Community Spirit Research Articles

Community-based development and indigenous evaluation in Africa: insights from Ghana

ABSTRACT Community-based development (CBD) evaluation is often rooted in mainstream evaluation theories and methods to the detriment of Afrocentric evaluation philosophies and practices. Afrocentric values, grounded in cultural ideals and relational patterns, are the foundation of the search for new knowledge. The notion is that indigenous evaluation values and assumptions could aid in developing alternative concepts, approaches, and practices for assessing CBD initiatives. Employing a thematic analysis approach rooted in indigenously responsive evaluation (IRE), this paper identified tangible and intangible notions such as social networks, relational stakeholders, social accountability, mutual respect, community participation, community spirit, relational feedback, and consensus building as some of the key concepts embedded in social and development activities that have the potential for effective CBD and evaluation activities. This paper outlined cultural evaluation components that Ghana and Africa at large may effectively include in contemporary evaluation frameworks to ensure the sustainability of CBD and evaluation initiatives.

Fostering The Future: The Z-Generation In Discovering The Meaning Of Life And Optimism

The study of meaning, in philosophy and psychology, is important to reveal the influences toward individual well-being, especially optimism. This study examined the influences of various factors, such as social media, family environment, education, and personal experiences on Z-generation's perception of the meaning of life and their levels of optimism. Age, sex type, and spirituality are influential factors for searching for meaning in life, found based on the journal article review. The Age influences a person's search for life's meaning and their optimism. Sex type also plays an important role; men tend to discover meaning in life through family roles and social relationships, while women tend to discover meaning through achievement and independence. Spirituality, such as religious practices and spiritual beliefs, offers a framework to discover the meaning of life and remain optimistic, especially through the social support of the spiritual community.

7.X.2. Planetary Health: metaphorical visualizations of transdisciplinary working in practice

Abstract Across public health and healthcare practices, we signal low awareness and little urgency for Planetary Health among health professionals as well as lacking or lagging implementation of planned policies. Planetary health requires a ‘just do it’ mentality with a transdisciplinary and reflection-in-action approach. There is a need for a bottom up movement, but HOW to get started and HOW to persevere against all odds? This 25 minute pecha kaucha session is aimed at facilitating transdisciplinary learning for planetary health action. We will start with a brief introduction to the concept of Planetary Health, followed by two short presentations on two metaphorical work processes underlying the startup of a flowering community garden and the preparations for a delicious Italian lasagna. The second half of the session is dedicated to a creative exercise with the audience, generating multiple metaphors in small groups using picture cards, paper drawings. We finalize this session by collaboratively building a visualised sea with transdisciplinary waves of metaphorical innovations that, instead of litter and pollution, make our beaches and shores stronger foundations protective of our planetary life. Key messages • Planetary health requires a ‘just do it’ mentality with a transdisciplinary reflection-in-action approach. • Metaphorical reasoning visualizes social reality and boosts Planetary health mentality, community spirit and transdisciplinary action.

A COVID-19 Memoir: Using the Co-Occupation of Crafting and Spirituality to Promote Health and Wellness in the United States.

The occupational therapist authors explored the evolution of co-occupation during their experiences of social distancing related to the COVID-19 pandemic and times of ongoing civil unrest. The research method used is auto-ethnography to describe and analyze their personal experiences juxtaposed with their cultural experiences. The authors, one white and one African American shared a desire to promote emotional and spiritual wellness during isolation, healthcare disparities, and social unrest. This collaboration led to a creative partnership aimed at promoting health and wellness for both themselves and sectors of their local African American spiritual community. Through designing, creating, giving, and receiving cycles, they worked cooperatively to interweave craftwork with social ministry. Intrigued by the traditions of African kente cloth, they designed and carried out a handwoven kente-style liturgical stole ministry focused on encouraging African American pastors who experienced difficulty engaging in their usual worship and fellowship, which serves as their respite from civil unrest and providing comfort during illness and death.

A Battle on Social Media: Critical Discourse Analysis of the Sampradaya in Bali

Abstract This study focuses on the discourse battle on Facebook between two ideological perspectives on the existence of Sampradaya in Bali. Sampradaya refers to the Hindu spiritual community in Bali which has been adopting new traditions and practices from India since 1980. Since then, their presence in Bali has faced opposition, including the prohibition of Hare Krishna literature and the closure of Hare Krishna learning centers. Starting in 2019, this resistance has created a battleground of conflicting narratives that influence the public. This research aims to comprehend the representation of ideological perspectives and discourse battle strategies within the Sampradaya discourse on Facebook. This study combines Teun van Dijk’s discourse analysis model and nethnography. The analyzed discourses consist of 10 instances from 2022 to 2023. The research findings reveal dominant and marginal discourses representing ideological beliefs and political systems. The strategies employed include reproduction, distinction, rejection, exclusion, and transformation.

What happens when tourism is turned off: Exploring the outcomes of the COVID-19 pandemic travel restrictions for Indigenous people in Rarotonga, The Cook Islands

The sea, sand, and sun allure of the Cook Islands has seen tourism become the most significant driver of the country's economic development. However, the increasing reliance on the tourism sector since the 1980's has created a mono-economy at the expense of diversification and alternative economic models. The COVID-19 pandemic emphasized the risks and consequences associated with an over- reliance on international tourism as the lockdown measures and international travel restrictions caused the sudden shutdown of international tourism, resulting in serious negative economic consequences for tourism-dependent communities. However, the pandemic also offered an opportunity for small island societies to reflect on pre-existing challenges associated with the tourism industry. Through qualitative semi-structured interviews with Indigenous Cook Islanders in Rarotonga, this study aimed to develop a deeper understanding of how the lived experiences of participants responding to the sudden collapse of tourism may have influenced how Indigenous Cook Islands peoples perceive the role of tourism in supporting the wellbeing of their small island nation. The presented study is the result of a collaborative research partnership between an Indigenous Pacific scholar and non-Indigenous European scholar. While the research adopted a western methodology, the relationships developed between the researchers and participants were guided by the cultural values of reciprocity and respect, which are key principles underpinning Indigenous research in the Pacific. The findings revealed that participants adapted to the adverse impacts of COVID-19 through the revitalization of their traditional socio-economies, the resurgence of customary practices, a strengthened connection to nature, and a renewed sense of community spirit and pride in cultural identity—all of which were perceived to positively impact their spiritual, social, cultural, environmental, physical, and mental wellbeing. By demonstrating the positive adaptive responses of participants, this article aims to emphasize the non-economic dimensions of wellbeing that are critical to supporting the cultural values, social priorities, and the Indigenous ways of life that preceded the development of tourism. These findings can be used to inform and guide international development policy makers and tourism stakeholders who seek to reduce the adverse impacts of tourism on the wellbeing of Indigenous communities in the Pacific.

Sacred Water: Neo-Spiritual Consumerism in Catherine Chanter’s The Well

ABSTRACT Catherine Chanter’s The Well depicts a water-scarce Britain where the fertile farm of the Ardingly couple becomes a site of exploitation by a spiritual community called the Sisters of the Rose. By setting her novel on a farm named The Well, Chanter constructs a spatial map that not only exposes the cult’s manipulative power but also serves as a symbolic microcosm of their capitalist exploitation, highlighting the rise of a phenomenon I term “neo-spiritual consumerism.” Drawing on Fredric Jameson’s concept of “late capitalism” (1991) and his theory of “cognitive mapping” (1992), this study examines how Chanter uses The Well as a spatial narrative instrument to re-mythologize religious narratives as a form of cultural consumption. Through a literary analysis of Chanter’s novel, the study examines her ironic use of religious symbols to delve into the social, psychological, and political implications of associating environmental crises with divine retribution, deflecting attention from the socio-economic systems perpetuating environmental degradation. Chanter’s subversive use of religious symbolism highlights how capitalist frameworks exacerbate ecological vulnerabilities. This research prompts critical assessment of modern spiritual movements and emphasizes capitalism’s pervasive influence in sacred domains, compelling readers to consider alternative worldviews and ethical frameworks for navigating a changing world.

Solidarity, marginalised groups, and COVID-19 lockdowns: censoriousness and penal exceptionalism in Norwegian and Danish prisons during the pandemic

Some of the most marginalised and exposed populations during the COVID-19 pandemic have been those incarcerated in penal institutions. In the present article we compare how Norway and Denmark handled the pandemic in their prison systems and analyse these efforts through the lens of how the authorities tried to invoke specific national cultures of social solidarity during the crisis. In both countries we find that increased isolation, inactivity, lack of information, and loss of trust and contact with the outside world aggravated the prison experience. However, in Norway a bigger effort was made, compared to Denmark, to lower the prison population, as well as to create possibilities for maintaining contact with friends and families through video-visits. We then analyse the pandemic prison policies in the context of how both governments through very specific national terminologies appealed to an alleged community spirit. We examine the role and situation of prisoners in connection with these national and cultural projects of social solidarity, and find that in several cases prisoners reacted to the restrictive pandemic regimes by displaying a censorious attitude towards prison staff and authorities much in the manner originally described by Thomas Mathiesen (1965). Prisoners, in other words, held the authorities accountable to their call for community spirit and the values of social solidarity they claimed to represent. This also raises a question concerning the degree to which Danish and Norwegian policies and practices live up to the notion of Nordic penal exceptionalism, or whether the crisis unveiled different penal values.

Eco-friendly urban design: An analysis of sustainable building practices and their community impact

Eco-friendly urban design is essential in tackling the challenges arising from rapid urban growth and the increasing pressure on natural resources. This paper offers a thorough examination of sustainable building practices and their effects on communities within the framework of urban design. The initial section discusses various sustainable building methods that contribute to eco-friendly urban design, including renewable energy utilization, green materials, and energy-efficient technologies. Implementing these practices not only minimizes the environmental impact of urban developments but also strengthens the resilience of the constructed environment. The second part of the paper investigates the impact of sustainable urban design on communities. It highlights how these practices can enhance community spirit, elevate residents' quality of life, and support social equity. Sustainable urban design extends beyond environmental concerns to adopt a comprehensive approach that prioritizes inhabitants' well-being. The paper also includes case studies and examples of effective sustainable urban design projects worldwide, demonstrating the benefits of eco-friendly practices such as improved air and water quality, reduced energy use, and the development of vibrant, walkable neighborhoods. In summary, this paper underscores the significance of sustainable urban design in addressing the environmental and social issues linked to urbanization. By embracing eco-friendly building practices, communities can lessen their environmental footprint and foster healthier, more resilient, and inclusive urban spaces. This review is a valuable resource for urban planners, architects, and policymakers dedicated to advancing sustainable development and improving urban community well-being.

Naming Buildings in Universities Based on the Names of National Figures to Ignite the Fighting Spirit of the Academic Community

Naming Buildings in Universities Based on the Names of National Figures to Ignite the Fighting Spirit of the Academic Community

Unity in Diversity of Religions in Bumi Flobamora, Indonesia: From Traditional to Modern Pluralism

The religiously diverse society of NTT (Bumi Flobamora) has received national title as the most tolerant province in Indonesia. However, reality shows that there are religious conflicts, such as the rejection of the establishment of Islamic places of worship and the emergence of various forms of violence with religious nuances. This study attempts to provide a new contemporary social philosophy explanation for the development of religious social conditions. With the help of philosophical methods, the results show that the ideology of pluralism has long lived in Bumi Flobamora. However, this model of "traditional pluralism,” which is based on local wisdom and supported by the government's policy of harmony, is currently no longer in line with demands for universal human rights, because "traditional pluralism" shows the unequal treatment of people of different religions. Therefore, contemporary social philosophy develops a "modern pluralism,” which is built on the principle of equality. To strengthen this new model of pluralism, efforts are needed to overcome the weaknesses of communitarianism. The main weakness of communitarianism is that it opens up a space for religious appreciation that only emphasizes the togetherness and unity of a spiritual community and views those outside the community as other people who may or should even be excluded. The study concludes that the unity of religions in Bumi Flobamora will only survive if traditional pluralism is replaced with modern pluralism, which is in line with the Political Ethics of the Indonesian nation, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika, and the basic philosophy of Pancasila.

Vertically integrated project: uniting teaching, research, and community in favor of sustainability

Purpose Higher education institutions (HEIs) are crucial in sustainable development. To this end, they must infuse sustainability into all their endeavors. This study aims to delve into the unique vertically integrated project (VIP), a project-based learning approach and its impact on students’ skills and the surrounding community. Design/methodology/approach The research design was collaborative, reflecting the spirit of the VIP. Step 1 involved an action research approach, where students and instructors worked closely with municipal representatives to identify challenges and devise solutions for local economic development. In Step 2, students' voices were heard through a survey. Step 3 encompassed presentations in scientific and nonscientific events, capturing the community’s perception as a valuable feedback loop. Findings The authors identified the most effective policies implemented by municipalities that excelled in indices related to the business environment. VIP enhanced students’ soft skills, including critical thinking, teamwork and community spirit. The outcomes of the VIP were effective in identifying public policies aimed at social transformation. Practical implications This study’s findings offer significant insights for HEI managers, guiding them in adopting interdisciplinary pedagogical practices. These practices, in turn, foster sustainable development within both internal and external communities. Furthermore, the empirical study’s focus on improving local community governance can potentially enhance the local business environment. Originality/value Literature emphasizing the social dimension of sustainability in HEIs is scarce, particularly those practices related to teaching, research and extension linked to projects aimed at community sustainability. This study introduces interdisciplinary practices encouraging student involvement in addressing tangible issues and searching for solutions to community problems.

Exploring Culture through Vietnamese Legends

This article addresses the role of legends in preserving the cultural and historical values of the Vietnamese people. By methods of classification, theoretical systematization, and comparison, the study demonstrates that Vietnamese legends are not only mystical stories but also deeply reflect the history, customs, beliefs, and community spirit. Vietnamese culture is depicted through legends, such as the culture of gratitude to ancestors, beliefs, festivals, customs, marriage concepts, and family culture. The maintenance and transmission of legends to younger generations are essential for protecting cultural heritage and supporting the sustainable development of national culture.

ANALISIS KETERKAITAN LATAR BELAKANG KEHIDUPAN SPIRITUAL DALAM NOVEL TEMUKAN AKU DALAM ISTIKHARAHMU KARYA ADI RUSTANDI MENGGUNAKAN PENDEKATAN EKSPRESIF

A novel is a depiction of daily life that is found in a specific sastra. The novel originated in Italian, was known as a novella in Jerman, and was then translated into English before traveling to Indonesia. Novels are also described as prose-based short stories. “Temukan Aku dalam Istikharahmu” a novel by Adi Rustandi, is the only sacred work published in 2014 by Jakarta, Zettu Cetakan. This book draws inspiration from Tokoh Rengganis, which is explained throughout the novel. The authors not only expresses his feelings, but also offers ideas and solutions to the current problem. The authors in the story of his life expresses his private spiritual guidance through a tokoh of a devout old man who depicts his spiritual life and connects him to his spiritual community with his god. This study is being conducted to understand the life at the bottom of the pyramid.

Ritual Dynamics and Spiritual Practices in the Teaching of Tarekat Qadiriyah wa Naqsyabandiyah

This study explores the intricate dynamics of rituals and spiritual practices within the Tarekat Qadiriyah wa Naqsyabandiyah, a prominent Sufi order in Indonesia. Through a comprehensive literature analysis, in-depth interviews, and participant observation, the research delves into the historical evolution, theological foundations, and the multifaceted role of rituals and spiritual exercises in shaping the followers' spiritual journey. The findings reveal that the integration of Qadiriyah and Naqsyabandiyah traditions fosters a unique spiritual path that balances exoteric religious observance with esoteric contemplation. Key themes include the transformative impact of rituals, the pivotal role of the sheikh, the significance of communal practices, and the holistic pedagogical approaches employed within the Tarekat. The study concludes that these rituals and practices are central to individual and collective spirituality, providing a cohesive and supportive spiritual community. This research contributes to the broader understanding of Indonesian Sufism and the enduring relevance of Sufi practices in contemporary Islamic spirituality.

Instilling Family Values among Students through the Tradition of Ro'an (Community Service) in Islamic Boarding Schools

This study aims to describe the implementation of the Ro'an (mutual cooperation) tradition at the Sunan Kalijaga Islamic Boarding School in Patianrowo, Nganjuk, to explain efforts to instill family values among students through this tradition, and to analyze the outcomes of these efforts. A qualitative approach was employed, based on interpretive philosophy, to gather in-depth insights. The research findings reveal that the Ro'an tradition is effectively conducted, fostering strong social bonds among students as they work together with sincerity and cooperation. This tradition significantly contributes to nurturing a sense of family among the students, strengthening their social relationships and communal spirit.

Barriers to Public Participation in Urban Green Infrastructure in China from Stakeholders’ and Residents’ Perspective, A Case Study in Yangzhou

Public participation has always played an important role in urban design and planning. Urban green infrastructure is a part of urban planning and design. This research uses a policy review and semi-structured interviews with residents and stakeholders. The findings suggest that the lack of public participation in urban green infrastructure projects is the result of a combination of both government and the general public. Residents have low interest in participating in urban green infrastructure due to social cultural, public competence and lack of community spirit. Stakeholders have tried to avoid public participation in projects due to limited participation methods and limited project timeline. Citizen participation can be increased through improved technical support, media advocacy and legislation and regulations.

THE INFLUENCE OF JAZZ AND BLUES ON AFRICAN AMERICAN LITERATURE

This research paper explores the profound influence of jazz and blues on African American literature, highlighting their role in shaping themes, narrative techniques, and cultural expressions. Jazz and blues, with origins rooted in African traditions and their evolution in the United States, serve as cultural symbols representing the resilience, creativity, and spirit of the African American community. The Harlem Renaissance marked a significant intersection of music and literature, with key figures such as Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and Ralph Ellison incorporating musical elements into their works to explore themes of identity, struggle, resilience, and community.Langston Hughes' poetry, notably "The Weary Blues," captures the rhythmic and emotional depth of blues, while Zora Neale Hurston’s novels, including "Their Eyes Were Watching God," integrate musical elements and African American folklore. Ralph Ellison’s "Invisible Man" employs jazz influences to explore themes of identity and cultural expression. These works demonstrate how jazz and blues have shaped the narrative structures and thematic depth of African American literature.Contemporary African American writers continue this tradition, drawing on jazz and blues to enhance their storytelling. Toni Morrison’s "Jazz" and Jesmyn Ward’s "Sing, Unburied, Sing" exemplify the ongoing influence of these musical genres, using them to deals complex themes and preserve cultural narratives.The paper concludes that the interconnectedness of music and literature in African American culture is a testament to the community's rich artistic heritage. Jazz and blues are integral to the African American narrative, providing a soundtrack to the community’s experiences and enhancing the emotional and cultural depth of their literature. This relationship celebrates the past and inspires future generations, ensuring the enduring legacy of jazz and blues in African American literary tradition.

From gadgets towards community

South Africa is a divided racially, religiously, economically, politically and digitally country. Gadgets become personal and humans gravitate towards them instead of towards each other where botho can be experienced. Technology has negative and positive impacts on the community. This article provides some practical steps from theological perspective for citizens to cross the digital divides. It is here recommended that botho be interpreted through communion ecclesiology lenses. To do this communion ecclesiology and botho will be elaborated, compared, and contrasted. Through the literature review and social media, these two tools are presented as a solution towards divided communities of faith. The findings are that the digital divides can be overcome through theological reflections, self-offering, and robust engagement with communities. The contribution made by this article is that communality cannot be bought. Becoming a spiritual community comes through self-denial and crossing the digital divides – being incarnationally present on the cutting edges of communities.

Migrant and refugee communities strengthening disaster resilience

This paper presents insights from a community-led initiative in South Australia aimed at enhancing disaster resilience in culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) migrant and refugee communities. Anchored in the principles of community cohesion, empowerment and informed action, the project addresses socio-cultural dynamics and communication barriers. A series of workshops and forums, tailored to account for cultural sensitivity, showed strengthened community collaboration, skills development and increased awareness of the psychosocial effects of disasters, prompting proactive strategies that consider the unique vulnerabilities and strengths of CALD communities. Participant testimonials noted increased community spirit and practical application of acquired knowledge, including understanding local hazard risk profiles and trust-building with emergency services organisations. The findings demonstrate the importance of mitigating access challenges, integrating diverse community perspectives into resilience- building activities and ensuring the inclusivity of management policies. Highlighting the significance of strengths-based community-driven approaches in emergency and disaster management, particularly for marginalised groups, this initiative found that engaging communities as active contributors enables more resilient and self-efficacious populations that effectively bridge cultural and linguistic gaps in preparedness.