Introduction

The issue of financial debt has become one of the defining challenges of the United States economy in the 21st century. Household borrowing, corporate leverage, and public debt all shape the nation’s fiscal health, influence policymaking, and directly affect the lives of millions of Americans. In light of growing concerns over student loan repayments, credit card borrowing, medical debt, mortgage defaults, and federal deficit financing, there is a critical need for interdisciplinary research and dialogue.

Aim of the Call

This call for papers seeks to bring together academics, practitioners, policymakers, and students to explore the dynamics of financial debt in the United States. Submissions are encouraged from the fields of economics, finance, law, sociology, political science, and public policy, as well as from interdisciplinary perspectives.

Suggested Themes and Topics

We welcome original research articles, case studies, reviews, and conceptual papers that address—but are not limited to—the following themes:

1. Household and Consumer Debt

   • The rise of credit card borrowing and its socioeconomic implications

   • Medical debt and healthcare inequality

   • Student loans and their long-term impact on labor markets and family life

2. Corporate and Institutional Debt

   • The role of corporate leverage in shaping business cycles

   • Debt financing and innovation in American industries

   • Bankruptcy laws and restructuring practices

3. Public and Government Debt

   • U.S. federal deficit trends and fiscal sustainability

   • State and municipal debt management

   • Political debates around debt ceilings and austerity policies

4. Social and Ethical Dimensions of Debt

   • Psychological effects of indebtedness on individuals and communities

   • Predatory lending, payday loans, and financial regulation

   • Debt, inequality, and social justice

5. Global Perspectives

   • The U.S. debt crisis in comparative perspective

   • International trade, monetary policy, and the role of the dollar in global debt markets

Submission Guidelines

• Abstract: 300–500 words outlining research objectives, methodology, and expected findings.

• Full Paper: 5,000–8,000 words, formatted according to APA/MLA/Chicago style (as specified by the editorial committee).

• Important Dates:

  • Abstract submission deadline: [Insert Date]

  • Notification of acceptance: [Insert Date]

  • Full paper submission deadline: [Insert Date]

• Submission Email/Portal: [Insert Contact Information]

Publication and Conference Opportunities

Selected papers will be considered for publication in a special issue on Financial Debts in the USA. Authors may also be invited to present their research at a symposium hosted by [Insert Institution/Organization].

Conclusion

Debt is more than just a financial figure—it is a structural element of American society that intersects with issues of inequality, opportunity, and governance. By contributing to this call for papers, scholars and professionals have the chance to shape critical debates and propose meaningful solutions.