Diverse Society Research Articles

The behavioral mechanisms of voluntary cooperation across culturally diverse societies: Evidence from the US, the UK, Morocco, and Turkey

We examine the role of cooperative preferences, beliefs, and punishments to uncover potential cross-societal differences in voluntary cooperation. Using one-shot public goods experiments in four comparable subject pools from the US and the UK (two similar Western societies) and Morocco and Turkey (two comparable non-Western societies), we find that cooperation is lower in Morocco and Turkey than in the UK and the US. Using the ABC approach – in which cooperative attitudes and beliefs explain cooperation – we show that cooperation is mostly driven by differences in beliefs rather than cooperative preferences or peer punishment, both of which are similar across the four subject pools. Our methodology is generalizable across subject pools and highlights the central role of beliefs in explaining differences in voluntary cooperation within and across culturally, economically, and institutionally diverse societies. Because our behavioral mechanisms correctly predict actual contributions, we argue that our approach provides a suitable methodology for analyzing the determinants of voluntary cooperation of any group of interest.

Exploring the education in cultural competence and transcultural care in Spanish for nurses and future nurses: a scoping review and gap analysis

BackgroundGlobalization and population migration have led to increasingly culturally diverse societies, which has made nursing education in cultural competence and transcultural care a priority. This includes the ability to provide person-centered and culturally congruent care, even within one's own culture. However, this sort of training has been developed and implemented in practice comparatively more by English-speaking societies. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify the existing educational initiatives for nurses and future ones in cultural competence and transcultural care in Spanish and explore their didactic characteristics in terms of teaching and learning formats, contents, skills, and evaluation methods at different academic levels.MethodsA scoping review was carried out by following the specific PRISMA recommendations and those of the Joanna Briggs Institute guidance throughout PudMed, Web of Science, Embase, Google Scholar, and Cinahl databases and also gray literature in the form of official documentation that later was complemented with a gap analysis including training programs published by Spanish and Latin-American educational institutions and the approaches of key academic informants.ResultsThe published evidence on nursing training in cultural competence or related topics in Spanish-speaking higher education for nurses is limited. Specific nursing programs in Spanish-speaking universities are primarily found in Spain, with fewer options available in Latin America. These contents are offered either as optional subjects or immersed in other courses and mainly taught in theoretical sessions. Practice in real contexts is supposed to be evaluated transversally under the cultural scope according to national educational recommendations though barely visible in students’ evaluation reports. Even though postgraduate training dedicated to these issues exists, it is still limited, mixed with other contents, and generally depends on a few researchers investigating and publishing on the topic from very specific universities.ConclusionsIt is essential to establish a common global strategy including Spanish-speaking countries in nurses’ higher education and professional training on topics focused on cultural competence as well as the provision of nurses’ social and cultural sensitivity towards their own culture and to define whether those that currently exist are effective. It is also crucial that this training was evaluated in practice in order to achieve enough impact on students, health organizations, and population health.

Pop inclusion – images of a diverse and inclusive society in the latest tv series available on streaming platforms

Celem artykułu jest przybliżenie na wybranych przykładach zjawiska, któremu nadano miano pop-inkluzji. W najnowszych serialach (zarówno całkiem nowych, jak i w kontynuacjach) można zaobserwować uniwersalny schemat tworzenia świata przedstawionego, w którym obowiązującą zasadą staje się takie zróżnicowanie głównych i drugoplanowych postaci, które wprost we wzorcowy sposób odzwierciedla założenia społeczeństwa włączającego. Szczególną uwagę zwraca sposób prowadzenia wątków osób z niepełnosprawnościami, których obecność jest jedynie jednym z wielu przypadków maksymalnego zróżnicowania cech charakteryzujących bohaterki i bohaterów danej produkcji. Pop-inkluzja odnosi się do specyficznego i coraz powszechniejszego wykorzystania tematyki inkluzywnej w kulturze popularnej. W konsekwencji należy się zastanowić, na ile stała wręcz obecność zagadnień inkluzywnych w najnowszych serialach wiąże się z przemyślanymi działaniami popularyzatorskimi w tym zakresie. Chodzi zatem również o nowe rozważanie dydaktycznych (pedagogicznych) aspektów tekstów kultury popularnej.

On Politically-Driven Language Discrimination in Post-Soviet Space (from the Example of Occupied Abkhazia)

The aim of this paper is to reflect the policy of the government of Georgia towards creating higher education opportunities for the youth residing in Abkhazia and outline the supporting measures taken by the Georgian side that contribute to Abkhazian youth’s integration into the mainstream of academia locally and worldwide. Accordingly, as the background of the issue, we start with a brief description of the language ideology in the occupied area and then move to a discussion of the factors which demonstrate the opportunities that ensure and simplify access to higher quality education in Georgia as well as abroad for the targeted group. There are two substantive issues: first, Russian language ideology imposition on Abkhaz youth and, second, the benefits of acquiring a degree in Georgia. We argue that the collapse of the Soviet Union and Georgia’s recent pro-Western politics have paved the road to new possibilities for cultivating a linguistically diverse, multiethnic, and tolerant society throughout Georgia. Young people living in both the occupied region and Georgia represent the generation that should cohabitate and find a common path of understanding and peace in order to build a common better future.

Resonance of Traditions: Ancient Bhartiya Communication in a Contemporary Context

India is one of the oldest and most diverse civilizations in the world. It has a rich and varied history of communication, spanning from prehistoric times to the modern era. Ancient India was a diverse and complex society that developed various forms of communication over time. India has witnessed the development and evolution of various forms of communication, such as symbols, languages, scripts, literature, art, media, and technology. India has also contributed to the global communication system through its inventions, innovations, and influences. Ancient Indians used different languages, scripts, symbols, gestures, arts, and technologies to communicate with each other and with other cultures. Some of the main aspects of ancient Indian communication

Cohousing design guidelines for better social integration in the United Arab Emirates

Considering cohousing as a new typology in the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) housing market is a challenge due to the cultural and societal dimensions. However, the variety of societies in the Emirates reflecting various habits, experiences, and traditions can allow testing such new types of housing which can be adapted to the local context, considering the needs of the society. This study aims at developing design guidelines for future cohousing in the UAE, considering the pillars of the Estidama program, i.e., social, cultural, economic, and environmental aspects, in addition to the role of architecture design. The present study is based on an empirical investigation from the viewpoint of future cohousing residents in the UAE. Semi-structured interviews considering 87 individuals were conducted. Moreover, a focus group discussion targeting eight professionals was performed. Furthermore, the Quality Function Deployment (QFD) method was applied to include the people’s voices directly when developing the design guidelines for cohousing in the UAE. The study showed that the aspects of culture and privacy are crucial in the future of cohousing in the UAE. In addition, providing local facilities such as majlis and praying rooms is vital to consider. Moreover, other aspects such as sustainable design, universal design, and safety are also valuable. For the outdoor environment, the study highlighted the importance of urban design quality, landscape solutions, shading, and natural ventilation strategies in outdoor spaces. Future cohousing in the UAE is expected to enhance social interaction and contribute to sustainability in the long-term perspective.

Dancing with decolonial praxis: LBQ women and non-binary people’s subcultures in Lusaka, Zambia

ABSTRACT This article explores the subcultures and experiences of LBQ (lesbian, bisexual, and queer) women and non-binary individuals in Lusaka, Zambia, against the backdrop of draconian anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and rising homophobia in Africa. Drawing upon decolonial feminist methodology, the study investigates how these marginalised communities navigate hostile environments where their sexual orientation is criminalised and stigmatised by both the state and society. It begins by discussing the intersection of colonialism, religious influence, and cultural contexts in perpetuating discriminatory trends. It delves into the clandestine world of queer parties and activism in Lusaka, examining the everyday practices of decoloniality undertaken. The research methodology employed intellectual decolonisation to engage participants in the co-creation of knowledge and alternative narratives of Zambian citizenship and womanhood. By showcasing the resilience and resistance of LBQ women and non-binary individuals who form supportive networks, the article challenges the dominant construction of Zambia as a nation built on cisgender heteronormative and conservative religious values. It illuminates the vibrant subcultures and community formations that emerge despite legal barriers and patriarchal interpretations of traditional culture. The article contributes to a living archive of queer African experiences and expands the understanding of Zambian identities beyond conventional norms. It underscores the transformative potential of decolonial methodologies in challenging exclusionary notions of nationhood and fostering a more inclusive and diverse society.

Diuretic activity evaluation and chemical composition analysis of Hedyotis scandens extract from Mizoram, India, in rat models

Ethnopharmacological relevanceDiuretics play a crucial role in addressing various medical conditions such as hypertension and edema. Across numerous communities, plants have served as diuretic agents, leveraging their abundant phytochemical composition. In certain instances, plant-based remedies have gained preference over synthetic drugs due to their affordability and ready availability. Hedyotis scandens Roxb., commonly recognized as Laikingtuibur/Kelhnamtur in Mizoram, belongs to the Rubiaceae family. This plant has been harnessed worldwide within diverse societies as a medicinal resource to combat a spectrum of ailments. Notably, in Mizoram, the leaves are employed in creating a decoction with diuretic properties. The ethnopharmacological exploration of plant diuretics not only preserves cultural traditions but also contribute to the potential discovery of novel therapeutic agents. Aim of the studyOur study endeavours to explore the traditional employment of this plant as a diuretic in Mizoram. Furthermore, we seek to elucidate the plant's chemical composition through the utilization of GC-MS analysis. Materials and methodsIn this investigation, we conducted plant extraction using methanol and distilled water as solvents within a soxhlet apparatus. Prior to commencing the main experiment, we conducted an acute toxicity test to ensure the safety of the plant extract. For the assessment of diuretic activity, we adopted the methodology outlined by Lipschitz et al. (1943). All in vivo experiments were conducted in strict accordance with the guidelines set forth by the OECD. Based on the outcomes of the acute toxicity evaluation, we opted for three dosage levels: a high dose (1000 mg/kg), a medium dose (500 mg/kg), and a low dose (250 mg/kg). Furosemide, recognized as a loop diuretic, was employed as the standard reference, while the control group received distilled water. ResultsOur investigation unveiled the presence of several uncharacterized bioactive compounds within the plant. Of particular interest, the GC-MS analysis identified a specific compound named 'phytol,' which has previously been associated with diuretic properties. Notably, the acute toxicity assessment demonstrated the plant extract's safety even at a high dose of 5000 mg/kg, as no toxic effects were observed. The diuretic evaluation of the H. scandens extract exhibited a dose-dependent increase in diuresis, with the methanolic extract yielding notably superior outcomes compared to the aqueous extract. Moreover, the treated animals displayed an elevated output of electrolytes and an enhanced glomerular filtration rate in comparison to the control group. Notably, the histological examination of the kidneys from the treated animals depicted a normal structural configuration, devoid of any cellular-level modifications attributed to the plant extract across all tested doses. ConclusionThe Hedyotis scandens extract demonstrated a pronounced diuretic effect in contrast to the control group. As such, our study substantiates the traditional employment of this plant as a diuretic within the Mizoram region.

CULTURAL CAPITAL AND GENDER DISCRIMINATION IN THE FIELD OF EDUCATION: PIERRE BOURDIEU’S THEORY OF PRACTICE

Gender discrimination can be observed in all historical periods in diverse societies and cultures in all fields, especially in the field of education. Having chosen Parinoush Saniee’s The Book of Fate and Anne Brontë’s The Tenant of Wildfell Hall, the present paper attempts to plot complex connections between cultural capital, gender discrimination, and education. This paper scrutinizes and examines how cultural capital has engaged with and fostered gender discrimination in the field of education based on Pierre Bourdieu’s theory of practice. The findings of this study represent that the individuals’ culturallycreated habitus renders gender discrimination seems natural and therefore contributes to the continuation of masculine domination and women’s submissiveness in the field of education. This paper also demonstrates that women are ultimately submitted to the prevailing culture of the patriarchal society in which they live despite their efforts to resist the confinements imposed on them by that culture.

Towards Building a More Diverse, Equitable, and Inclusive Society: Interactive Sessions with the HFES Csouncil of Affinity Group (COAG) Leads

Human Factors and Ergonomics (HF/E) professionals, as part of their job, are required to consider the differences and varying perspectives of their human stakeholders (e.g., users, customers, teammates, sponsors). Beyond the performance of purely HF/E methodologies, practicing empathy and engaging with affinity groups (AGs) are recognized methods for researchers, designers, engineers, or product managers to achieve such understanding. In this two-part panel, the leaders of AGs and of the Council of Affinity Group (COAG) of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES) will engage with the audience in conversational and interactive sessions aimed at both discussing and practicing empathy and engagement with community groups including AGs. The first session will be focused on experiential learning through interactive exercises. The second session will be reflective in nature and oriented toward follow-on actions and behavior change within and outside HFES. The sessions are expected to promote DEI in our HFES community and beyond. Discussion time: Two sessions (90 minutes each), one at the beginning of the conference and the second toward the end of the conference.

Multicultural Islam in the Ottoman Turkish Civilization during the Medieval Era

The objective of this study is to explore the Ottoman Empire's management model in navigating a diverse, multiethnic, and multireligious society, thereby fostering an advanced and dynamic civilization. Employing a qualitative approach with a content analysis model during data interpretation, this research identifies a synergistic alignment between the open policy and the empire's response to ethnic, cultural, and religious differences. This alignment stems from the extensive conquest process and the organic awareness within the community, influencing social interactions. The open policy, characterized by the establishment of local entities such as readers, millets, reāyā, sipähis, and timars, facilitates the accommodation of diverse interests, worship practices, and cultural expressions. This policy is instrumental in supporting a society's multicultural awareness, fostering openness to cultural assimilation, and promoting respect for religious practices. Notably, Islam is positioned as a safeguard to ensure the enforcement of power supremacy as outlined in The Ottoman code, but the state largely refrains from intervening in religious activities and cultural expressions unless there is a clear threat to its authority. This awareness of distinct private and public spheres fosters a pluralistic and multicultural reality within Ottoman society, with the state adopting a relatively moderate position.

The Experiences of Black Students in Physical Therapy Education in Texas: A Qualitative Study.

Racial or ethnic minorities are underrepresented in many health care professions, including physical therapy. Understanding the experiences of minority students in graduate education provides insight into how physical therapy educational programs can promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, which are factors that have been shown to improve patient outcomes. The purpose of this study is to qualitatively analyze and describe the lived experiences of Black student physical therapists (PT) in Texas. Currently, there is a lack of qualitative research that investigates the experiences of Black students in physical therapy education in the United States. Nineteen Doctor of Physical Therapy students from 8 different physical therapy educational programs in Texas. This qualitative study was conducted using a phenomenological approach. All participants took part in a focus group regarding their academic experiences. Students' dialogues were recorded and transcribed, and the researchers identified recurrent themes. After the analysis of focus group content, it was determined that the following 5 themes characterized the students' experiences: 1) Barriers to enrollment, 2) underrepresentation, 3) implicit and explicit racism, 4) code-switching, and 5) desired image. There is evidence to suggest that Black or African American students are subject to unique pressures that negatively affect their experiences during their PT education. Efforts need to be made by higher education institutions and individuals to provide a more inclusive environment to best support those students. By gaining awareness of the results of this study, educators and students can begin dialogues on how to foster inclusivity and cultural understanding in physical therapy education. Ultimately, understanding the experiences of others can improve how individuals coexist in an increasingly diverse society, and how clinicians provide patient-centered, culturally aware care to patients and clients.

An Example of Geographic Network Analysis: The Case Study of the Fortore Valley (Molise and Apulia, Italy)

Abstract Today, the Fortore River is the geographic and administrative boundary between the regions of Molise and Apulia. In the past decade, scholars have debated Fortore’s role during the pre-Roman and Roman periods, specifically focusing on how this physical boundary may have influenced the interaction and connectivity between Samnium (modern-day Molise) and Daunia (modern-day northern Apulia). Both ancient literary sources and archaeological finds indicate the situation is complicated, and it is challenging to locate the geographical and cultural borders, especially in the pre-Roman period. This article suggests a model to understand the past interaction between the two modern-day areas of Macchia Valfortore (Molise) and Carlantino (Apulia). These sites were in the proximity of the Fortore River, and an investigation of material culture in both locations revealed a complex and diverse society between the sixth century BC and the first century BC. The small-scale spatial networks constructed help to explain the interchange dynamics between the two districts and, furthermore, how each of them related to the ancient road system. The case study demonstrates, moreover, how a not conventional archaeological approach may also highlight the prominence of river connections for economic and social development.

Unveiling virtual chat group inclusiveness code of conduct by Nigerians

PurposeThis paper aims to unveil the general nature of virtual chat groups in multi-ethnic societies like Nigeria towards knowing whether and how diversity inclusiveness codes of conduct are encouraged and managed among virtual chat group participants.Design/methodology/approachData in this research was collected via five virtual focus groups of five to eight discussants each and was complemented by virtual field surveys. Responses were validated through verification of registered personal mobile phone numbers. Each design was implemented to cover Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. The research was broadly framed – according to the uses and gratification theory, social inclusion hypothesis and utilitarian theory of ethics.FindingsThe research shows how virtual chat groups can enhance understanding of diversities. However, virtual chat-group outcomes are better managed if anticipated gratifications are predictable and based on the utilization of stated conduct codes.Research limitations/implicationsGiven Nigeria’s vast population, the sample size for this study is not adequate nor systematic enough towards generalizations. However, the diverse background of focus group discussants enhances the vista for understanding inclusive virtual chats in diverse societies. Moreover, the instruments of research data collection were validated.Practical implicationsThis research points out that virtual chat groups’ codes of conduct are most effective when participants can anticipate collective gratifications. However, firmness and fairness in the implementation of code of conduct principles are essential for long-term virtual group chat sustenance.Social implicationsCode of conduct principles are essential for the long-term virtual chat group sustenance. When this is achieved, some of the social problems of Nigeria may be solved, and the social, ethnic and religious differences may not hinder the proper development of the country.Originality/valueThe research exposes the nature and role of virtual chat group communication inclusivity codes of conduct amidst participants’ demographic diversity.

Linguistic prejudice and electoral discrimination: What can political theory learn from sociolinguistics?

AbstractNormative political theorists working in the field of linguistic justice generally believe that participation in democratic life in linguistically diverse societies requires a shared lingua franca (e.g., Patten 2009; Van Parijs 2011). Even when a shared lingua franca is present, however, there is likely to be a variety of ways in which people speak it, due to variations in accent, pitch, register, and lexicon. This paper examines the implications of intra‐linguistic diversity for democracy and political representation. More specifically, by drawing on Andrew Rehfeld's (2010) work and on relevant sociolinguistics research, the paper argues that widespread unconscious linguistic prejudice constitutes a constraint on some citizens' right to run for political office that is incompatible with democratic equality. The argument is illustrated via a number of examples concerning Australian politicians.

What Makes a Citizen? Contemporary Immigration and the Boundaries of Citizenry

Abstract How do native-born Americans evaluate citizenship claims made by immigrant groups? Prior research identifies three broad patterns: respondents (1) make judgments based on immigrants’ willingness to adhere to national norms and civic values, (2) rely on ethnoracial cues, and (3) rely on economic cues. Using a conjoint survey experiment, this is the first study to examine how these patterns hold across two distinct dimensions of citizenship—legal membership (being considered a citizen of the state) and cultural membership (being perceived as a fellow American). The results reveal that legal status and age of arrival are powerful determinants for attitudes toward legal membership. By contrast, ethnoracial boundaries have a more significant impact on cultural membership, even after accounting for key predictors, such as legal status and English proficiency. Moreover, we show that evaluations of citizenship claims differ for White and non-White Americans in meaningful ways. Compared to White respondents, Black and Latino respondents express higher levels of ingroup preference for legal membership, and Latinos are significantly more likely to use an inclusive definition of cultural membership. In tandem, these results highlight the importance of measuring citizenship as a multidimensional concept and the limitations of focusing on the dominant group to understand immigration attitudes in contemporary diverse societies.

Exploring The Gradual Islamization of Tana Toraja In South Sulawesi

The profound journey of Islam's expansion in South Sulawesi during the 15th century resulted in a gradual uptake of Islam within the Toraja region. This delayed acceptance, compared to other areas in South Sulawesi, is frequently attributed to the use of force during Islam's expansion. This perception highlights the challenge of promoting tolerance between the Muslim minority and Christian majority in the region. To understand the complexities of this phenomenon, this study seeks to explore factors beyond violence that contributed to the slow pace of Islamization. Employing a qualitative approach based in anthropology, the research delves into historical and cultural contexts. It finds that forceful Islamization efforts by figures like the Bone Kingdom, Kahar Muzakkar, and Andi Sose, actually hampered the spread of Islam due to the negative cultural impacts they created. Instead, it was the migration of Muslims to Toraja for trade that played a key role in introducing Islam to the region. Intermarriages further altered the dynamics, shifting Islamization from a conversion-focused approach to one based on family connections. This had consequences for how Islamic communities developed, depending on the choices of second-generation Muslims. The slow pace of Islamization also influenced various aspects of social and religious life, leading the Toraja people to develop nuanced responses. They managed change by emphasizing positive aspects of Islam while minimizing negative ones, aiming to maintain peace within their religiously diverse society. Thus, the Toraja actively engaged in managing the evolving religious landscape, adapting their practices to maintain communal harmony.

Sikh parents’ perception on the practice of diverse sexual identities

ABSTRACT This article explores the perspectives of Malaysian Sikh parents on sexual identity and their interpretation of the Guru Granth Sahib. As a minority in a diverse society, their views are significant in understanding global sexual diversity. This study is based on the parental acceptance-rejection theory and utilizes a hybrid strategy to collect data, primarily through questionnaires and interviews. The findings reveal that Sikh parents have uncertainty about natural laws related to sexual orientation and hold misconceptions about non-heterosexual identification. It emphasizes the need to promote awareness, acceptance, and education within religious institutions to combat discrimination and support the well-being of the LGBTQ community.

Young children co‐constructing science: The importance of their families and cultural communities

AbstractThere is considerable agreement among scientists, educators, and policymakers about the need to broaden participation in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education. Yet, equity requires much more than increasing STEM access for marginalized groups of children. In this invited commentary, we raise two critical points for the field to continue to grapple with as we investigate ways to engage young minds in STEM learning. It is critical that research with young children focuses on the process of doing science, while appreciating that the process of scientific thinking and learning are culturally constructed and situated. Specifically, as researchers and educators, we must do better at contextualizing children's scientific thinking process as it unfolds in their daily lives—with their peers, families, and in their cultural communities. Specific studies highlighted throughout this essay seek to document and promote family, community, and teaching practices that are effective for supporting young children's learning and explorations in STEM across our increasingly diverse society. We propose opportunities for future researchers to focus their efforts, including the following: more multidisciplinary work that includes synthesis across disciplines and methodological traditions; more diverse samples and investigative teams, such that cultural insiders are full participants; more descriptive studies focusing on the everyday experiences in children's lives that promote the development of scientific thinking and practices; and practice‐informed research.

‘Widening the Lens’

Abstract The enduring significance of the Second World War persists into contemporary times. However, within the realm of historical scholarship, the experiences of Southern Africa during this global conflict have often been overshadowed by dominant narratives focused on Europe, Asia, and North America. While existing research has primarily emphasised contributions and sacrifices made on continental and foreign battlefields for colonial empires, this special issue seeks to address these scholarly lacunae. Gathering an assortment of articles authored by a new generation of Southern African historians, this collection seeks to widen the lens through which the regional impact of the Second World War is understood by challenging conventional historical approaches. Through critically examining the region’s political, economic, and social landscape before, during, and after the war, this special issue illuminates the multifaceted repercussions of the global conflict on Southern Africa and its diverse societies.