Core Identity Research Articles

Stasis Interruptus

Tanaka Atsuko’s Work (Bell) from 1955 is an important and layered work that pre-figures the genre of sound art. Part of its complexity lies in the fact that there is no “original” version, and that the artist executed several iterations over several decades, remaining true to the work’s core identity but varying its specific materiality and thereby emphasizing its situational nature. At the experiential level, the complexity of the work includes issues of agency, rupture, sonic architectonics, and transhistorical interpretation. The author responds to artist Shiraga Fujiko’s concise and insightful firsthand account of her 1955 encounter with the work as a foundation to address these and other meanings and implications of Work (Bell).

We Are Conscious of Caste, but Do We Live Our Lives through It? A Case Study of Gendered Caste Marginality

Despite the strict rejection of casteism by the Sikh faith, caste-based hierarchies are still a prevalent factor amongst Sikh diasporas within the UK. On the basis of ethnographic fieldwork amongst women whose caste is considered to occupy a lower status, this paper examines their experiences and explores how, over time, this has contributed to the construction of their identity. This article situates the women within a nexus of complex social and cultural factors, illuminating the representations of caste, gender and intergenerational change within Nottingham. An intersectional standpoint provided an analytical value in accentuating the sites where gender, caste and the mediation of honour intersected. The research shows a heterogeneity in the self-positioning of women vis-à-vis caste identity and shows a marked difference in attitudes between generations, denoting a depreciation in the significance of caste. Ultimately, while the respondents were conscious of their caste and of the historical prejudice against their caste, it is significant that they did not live their lives through it, as they internalised Sikhi as their core identity.

The Importance of the Human Touch in Journalism: Journalistic Values from an Audience Perspective

ABSTRACT Traditionally anchored in principles like objectivity, autonomy, and independence, journalists’ professional values have long defined the core identity of the profession. However, given the transformative influence of digitalization on journalists’ interactions with their audiences and the acknowledged importance of these audience relationships in ensuring media sustainability, it is worth asking what are the professional values that both groups identify as good journalism and to what extent/how do these values align. Based on in-depth interviews with 30 journalists and 64 audience members, this study finds a nuanced interplay between traditional professional values and evolving audience expectations. Journalists emphasize enduring values like objectivity and independence, while audiences prioritize human elements, valuing qualities such as approachability, empathy, and affective communication skills. Identifying two dimensions of values—technical proficiency, representing traditional values, and an affective dimension, emphasizing the human and relational aspects of the profession—the study suggests a shifting landscape for journalism. Moreover, the findings underscore the perceptual gap between journalists and audiences, emphasizing the need for an informed dialogue based on empirical insights into audience preferences. As journalistic norms evolve, the study advocates for a dynamic discourse that can reflect changing times and ensures journalism remains relevant for the future.

Whānau (immediate and extended family) lived experiences of whakawhānau (birthing process) during COVID-19 in Aotearoa (New Zealand): an exploratory analysis

This study aims to explore the impacts of COVID-19 on birthing for wāhine (women) and whānau (immediate and extended family) in Aotearoa (New Zealand) during the lockdowns of 2020 and 2021. This rangahau (research) provided whānau with an opportunity to share their whakawhānau (birthing process) experiences via interviews. The data were analysed through interpretative phenomenological analysis. Themes identified in the results included the importance of whānau tautoko (family support), the experiences of isolation and trauma, and the effect of birthing under COVID-19 restrictions. Indigeneity was a core identity that was crucial to maintain, during these sacred times. Whakawhānau is a pivotal transition with the potential to engage with medical services. The findings of this study contribute to the knowledge of whānau Māori (Māori [Indigenous peoples of New Zealand] families) experiences to enhance service provision.

Civilisational Conflict

China’s self-identification as a ‘civilisational-state’ poses a strategic challenge. The characterisation contests the liberal-international order’s values and norms, potentially fragmenting global standards. A strategic reassessment will require considering not only the political and economic dimensions of international relations, but also the cultural and ideological aspects that define the identities of nations and their people. The key task is to discern what is non-negotiable for both China and the West, and to avoid obliging either to compromise on what it considers its core identity.

Icônica representação feminina e mítica de Medeia no Mundo Antigo

We are interested in rescuing the actions and textual and imagery representations of the mythical figure of Medea that make it clear that narrative can define in three cycles, namely: the Cycles of Yolkos, the Cycle of the Argonauts, and the Roman Cycle. The cycles demarcate the different temporalities, and changes in the highlighted theme, but maintain an identity structure that we call the identity core. The character maintains as her identity core the fact that she is a mature woman, married to Jason, has children and has expertise in the manipulation of herbs and magic drugs. The nucleus does not change and goes beyond time, as the recurrent narratives in Medea's texts and images reveal. Key-words: Medeia image representation narrative re-signification

The Service Experience Innovation Model of Cultural Tourism in Historic Districts: A Case Study on Zhongshan Road in Quanzhou, Fujian Province of China

This study aimed to elucidate how consumers engage in cultural activities in Quanzhou and analyze innovative service experiences in this ancient city. We also sought to create a model integrating humanistic innovations into the enhancement of service experiences. We used an exploratory case study approach, combining secondary data analysis with on-site observations. The findings include the following: (1) The tourist experience in cultural tourism involves six stages: “Connect and Attract”, “Orientate”, “Interact”, “Extend and Retain”, “Advocate”, and “Recollect”. (2) We developed the TESP model for innovative cultural tourism services in Quanzhou, with four dimensions: Technological, Experiential, Systemic, and Platform. The Platform dimension introduces the Hub and Service Process sub-dimensions. Additionally, the study suggests that creating a sense of place in historic districts relies on traditional culture, emphasizing the core competitiveness, identity, and culture of a locality. (3) Integrating “humanistic innovation” into cultural tourism is essential, utilizing digital platforms and interpersonal networks to promote core values and thus foster local economic prosperity. The research outcomes hold practical significance for cultural heritage tourism in Quanzhou, as well as for the study and implementation of service and experience innovations among experience providers, practitioners, managers, and marketing professionals in the field.

The Exploration of Lingyang Ceremony in Contemporary Gansu, China

This article delves into the "Lingyang" ceremony, a revered ancestral veneration ritual within Gansu's funeral culture in Northwest China. "Ling" meaning "receive" and "Yang" referring to "sheep," encapsulates the ritual's essence of using animals to bridge the spiritual and material worlds. The paper detailed the Lingyang ceremony's complicated practices, particularly in Jingyuan and Jingtai counties, highlighting its profound anthropological significance. The paper draws comparisons between the Lingyang ceremony in Gansu and the animal sacrifice rituals of Haitian Voodoo, highlighting the similarities in their use of animals as conduits between the material and spiritual worlds. Furthermore, the study explores the "Lingyang" ceremony's historical evolution against the backdrop of societal changes and examines its relevance in the modern context of globalization and modernization. This exploration not only deepens the understanding of Gansu's funeral rites but also engages in the broader conversation on the resilience of traditional customs in contemporary society. Through a detailed comparative analysis, the article offers insights into how such rituals adapt while retaining their core identity, reflecting the dynamic interplay between tradition and change.

Values and national identity of adolescents in China: the chain mediating effect of core self-evaluations and identity motivation

ABSTRACT National identity is at the core of the individual identity system. In the context of globalization, influenced by the intertwining of multiple cultures and values, the alignment of self and national values not only affects Chinese adolescents’ self-concept but also concerns the realization of national identity. To investigate the influencing factors and mechanisms that affect adolescents’ national identity in China, this study measured 1004 adolescents using the National Identity Scale, Schwartz Value Survey, Core Self-Evaluation Scale, and Identity Motivation Scale, and found that (1) adolescents’ overall level of national identity was high; (2) adolescents’ values, core self-evaluation, and identity motivation were positively related to national identity; (3) values significantly and positively predict national identity; and (4) core self-evaluation and identity motivation played a chain mediating role between values and national identity. The study suggests that adolescents’ positive self-evaluation and identity motivation contribute to the enhancement of national identity. The future cultivation of national identity could focus on the development of values, personality, and identity motivation at the adolescent stage.

Sexuality Awareness and its Impact on Personal Development: Thematic Analysis of Perspectives of Indian Young Adults

Exploring one’s sexual identity is a vital part of self-development and identity formation. Young adults, socially, legally, and developmentally, are actively in the phase of strengthening their core identity, with sexual identity being a major component. Ideas related to sexuality and sexual orientation are often either repressed or normatively imposed. This study aimed to explore awareness and understanding of sexuality among young adults and to understand the impact of these perspectives on personal development. For this purpose, 30 young adults between 18 and 25 years were interviewed, and their responses were analysed using thematic analysis. Analysis succinctly brought up six major themes supported by key quotes from the responses. This thematic analysis provides valuable insights into the complex landscape of sex education and sexual identity among young adults, emphasizing the need for comprehensive and inclusive educational strategies, supportive environments, and open discussions to foster a better understanding and acceptance of diverse sexual identities. It underscores the influence of societal norms and the critical role of social media and peer support in shaping young adults' understanding and acceptance of sexual diversity. Future research should continue to explore these themes to inform policies and educational practices that promote sexual health and well-being, with a particular focus on addressing gender norms and providing mental health support.

Review on the Significant Interactions between Ultrafine Gas Bubbles and Biological Systems.

Having sizes comparable with living cells and high abundance, ultrafine bubbles (UBs) are prone to inevitable interactions with different types of cells and facilitate alterations in physiological properties. The interactions of four typical cell types (e.g., bacterial, fungal, plant, and mammalian cells) with UBs have been studied over recent years. For bacterial cells, UBs have been utilized in creating the capillary force to tear down biofilms. The release of high amounts of heat, pressure, and free radicals during bubble rupture is also found to affect bacterial cell growth. Similarly, the bubble gas core identity plays an important role in the development of fungal cells. By the proposed mechanism of attachment of UBs on hydrophobin proteins in the fungal cell wall, oxygen and ozone gas-filled ultrafine bubbles can either promote or hinder the cell growth rate. On the other hand, reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation and mass transfer facilitation are two means of indirect interactions between UBs and plant cells. Likewise, the use of different gas cores in generating bubbles can produce different physical effects on these cells, for example, hydrogen gas for antioxidation against infections and oxygen for oxidation of toxic metal ions. For mammalian cells, the importance of investigating their interactions with UBs lies in the bubbles' action on cell viability as membrane poration for drug delivery can greatly affect cells' survival. UBs have been utilized and tested in forming the pores by different methods, ranging from bubble oscillation and microstream generation through acoustic cavitation to bubble implosion.

Continuity of Identity: The Sameness of Self from Childhood to Adulthood

This article delves into the complexities of personal identity by exploring philosophical and psychological theories. It introduces John Lockes idea that personal identity is constructed through consciousness and memory, where each experience contributes to a coherent self when pieced together. However, the Ship of Theseus paradox raises questions about maintaining core identity amidst systematic transformations. The psychological perspective emphasizes the role of memory and learning in shaping an individuals self-perception. The narrative also underscores the significance of neurological functions, acting as conductors orchestrating cognition, behavior, and emotions to form a unique personal identity. The article further discusses enduring aspects of selfhood, considering biological, psychological, and social dimensions, including genetic makeup, personality traits, memories, and social interactions. It highlights the interplay of continuity and change, illustrating how personal identity maintains a consistent essence while evolving. The synthesis suggests that personal identity is like a symphony, blending continuity and change into a harmonious composition. Empirical evidence and case studies support the enduring nature of personal identity, asserting that fundamental aspects of the self persist from childhood into adulthood. The article concludes by acknowledging that the exploration of personal identity and continuity remains an ongoing journey, continually inviting scholarly inquiry.

Maintaining Petroleum Engineering Education To Support the Energy Mix of the Future

Once petroleum engineering was formally established as a degree program, the scope and content of curricula has been evolving to match technological advancements and soft skills requirements to meet the needs of the oil and gas industry. The cyclical nature of the industry has always presented a challenge to the enrollment and the viability of the degree. However, while having to tackle challenges relating to record-low enrollment over the past few years that is the direct result of the recent industry downturn, academic programs are also experiencing mounting pressure that is transforming the core identity of these programs. Much of that pressure can be directly linked to the heightened awareness around the impact of emissions on climate and the environment. While technological advancements in clean energy is contributing to an accelerated transition in the energy sector that is reducing the share of the energy market need fulfilled by fossil fuels, all of the projections point to oil and gas continuing to be a critical part of the energy market until at least 2050. When considering development and utilization of capture technology, the share of oil and gas in the energy market could continue to remain significant well beyond 2050. Meeting this demand requires maintaining high-quality petroleum engineering educational programs, hosted in thriving academic departments, educating a steady supply of a trained workforce with both undergraduate and advanced degrees. In addition, it requires diversifying the curriculum to continue to meet the ever-changing skillset needs of the energy industry and the requirements set by the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET). At the same time, the curriculum should continue to support the needs for a general education that targets a well-rounded graduate that is ready to be a critical thinker and an active participant in society, while also attempting to appeal to the new generations of college students and instilling in them the principles needed to secure the safe, sustainable, just, and responsible energy industry of the future. Petroleum engineering faculty are at the forefront of these challenges, trying to balance multiple competing demands while keeping up research and educational programs that continue to be relevant. In this article, we bring to light the perspective of the experts, across the globe, that over the past 5 decades educated and prepared the workforce that supported the oil and gas industry. These perspectives were collected using a survey probing what faculty members are experiencing regarding the impact of the energy transition on recruiting students and on strategic directions in academic programs, the impact on their ability to fund their research and train graduate students, and what the faculty need to maintain a curriculum that is relevant to the future careers of their students.

Utilising technology as a transmission strategy in intangible cultural heritage: the case of Cantonese opera performances

ABSTRACT Globalised technological advancements have radically transformed how intangible cultural heritage (ICH) is inherited in contemporary society. Despite being recognised as a Human ICH by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation, Cantonese opera is facing existential crises attributed to an ageing demographic and shrinking audience base. To survive in a rapidly changing sociocultural landscape, Cantonese opera performances in Hong Kong have embraced modern technologies, including artificial intelligence, holographic projection, and virtual reality. By exploring the perspectives of 86 Cantonese opera practitioners, this study critically examines the perceptions, experiences, and challenges associated with technology adoption as a safeguarding strategy for ICH transmission. This study revealed the complex interplay between technology use and cultural transmission, adding to heritage literature by shedding new light on audience reach, content enhancement, value creation, and funding strategies in the context of technology adoption, and the corresponding negotiation of tradition and modernity within ICH communities. The findings emphasise the importance of preserving traditional core values, identity, and artistry inherent in the performing arts of ICH, even as technology adoption becomes radically widespread, shedding light on a cautious integration of technology in ICH in this technology-focussed era.

Managing Carbon Footprint at Music Festivals: A Study at Glastonbury Festival

The Glastonbury Festival, renowned as one of the greatest music festivals globally, has come under environmental scrutiny due to its substantial expansion. While the festival undeniably benefits the economy, it also has adverse effects by contributing to the carbon footprint. This phenomenon is a result of congregating a large number of individuals in a single location concurrently for an extended period of time. The carbon footprint generated is substantial, and when combined with the garbage generated, it can result in significant environmental harm. Recognizing this concern, the organizer has implemented a comprehensive strategy to reduce and control its carbon emissions. Hence, this study evaluated the efficacy of various approaches by employing the framework of energy consumption, trash generation, and transportation emissions (Fredline et al., 2005). The outcome demonstrates that Glastonbury Festival's endeavor to achieve environmental sustainability underscores its dedication to diminishing its carbon emissions while safeguarding its core identity. Glastonbury has implemented novel energy solutions, such as solar and wind power, biodiesel, and recycled vegetable oil waste, to reduce emissions and include sustainable energy sources. Furthermore, waste management has effectively diminished the usage of disposable plastic bottles, decreased trash through recycling efforts, and promoted the practice of participants taking their possessions with them. Lastly, the transportation emissions, which account for the largest proportion of the total emissions, still require a solution, since they remain the primary concern of the event. The Glastonbury Festival's sustainability could be improved by the implementation of additional measures, educational initiatives, and partnerships with environmental organizations.

Identity position and pedagogical agency negotiation in teaching EAP writing: A case study

In language education, little classroom-based research has been conducted regarding novice teachers of English for academic purposes (EAP), and even less on teaching EAP at graduate level and on graduate teaching assistants (GTAs), a significant but overlooked teacher population at universities. Thus, this ethnographic case study focuses on the exploration of a GTA’s self-positioning in a graduate-level EAP composition class, with which he was unfamiliar as he taught it for the first time. Classroom field notes, audio-recordings, and interviews, in addition to supportive data, were collected and analysed through the lens of positioning and agency. The analysis of the data revealed that the teacher took up three core identity positions: a considerate teacher of English as a second language (ESL), an experienced and knowledgeable researcher, and a limited writing teacher. The findings further indicated that the possession of or the lack of knowledge on research, EAP writing, students, and genre pedagogy influenced the teacher’s agency in constructing identity positions and making pedagogical decisions. The study contributes to the limited investigation of EAP research and further explores the relationship among teacher knowledge, identity positions, and pedagogical agency. The study bears implications for the teaching of EAP writing and professional training.

Infertility and Identity: A Closer Look Into Experiences of Emerging Young Adult Childhood Cancer Survivors.

Objective: While medical advances are enabling more children with cancer to live into adulthood, a large majority of them suffer from the late effects of treatment and about 30% experience infertility. Infertility impacts both male and female survivors complicating typical development for emerging young adults (EYAs) who typically spend this developmental period actively constructing their identities related to family and gender roles, attaining professional skills, and establishing social views. As literature is limited on identity formation and coping with infertility in young survivors, this study aimed to understand the experiences of childhood cancer survivors who are faced with infertility as a late treatment effect while reconstructing their identity. Method: A qualitative descriptive approach was used to explore the experiences and effects of childhood cancer complications on the identity development of six emerging adults (ages 18-29). Guided by the theoretical framework of identity development data were collected using semistructured interviews. Results: Four distinct themes emerged after the data analyses: restricted exploration and uncertain future, challenges to intimacy and communication, restructuring identity through redefining roles, and coping through familial support. Conclusions: Findings indicate that developmental processes of identity formation are complicated by the challenges stemming from infertility and require specific efforts to reconstruct core identity and redefine desired parental roles. Experimentation and self-discovery may be restricted for EYA cancer survivors as they reevaluate their views on intimate relationships, communication, potential professional roles, and family composition. Practical recommendations for multidisciplinary team members to support this growing population are discussed.

Exploring Continuity and Change: Personal Identity Formation from Childhood to Adulthood

Individuals' initial conceptualizations of the world are typically formed during their childhood years, a period whose influence is notably enduring. This fundamental understanding tends to reach maturation during adolescence, though it remains subject to continuous evolution and reshaping throughout adulthood, influenced by a myriad of personal experiences. The complex interplay of continuity and change in identity formation underscores the multifaceted and dynamic nature of personal identity. This recognition can enhance nuanced understanding of self and others, potentially enriching interpersonal relationships, self-development, and overall life satisfaction. By appreciating the intricate perspectives, maintaining a stable core identity and accommodating the potential for change, individuals can better navigate the complexities of life. This equilibrium provides a crucial framework for individuals to forge their unique life paths, while adjusting to various special expectations and personal growth stages.

Investigation of the Impact of Bilingualism on the Identity of a sample of Bilingual English learners

This paper aims to investigate how learners of English at ALbaydha University and ALYemeni Institute perceive themselves as being bilinguals and how being bilinguals can affect their core identity. Also it investigates whether they understand being bilingual, based on how well they use and speak the English language and how often it is used or influenced by the factors of English culture which make them use it instead of their local language culture, inside and outside college, to gain prestige without taking into consideration that the change will affect their core identity. This paper is qualitative in nature based on a questionnaire administered at ALbaydha University and ALYemeni Institute students as non-native English learners who study English to obtain Bachelor Degree or Diploma in English language. The most unexpected findings that emerged show that despite studying English and having some skills in using the language none of the participants perceived him/herself as being bilingual, there is no evidence of language shift, and the core identity takes first status in most situations. Additionally, English choices do not dominate most of bilingual conversations but the local language is the dominator. All participants are proud of their identity and do not accept to replace it by another. They do not believe that being bilingual will affect their core identity. It is also noted that all participants behave carefully during their use of the English language and avoid any direct contact with English culture or adopting any of its norms of life though they prove to be equally competent in both local languages
 Key words: bilingualism and bilinguals, identity, code switching, identity in language education. 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Singlehood as an identity

ABSTRACT Very little attention has been paid in the literature to singlehood as an identity. Existing research can be divided into the reasons for singlehood on one side and the implications of being single on the other side, while mostly leaving singlehood itself a “black box.” Therefore, this article first surveys the two existing scholastic streams. Second, it lays out a growing stream of research where singlehood is found to be a social category and identity in itself. Third, through using social identity theories, this article offers a model of three main categories of singlehood identity: counter-normative, peripheral, and core identity. Fourth, the article demonstrates the far-reaching implications of this identity categorisation for empirical research and topics such as social discrimination, civil rights, and social movements. Thus, the meaning of singlehood is now going through a shift resembling past conceptual revolutions regarding race, gender, and sexual orientation.