conceptions of rights and responsibility—while also remaining open to research that examines concrete practices, institutional responses, and lived experiences shaped by these broader dynamics.

2.2 Innovation Grounded in Scholarly Integrity

While welcoming innovative contributions, the journal maintains that originality acquires scholarly value only when it is grounded in methodological soundness and conceptual clarity. Innovation, in this sense, is not equated with rhetorical novelty or the mere introduction of new terminology, but with the capacity to advance understanding through carefully reasoned argument, transparent analytical procedures, and sustained engagement with existing bodies of knowledge. The journal therefore rejects superficial or exaggerated claims of originality that are detached from established scholarly debates, neglect historical and theoretical continuities, or rely on provocative framing without substantive analytical support.

Social Flourishing conceives intellectual progress as a cumulative and dialogical process. Each contribution is expected to position itself within relevant academic traditions, demonstrating awareness of prior research and articulating with precision how it extends, refines, or challenges existing arguments. Whether through the reexamination of canonical theories, the reinterpretation of well-studied phenomena, or the application of established concepts to new empirical contexts, the journal values work that advances scholarship by building upon, rather than disregarding, the intellectual labor of previous generations.

At the same time, the journal recognizes that meaningful innovation often emerges incrementally rather than through abrupt theoretical rupture. Careful conceptual clarification, modest yet well-substantiated theoretical adjustments, and methodologically robust empirical findings can generate lasting scholarly impact. The journal thus places high value on research that demonstrates internal coherence, logical consistency, and analytical precision, even when its contributions appear deliberately cautious or narrowly focused. In this regard, intellectual restraint is understood not as a limitation, but as a mark of scholarly maturity.

2.3 Timeliness Anchored in Theoretical Foundations

Social Flourishing supports research that responds to emerging global developments, including digital governance, climate change, and evolving forms of cooperation and conflict. At the same time, it affirms the enduring relevance of classical theories and foundational concepts in political philosophy, law, sociology, and international relations. By situating contemporary analysis within broader intellectual traditions, the journal seeks to combine immediacy with depth and perspective. It encourages contributions that critically reassess established frameworks in light of new empirical realities, as well as studies that draw normative insight from classical thought to illuminate present challenges. Through this dialogical engagement between past and present, the journal aims to foster scholarship that is both analytically grounded and intellectually forward-looking, capable of informing sustained academic debate and long-term theoretical development.

2.4 Integration of Theory and Empirical Inquiry

The journal warmly welcome theoretical research with ideological depth and systematicity — including the clarification and definition of core concepts, the reflection and criticism of existing theoretical paradigms, and the construction and elaboration of new research frameworks. We also highly value empirical research and in-depth case studies rooted in specific contexts — including quantitative evaluations of policy effects, qualitative analyses of major events, cross-national comparative studies, and explorations of local practices. We treat case-based inquiry as a mode of scientific discovery that, when done rigorously, can expand theory and guide future measurement—especially when it takes seriously the interaction order through which dignity and belonging are enacted.

We expect theoretical research to be “grounded in reality”, maintaining close dialogue with the empirical world and avoiding abstract speculation divorced from practice; we hope empirical research will have a “soul,” extracting theoretically significant insights with universal relevance from solid empirical data. The journal is committed to serving as a bridge linking ideas and practice and supporting the mutual enlightenment of theory and empiricism.

2.5 Methodological Rigor and Pluralistic Perspectives

All submissions are required to demonstrate methodological awareness and rigor — whether adopting quantitative, qualitative, or mixed research methods, arguments must be clear, logic rigorous, and methods transparent and standardized to ensure the reliability and persuasiveness of research conclusions. At the same time, we actively advocate pluralistic and inclusive research perspectives: valuing both macro strategic analyses and micro local experiences; introducing cutting-edge international academic achievements while encouraging theoretical reflection and innovation based on local contexts; listening to diverse voices from different civilizations and positions while upholding independent thinking and an objective, impartial academic stance.

The combination of rigorous research methods and pluralistic perspectives aims to produce academic knowledge that is more explanatory, inclusive, and practically relevant, providing more comprehensive ideas for addressing complex global issues. By bridging these diverse knowledge systems, we seek to cultivate a more resilient scholarly discourse that remains sensitive to human nuance while upholding the highest benchmarks of empirical and theoretical excellence.

3. Research Scope and Academic Community Building

Centered on the journal’s research orientation, this section elaborates on core priorities, submission requirements, and commitments to interdisciplinary collaboration. It aims to provide clear guidance for potential contributors while outlining the vision of building an inclusive global academic community.

3.1 Core Research Topics and Submission Scope

To construct an open, inclusive, and mutually beneficial global academic community, the journal sincerely invites high-quality original submissions from scholars worldwide. Our core research topics are broad yet focused, aiming to explore the path toward social prosperity from multiple perspectives and contribute academic wisdom to the improvement of the global governance system and the common development of humanity.

We welcome all the researches focus on international issues, which include theoretical reflections and empirical tests on macro propositions such as social prosperity, human development, global governance, and inter-civilization dialogue; in-depth analyses of the specific roles of international legal rules, institutional comparisons, and cross-border judicial cooperation in shaping a fair international order; investigations into how diplomatic practices, security governance, economic cooperation, and regional integration influence national development and the evolution of the world order; and examinations of emerging challenges and policy responses related to digital transformation, AI ethics, climate justice, and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. Additionally, we encourage research exploring how cultural flows, social movements, people-to-people diplomacy, and the protection of the rights of vulnerable groups can nurture community resilience, shape identity, and promote in-depth understanding and trust between different countries and civilizations.

3.2 Advocating Interdisciplinary Exchange

We particularly value interdisciplinary intellectual exchange and knowledge integration. Complex and changing social realities and global challenges have long transcended the boundaries of individual disciplines, calling for cross-disciplinary perspectives and methodological mutual learning. The journal actively encourages scholars from diverse fields — including political science, economics, law, sociology, history, philosophy, data science, environmental science, and public administration — to break down disciplinary barriers and engage in cross-border dialogue and collaborative research. Whether through interdisciplinary theoretical dialogue, methodological innovation in empirical research, or problem-driven integrated exploration, all research that deepens our understanding of human social flourishing and provides innovative ideas for solving global issues will be warmly welcomed.

3.3 Academic Standards and Community Norms

We adhere to academic quality as the sole criterion for publication, with no thresholds based on identity, qualifications, or institutional affiliation. The journal implements a strict double-blind peer review system, ensuring that the review process is fully independent, objective, and impartial, and that each submission is evaluated fairly based on its academic merit. We sincerely invite senior scholars to share their profound research and academic insights accumulated over years of work, and we eagerly anticipate young scholars, doctoral candidates, and outstanding master’s students to showcase their keen academic vision and innovative research ideas. This is an academic space purely driven by ideological value, where every in-depth, heartfelt, and substantive research achievement will receive the respect and attention it deserves.

We uphold rigorous academic standards and advocate an honest academic culture. All submissions must be unpublished original research, and academic misconduct such as plagiarism is strictly prohibited. Submissions must demonstrate a clear research question, a solid literature foundation, rigorous logical reasoning, and clear academic expression. Authors are required to adhere to internationally accepted academic norms and the journal’s formatting requirements, ensuring accurate citations, standardized annotations, and full responsibility for the content of their work. We also encourage authors to pursue readability and clarity while maintaining academic depth and rigor, enabling profound ideas to transcend disciplinary and cultural boundaries and achieve broader dissemination and recognition.

4. Editorial Commitment: For a Flourishing Global Society

Focused on the editorial board’s obligations, this part reaffirms core commitments to academic rigor, fairness, and openness. It also extends a sincere invitation to global scholars, articulating the journal’s aspiration to contribute to the common flourishing of human society through collective academic efforts.

4.1 The Core Guiding Mission of Social Flourishing

The name Social Flourishing embodies not only our editorial mission but also our unwavering academic commitment. It clearly guides us: all discussions on international politics, legal rules, economic mechanisms, and technological development must ultimately return to a fundamental question — how can these discussions truly advance the all-round development of individuals and the overall progress of society? How can we ensure that people of different countries, civilizations, and social strata all share the fruits of flourishing amid globalizations?

Founding this journal is akin to planting a seedling of ideas. We deeply recognize that for this seedling to thrive and grow into an ideological canopy sheltering human society, it requires not only momentary enthusiasm and ideals but also long-term dedication, solid cultivation, and the collective stewardship of the global academic community.

4.2 Editorial Pledge and Sincere Invitation

As the editorial board, we solemnly pledge: We will approach each submission with the highest professionalism and rigorous academic attitude, carefully vetting every academic perspective to ensure the journal’s academic quality and publishing standards. We will strictly uphold academic principles, safeguard a fair, impartial, and transparent peer review environment, and protect the legitimate rights and interests of every author. We will strive to build a truly open and inclusive academic platform, actively facilitating dialogue and collaboration among scholars from different countries, disciplines, and generations, and fostering a culture of constructive engagement within the academic community. We believe that only through down-to-earth, sustained efforts and unwavering commitment to academic ideals can this journal become a trusted intellectual hub for the global academic community and a vital academic force driving social prosperity.

With firm conviction and an open mindset, we extend our sincere invitation to all thinkers, researchers, and practitioners concerned with the development of human society and dedicated to advancing social prosperity. We invite you to submit your research findings, intellectual explorations, and practical insights, allowing these works — imbued with dedication and wisdom — to spark intellectual discourse on the platform of Social Flourishing. Let us collectively nurture this intellectual soil, hoping it will take root, germinate, and flourish, ultimately providing solid ideological support, profound academic nourishment, and wise guidance for the common flourishing of human society.

May Social Flourishing grow in tandem with the global academic community, resonate with the progress of human society, and craft an academic chapter worthy of our times in the journey of exploring the path to flourishing!

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