Discourse In Society Research Articles

Sensemaking and Sustainable Development: Chinese Overseas Acquisitions and the Globalisation of Traditional Chinese Medicine

AbstractDespite the increasing attention paid to sustainability management and the wide prevalence of the United Nation's SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) in the discourse of business and society, there is little nuanced understanding of the impact of culture on sustainable development in international contexts, and on the globalisation of emerging economies in particular. By juxtaposing the literature streams of sensemaking, micro‐foundations, and collaborative partnerships, this paper presents an investigation into how culture and sensemaking influence sustainable development. Our research context – Chinese globalisation endeavours – includes Chinese overseas acquisitions and the globalisation of traditional Chinese medicine. This paper illuminates the role played by sensemaking and Taoist philosophy with regard to sustainable development. Taking a micro‐foundational perspective, we show how both cultural and institutional contexts can influence sustainable development in Chinese globalisation endeavours enacted in the form of collaborative partnerships.

Discourses of climate change education: The case of geography textbooks for secondary and higher secondary education in South Africa and Norway

ABSTRACT The purpose of the article, which is a comparative study, is to explore climate change discourses in South African and Norwegian geography textbooks by addressing the following questions: What policy discourses of climate change can be identified in the textbooks? How is the climate change content of geography textbooks influenced by predominant discourses in society? The authors assert that problems and solutions to climate change in textbooks are influenced by dominant discourses of climate change in society. Despite expecting to find a strong emphasis on ecological modernization and a win-win discourse in the Norwegian context, and perhaps a stronger focus on civic environmentalism and global injustice in the South African context, their findings reflected that for both countries, textbooks predominantly leaned towards belief in international agreements and green governmentality. Some emphasis was placed on ecological modernization, particularly in South Africa, while civic environmentalism and global injustice perspectives were marginal and lacked context. The overlapping nature of perspectives identified in the textbooks also demonstrated the complexity of identifying problems and solutions connected to climate change. The authors conclude that political ecology can offer a consistent didactical framework to examine the diversity of interests, perspectives and ‘stories’ about climate change at different scales.

Imperative of Funding the Police: Brutality of Citizens in Nigerian Society Discourse

Imperative of Funding the Police: Brutality of Citizens in Nigerian Society Discourse

The problem with trust: on the discursive commodification of trust in AI

This commentary draws critical attention to the ongoing commodification of trust in policy and scholarly discourses of artificial intelligence (AI) and society. Based on an assessment of publications discussing the implementation of AI in governmental and private services, our findings indicate that this discursive trend towards commodification is driven by the need for a trusting population of service users to harvest data at scale and leads to the discursive construction of trust as an essential good on a par with data as raw material. This discursive commodification is marked by a decreasing emphasis on trust understood as the expected reliability of a trusted agent, and increased emphasis on instrumental and extractive framings of trust as a resource. This tendency, we argue, does an ultimate disservice to developers, users, and systems alike, insofar as it obscures the subtle mechanisms through which trust in AI systems might be built, making it less likely that it will be.

Confucianism and Folklore in Vietnamese Fantasy Short Stories: <em> The Case of Ghost Stories </em>

Truyền kỳ, which is a genre of fantasy short stories, was formed and developed in the historic period of medieval literature of Vietnam in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. Despite being derived from a similar Chinese genre, the truyền kỳ of Vietnam was the work of the endogenous development of the national fantasy short story, which was closely associated with folk literature and historical prose. However, at the time of its inception, as well as at the glorious top of this genre, truyền kỳ had never been accepted as an official genre. It was rather a metaphor for unorthodox discourse in formal Confucian society. The reason is that truyền kỳ founded the first elements of folk narrative genres that were considered inferior and which Confucius advised Confucians to reject. Therefore, truyền kỳ deeply influenced Confucian doctrines, yet in this genre by itself, the deficiencies of Confucian philosophy related to the metaphysical world were exposed in competition with other non Confucian religions that had emerged, such as Buddhism, Taoism, and especially folklore. By analyzing ghost stories that represent the most typical case or expression of the complex relationship between Confucianism and folklore in the Vietnamese truyền kỳ genre, this article concludes that all the ontological crises of Confucianists that manifested in truyền kỳ derived from this tradition of folklore which created a minor discourse of a Confucian literatus who wrote on the periphery of official Confucianism.

Born digital or fossilised digitally? How born digital data systems continue the legacy of social violence towards LGBTQI + communities: a case study of experiences in the Republic of Ireland

The AI and Society discourse has previously drawn attention to the ways that digital systems embody the values of the technology development community from which they emerge through the development and deployment process. Research shows how this effect leads to a particular treatment of gender in computer systems development, a treatment which lags far behind the rich understanding of gender that social studies scholarship reveals and people across society experience. Many people do not relate to the narrow binary gender options of male or female, and many people express their gender identity in much richer ways than the sex/gender binary female/woman and male/man Boolean terms will allow. We ask: are “born-digital” gendered datasets in digital systems experienced as marginalising by those who express their identity beyond the male/female binary? Case Study: Ireland. To answer this universal question, this paper presents the findings of an empirical case study of people in Ireland with diverse gender identities and expressions, and their experiences with public data systems and new technologies. In spite of great social changes in Ireland which have led to constitutional change in favour of LGBTQI + people, born-digital systems were experienced by respondents as embodying socio-cultural values which were no longer accepted in society at large. For many of the respondents, digital technologies routinely marginalise them in all kinds of ways. These systems keep alive violence and oppression long after civil rights have been enshrined in constitutional law. This study is just one example of the way assumptions about digital are disengaged from society-at-large. It is a call to arms to all who are passionate about socially-responsible technology.

The discursive construction of new citizen identities in Singapore

AbstractThis article investigates how new citizens reconfigure dominant indexes of citizenship to claim status as legitimate new citizens of Singapore. New citizens are expected to resolve a tension that underpins public discourses in Singapore society: while the statal narrative of multiculturalism countenances new citizens to have perceivable markers of difference, everyday discourses expect new citizens to assimilate into the ‘Singapore core’—a term used in Singapore that denotes a homogeneous understanding of what it means to be Singaporean. By adopting a metapragmatic approach, this article identifies three common indexes of citizenship that new citizens negotiate to resolve this contradiction: language, loyalty, and legacy. By reconfiguring common markers of citizenship in Singapore, new citizens are able to discursively construct a type of citizenship that they can legitimately claim and contribute to. This expands common understandings of the notion of citizenship in Singapore society. (Citizenship, language ideologies, multiculturalism, metapragmatics, Singapore)*

Anticipating expectations. family language policy and its orientation to the school system

ABSTRACT Family Language Policy never takes place only in private but is embedded in larger discourses in society or rather in several societies to which the multilingual family is linked. One main point of contact of families and discourses on language is the education system. Previous research has shown that bilingual families orient towards teachers for advice on their language policies and tend to adopt the schools’ view on languages. This especially applies to families, in which three or more languages are spoken. In this article, I will present the results from a case study with two highly multilingual families in Germany and the parents’ orientation to the education system. Findings show that in the case of the two families, teachers do not have extensive direct influence. Instead, the main impact that the education system has on the families’ language policy is indirect by conveying and enforcing mainstream language ideologies and supporting high prestige languages such as English and French, while the parents constantly try to anticipate potential expectations by stakeholders in the education system.

ДЕМОКРАТІЯ, ГРОМАДЯНСЬКЕ СУСПІЛЬСТВО І БЕЗПЕКА В УМОВАХ ПОШИРЕННЯ СИТУАЦІЇ РИЗИКУ

In the conditions of a military invasion of Ukraine, the discourse of national security and the place of our state in the system of international relations is expected to be actualized. This trend originates from such a global characteristic of the modern world as the spread of risk situation. From our point of view, the development of democracy and civil society is an important factor in ensuring the internal and external security of our country. One of the important prerequisites for effective security of Ukraine is the level of involvement of civil society into this process. Hence the need for a theoretical analysis of the discourse of civil society and democracy, reconstruction of the main concepts and concepts used in it. Otherwise, if this discourse is used uncritically, there is a danger that terms and words begin to obscure reality from our view. The works of domestic and foreign authors were used to study the problem posed in the article. The research is based on the principles of such methodological approaches as critical, interdisciplinary, systemic and comparative analysis, as well as on general scientific principles of objectivity and historicism. A developed civil society provides for the articulation of public interests, within the horizon of which the realization of private interests takes place. This situation requires the replacement of «patronage politics» by «politics of real affairs». From the point of view of the study of mechanisms for ensuring democratic security, this means that it is possible to talk about it within the functioning of the public space. Democratic security is possible if citizens are active.

Social Exploitation of Lower Class and Stratification System in Rawalpindi

The main objective of the research is to study the exploitation and social oppression resulting in a lack of opportunities or unequal access to resources. The methodology is descriptive based on a constructivist research approach.Furthermore, the triangulation method was employed to avoid rapid saturation. For the sake of collection of data, observation,a structured questionnaire was employed. The sampling design is based on the SRS technique. Sample drawing was the essential constituent of the first phase. The research referred to some of the systems of stratification out of many, existing in societies. It also indicated certain stereotypes and obstructions faced by individuals due to the emergence of stereotypical discourses in society. In the end, the researcher tried to relate an ascribed trait(class or class mobility) with education (which sounds to be an achieved trait but is dependent upon several ascribed factors).

Роберт Мертон и Ибн Сина: перекличка моральных императивов

The paper attempts to expand the authentic understanding of the imperatives of the scientific ethos given by R.K. Merton in 1942. In the original interpretation, Merton’s Code referred only to the European science of the New Age and subsequent centuries. As Merton himself and his followers have seen, the applicability of this code to other societies is not relevant. However, the author of the paper believes that the original four maxims of Merton in one way or another work effectively outside the specified space-time frame and, in particular, work in medieval Arab-Muslim science. The philosophical allegorical parable "The Message of Birds" written by Ibn Sina in the XI century is used as a text in which the imperatives that semantically coincide with Merton's maxims are found. The analysis shows that the text of the medieval scientist is transparently articulated: 1) Mertonian "communism" which assumes the collective ownership of epistemological discourse participants of the products received in its process (new empirical facts, theoretical and methodological innovations); 2) "universalism" that excludes any discrimination of discourse subjects on external, non-scientific criteria; 3) "disinterestedness", according to which the scientist builds his activities as if he had no other interests but to understand the truth; 4) "organized skepticism" according to which there is no presumption of innocence in science, and whoever comes forward with epistemological innovation must calmly and patiently prove his rightness to those who are standing in defence of the existing body of knowledge. Since the author of "The Message of Birds", despite his chosen artistic and mystical form for this work, is one of the largest figures of medieval Arab-Muslim science, his parable should be interpreted, first of all, as a text, which reflects the very process of cognitive search in pre-classical science. A closer familiarity with the nature and content of epistemological discourse in ancient and medieval traditional societies provides a good reason here to see one of the attempts to systematize the ethical rules that have actually been in force among scientists for many centuries.

“Teaching the poor of the Irish nation”: The Endeavours of the Protestant “Sons of Erin” to Educate Their Catholic “Brethren” in the Age of Catholic Agitation, 1800–1850

In Ireland, the Protestant missionary impetus of the early 19th century, known as the 'Second Reformation', coincided with Daniel O’Connell’s movement for the emancipation of Catholics and the Repeal of the Union which concurrently met with resounding success. As the Irish nationalist movement was becoming more and more catholicised, The Irish Society for Promoting the Education of the Native Irish through the Medium of Their Own Language promoted access to the Bible in “the pure Gaelic language and the Irish character” for both the spiritual salvation of “the [poorer] sons of Erin” and “the political repose and moral amelioration of Ireland.” Even if the Second Reformation has often been considered as an attempt at anglicising the Irish through conversion, a reassessment of the reciprocal influences of Protestant missions and Irish nationalism is timely. Therefore, this paper, relying on a wide range of archival material, intends to examine how the discourse of this Protestant society disrupted the status quo of Irish and British identities. Was the Society’s redefinition of Irish identity, which combined a shared Irish culture with loyalty to the British state, perceived by O’Connell’s nationalist movement as a threat or an opportunity? This exploration of the relationship between Christianity and nationalism highlights the complex ties that can be found between several layered identities and disrupts the binaries of the vernacular being promoted by the champions of independence and of native languages being erased by the advocates of imperial rule.

Gender Analysis of Education Policy in Post- Revolutionary Iran

This paper aims to explore the dominant gender discourses in education policies after Islamic Revolution of Iran using a gender analysis approach and qualitative content analysis method. The results shows that, different gender approaches in the field of education can be identified from the difference-oriented and family-friendly approach to the similarity approach in empowerment, or the gender-friendly approach of women in politics. In public education policies and under the influence of the prevailing discourse in society, policies have shifted from a maximum differentiation approach to a maximum similarity. But in higher education, due to the relationship between education and employment, gender management of disciplines has been done, But this approach has also been modified by the prevailing discourse in society.

The Stigm and Communication Pattern of Radical-Labelled Group Communication in Bengkulu

Bengkulu Province is an area that according to a survey by the National Counterterrorism Agency (BNPT) in 2017 has the highest potential for radicalism in Indonesia. The BNPT data is quite surprising because Bengkulu province has never been recorded as a place of radicalism and terrorism. This research explores the causes of religious groups that are considered radical in Bengkulu province. The method used in this research is qualitative with a case study approach. The results of the study provide the fact that there is a growing discourse in society that creates the image of SS s as a radical group in North Bengkulu and Rejang Lebong districts. The SS label as a group that adheres to radicalism can be explained from two perspectives. First, from the internal side, this group lives exclusively and does not interact intensely with the surrounding community. This exclusive life makes the perspectives, attitudes and behavior of SS group members differ from those of society. Differences in viewpoints, attitudes and actions become the embryo for conflicts with the surrounding community, especially in terms of beliefs. Meanwhile, from the second point of view, the surrounding community has also labeled the SS group as adherents of radicalism without knowing what the meaning and limitations of radicalism itself are. The role of the mass media in reporting on radical groups with several easily recognizable symbols such as robes, veils and beards also influences people's perceptions of the SS groups around them. This condition was further strengthened by the labeling carried out by several religious and community leaders who were used as references to portray SS groups. The label and image of radicalism in the end make the SS group's relationship with the surrounding community social distancing and foster stereotypes and prejudice.
 Keywords: exclusivity, label, prejudice, radicalism, Bengkulu

Stephan J. Joubert (South African academic and visionary): His response to questions related to his academic views

This article reflects a conversation between Jan G. van der Watt and Stephan Joubert. The article serves as the introduction to the Special Collection: ‘From timely exegesis to contemporary ecclesiology: Relevant hermeneutics and provocative embodiment of faith in a Corona-defined world – Festschrift for Stephan Joubert, sub-edited by Willem Oliver (University of South Africa)’. Following a brief bio-statement as introduction, the following issues are discussed: the collection for the Jerusalem church; relevance of theology for society; social-scientific exegesis; the ancient concept of grace; Bible translation in South Africa; public theology on the electronic platform; biblical examples of leadership and electronic media in religious activities and education.Contribution: This Festschrift represents current trends in biblical scholarship and ecclesial leadership. It contributes to the public discourse in church and society, especially the role of the electronic media in current Fourth Industrial Revolution.

Fostering Trust, Transparency, Satisfaction and Participation Amidst COVID-19 corruption: Does the Civil Society Matter? – Evidence from Ghana

The COVID-19 pandemic outbreak has erupted corruption challenges across polities including Ghana. This situation has spurred anecdotal narratives underscoring a decline in citizens’ trust, transparency perceptions, satisfaction and participation in pandemic activism, and thus catapulted civil society discourses into prominence. Therefore, we investigate civil society imperativeness to trust, transparency, satisfaction and participation, whilst mitigating corruption. Results (n = 375) of structural equation modeling revealed the negative impact of corruption on trust, satisfaction and transparency. Whereas, trust and transparency were revealed to be significant to satisfaction and participation, the civil society’s efficacy was confirmed. Based on these, research and policy implications are proffered.

Maintaining the Boundary

Advocacy NGOs in Croatia often emphasize their nonpartisan identity, meaning‎that they do not publicly associate with political parties or declare their‎endorsement of electoral candidates. While such NGOs’ behavior could be‎explained based on overall negative public perception of political parties, as‎well as funding conditions imposed by NGOs’ donors, this article argues that‎the continuous nonpartisan identity of advocacy NGOs is further reaffirmed‎by a specific civil society discourse. Drawing on the analysis of in-depth interviews‎with senior members of nine Croatian NGOs, active in areas of human‎rights, the rule of law, and education, three relevant themes of civil society‎discourse reaffirming NGOs’ nonpartisanship are outlined: (1) idea of civil‎society as an answer to malfunctioning state, (2) NGOs’ legitimation based‎on autonomy and expertise, and (3) perception of political parties as an inherently‎limiting organizational form.‎

Propaganda dan Teori Konspirasi: Wacana Masyarakat terhadap Covid-19 di Indonesia

The conspiracy theory allows non-existent information to be exist. Likewise with propaganda which causes information to roll without being able to ascertain its correctness because its purpose is to manipulate public opinion. This study aims to see the complexity of the fight against the Covid-19 discourse in Indonesian society. This study used a qualitative method with a critical discourse analysis approach. Data collection was obtained from online media and social media, especially Twitter in the April 2020 period. The data were analyzed by using the Critical Discourse Analysis model of Fairclough. The result of this study indicated that it was not enough for the Covid-19 outbreak to be reported as a natural virus, but to be explored into a controversial discourse in the form of a conspiracy theory. The propaganda of the Covid-19 conspiracy theory was carried out through social media. Belief in conspiracy theory was caused by three things, they were people needed definite and reasonable answer to the phenomenon of the Covid-19 pandemic, they wanted to have control over their lives, and the impact of Post Truth era. Keywords: Propaganda, Conspiracy Theory, Discourse, Covid-19

Disability on Arab screens: cripping class, religion, and gender in Syria, Egypt, and Lebanon

Arab cinema has not featured many protagonists with disabilities, but over the past two decades differently abled characters have appeared on movie and television screens in the Middle East and North Africa. From feature films to Ramadan serials, characters with Hansen’s Disease, Down Syndrome, autism, visual impairments, dwarfism, and missing limbs have emerged in films and television shows from Egypt, Syria, and Lebanon. Characters with disabilities in Yomeddine (Egypt), Behind the Sun (Syria), and Tale of Amal (Lebanon) challenge disability stigma in Arab cultures and highlight the toll of caregiving. While these portrayals, which all incorporate religious interpretations of disability and feature poor characters living on the margins, attempt to correct the absence of disability representations and discourse in Arab societies, they fall into familiar tropes of disability objectification by employing the ‘prosthetic’ of a disability narrative to explore other marginalized social issues like abortion, gender, race, and religious differences. Points of interest There is hardly any research on how disability is portrayed in film and television in Syria, Egypt, and Lebanon The research sheds important light on how disability and poverty intersect in Arab popular culture This paper discusses how religion (Islam in particular) is used to understand, interpret, and manage disability in Arab societies This research shows how Arab filmmakers are using film and television to advocate for more awareness and compassion for people with disabilities in Arab societies. This paper covers taboo subjects related to disability such as abortion, religious minorities, sexuality, and gender marginalization

The Dialectics of Disembedding and Civil Society in Provincial Hungary

This essay applies Karl Polanyi’s concepts of embedding and countermovement to provincial Hungary during and after socialism. Comprehensive state socialist repression in the 1950s was a politics-led disembedding. An economy-led countermovement began in the 1960s, later augmented by elite discourses of civil society. The 1970s and 1980s were decades of socialist embeddedness. Neoliberal configurations after 1990 dislocated both economic and associational life. The illiberal democracy of Viktor Orbán is a more consequential countermovement than the earlier countermovements to state socialism. The argument is illustrated with data from long-term fieldwork in southern Hungary, in the region of the Danube-Tisza Interfluve.