The objective of this paper is to investigate empirically the effects of investment in human capital on the competitiveness of the nation. Investment in human capital, particularly in terms of education, health, research and development, stimulates the economic growth and competitiveness of a country. The innovations developed through research and development (R and D) have been believed to cause the rapid economic growth. Education will also contribute to science and knowledge through R and D which is highly required for economic growth. Using descriptive cross-section data of investment in human capital combined with neoclassical economic thought, the paper investigates the transmission mechanisms of human capital investment to economic competitiveness of nations. The result of this research shows that the increasing growth of investment in human capital is positively correlated with the increase in the competitiveness of a country.

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The political career of Basuki Tjahaya Purnama (BTP) affects various groups of people in different ways. One of the groups that were deeply affected by the series of events before and after 2017’s Jakarta Governor election are double minorities talents who aspire to contribute to Indonesia inspired by BTP’s leadership. This paper explores the experience of specific group of double minority talents in the aftermath of political turbulence in Jakarta. The qualitative findings show that many talents were affected by the situation in relation to their aspiration to contribute, their decision to stay in Indonesia and their thinking about the future of Chinese-Christian talents in Indonesia. In the long run the situation and similar incidents may result in the loss of talents leaving Indonesia for other countries.

Several distinguished philosophers provide insightful reflections on the meaning of alienation, anxiety, and apathy. This paper elaborates on these notions based on Kierkegaard’s idea of anxiety and Marx’s idea of alienation in the experience of the supporters of Basuki Tjahaya Purnama (BTP) after his loss in the Jakarta governor election of 2017. The qualitative findings show the result has left a deep impact among his supporters, especially those who share the same background as BTP, namely the Chinese-Christian minority. In their view, the main reason for BTP’s loss was the racial and religious smear campaign played out during the election. This led them to a deep disappointment in response to the unexpected turn of events. The findings show that the feelings of the Chinese as second-class citizens in Indonesia have resurfaced. At an existential level, it raises anxiety and alienation that has led to social and political apathy among those who identify themselves as the ChineseChristian minority. The existential impact of the disappointment has led to a feeling of indifference and resignation toward political involvement in future democratic affairs.