Cultural Divides Research Articles

Politeness in Acculturation: How Power Dynamics Shape Intercommunication Between Chinese and Western Culture

This research focuses on the attempts of individuals at different social levels within Chinese and Western cultural backgrounds to communicate and collaborate harmoniously. Based on the politeness principle proposed by American professor Grace, the research will explore the specific application in both China and Western cultures from three dimensions: hierarchical relations on honorifics and conditional sentences, implicatures and indirectness in a turn-taking. In detail, the research applies Jenny Thomas’s theoretical framework on Leech’s conversational maxims and the four factors influencing directness and aspires to examine and investigate the differentiated applications of the politeness principle in specific cultural dynamics. The researcher will examine dialogues in four classical texts such as King Lear, Pride and Prejudice, Dream of the Red Chamber and A New Accounts of Tales, alongside with the views of different scholars across the globe from different disciplinary angles. Ultimately, the research aims to provide theoretical insights for enhancing communication among multilingual talents in the post-pandemic era. These insights could facilitate more effective interactions and collaborations in an increasingly interconnected and acculturated world. Through this analysis, the researcher aims to bridge cultural divides and promote effective dialogue across diverse international business and social settings.

Humility in Diplomatic Service: The Exemplary Journey of Ambassador Bello Kazaure Husseini – A Personal Narrative

Purpose: This paper interrogates the indispensable role of humility within the diplomatic sphere, utilizing the exemplary career of Ambassador Bello Kazaure Husseini as a case study. The research aims to elucidate how humility acts as a facilitator of trust, strengthens diplomatic relations, and augments negotiation effectiveness, thereby challenging conventional paradigms that perceive humility as a liability in the realm of international relations. Materials and Method: Employing a qualitative methodology, this study conducts an in-depth analysis of Husseini’s multifaceted experiences - ranging from strategic diplomatic engagements to leadership roles and conflict resolution initiatives. This integrative assessment allows for a nuanced understanding of the relational dynamics and contextual variables at play in diplomatic practice. Findings: The findings reveal that Husseini’s approach, characterized by active listening, respectful engagement, and a prioritization of mutual understanding, cultivates an environment conducive to fruitful collaboration across cultural and political divides. Such a disposition has been instrumental in navigating intricate geopolitical realities while advancing Nigeria’s interests on the international stage. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: This study elucidates the practical implications of adopting humility as a core diplomatic strategy, thus providing an empirical foundation for the argument that humility can engender successful diplomacy.

Bridging cultural gaps in end-of-life care: the experiences of international charge nurses in Saudi Arabia

IntroductionThis qualitative study explores the experiences and perspectives of international intensive care unit charge nurses providing end-of-life care to Muslim patients in Saudi Arabia. It examines how these nurses navigate the complexities of delivering culturally sensitive care, particularly regarding Islamic beliefs and practices. The study also investigates the challenges encountered by international nurses due to differing healthcare expectations between themselves and patients’ families, highlighting the interplay between cultural sensitivity and effective end-of-life care in this unique context.MethodA qualitative descriptive design was employed, using semi-structured interviews to gather data from eight international ICU charge nurses working in a tertiary hospital in Saudi Arabia. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the interview transcripts.ResultsThis qualitative study explored the experiences of international ICU charge nurses in Saudi Arabia regarding culturally sensitive end-of-life care within Islamic traditions. Analysis revealed nine key themes and 31 subthemes reflecting the multifaceted nature of this sensitive domain. These themes encompassed intercultural anxieties, emotional burdens on families and nurses, the importance of bridging cultural divides, advocating for change in end-of-life care practices, and honoring diverse spiritual needs. Key findings emphasized the significance of family presence, honoring faith in the absence of family, and ensuring peaceful and compassionate passings, highlighting nurses’ commitment to holistic, patient-centered care that respects both cultural and individual beliefs..ConclusionThis study provides valuable insights into the cultural nuances of end-of-life care in Saudi Arabia. The findings underscore the importance of culturally sensitive practices that respect Islamic beliefs, prioritize family involvement, and address the holistic needs of patients and their families.ImplicationsThis study underscores the need for culturally sensitive communication training for healthcare providers working with diverse patient populations. Hospitals and healthcare institutions should prioritize educational initiatives that equip staff with the skills to engage in open dialogues about death and dying, navigate cultural differences in end-of-life preferences, and address the use of traditional healing practices. By fostering greater cultural understanding and communication competency, healthcare systems can better support both patients and families in navigating the complexities of end-of-life care.

Health Professionals on Cross-Sectoral Collaboration Between Mental Health Hospitals and Municipalities: A Critical Discourse Analysis.

This study investigates the role of language in cross-sector collaboration between mental health hospitals and municipalities, focusing on the challenges of maintaining continuity of care and integrating patient-centered approaches. Using Fairclough's framework for critical discourse analysis, we examined focus group interviews with 21 healthcare professionals, including nurses, social workers, and psychiatrists, to identify key themes and patterns in how cross-sector collaboration is discussed. The analysis revealed a dominant medicalized discourse in hospital settings, which often emphasized structured care processes like treatment plans and medication management, overshadowing more flexible, patient-centered approaches common in community-based services. Power dynamics were evident, with hospital professionals frequently positioned as active agents, while patients and community-based workers were portrayed in more passive roles. Although efforts to involve patients in decision-making were noted, these were often controlled by professionals, reflecting a mediated approach to patient empowerment. The findings highlight the cultural and structural divides between hospital and community services and suggest the need for improved communication strategies, integrated care pathways, and a shift toward more inclusive, patient-centered care models. Addressing these discursive barriers is crucial for achieving more effective, integrated, and patient-centered care, ultimately improving outcomes for patients.

The Role Of The Press In Shaping Public Opinion During The Freedom Struggle

The role of the press during the freedom struggle was instrumental in shaping public opinion and galvanizing the masses against colonial oppression. As India sought independence from British rule in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, newspapers, journals, and pamphlets emerged as vital tools for disseminating nationalist ideas and fostering political awareness. The press not only reported on events but also provided a platform for political discourse, allowing voices from diverse communities to contribute to the independence narrative. Great figures such as Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Mahatma Gandhi, and other leaders utilized the press to articulate their visions for a free India, framing the struggle in terms of justice and self-determination. Newspapers like "The Hindu," "The Times of India," and "The Tribune" played crucial roles in informing the public about the injustices of colonial rule, inspiring a collective consciousness among various strata of society. Editorials, articles, and letters to the editor encouraged civic engagement and mobilized support for protests, strikes, and other forms of resistance. The press faced significant challenges, including censorship and repression from colonial authorities, which often sought to suppress dissenting voices. Despite these obstacles, many journalists and editors risked their safety to publish revolutionary ideas and expose the realities of British exploitation. This resilience illustrated the press's commitment to truth and justice, fostering an environment where public sentiment could coalesce around the freedom movement. The emergence of vernacular publications further broadened the reach of nationalist sentiments, ensuring that the message of independence resonated across linguistic and cultural divides. These publications played a crucial role in educating the masses and instilling a sense of pride and identity that transcended regional differences. The press was not merely a bystander but a catalyst in the freedom struggle, shaping public opinion and uniting diverse groups against colonial rule. Its influence extended beyond immediate political outcomes, contributing to the formation of a national consciousness that would endure long after independence was achieved. This study highlights the indispensable role of the press in the socio-political landscape of the freedom struggle, illustrating its enduring legacy in contemporary society.

Engaging Students and Expanding the Canon of Knowledge through Empathy-Based Pedagogy

Abstract: Traditional classroom pedagogies often place implicit pressures on students to connect their own experiences with assigned texts and materials, all under the guise of fostering intellectual investment and engagement. While the development of a narrative identity is vital for personal growth, an excessive focus on identity can reinforce cultural divides and exclude students who might not relate directly to the material, ultimately hindering their learning. This paper explores how the incorporation of empathy-based pedagogy can help teachers transform traditional learning styles and bridge the gap between (sometimes resistant) student engagement and course material.

A Study of Subtitle Translation from the Perspective of Multimodal Discourse Analysis: A Case of My People, My Country

In the context of globalization, audio-visual works produced by ever-evolving information technology provide a quick and convenient channel for bridging cultural divides and communicating with people from all over the world. People harness these productions not only to satisfy their own entertainment needs but also to gain information about other cultures. As manifold cultures and races become increasingly interconnected, the need for intercultural communication is particularly urgent, and with abundant European and American films and cultural productions taking over the world, the significance of subtitle translation cannot be understated. On the surface, subtitle translation transforms one language into another and puts it on screen at the same time. However, at a deeper level, subtitling involves a wide range of cultural and social contexts in both the source and target languages. Translators need to not only use their translation skills to select words and sentences, but also have a deep understanding of the social and cultural aspects of both languages. This is the only way to smoothly accomplish the language transfer and help the audience accurately make sense of the meaning of the words in the film. At the same time, China has entered a new era and is facing unprecedented changes in a century. Only by spreading its own culture, promoting the achievements of excellent Chinese civilization, and gaining widespread international recognition will it be able to stand firm and progress against the tide of globalization. However, even though Chinese film and television products are constantly being produced and innovated every year, there are certain shortcomings in the dissemination of film and television works and the study of subtitle translation. This thesis takes Professor Zhang Delu’s theoretical framework of multimodal discourse analysis as its perspective and selects the subtitle corpus of the film My People, My Country, which was released around National Day in 2019 to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, as the object of study. Based on the integrated framework of multimodal discourse analysis, the author carefully selects typical examples from My People, My Country to analyze the effects of multimodal discourse analysis on subtitle translation at the cultural, contextual, content, and expression levels, and investigates how different modalities work together to vividly convey the meaning of the film’s discourse. In conclusion, multimodal discourse analysis theory has injected new momentum into the study of subtitle translation applications, breaking away from the traditional monomodal and symbolic studies and contributing to the international dissemination of more domestic audio-visual cultural products.

The Beowulf Group: Taking the lead to defend Europe

Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine has exposed divisions in European strategic culture and threat perception. The search for a lowest-common-denominator response to the threat has hampered the European reply to the Russian aggression, often forcing the EU to move at the speed of its slowest member, whether in supplying ammunition and equipment to Ukraine or setting up the defence industry needed to accelerate such a supply in the future. Notwithstanding the importance of keeping a broad coalition together, this article argues that it is now time to create a vanguard of like-minded European nations, led by France, Poland and, though not an EU member, the UK, but open to other states, which can force the creation of a new strategic culture able to meet the Russian threat. This ‘Beowulf Group’, named after the Danish hero from the Anglo-Saxon epic who stood up to the marauding monster Grendel, could establish a Strategic College for Europe, a joint Elite European Reserve Legion and a strategic communications centre, to move European policy in a more active direction.

Intra-ethnic divisions and disagreement over self-determination demands in ethnic movements

Abstract Ethnic movements continue to challenge state governments globally, with many ethnic conflicts revolving around the status of groups’ territories. Yet, politically mobilized ethnic groups vary considerably in their territorial demands: some press for increased autonomy or even outright secession, while others do not make such demands at all and prefer integration in the existing state. What explains this divergence in ethnic group demands with respect to the group's territorial status? We argue that the expected benefits of ethno-regional autonomy or secession compared to integration in a centralized state differ across distinct segments within the group as a function of three structural factors: heterogeneity in the group's income sources, cultural divisions, and territorial fragmentation, leading to disagreement over self-determination demands between different political organizations representing the same ethnic group. We test our argument using an expanded version of the Ethnic Power Relations–Organizations (EPR-O) dataset. Our pre-registered study finds support for one of our hypotheses: heterogeneity in groups’ income sources increases disagreement over self-determination demands. This finding sheds new light on the structural sources of internal divisions within ethno-political movements.

Creative Hubs and the Cultural Divide: Exploring European Creative Collaborations

Abstract The economies generated within the creative and cultural sectors are playing an increasing role in international competition between territories. Collaborations and synergies between territories can create the right conditions for the overall growth of cultural economies and make the them more attractive and better performing. Building collaborative cultural policies is challenging due to the parties’ differing attitudes, priorities, and resources. In this contribution, we have focused on the funds made available by the Framework Program of the European Commission dedicated to developing cultural and creative sectors. The analysis highlights the characteristics of a network of collaborations between partners of different cities. Our results show non-trivial features linked to the cultural-creative dimensions of cities. Findings unveil complex cultural-creative collaboration dynamics. Results show that effective collaborative policies require carefully balancing diverse attitudes. JEL classification numbers: L82, R58, Z11 Keywords: Creativity, cities network, enabling environment.

Hypoxia-induced mitochondrial fission regulates the fate of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells by maintaining HIF1α stabilization

For mesenchymal stem cells derived from bone marrow, a controlled reduction in ambient oxygen concentration has been recognized as a facilitator of osteogenic differentiation and the formation of calcium nodules. However, the specific molecular mechanisms underlying this phenotype remain unclear. The aim of this study was to elucidate the impact of hypoxia on the osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and to explore the involvement of mitophagy and the regulation of mitochondrial dynamics mediated by the mitochondrial dynamic regulatory factor FUN14 domain-containing 1 (FUNDC1). Our findings suggest that FUNDC1 is required for promoting osteogenic differentiation in BMSCs under hypoxic conditions. However, this effect was not dependent on FUNDC1-mediated mitophagy but rather on FUNDC1-mediated regulation of mitochondrial fission. At the mechanistic level, FUNDC1 binds more DNM1L and less OPA1 under hypoxic conditions, leading to an upsurge in mitochondrial division. This heightened mitochondrial division culminates in the increased translocation of Parkin to mitochondria, diminishing its interactions with HIF1α in the cytoplasm and consequently facilitating HIF1α deubiquitination and stabilization. In summary, FUNDC1-regulated mitochondrial division in hypoxic culture emerges as a critical determinant for the translocation of Parkin to mitochondria, ultimately maintaining HIF1α stabilization and promoting osteogenic differentiation.

The Effect of Sudan's April 2023 War on Medical Education and Prospects for Recovery

Background: Sudan’s historical narrative is marked by enduring sociopolitical challenges and deep cultural divisions that have sparked numerous conflicts. A recent escalation in hostilities on 2023, April 15 has dangerously pushed the nation to the brink of a full-scale civil war with potential regional ramifications. The resultant humanitarian crisis involves over 9000 fatalities, 12,000 injuries, and the displacement of six million people, now grappling with dire conditions in their new settlements. The ongoing conflict in Sudan has had a profound impact on the nation’s already challenged medical education (ME) sector, resulting in the complete destruction of buildings and infrastructure, widespread looting in conflict zones, and a nationwide disruption of educational activities. This review sheds light on the urgent and still unfolding crisis in ME and explores potential solutions to enhance global understanding of crisis management.Methods: The review utilizes the crisis management framework and draws insights from diverse sources such as literature, student-led webinars, and discussions with Sudanese ME experts. We have examined pre-existing challenges, analyzed the war’s impact on ME, and proposed a path forward. Results: Despite the profound devastation, this crisis offers a unique opportunity to revamp Sudan’s struggling ME system, introducing a community-centric and socially accountable approach. Conclusion: Through collaborative efforts, Sudan’s ME system has the potential to serve as a model for similar nations, effectively addressing the needs of its populace and fostering sustainable development.

Political and Intercultural Communication in Determining Presidential Candidates in the Indonesian Elections 2024

This study explores the dynamics of political communication in Indonesia, focusing on the 2024 presidential elections. As the country prepares for the presidential election in February 2024, since the general election is a form of post-reformation democratic process implementation that began in 1998, the process of forming political coalitions has become a significant aspect of the political landscape. Utilizing a phenomenological approach, the research examines the interplay between three distinct political cultures—parochial, subject, and participant—and their influence on voter engagement and candidate selection. Through in-depth interviews and participatory observation, the study reveals how political parties can tailor their communication strategies to resonate with diverse voter segments, thereby enhancing electoral participation and fostering a more inclusive democratic process. The findings highlight significant implications for political actors and scholars alike. By recognizing the unique characteristics and needs of each political culture, parties can develop effective coalition-building strategies that bridge cultural divides and mobilize support across Indonesia's heterogeneous electorate. This research not only fills existing gaps in the literature regarding the role of intercultural communication in Indonesian politics but also provides practical recommendations for political parties aiming to improve their engagement with voters. Ultimately, the study underscores the critical importance of adaptive communication strategies in promoting a more informed, engaged, and representative democratic system in Indonesia. Keywords: Elections, intercultural communication, political communication, political parties, presidential candidate.

Bridging Cultural Divides: The Role of Public Libraries in Taiwan in Enhancing Cultural Capital and Promoting Social Inclusion

ABSTRACT Drawing on cultural capital theory, this study investigates the activities of the National Taiwan Library (NTL) to understand how public libraries promote social inclusion by providing access to cultural resources that enhance individual and community cultural capital. The research examines how NTL contributes to the accumulation of cultural capital through its collections, programs, and services tailored to diverse groups. The findings highlight the transformative potential of public libraries in addressing societal inequalities by empowering individuals with the knowledge and cultural competence needed for active participation in society. The study underscores the importance of public libraries in bridging cultural divides and fostering a more inclusive community through strategic cultural capital development.

Haruki Murakami: A Global Literary Journey from Japan to the World

In a world increasingly shaped by globalization, the migration of literature across borders has become more fluid and pervasive than ever before. This phenomenon extends beyond literature to encompass music, film, and other forms of art, facilitated by advancements in technology that grant simple access to global audiences. Haruki Murakami, one of the most important figures of modern Japanese literature, emerges as one of the prime examples of writers who have transcended national boundaries to earn international acclaim. Understanding Murakami's ascent to prominence requires acknowledging the Westernization of Japanese literature following the Meiji period. This era marked Japan's transition from an isolated feudal society to a modernized nation influenced by Western ideals. The societal shift towards Westernization, driven by aspirations of military and economic strength, altered the reception of Japanese writers in Western literary circles. Murakami's immersion in Western culture, coupled with his experiences living abroad and his deliberate incorporation of Western motifs into his works, distinguishes him from his contemporaries in the Japanese literary scene. While critics may scrutinize his portrayal of Japan and find it lacking authenticity, Murakami's global appeal lies in his ability to capture universal themes of isolation, identity, and existential angst that resonate with readers worldwide. Murakami's journey from a local Japanese author to a global literary icon exemplifies the transformative power of literature in an increasingly interconnected world. By bridging cultural divides and transcending linguistic boundaries, Murakami's works serve as a testament to the enduring impact of storytelling in uniting humanity across the vast tapestry of human experience. In this context, this study aims to discuss Murakami's journey from his origins in the Japanese literary market to his recognition on the global stage.

Suicide Risks and Protections in Religious Communities: Two Exploratory Studies

It is imperative to understand possible protections against suicide because of the steadily climbing U.S. suicide rate. Religion has been associated with fewer suicidal behaviors. This study sought to explore the perspective of congregants experiencing suicidal behaviors (CESBs) on the risks and protections that they experience in their religious communities (RCs) in two separate studies. Study One included a purposive sample of 15 Christian congregants yielding seven codes: routine practices and deliberate suicide prevention efforts were inconsistent both before and during the pandemic lockdown, though RCs continued to operate. Cultures provided participants both protections and risks, while the pandemic amplified deep cultural divides already present before the pandemic. Study Two included a purposive sample of 20 congregants yielding six codes, core protections of a routinely provided worldview and deliberately provided theological teachings, risks of absent protections, aspirational tasks for faith leaders and RCs, inspiring stories of recovery, and some consistency with human flourishing with caution. CESBs in some RCs that have a norm of well-being hide their norm violation and expect rejection. RCs need training in order to provide deliberate suicide prevention protections and CESBs may provide counter-narratives to stigma in RCs and cultures.

Exploring the Interplay between Teacher Leadership and Self-Efficacy: A Systematic Literature Review (2013–2024)

This systematic review rigorously explores the reciprocal relationship between teacher leadership and self-efficacy across a range of educational and cultural settings. Drawing on eleven peer-reviewed studies from 2013 to 2024 and guided by the PRISMA framework, the analysis substantiates a robust, bidirectional link: teacher leadership significantly bolsters self-efficacy, which, in turn, profoundly impacts educational practices and outcomes. The dynamics of this relationship exhibit considerable variation across cultural divides, with collectivist settings predominantly favoring a collaborative approach that enhances collective efficacy and teamwork, whereas individualistic contexts tend to prioritize personal achievement and empowerment. The findings highlight the imperative for culturally tailored professional development programs and affirm the critical influence of teacher self-efficacy in driving educational innovation and reform. Despite the richness of the insights presented, the studies’ limited sample sizes and the specificity of their educational contexts may temper the broader applicability of the conclusions. This review recommends that future research adopt longitudinal and mixed-methods approaches to deepen the understanding of these interactions across diverse cultural landscapes, thereby enriching the theoretical and practical implications for global educational advancement.

Views of Arundhati Roy on Political, Genre, and Canonical Writers

This research paper examines the non-fictional works of Arundhati Roy through the lens of the notion of 'justice'. Justice is a crucial concept in every culture or political system. The past demonstrates that justice transcends language and cultural divides. Democracy encompasses the concept of justice thoroughly and inclusively, providing equal opportunity for all individuals in a community. The notion of democracy is included by the idea of justice. This project argues that the nonfictional works of Arundhati Roy may be analysed as discourse of justice, given their significant contribution to broader discussions on justice.

Ethnopolitics in a Mining Enterprise in Crisis: Revisiting the Albanian Miners’ Protests in Late Socialist Kosovo

Abstract This article presents a novel approach to explain ethnopolitical mobilization among Kosovo Albanian miners during the winter of 1988–1989. Based on a close reading of the mining enterprise’s journal, it identifies three factors accounting for the rising politicization of ethnicity in microlevel dynamics within the Trepça mining enterprise. First, the article points at ethnic grievances in intra-elite managerial tensions and miners’ unrest. It relates these to structural conditions generated by the shifting cultural divisions of labor in Kosovo mining. Second, the article looks at counter-mobilizational dynamics among Kosovo Albanian miners, which were directly provoked by Serbian ethnopolitical mobilization during Slobodan Milošević’s rise to power. In a final step, the article reconstructs socio-occupational realignments taking shape in the particular decision-making structures of the mining enterprise. Against a background of internal power struggles and reorganizations, the executive management and the miners found themselves on the defensive against party representatives and managerial competitors. Making use of the enterprise’s institutional setup, they established a strong ethnopolitical alliance, which culminated in the underground strike of February 1989. The article suggests that this approach can be valuable to study other cases of intersecting social and ethnopolitical mobilization.

NEW CINEPHILIA TASTE: A STUDY ON ACADEMICS’ TASTE IN THE CASE OF NETFLIX TÜRKİYE AND MUBI TÜRKİYE

This study examines the views of cinema academics, which can be called ‘new cinephiles’ and ‘masters of symbolic taste,’ on MUBI and Netflix streaming platforms. In the theoretical part of the study, the boundaries of taste are first emphasized in cultural consumption. Then, the views on the formation of boundaries formed by the consumption of cultural products were emphasized. Categorical boundaries play an important role in cultural consumption, dividing art as popular or elite and individuals as high or low culture. Bourdieu’s cultural capital theory emphasizes how individuals with high cultural capital create class distinctions. Previous studies have shown that upper-middle-class individuals or ‘cultural omnivores’ tend to appreciate high and popular culture. With the emergence of digital platforms, these boundaries are being reconsidered. Research suggests that algorithmic recommendation systems on these platforms shape users’ tastes and potentially reinforce existing social and cultural divisions. This study used qualitative research methods and a phenomenological design to investigate the impact of viewing preferences and digital platforms on class divisions. The findings reveal that while these platforms increase access to a wide range of content, they reinforce class-based viewing practices. Characteristics of new cinephiles: Participants show a deep attachment to films and use various digital devices to watch them, suggesting a nuanced interplay between technology, cultural consumption, and social stratification.