Cultural Landscape Research Articles

Beyond Discontent: Dialogues on Subjectivity and Belonging

ABSTRACT This document delves into the intricate interplay among cultural, geographical, and sociopolitical contexts in shaping identity and individual perceptions, drawing inspiration from Eyal Rozmarin’s seminal work. It discusses the ongoing exploration of these themes within the framework of the IARPP 2024 conference titled “The Quest for Belonging and the Co-creation of a Therapeutic Home.” Focusing on Mexico’s diverse cultural landscape, it examines how varied regional experiences contribute to a complex sense of belonging within the nation. Through narratives of psychoanalysts representing different Mexican regions, it highlights the nuanced ways cultural and social realities mold personal identity and notions of belonging. The discussion underscores the role of psychoanalysts in understanding and shaping relational dynamics, informed by their introspective journeys and unique perspectives. This exploration fosters deeper reflection on the fluid nature of the self and its implications within the Mexican context, offering valuable insights into identity formation and the quest for belonging amid Mexico’s dynamic cultural tapestry.

University Students’ Perception of the Dehesa and the Associated Traditional Trades

The dehesas are one of the most emblematic landscapes of the Extremadura region (Spain). Along with its natural values, it preserves a wide repertoire of knowledge and trades rooted in the history and tradition of rural communities. However, the knowledge and practices that have characterized life in this environment are currently under serious threat. Faced with this problem, this study was based on the premise that, for individuals to commit themselves to the care and transmission of heritage, it is first necessary for them to know, understand and value it. For this reason, the main objective was to determine the knowledge and appreciation of university students with respect to the dehesa and the ancestral practice of grazing. It also aimed to analyze which are the most valued methodologies, activities, and future strategies for understanding and preserving these cultural landscapes and their ancestral practices. To this end, 400 university students were surveyed, and various quantitative and qualitative analyses were carried out. Quantitative techniques include analyses based on weighted averages, contingency tables and the chi-square test, while qualitative techniques are based on word frequency analysis and inductive content analysis. Despite coming from an environment dominated by this landscape and being one of the few regions that still preserve the ancestral practice of pastoralism, the results corroborated the students’ lack of understanding of the dehesa and the variety of uses it offers. In addition, it was evident that they have hardly frequented this landscape and have not participated in on-site educational experiences. It also revealed the importance of experiential and sensory activities in the understanding and appreciation of the rural environment and its traditions. The results can be useful for improving the design of educational tourism products based on intangible heritage. It can also be useful for adapting teaching strategies and activities to the level of knowledge and experiences of students, helping to ensure the success of the educational experience.

The World Heritage Convention, Protected Areas and Rivers: Challenges for Representation and Implications for International Water Cooperation

Given the dire state of health of rivers worldwide and their significant heritage values, there is a need to consider their current representation in protected areas inscribed under the World Heritage Convention and identify challenges and opportunities for increasing their coverage. This study identifies a total of 153 natural, mixed natural/cultural and cultural landscape World Heritage sites that recognise rivers as a source of Outstanding Universal Value. There are challenges associated with the recognition of river sites as World Heritage, but further nominations could be encouraged through amendments to the World Heritage Convention Operational Guidelines to allow greater discretion to be exercised in relation to integrity requirements at inscription and to explicitly acknowledge freshwater use as a basis for recognising mixed natural/cultural and cultural landscape sites. There is also an opportunity to encourage further nomination of river sites by recognising the important implications of World Heritage inscription for international water cooperation. Together, these recommendations provide a path forward for enhancing the place of rivers in World Heritage protected areas.

Architecture and the Nazi Cultural Landscape: Blood, Soil, Building

<i>Architecture and the Nazi Cultural Landscape: Blood, Soil, Building</i>

Cultural Landscapes: Exploring the Imprint of the Roman Empire on Modern Identities

This study explores how cultural landscapes serve as dynamic interfaces between human societies and their environments, reflecting intricate interactions shaped by historical and societal changes. Cultural landscapes, embodying both tangible heritage (e.g., architecture, gardens, and urban spaces) and intangible heritage (e.g., traditions and practices), act as living archives that document the evolution of cultural identities and environmental care. Through the lens of historical analysis and case studies, including that of the legacy of the Roman Empire, this research examines the transformative impacts of political, economic, social, and cultural shifts on these landscapes. Methods include a comparative analysis of historical data and contemporary landscape assessments, used to understand how these spaces adapt to and reflect societal changes. The findings highlight the importance of preserving cultural landscapes for their educational and aesthetic value, ecological sustainability, and their role in maintaining historical continuity. The study underscores the need for integrating historical insights into contemporary landscape preservation and urban design to keep these spaces relevant for future generations. This research contributes to our understanding of the deep-seated connection between past civilizations and modern cultural identities through the stewardship of cultural landscapes.

근대 계획도시로서의 군산에 대한 고찰 -교통과 역사문화경관을 중심으로-

This study analyzed the modern historic and cultural landscapes of Gunsan as a modern planned city through changes in the transport policy direction towards a colonial transport system model. The goal was to reveal the influence of changes in modern international situations and the invasion of world powers on the spatial structure of Gunsan as a colonial city from the perspectives of transport and landscape. The results confirmed that Gunsan was a better fit for the Rimmer model among the colonial transport system models. With such changes in transportation, Gunsan has been able to preserve and improve its modern historic and cultural landscapes which now play a significant role in promoting the local economy by attracting visitors. In terms of such modern historic and cultural landscapes, this study analyzed former Gunsan Customs House, former Bank of Joseon Gunsan, old Janggi 18 Bank Gunsan, former Daeungjeon Hall of Geumgwangsa Temple, Hirotsu House, Gyeongamdong Railroad Town and Gunsan Modern History Museum. However, there was some criticism that Japanese colonial buildings were advertised as unique tourist attractions, glorifying Japanese imperialism. In this sense, this study proposes the following. First, visitors should be provided with a better understanding of the modern landscapes of Gunsan instead of simply seeding them as unique tourist attractions. Second, local identity needs to be established through the contextualization of memory layers. Third, academic research must continue to build an accurate guide for such modern landscapes. Fourth, modern programs for local authorities must be to Gunsan. Finally, a plan needs to be developed to preserve such landscapes by encouraging locals to participate.

The rise of Q-pop in Kazakhstan and its impact on national identity

This study delves into the influence of the Korean Wave on the emergence of Q-pop in Kazakhstan, examining its impact on the country's cultural landscape and national identity. Stemming from the worldwide appeal of Korean culture, Q-pop merges local Kazakh motifs with global trends, leaving a significant mark on Kazakhstan's music industry and culture. This study highlights how Q-pop influences Kazakhstani youth's sense of national pride, spreading across Central Asia and countering Russian musical dominance. The research aims to investigate the role of Q-pop in reinforcing Kazakh cultural ties among various demographic groups, thereby enriching our comprehension of national identity in the country. This study utilized a quantitative research methodology, employing an online survey and snowball sampling technique to gather statistically significant results and insights into the rise of Q-pop and its intricate relation with national identity in Kazakhstan. Through exploring Q-pop's interaction with different cultural contexts, this study aims to shed light on the dynamics of cultural adaptation, fusion, and national identity construction in Kazakhstan, paying special attention to the intricate effects of gender and geographical factors. It highlights the critical balance between preserving Kazakh traditions and aligning with the younger generation's preferences.

PUBLIC SCULPTURE IN WARTIME UKRAINE AS A FORM OF THE STATE’S MEMORY POLITICS

The authors argue that during wartime in Ukraine, public sculpture serves as a reflection of the memory politics of the contemporary Ukrainian state. As such, these politics are aimed at breaking away from the Soviet legacy that continues to exist simultaneously in the form of hidden or sometimes obvious remnants of older colonial narratives of Ukrainian history and in the form of aesthetic artifacts akin to those that can be seen in the public space of big cities, e.g. sculptures and reliefs, etc. However, in its efforts to shed the Soviet legacy, Ukraine's memory politics often uncritically adopt dominant capitalist narratives, inadvertently perpetuating another form of cultural oppression and colonization. In addition to critiquing contemporary market-driven discourse, the authors stress the importance of not overlooking the layer of mythological memory, as it constitutes one of the most fundamental elements of Europe's cultural landscape.

Building a Protestant Church on Ottoman Armenian Soil

The presence of American missionaries in late Ottoman territory, exemplified by figures like Smith and Dwight, marked a significant chapter in the region's history. Their legacy, spanning a century, left indelible marks on Turkey's cultural and educational landscape, including the establishment of institutions like Robert College and the Redhouse press. However, their engagement was not without complexities, as they found themselves embroiled in the intricate interplay between the Ottoman government and the burgeoning nationalist movements among its Christian populace. This paper examines the missionaries' dual roles as contributors to Turkey's development and intermediaries in the dialogue between nationalist aspirations and Western sympathizers, such as James Bryce. Delving into their initial harmonious coexistence with Ottoman authorities and subsequent entanglements, it sheds light on the missionaries' confrontations not with the government but with the Armenian Gregorian patriarchate, as they navigated the delicate terrain of religion and politics in Ottoman Armenian soil.

China's Cultural Tourism: Strategies for Authentic Experiences and Enhanced Visitor Satisfaction

The integration of local culture into tourist experiences is a crucial aspect of cultural tourism innovation, particularly in China. This study aims to explore the factors that influence this integration and its impact on tourist satisfaction. Specifically, the study investigates the independent variables of cultural heritage preservation efforts, cultural immersion initiatives, destination branding, community involvement, and technology adoption. Additionally, it examines the moderating effect of tourist cultural sensitivity and the mediating role of perceived cultural authenticity. Through a comprehensive literature review, qualitative and quantitative research methods, and data collected from both tourists and industry stakeholders, valuable insights into the cultural tourism landscape in China are obtained. The findings underscore the significance of cultural heritage preservation efforts as a foundation for providing authentic and immersive experiences. Moreover, destination branding emerges as a key tool for effectively communicating and promoting the unique cultural aspects of a destination. The study highlights the importance of community involvement in the planning and implementation of cultural tourism initiatives, as it fosters a sense of ownership and leads to sustainable and meaningful experiences for tourists. Furthermore, the integration of technology in cultural tourism enhances visitor engagement and provides innovative ways to showcase local culture. The moderating variable of tourist cultural sensitivity influences the relationship between cultural tourism initiatives and tourist satisfaction. Tourists with higher cultural sensitivity exhibit a deeper appreciation for the cultural experiences offered, thereby enhancing their overall satisfaction.

The Evolution of Tourism in Afghanistan: A Review of the Last 50 Years

The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive review of the evolution of tourism in Afghanistan over the past 50 years, examining the factors, challenges, and opportunities that have shaped the industry's development and impact on the country's cultural, social, and economic landscapes. This review paper employed a systematic approach, including comprehensive searches using electronic databases and search engines, screening of articles based on inclusion criteria, full-text review, systematic analysis of included articles, and synthesis of key findings, methodologies, reports, news, and best practices to provide a comprehensive overview of the Evolution of Tourism in Afghanistan: A Review of the Last 50 Years. The review reveals the profound impact of the political and security situation, the influence of factors on tourist arrivals such as heritage sites and geopolitical factors, the evolution of marketing strategies and promotion efforts, and the challenges and opportunities faced by Afghanistan's tourism industry, including political instability, security concerns, inadequate infrastructure, limited financing, and negative perceptions, with the potential for sustainable development through strengthened security measures, improved infrastructure, enhanced marketing efforts, and international partnerships. In conclusion, Afghanistan has the potential to develop a thriving and sustainable tourism sector by addressing challenges, capitalizing on unique attractions, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, leading to economic growth, cultural preservation, and employment opportunities. Strengthen security, preserve heritage, enhance marketing, collaborate with agencies, improve infrastructure, foster partnerships, and involve local communities for Afghan tourism development

Insights into Consumer Behavior: A Deep Dive into Online Shopping Trends in Kerala During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has catalyzed transformative shifts in consumer behaviour globally, prompting a notable surge in online shopping activities. Kerala, renowned for its diverse cultural landscape and vibrant markets, has witnessed a paradigmatic evolution in consumer preferences during this unprecedented period. This study endeavours to provide a comprehensive analysis of online shopping trends in Kerala amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, offering nuanced insights into the factors influencing consumer behaviour, the emergence of new consumption patterns, and the challenges and opportunities encountered by e-commerce stakeholders. Leveraging a mixed-methods research approach, including surveys and qualitative interviews, the study aims to illuminate the dynamic interplay between socio-economic factors, public health concerns, and technological advancements shaping the e-commerce landscape in Kerala. By elucidating these dynamics, the research seeks to inform strategic decision-making processes for e-commerce businesses, policymakers, and other stakeholders invested in Kerala's retail ecosystem.

Inclusive Pedagogy: Systematic Review on Exploring Stakeholder Engagement in Multigrade Classroom Teaching

Multigrade education, characterized by the instruction of students from different grade levels in the same classroom, has garnered significant attention in educational research due to its prevalence in diverse global contexts. This comprehensive literature review offers a nuanced exploration of multigrade education, synthesizing empirical research, theoretical frameworks, and practical insights to provide a holistic understanding of its complexities and implications. The review begins by delineating the global landscape of multigrade classrooms, examining their prevalence, significance, and diverse manifestations across various regions and socio-economic contexts. It delves into the positive aspects of multigrade education, such as fostering collaborative learning environments, maximizing resource utilization, and addressing educational inequalities, while also addressing the negative effects of inadequate support, including teacher burnout and limited access to resources. Central to the literature review is the examination of stakeholder engagement in multigrade education, with a focus on the roles of educators, policymakers, parents, and communities in supporting effective teaching and learning practices. Through an interdisciplinary lens, the review analyzes strategies to maximize stakeholder support, including investments in professional development for teachers, equitable allocation of resources, community involvement, and policy advocacy. Furthermore, it explores culturally-appropriate interventions and collaborative teaching practices to address the unique challenges faced by multigrade educators and students across diverse cultural landscapes and socio-economic environments. By offering actionable recommendations grounded in empirical evidence and best practices, the literature review aims to inform policy, practice, and future research directions in multigrade education, ultimately advocating for inclusive learning environments where every student can thrive and succeed, irrespective of their grade level or school size.

Reconnecting cultural landscape and modern infrastructure

Reconnecting cultural landscape and modern infrastructure

Literate the landscape and consider what it means to continue: 20 years of cultural landscapes in Japan

Literate the landscape and consider what it means to continue: 20 years of cultural landscapes in Japan

Introduction

This themed issue of RISE seeks to remap the Irish literary and cultural landscapes in the middle decades of the twentieth century. It defines this period as from the 1930s to the 1970s — roughly coinciding with the conservative years of ‘de Valera’s Ireland’, starting from the ratification of Bunreacht na hÉireann in 1937 supervised by de Valera through Seán Lemass’ programmes of economic expansion which led to Ireland’s European Economic Community membership in 1973. It understands literary and cultural landscapes in the broadest terms: horizontally as a geographic space with borders real and imagined; vertically as a space where high and low cultures clash and commingle. This issue includes six essays by contributors based across the globe. They show us the various forms of border-crossing — geographic, linguistic, generic — that contribute to a fuller map of Irish literature and culture in the mid-twentieth century.

Aural Interruptions: The Politics of Sound in Teresa Deevy's Radio Plays

Despite becoming deaf at a young age from Ménière’s disease, Teresa Deevy uses sound in radio dramas to critique how conceptions of the past were materially constraining the possible futures for women in mid-century Ireland. While Deevy remains an understudied playwright, scholars like Caoilfhionn Ní Bheacháin have shown how Deevy’s stage plays challenge gender hierarchies during the Cumann na nGaedhael government and rework forms of naturalism. Few scholars offer sustained analyses of Deevy’s later plays or work on radio, though Emily Bloom’s foundational work on Irish radio modernisms and theorisation of Deevy’s unique forms of engagement with radio and radio dramas inform my examinations of four plays Deevy wrote specifically for radio. Building on current scholarship, this article examines how Deevy drew on the aurality of radio and the in medias res feel of the one-act radio play to reimagine gendered relationships to narrative, place, history and material and built environments amid shifting media and cultural landscapes in mid-century Ireland. In heeding Deevy’s contributions to radio modernism through feminist, ecofeminist and media studies lenses, my analyses demonstrate methods for reading sounds in scripts that reframe how scholars approach Deevy’s later work as they expand studies of Irish radio modernism. Reading sound elements in Dignity (1939) and Within a Marble City (1949) shows how Deevy reworks realist and naturalist forms limiting women’s agency. The auralities in Going Beyond Alma’s Glory (1951) and One Look and What It Led To (1964) meta-critically reflect on the medium of radio to point to a more modernist multiplicity for women’s self-determination. Sounds and silences in and across Deevy’s four radio dramas revise and expand understandings of mid-century Irish naturalisms, realisms and modernisms as they establish an overlooked feminist Irish radio modernism that points to multiple narrative possibilities for women’s self-determination literally hanging in the air.

Opening Materials

Review of Irish Studies (RISE) 7.1 Remapping Irish Literary and Cultural Landscapes in the Mid-Twentieth Century

Wilhelm Dilthey's Thoughts on Understanding, Hermeneutics and Communication

Wilhelm Dilthey, a towering figure in the realm of philosophy, dedicated his life's work to unravelling the complexities of human experience. Dilthey believed that life is not merely a series of random events, but a tapestry woven from these experiences, which collectively influence our perspectives and sense of being. By examining Dilthey's thoughts on communication as a process of shared knowledge and meaning making, we gain valuable insights into how we bridge the gap between different perspectives and forge deeper connections. Through a quantitative approach and literature review Dilthey's perspectives are analyzed. Dilthey believed a text goes beyond its literal meaning; it symbolizes deeper significance. Understanding the true depth of a symbol requires venturing beyond its surface meaning and delving into its historical context. Symbols are not merely arbitrary signs; they are often imbued with layers of meaning accumulated over time. These layers reflect the cultural, social, and political landscapes from which the symbol emerged. To fully grasp the symbolic meaning, then, requires an exploration of its historical journey. Despite the occasional inclusion of natural science objects in humanities, Dilthey saw a clear distinction between the two. He saw understanding as a process of grasping the intended meaning rooted in life experiences. Therefore, Dilthey's concept of meaning is historical highlighting the significance of personal and collective life experiences in interpretation.

The Impact of Organizational Culture on the Innovation and Performance of SMEs: A Comparative Study between Germany and Thailand

Innovation is recognized as one of the key factors for economic growth and building a competitive advantage for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in today’s world. The purpose of this research is to investigate how innovation is related to organizational culture and performance of SMEs located in Germany and Thailand. Based on an extensive literature review, the authors propose a comprehensive research model that integrates the competing values framework, organizational innovation and the balanced scorecard framework. Data from 213 respondents across both countries were collected and analyzed utilizing structural equation modelling. Results show that despite their contrasting national cultures, adhocracy culture is a key driver of organizational innovation in both countries, leading to enhanced overall organizational performance, particularly in financial and customer dimensions. This study enriches organizational behaviour research with unique cross-cultural perspectives and equips leaders of SMEs with practical strategies for cultivating an adhocracy culture across diverse cultural landscapes.