Cultural Narratives Research Articles

Soft Power as Cultural Referencing: Making Sense of Startimes’ Export of Hello Mr. Right to Africa

ABSTRACT As Sino-African economic and cultural ties strengthened, the Chinese broadcasting company StarTimes has rapidly expanded in Africa, offering broadcasting infrastructure and content distribution to millions. Since 2018, it has produced original programs like the dating show Hello Mr. Right, adapted from the Chinese format If You Are the One and successfully localised in Africa. This study examines the Kenyan and Nigerian adaptations of Hello Mr. Right through in-depth interviews, textual, and audience analyses, highlighting grassroots cultural exchange and mutual learning between China and Africa. It contrasts the role of private media in cultural dissemination with that of state-owned media. The adaptation shows African teams’ integration of Chinese elements, addressing universal themes and values, and reflecting women’s evolving autonomy and diverse individuals’ dynamic interplay in the Global South’s modernisation. Hello Mr. Right exemplifies how cultural localisation can foster de-Westernisation and reciprocal cultural exchange, offering an alternative to Western-centric globalisation and cultural soft power narratives.

Inscribed Memory: Calligrapher Hafız Osman and His Attributed Inscriptions

Kitabes (inscriptions) serve as lasting testaments to cultural, artistic, and historical narratives, preserving heritage for future generations. This study examines two inscriptions in Üsküdar attributed to the renowned calligrapher Hafız Osman Efendi (1052-1110/1642–1698): the fountain inscription of the Şehit (Sarı) Süleyman Pasha Mosque in Doğancılar and the tombstone inscription of Köprülü Damadı Siyavuş Pasha in the Karacaahmet Tunusbağı Cemetery. Both inscriptions commemorate individuals associated with the Köprülü household, the most influential political family of the period, and highlight the dual function of calligraphy as both an artistic medium and a socio-political tool. This study approaches the inscriptions from artistic, historical, and technical perspectives, exploring the intricate interplay between art, politics, and Sufism in the 17th century Ottoman Empire. It also draws on newly uncovered archival documents related to Hafız Osman’s life, shedding light on his contributions to the Ottoman government and personal struggles. Lastly, the study highlights the critical importance of preserving these inscriptions as cultural and historical records.

Circular Economy in Chinese Heritage Conservation: Upcycling Waste Materials for Sustainable Restoration and Cultural Narrative Revitalization

Material depletion, environmental degradation, and cultural revitalization pose significant challenges to heritage conservation in China. Within the context of heritage restoration, the principles of the circular economy (CE)—including R1 (Reduce), R2 (Reuse), and R3 (Recycle)—can provide a structured framework for sustainable interventions. By prioritizing resource efficiency, minimizing waste generation, and repurposing materials, CE strategies support the preservation of cultural heritage while mitigating environmental impact. This study explores the role of waste material upcycling in sustainable heritage conservation (SHC) in tandem with the revitalization of cultural narratives. This study examines the core factors affecting sustainable restoration practice through the lens of the circular economy theory and sustainable heritage conservation theory. The research design adopts mixed methods whereby quantitative web surveys are conducted among practitioners of conservation and complemented with qualitative case studies from CE-based intervention restoration projects in China. The study identifies five independent variables—upcycling of waste materials, resource efficiency, stakeholder engagement, economic viability, and cultural narrative revitalization—with sustainability-driven innovation acting as a mediating factor. Preliminary findings indicate that upcycling enhances material longevity and minimizes restoration expenses while promoting social acceptance of circular practices through stakeholder engagement. Revitalizing cultural narratives enhances historical continuity while preserving intangible heritage. The results indicate that CE-based interventions positively influenced SHC, with sustainability-driven innovation as a mediator. With this, it was concluded that introducing circular economy principles in heritage conservation would promote environmental sustainability, economic viability, and culture-building resilience. Policy recommendations include incentivizing upcycling technologies, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, and embedding CE principles in national heritage policies.

The older woman at the centre of dystopia: dramatizing the perils of ageism in Emma Adams’ Animals

This article presents an age-centered analysis of Animals (2015), a dystopian play by the British playwright Emma Adams in which men and women over 60 are deemed redundant and useless by a dystopian society that either ordains their murder or marginalizes them completely. Framed within the field of ageing and theatre studies and its intersection with gender theories, our analysis aims to examine the position of the play’s older female protagonists in a dystopian world infested with ageism and sexism, which deprives older people (and particularly older women) of their humanity and divests them of their generational meaning. On the whole, the article intends to explore the political and symbolic significance of (female) older characters in new (and demodystopic) dramaturgies of old age, especially with the ultimate objective to search for alternative cultural narratives and conceptualizations of later life that help reconstruct the value of ageing and of intergenerational relationships.

Overcoming Biases: Unlocking the Potential of Genetically Modified Crops to Transform Agriculture in Uganda

Genetically Modified (GM) crops possess the power to revolutionize agriculture by addressing food security challenges, driving economic growth, and promoting environmental sustainability. Yet, in Uganda, their adoption remains limited due to deep-rooted biases and misconceptions among farmers, policymakers, and the public. This study investigates the origins of these barriers, focusing on how misinformation, cultural beliefs, and political influences shape negative attitudes toward GM crops. Using the survey on farmers and qualitative interviews with policymakers, it was found that misinformation breeds fear, while cultural narratives reinforce scepticism, and political inertia amplifies resistance, collectively stalling progress. By confronting these challenges, GM technology’s immense potential can be unleashed, paving the way for transformative benefits such as higher crop yields, climate resilience, and improved livelihoods. Further, empowering farmers and stakeholders through targeted education can dispel myths, while transparent and inclusive policy frameworks can foster trust and collaboration. Stakeholder engagement that values diverse perspectives is essential to building consensus and driving acceptance of GM innovations. This study highlights the need for coordinated efforts to bridge knowledge gaps, address policy shortcomings, and foster trust among all actors in Uganda’s agricultural landscape. Overcoming these biases is crucial to unlocking GM crops’ ability to revolutionize farming, enhancing productivity and resilience in the face of climate change while securing economic and food security gains for future generations. With the right strategies, Uganda can embrace GM technology as a transformative tool, enabling its agricultural sector to thrive sustainably and empowering farmers to meet both current and future challenges

Nostalgic regimes of cultural heritage: semiotic artifacts and linguistic landscapes of Teochew Huashang at Lhong1919, Bangkok

ABSTRACT This article explores the dynamic interplay of language, society, and space at Lhong1919, a prominent cultural heritage site in Bangkok that encapsulates the history and culture of Teochew Huashang (early Chinese Teochew merchants). Through an ethnographic approach utilizing photographs, interviews, field notes, and historical documents, the study investigates how linguistic landscapes and semiotic artifacts construct nostalgic regimes tied to the Teochew Huashang legacy. Framework analysis reveals three core dimensions: vernacular architecture, ethnic specialty production, and ethno-cultural heritage. Findings highlight how ethnic elements such as the Sanheyuan, murals, Arma, and Oliang foster nostalgia, shaping visitor experiences and promoting engagement with exotic cultural narratives. These semiotic artifacts not only preserve the nostalgic essence of Teochew life, lifestyle, and philosophy but also serve as powerful tools for enhancing tourism appeal and cultural consumption. By proposing a model for developing nostalgic regimes in ethno-cultural heritage sites, the study underscores the critical role of preserving historic spaces in fostering ethno-cultural understanding, promoting heritage tourism, and enriching global appreciation for cultural diversity.

Traditional Culinary of Yogyakarta as a Pillar of Tourism Sustainability: A Study at Gadri Resto, Yogyakarta

This study aims to explore the role of Gadri Resto in supporting tourism sustainability through traditional culinary practices by utilizing local ingredients, as well as identifying the use of local ingredients for culinary sustainability in Yogyakarta. A qualitative approach with a case study method is used in this research, involving a population consisting of Gadri Resto managers, domestic and international tourists, local farmers, and relevant government stakeholders. The sample was selected using a purposive sampling technique, including five restaurant managers, ten tourists, three local farmers from Bantul and Sleman, and two government representatives from the Yogyakarta Tourism Office. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observations, and documentation. The analysis technique follows Cresswell’s (2014) thematic model, which includes data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The research findings indicate that Gadri Resto integrates sustainability elements through the use of local ingredients such as young jackfruit and palm sugar from local farmers, the presentation of traditional dishes like gudeg keraton with cultural narratives, and community empowerment through job creation. The main challenges include dependency on seasonal ingredients, fluctuations in raw material prices, and low consumer awareness regarding sustainability.

Creativity vs. Copyright: The Ghibli Paradox

Studio Ghibli has redefined animated storytelling by seamlessly blending cultural folklore, literature, and original narratives. However, this creative synthesis raises complex questions about intellectual property and the boundaries of copyright law. This paper explores how Studio Ghibli navigates the intersection between artistic borrowing and copyright protection, the implications of its approach on global storytelling, and whether rigid copyright enforcement stifles or fosters creativity. Ultimately, this study argues that the "Ghibli Effect" challenges traditional notions of ownership in art and highlights the need for a balanced approach to copyright in creative industries.

The Representation of Absence: Race and Nation in Hollywood’s Depiction of the Atomic Bomb, 1947–1952

This article examines how the lack of representation in Hollywood cinema reinforces the negation of identity, especially for racial, ethnic, and cultural ‘others.’ This absence can perpetuate a longstanding practice of ‘othering,’ significantly influencing societal perceptions and individual identities concerning historical events. The focus here is on the racialization of American cinema and the portrayal of Japanese identity following World War II, illustrating how the industry minimized the presence and voices of the Japanese. The analysis connects nationalism and racism, particularly as portrayed by Hollywood in relation to the atomic bomb's justification, highlighting the critical consequences of underrepresentation during the postwar period. By exploring various film texts, the study reveals the film industry's dominance in defining the ‘other’ through absence. Ultimately, it contrasts media portrayals of significant events with their real-life impacts, identifying the complex interplay between media representation, identity, and cultural narratives.

Virtual Reality Museums: Redefining Engagement and Understanding in Cultural Heritage

This study explores the paradigm-shifting impact of Virtual Reality (VR) on museum experience design, using the banjo’s rich history as a case study to explore these benefits, especially in regards to understanding and empathizing with African-American culture throughout time. This VR museum’s design model not only enhances visitor engagement through interactive 3D models, videos, and virtual explorations, but also transcends the limitations of physical space, making the museum experience accessible to a global audience, so long as they have access to a VR headset. Our findings indicate that the educational quality of the VR museum matches—and in some aspects surpasses—that of traditional museums by providing immersive, interactive learning environments where visitors can deeply engage with the cultural and historical narratives of the banjo. Additionally, VR facilitates the easy customization and updating of exhibits, allowing for content that remains current and relevant. Most importantly, the VR setting offers a sensitive platform for presenting emotionally charged content, such as the banjo’s connections to slavery and African American history, fostering a deeper cultural connection and understanding. This study demonstrates that VR technology can significantly transform museum experiences, making them more inclusive, educational, and emotionally engaging, thus redefining the standard museum design paradigm. While VR headsets are not yet widely accessible due to socioeconomic factors, addressing this challenge is beyond the scope of this paper.

Not/belonging as health promotion: The affective potentialities of human and non-human relationalities in mother-baby-assemblages.

Motherhood has life-long impacts on health and exacerbates health disparities. Birthing a baby changes life immensely with heightened affectivity and emotions posing risks and opportunities. Identity-focused maternal transition theory and dominant cultural narratives of neoliberal, nuclear, and heterosexual parenting have created a narrow framework within which to understand the responsibilities and challenges of motherhood. In this we paper propose an alternative path to theorising motherhood relationally through the concept of belonging-as-affect in mother-baby-assemblages. To achieve this we plug into posthuman feminism to explore mother-baby-assemblages as relational, embodied and affective sites of fleeting and enduring not/belonging. We develop a creative qualitative reviewing approach and draw on literature that examines motherhood and mothering across place, mobilities, people, bodies and things. We explore how tracing relationalities between human and non-human actants might help us learn about 'sticky' sites of not/belonging in mother-baby-assemblages as a more fluid way of understanding the journey into and through mother/parenthood. The sticky-ness of not/belonging as timebound glue offers insights into the vital emergence of maternal health and is articulated as a mode of inquiry for future work in this space. Our orientation to posthuman mothering works through porosity, permeability and vacillation by turning our attention to sites of affectivity, and tracing non/sticky not/belonging emerging in multiple and diverse pathways, embracing openness, and eliciting generosity towards collective parenting. Understanding belonging as emergent co-becoming may allow for hopeful and inclusive motherhoods that are diversely care-ing and care-full.

Bursting the Bubble: The Fluids Mechanics That Prove Godzilla Would Survive the Plan

Cinematic and pop culture narratives offer powerful tools for engaging with science by contextualizing complex principles within familiar, imaginative stories. This paper investigates the scientific feasibility of a plan depicted in Godzilla Minus One to neutralize the iconic kaiju through buoyancy reduction, exposure to deep-sea pressure, and rapid decompression. Employing principles from fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and biomechanics, the study critically examines the use of freon bubbles and additional weight to counteract buoyant forces, the effects of 1500-m oceanic pressure on Godzilla’s physiology, and the potential for barotrauma during rapid ascent. While theoretically plausible, the proposed strategies face insurmountable challenges, including logistical impracticality and Godzilla’s presumed biological adaptations. This interdisciplinary critique highlights the intersection of film and science, encouraging critical analysis of cinematic representations and fostering a deeper appreciation for the scientific principles they attempt to portray.

Co-creating cultural narratives for sustainable rural development: a transdisciplinary learning framework for guiding place-based social-ecological research

Co-creating cultural narratives for sustainable rural development: a transdisciplinary learning framework for guiding place-based social-ecological research

Power Dynamics in Lyrics: Analyzing “Bayar, Bayar, Bayar” by Sukatani Band through Critical Discourse Analysis

This study focuses on the song “Bayar, Bayar, Bayar” in order to understand how its lyrics negotiate and articulate issues of power within a given sociocultural setting. Using critical discourse analysis (CDA) as the framework, this study attempts to demonstrate how language can be both a reflection and a determinant of social systems and structures. The main aim, in this case, is to analyze the lyrics from a sociolinguistic perspective to determine the hidden messages that talk about power relations, focusing on how those choices maintained or resisted the prevailing power relations. Using CDA, this research examines the language of the song’s lyrics and the broader language of the song, focusing on the use of language, the themes presented, and the surrounding socio-political context of the song. Compared to the available literature regarding the relationship between music and power, there is a relative absence of research concerning “Bayar, Bayar, Bayar,” which is an issue this research intends to address by paying closer attention to the socio-political and linguistic context of the song. The results demonstrate that the lyrics employ critical discourse techniques to justify and condemn corrupt actions at the same time, with the word “bayar” (pay) used as an easy way out of critique and as a tool to increase social scrutiny while suffering systemic inequality. This research highlights the need to analyze the power relations embedded within the lyrics of music as they relate to cultural narratives and their impact on society’s worldview. This study demonstrates the need to understand music as a tool of social commentary and as a medium of dissent against oppressive power systems. Further studies in this field will help create a more nuanced and democratic understanding of music.

Longitudinal Studies of Child Fear and Anxiety Based on Freudian Theory

Childhood fears, encompassing particular phobias and generalized anxieties, significantly influence psychological development. Although numerous fears are ephemeral, certain ones endure, profoundly affecting emotional health, conduct, and social interactions. This study utilizes a systematic literature review to analyze the evolution of childhood fears through the perspectives of Freudian psychoanalysis, attachment theory, cognitive-developmental frameworks, and evolutionary psychology. This study assesses the impact of parental influence, environmental conditioning, media exposure, and cultural narratives on fear responses by integrating historical and contemporary research. Freud's distinction between automatic and signal anxiety establishes a basis for comprehending fear as both an adaptive survival mechanism and a psychological encumbrance. Contemporary research amalgamates these insights with empirical investigations into neurobiological fear processing, social learning, and cognitive-behavioral interventions. This review evaluates the efficacy of evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), systematic desensitization, and mindfulness-based interventions, in alleviating childhood anxieties. This study enhances comprehension of the acquisition, regulation, and treatment of fear by synthesizing classical psychoanalytic theories with modern psychological research. It emphasizes the need for developmentally suitable, culturally attuned interventions that bolster emotional resilience and foster enduring mental health.

AUGMENTED REALITY OF STREET ART ROUTE FOR TOURISM, THAILAND

Augmented Reality (AR) has been identified as a powerful tool for enhacing the tourism experience. It enables the visualization of historical attractions, cultural narratives, and educational content, and fostering deeper engagement with destinations. For tourism engagement, the ancient city as Sonkhla in Thailand should be adoped AR for information services. This study aimed to investigate the proposed model and evaluate the tourist satisfaction in AR based on navigation technology, namely the AR StreetArt@Songkhla. The convenience sampling was the technique to collect data from 115 tourists using survey questionnaire. For analysis, the SmartPLS was used to investigate the proposed model and evaluate the tourist satisfaction on AR based on navigation technology. The findings illustrated the insight relationships in proposed model. It indicated that several factors on tourist satisfaction were not direct influences in every technology, especially AR based on navigation in street art. The results showed high level of tourist satisfaction in terms of perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, perceived enjoyment, immersive experience, and tourist engagement. The AR StreetArt@Songkhla was successful development for tourists. The findings indicated that this technology can communicate culture and historical storytelling based on tourist’s enjoyment during visiting street art. In addition, the proposed model revealed the direct and indirect influences on tourist satisfaction. Three perceptions did not have the direct influence on tourist satisfaction at the significant level of 0.05. However, perceived enjoyment have the indirect influence on tourist satisfaction through tourist engagment, while perception of usefulness and ease-of-use have the indirect influences on tourist satisfaction through immersieve experience. The paper provided in both theoretical and practical contributions. For theoritical contribution, the future researchers in tourism can develop their frameworks based on our proposed model, when they study in AR technology. In practical contributions, this study can help the AR developers to understand the processes of AR design and development. Additionally, the findings help the developers focusing on highlight factors in their AR design and development processes, in order to achieve tourist satisfaction, immersive experience, and tourist engagement.

Afropolitanism, corruption, and trust in government: a postcolonial perspective

ABSTRACT This article examines the relationship between Afropolitanism, corruption, and trust in government, marking the first comprehensive argument integrating these constructs. Using a postcolonial lens, it highlights the importance of understanding African politics through indigenous perspectives, challenging Western-centric narratives. The study identifies economic inequality and inadequate public resources as drivers of corruption in Africa, where low wages and insufficient services lead public employees to seek illicit compensation. Collusion between government officials and private contractors further exacerbates these issues. Afropolitans use their dual cultural insights and global networks to critique and combat corruption, shaping public perceptions through cultural narratives and advocacy. Through their involvement in media and international forums, they advocate for transparency and accountability, highlighting both the systemic challenges and potential for reform. Despite the challenges, they harness their hybrid identities to propose innovative solutions and drive meaningful change. The article concludes by emphasising the pivotal role of Afropolitans in shaping governance discourse and reform. Their contributions are vital in advancing transparency and accountability, demonstrating the impact of incorporating diverse perspectives into the governance reform process. By bridging local and global viewpoints, Afropolitans are essential in fostering progress and resilience in African political contexts.

패키지 디자인에서 디자인 특성이 소비자 구매 의도에 미치는 영향 연구 - 중국 삼성퇴 박물관 기념품 중심으로

With the rapid growth and intensifying competition in China's museum souvenir market, package design has emerged as a critical factor in conveying cultural values and stimulating consumer purchase intentions. However, despite its role as a medium for integrating product aesthetics and cultural storytelling, challenges persist in formulating effective strategies to enhance consumption through design. This study empirically analyzes the impact of six package design attributes—originality, interest, trendiness, familiarity, emotionality, and interactivity—on purchase intention. Data collected through an online survey were analyzed using statistical methods, revealing that originality, interest, trendiness, emotionality, and interactivity significantly positively influence purchase intention, whereas familiarity showed no statistically meaningful effect. These findings underscore the necessity for differentiated package design strategies in museum souvenirs, emphasizing the integration of cultural narratives and consumer engagement. The study provides practical insights for leveraging design innovation to strengthen market competitiveness and realize cultural value in the evolving souvenir industry.

Analyzing Architectural Drawing in the Works of Four Contemporary Chinese and Japanese Architects: A Multi-Dimensional Approach

In the image era, architectural drawing gradually evolved from being a part of traditional architectural design to an artistic form with independent aesthetic value. However, a systematic evaluation method for this unique art form is still lacking. This study analyzes the works of four Chinese and Japanese architects, focusing on the functionality and artistry of architectural drawings. Combining iconography, semiotic analysis, and theories from visual culture studies, it explores the visual language and cultural significance embedded in architectural drawings from a new perspective and attempts to establish an evaluation framework. The analysis of visual symbols, cultural codes, and social contexts reveals how architects convey architectural concepts, historical memories, and urban landscapes through their drawings. This study finds that architectural drawings not only convey architectural information but also integrate cultural narratives and artistic expression, serving as an important intersection between architecture and other disciplines. Although interpretations may vary across cultural contexts, the semiotic approach offers a relatively objective evaluation system. This research helps architects, artists, and educators better understand the role of architectural drawing and promotes its application in architectural design, artistic creation, and education.

Spotlighting Eurovision as a political stage: Exploring how Turkey and Ukraine use the ESC to further their political agendas

Beginning in 1956, The Eurovision Song Contest is the longest running television musical competition (Kivak, 2024). Not only does it showcase the talents of musical artists across Europe, but it is also a celebration of culture and a platform for countries to showcase their unique identities. By framing the contest in this context, it transcends simple entertainment, serving as a powerful tool for nations to further their political agendas. This essay will argue that the ESC can be strategically utilised by countries and individuals in order to promote their political interests and spotlight social issues through both performance and public discourse. By analysing Turkey’s 2003 win and both Ukraine’s 2005 and 2016 entries, an understanding of how music intersects with politics and how the contest acts as a communication device for these nations to share their cultural narratives can be arrived at. These performances provide a stage for countries to showcase their Europeanness, critique their own country's politics and highlight injustices committed by other nations.