Cultural Exchange Research Articles

Wings of progress: The economic and social impacts of low-cost carriers in the Philippines

Low-cost carriers (LCCs) have become a significant force in the Philippine aviation industry, providing affordable air travel and contributing to regional economic and social development. However, the full extent of their economic, social, environmental, and infrastructural impacts has not been comprehensively studied. This study aims to evaluate the economic and social implications of LCCs in the Philippines, focusing on tourism growth, job creation, business development, and the accessibility and mobility of the population. The study also explores environmental challenges and infrastructural strains caused by the expansion of LCC operations. A mixed-methods approach was employed, incorporating quantitative data analysis of tourism statistics, employment rates, business growth, and regional economic output. Qualitative data were collected through interviews and surveys with stakeholders, including passengers, local businesses, government officials, and environmental agencies. Statistical tools such as regression analysis and chi-square tests were used to determine significance levels in the findings. The results demonstrate that LCCs have contributed significantly to regional economic growth, with a 25% increase in tourist arrivals and a 30% rise in tourism revenue. Social impacts include enhanced travel accessibility, increased cultural exchange, and improved quality of life. However, environmental challenges, such as a 15% increase in carbon emissions, highlight the need for sustainable practices. The study recommends further investment in airport infrastructure, implementation of sustainable aviation practices, and ongoing government support for regional tourism. Future studies should focus on long-term environmental impacts and strategies for reducing carbon footprints.

Cultural Assimilation and Identity Formation of Freedmen in the Roman Provinces: Case Studies from Gaul and Egypt

This essay discusses the cultural assimilation and identity formation of free people in Roman Gaul and the Egyptian provinces. Through comparative analyses, the article explores how freed people navigated new social roles and developed hybrid identities influenced by Roman, Celtic and Egyptian cultures. In Gaul, the freedmen underwent a mixed process of Romanisation and cultural exchange that resulted in the formation of a Roman-Celtic identity, especially among the elite. In contrast, Egyptian freedmen maintained a strong attachment to their native culture, despite widespread Roman and Hellenistic influences. The critical factors of urbanisation, socio-economic status and legal constraints shaped the distinctive identity trajectories of the freedmen in these provinces, providing insights into the complex interplay between power, identity and cultural integration in the Roman world. Overall, the cultural assimilation and identity formation of freed people in Roman Gaul and the Egyptian provinces highlight the complexity of cultural integration across different regions. By examining these processes, we gain deeper insights into the interplay between power, identity, and cultural adaptation within the Roman Empire.

Applications of Vedic Mathematics in Computer Science

The convergence of ancient wisdom and modern computation is an intriguing frontier explored in this research paper, which investigates the potential application of Vedic Mathematics in the domain of Computer Science. Vedic Mathematics, originating from ancient Indian texts known as the Vedas, offers a distinct approach to mathematical problem - solving that emphasizes mental agility, pattern recognition, and elegant algorithms. This paper delves into the historical context of Vedic Mathematics, tracing its origins and key principles, and highlights its relevance in contemporary Computer Science. The intersection of Vedic Mathematics and Computer Science is illuminated through the identification of shared principles, such as pattern recognition and optimization. The paper explores specific Vedic Mathematics techniques that have the potential to enhance computational efficiency, including the "Nikhilam" method for subtraction and the "Vertically and Crosswise" method for multiplication. Case studies are presented to demonstrate the practical application of Vedic Mathematics techniques in Computer Science, spanning areas such as data processing, algorithmic optimization, and error detection and correction. However, this integration is not without its challenges and ethical considerations. The paper addresses concerns about accuracy and reliability, particularly when integrating unconventional mathematical techniques into modern computational paradigms. Cultural sensitivity and proper acknowledgment of the origins of Vedic Mathematics are paramount, as is the need to ensure that the techniques are accessible to a diverse audience. The ethical implications of cross - cultural knowledge exchange are also explored, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and respect. Looking ahead, the paper outlines potential research directions and implications for education in Computer Science. The integration of Vedic Mathematics offers opportunities for developing novel algorithms, enhancing problem - solving skills, and fostering cross - cultural understanding. Collaborations between mathematicians and computer scientists are highlighted as a promising avenue for innovation in algorithmic design. In conclusion, the fusion of Vedic Mathematics and Computer Science represents a dynamic interplay of ancient traditions and modern advancements. As we navigate the complexities of integration, we embark on a journey that transcends disciplinary boundaries, fosters cultural appreciation, and holds the potential to reshape computational methodologies in the digital age.

Graffiti as a Catalyst for Urban Creativity: Exploring Agency, Participation, and the Right to the City in Nairobi

This article examines graffiti as a catalyst for urban creativity in Nairobi, focusing on how young people use it to assert agency and reshape public spaces. Drawing on the concepts of the ‘right to the city’ and DIY urbanism, the study analyses two key graffiti projects to explore graffiti’s role in reclaiming public spaces from capitalist and political control. Based on research conducted from 2015 to 2018 across Nairobi’s neighborhoods, the findings highlight graffiti’s potential for civic engagement and placemaking despite challenges like gender inequality and th transient nature of urban art. The study argues that graffiti offers low-cost, impactful ways to foster cultural exchange, civic participation, and creativity in Nairobi’s rapidly evolving urban landscape.

From remittances to representation: the Asian diaspora in development and politics

Purpose Through its transnational networks, the Asian diaspora builds a bridge between the nations of origin and the host countries, greatly contributing to growth. To advance development initiatives in Asia and elsewhere, it is imperative to acknowledge the potential and complexity of these networks. The purpose of this study is to investigate how Asian diaspora-created transnational networks contribute to development outcomes. It aims to comprehend the ways in which these networks impact the social, cultural and economic development of both the host and home countries. The economic, social and cultural contributions made by the Asian diaspora and their international networks are evaluated in this study in relation to development. Design/methodology/approach The existing literature review emphasises the diverse role of the Asian diaspora in development, including remittances, investment, knowledge transfer and cultural exchange. Findings It recognises the potential of diaspora engagement in development projects, but there are still gaps in understanding the dynamics of transnational networks and their influence on development outcomes. This study aims to uncover the complex ways in which the global networks of the Asian diaspora contribute to development. Identifying the factors that help or hinder their effectiveness will provide policymakers and development practitioners with insights to harness these networks for sustainable progress. Originality/value Understanding the networks will have significant ramifications for both the host and home nations. It will highlight the significance of transnational connections in fostering economic, social and cultural development in Asia and how crucial it is to use the Asian diaspora’s transnational networks to their full potential in the larger conversation about connection and global development.

The 2024 American Orthopaedic Association-Japanese Orthopaedic Association Traveling Fellowship.

In 1992, the American Orthopaedic Association-Japanese Orthopaedic Association (AOA-JOA) Traveling Fellowship was created to develop and enhance collaboration between the Japanese and American orthopaedic communities. The fellowship is geared to early-career surgeons and fosters clinical and cultural exchange between members of the 2 countries. In 2024, the fellows hailed from around the United States: Kelly K. Hynes, Lucas S. McDonald, Joshua A. Parry, Joseph H. Schwab, and Byron F. Stephens all participated in the program. During the 3-week fellowship, the fellows visited 8 academic centers across Japan and attended the JOA Annual Meeting in Fukuoka. This experience was incredibly rewarding, both clinically and professionally, and all the fellows returned home with novel ideas for their clinical practices.

Digital Narratives: Representations of Bali in Virtual Tourist Communities

The digital narratives within virtual tourist communities on Bali highlight the island’s rich cultural heritage through diverse themes and discussions. Platforms like TripAdvisor, Facebook, and Reddit play a significant role in shaping perceptions, providing a space where travelers share experiences and insights. Key themes include romanticized portrayals, spirituality, cultural exchange, and ethical considerations, collectively shaping a nuanced digital portrayal of Bali. This analysis was carried out using qualitative methods to explore these narratives and uncover underlying motivations, sentiments, and cultural insights shared within the communities. Ultimately, these discussions encourage responsible tourism and promote Bali’s unique cultural values on a global scale. The significance of this research lies in demonstrating how digital spaces can foster meaningful connections between global audiences and local cultures. By promoting environmental and cultural awareness, these virtual communities help preserve Bali’s identity and heritage in the face of increasing mass tourism.

Reimagining the Globe and Cultural Exchange: The East Asian Legacies of Matteo Ricciʼs World Map, edited by Laura Hostetler

Reimagining the Globe and Cultural Exchange: The East Asian Legacies of Matteo Ricciʼs World Map, edited by Laura Hostetler

Paradigms of Georgia's Transit Potential in the Context of Contemporary Global Challenges

As the centuries pass, global civilization continues to evolve, fostering the progress of globalization processes. Consequently, contemporary society witnesses the increasing convergence of social, economic, political, and demographic processes, which amplifies the significance of international economic activities among nations. Throughout the stages of civilizational development, trade and transportation relations between states have been of paramount importance. In today’s context, this is even more pronounced, as the transportation of goods, transit, and customs procedures serve as mechanisms for shaping economic, social, and political relations among nations. Furthermore, they support developing countries in establishing themselves within regional and international trade markets. Georgia is no exception. Historically, it was a significant part of the Silk Road, linking East and West, facilitating the exchange of goods, cultures, and ideas. The strategic location of our country at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia plays a vital role in regional and international transportation and trade. Georgia acts as a key connector, bridging historically distinct Europe and Asia. Thus, Georgia’s transit corridor emerges as a crucial element of regional and international transport and trade networks. The primary aim of this scientific work is to determine Georgia’s importance as a major transit country in the context of significant socio-economic developments of recent years. The subject of this study is the current state of Georgia’s transit potential, including goods transported via transit and the role of the TIR carnet system in these processes. The object of research is Georgia’s transit corridor and its geo-economic realities. Georgia is actively developing transit infrastructure to further enhance its role as a regional and international transit hub. Its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, combined with ongoing infrastructure projects and efforts to improve transport connectivity, positions Georgia as a leading player in transit development. The country has established connections with neighboring states – Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Turkey – as well as with major trading nations such as the United States, China, and Eastern European countries

Cultural Variations in Parenting Styles and Their Impact on Child Development

Abstract: With the advancement of globalization and the increase in cultural exchanges, a parenting style that adapts to globalization is necessary in order to better raise a new generation of newborns. The study explored the differences in parenting styles (PS) under different cultural backgrounds and their impact on children's development. The article focused on the interaction between culture and PS, using Baumrind's parenting style framework to review literature from different regions such as China, the United States, Nigeria, Spain and Singapore. By analyzing these articles, it was found that culture and social models were factors causing parenting style differences, but the authoritative parenting style is considered to be the best one among the four styles in most countries. PS have a profound influence on childrens psychological, social, academic, and personal value generation, and the style will be passed on to children and show some similarities in their future behaviours. This study reveals the impact of cultural background on PS and its profound role in the all-round development of children, providing important theoretical basis and practical guidance for cross-cultural education and parent-child relationships in the era of globalization.

The Role of the United States as a Democracy Promoter: Impacts on Developing Countries

Abstract: In recent years, there has been a significant shift in the global landscape of democracy, particularly in developing countries. This has led to a re-evaluation of strategies for promoting democratic processes in different countries and has highlighted the role of the United States in this process. Thus, this paper examines this multi-level aspect by looking at how the U.S. contributes to promoting democratic values, especially in developing states. It also analyzes the pattern of U.S. democracy promotion, arguing that it has gone from the containment strategies as part of the Cold War era to the democratization activities of the post-Cold War period. From this, it can be inferred that democracy promotion is increasingly viewed as an instrument for augmenting national security interests, mostly as a result of 9/11, during which it was regarded as expanding the scope of the war on terror. Furthermore, it assesses the different types of democratic aid granted to the U.S., such as economic assistance, political training, cultural exchanges, and media freedom, whilst looking at their advantages and disadvantages, the infrastructures of developing countries. Through the South African and Iraqi case studies, U.S. initiatives in democracy promotion are thoroughly examined to obtain practical knowledge about their moral and pragmatic aspects. The U.S. should give democracy promotion primary importance by putting international cooperation above everything else, and also respecting national sovereignty, through which the sustainability of its democracy promotion initiatives will be guaranteed.

Сəндік-қолданбалы өнердің эволюциясы жəне оның сəулеттік ортаның заманауи дизайнына əсері

This article is devoted to the evolution of decorative and applied art and its importance in modern design. Special attention is paid to the historical development of various styles and methods formed under the influence of cultural, social and technological changes. An important aspect is the consideration of traditional crafts and their variations in modern conditions. The article analyzes how elements of decorative and applied art, including textiles, ceramics and furniture, are integrated into modern design to create unique aesthetic solutions and combinations. It was noted that modern designers use historical motifs and techniques, adapting them to the requirements of today. The influence of modern technologies on the production and distribution of products is also considered, which allows preserving national traditions and passing them on to the next generations. The importance of the symbiosis between the past and the present is emphasized as the basis for creating a new visual language that promotes cultural exchange and sustainable design. In addition, in this way, the study of the evolution of Arts and crafts helps to better understand the cultural roots of modern design and serves as an important reminder of the value of traditions in our pursuit of innovation. Ultimately, this interaction between the past and the present opens up new horizons for the future, where art and functionality continue to find their place in human life.

Research on Subtitle Translation of Turning Red from the Perspective of Multimodal Discourse Analysis

As a common carrier of cultural communication, film has been highly valued by various cultural communication and exchange organizations for its function of conveying diverse information and enhancing cultural exchanges between countries. Because of its great influence in the field of cross-cultural communication, the accuracy of subtitle translation of film and television works is particularly critical. Based on the theory of multimodal discourse analysis, this paper analyzes the subtitle translation of Disney's animated film Metamorphosis of Youth. Based on the theory, this paper will study and analyze the subtitle translation of Youth Metamorphosis from four perspectives: culture, context, content and expression, with the aim of providing audiences around the world with the opportunity to enjoy excellent film and television works, promoting people around the world to understand each other's cultures, and providing suggestions for domestic film and television subtitle translation and cross-cultural communication.

Cross-Cultural Engagement and Audience Dynamics: A Critical Evaluation of the Alliance Française French Film Festival

Film festivals provide a platform for films to gain recognition and cultural legitimisation. Through selection, awards, and screenings, film festivals contribute to cultural exchange and the growth of the global film industry. The Alliance Française French Film Festival (AFFFF) is a major cultural event focusing on French cinema, touring across multiple Australian cities. This report will evaluate the AFFFF in the context of local and worldwide film festivals, exploring audience engagement, film programming, and marketing strategy. It will discuss the participant experience and how the event should be improved.

Luxury Embodied and Artistic Exchange: Japanese Lacquer in the Dutch Golden Age

This paper conducts an in-depth exploration of the luxury concept encapsulated within Japanese lacquer during the Dutch Golden Age and its profound implications in cross-cultural exchanges. Through a detailed analysis of the trade history, wherein the Dutch East India Company (VOC) played a pivotal role in introducing Japanese lacquer to the Netherlands, its appearances in paintings that influenced Dutch art, and the emergence of imitations due to its high value, the multi-faceted nature of Japanese lacquer as a luxury item is revealed. In the 17th century, the advanced nautical technology of the Netherlands enabled global trade, and Japanese lacquer, with its exquisite craftsmanship and rarity, became a symbol of wealth and status. The VOC dominated the trade, providing customized lacquer for the aristocracy and using it in diplomatic exchanges. In paintings, its diverse styles led to cultural fusion and artistic innovation. The high price led to Dutch imitations, attesting to its luxury status. Overall, Japanese lacquer was a key luxury symbol, impacting Dutch society, art, and promoting cultural exchange, offering valuable insights into 17th-century Europe-Asia cultural interactions.

(Re)Positioning the Swahili Language in Cultural Diplomacy Under the Capacity of African Ubuntu In Tanzania

The article used the documentary analysis method guided by the Ujamaa Intersections Model in (re) positioning the Kiswahili language in cultural diplomacy through the Ubuntu Panorama. Ujamaa is among the core values of African Ubuntu that was integrated into Tanzania’s policy framework in the 1960s under the influence of the Kiswahili language. Kiswahili is among the oldest and major lingua franca in African history, despite being undocumented in Ubuntu capacity it has a direct linkage with African Ubuntu throughout the history of the continent. Tracing back, Ubuntu is an African philosophy from pre-colonial times that guides all the major aspects of the continent including social economic, cultural, and political. Dr. Julius Kambarage Nyerere (Ubuntu Champion 2014) (who preferred to be called Mwalimu meaning a teacher) embraced Ubuntu philosophy through the Kiswahili language as a soft tool to spread Ujamaa into cultural Diplomacy in Africa and beyond. Dr. Nyerere engaged existing Ujamaa intersections in the community to develop, maintain, and promote the Kiswahili language ultimately influencing the international platforms. In the African Ubuntu capacity, a community is made up of various Ujamaa Intersections comprising primary family, extended families, neighborhood, local leadership, ecology, spirituality, and wider attributions, etc. Over time, Kiswahili became a tool for the decolonization, unification of Africa, and related cultural diplomacy. To mention a few, Kiswahili was the first African language in the United Nations and later it secured various positions as a working language in international organizations including EAC, SADC, COMESA, AU, UNESCO, etc. Moreover, Kiswahili entails more than 200 million speakers Worldwide, several countries have established Swahili radio stations including Germany, Japan, the UK, China, and the USA, etc. To date, Kiswahili continues to render opportunities toward transmission, acceptance, inclusion, hospitality, humanism, peace, equality, love, and coexistence of cultural diversity relevant to nurture cultural diplomacy. It represents African Ubuntu in cultural diplomacy with the relevant capacity to speak about Africa's past, present, and sustainable future in international relations.

The Role of Programme “Facing Lithuania” in the KGB Action Plans against “Santara-Šviesa“

Struggle with Lithuanians émigré political activity was one of the main targets and aims of the Soviet occupational regime. KGB used a wide range of methods from agent activity to slander actions in the press against the main émigré organizations, their press and the most active personalities. Liberal émigré organization in the USA “Santara-Šviesa”, established in 1957, wished to apply the milder rules for traveling to and back from the Soviet Union as the opportunity for cultural and personal contacts, first of all making closer contacts with the Lithuanian intelligentsia, to know better a situation in Lithuania and to use those connections for transporting illegal literature. Soviet government and KGB wanted to use those connections for neutralisation of political émigré activity, to legalise their power and enlarge the number of their supporters. That is why those contacts were controlled and dictated by the Soviet side, and emigrants, understanding this, tried to escape those traps. KGB saw “Santara-Šviesa” as a threat to the Soviet system, as another organization, however, wanted to use their contacts with the Lithuanians against “Santara-Šviesa”, to split the emigrant organizations and cause damage to the émigré activity. To implement that task, it used such measures like: recruitment of agents, infiltration of agents into the organization, to discredit “Santara-Šviesa” using mass media, propaganda of Soviet achievements as a discredit of émigré activity. Tourism, cultural exchange, personal contacts and other means were used to achieve those targets. Although emigrants stated that they understood and saw the danger and declared that they could resist Soviet propaganda, this research states that it is true just in part, however, KGB could not manage to implement all their tasks.

Cultural exchange and technical artistry: Gold ornaments found in pre-imperial Qin Tomb at Ta’erpo, Shaanxi

The current study investigates the use of precious metals, aesthetic taste, manufacturing techniques, and craftworking practices in the pre-imperial Qin period before the unification of China, focusing on an interdisciplinary study of gold ornaments discovered at the Ta’erpo cemetery in Xianyang, dating to the 4th-3rd centuries BCE. Employing multi-spectral analytical methods, including 3D Digital Microscopy (OM) and Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), we conducted non-invasive analyses and technological study of a selection of gold artefacts. The results reveal the mastery of sophisticated techniques, including granulation and filigree, which were rarely seen in central China prior to the 2nd century BCE. These delicate decorative techniques required precision, skill and deep understanding of gold metalworking, which demonstrated a high level of technological competence among Qin craftsmen. The investigated ornaments were crafted from very pure gold with content reaching up to 99.62 wt% gold, a rarity among early Chinese gold artefacts. Examining pre-imperial Qin goldwork within a broader Eurasian context reveals that these innovative artistic styles and decorative techniques were originally intertwined with wider influences from the Hellenistic world and the central Asian steppes. This research enriches the understanding of ancient civilization's interconnectedness and the ability of local goldsmith to adapt and integrate foreign influences into their own artistic traditions.

‘Small gold and small grain’: social reproduction, labour exchanges, and dependencies in Zimbabwe’s resettlement areas

ABSTRACT This research examines the processes through which labour power is socially reproduced and acquired within the agrarian contexts of Kwekwe district in central Zimbabwe, characterised by smallholder agriculture and artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM). It uses the social reproduction lens to argue that in such contexts, conceptions of labour (and work) and value(s) attributed to them frequently change within a complex network of social relationships, interactions, roles/tasks, and subjective ideas. The intricate web of social and cultural interactions, exchanges, and dependencies shape the processes of labour acquisition, exploitation, valorisation, and reproduction, extending beyond mere productivist and economistic perspectives.

Population connectivity shapes the distribution and complexity of chimpanzee cumulative culture.

Although cumulative culture is a hallmark of hominin evolution, its origins can be traced back to our common ancestor with chimpanzees. Here, we investigated the evolutionary origins of chimpanzee cumulative culture and why it remained incipient. To trace cultural transmission among the four chimpanzee subspecies, we compared population networks based on genetic markers of recent migration and shared cultural traits. We show that limited levels of group connectivity favored the emergence of a few instances of cumulative culture in chimpanzees. As in humans, cultural complexification likely happened in steps, with transmission between populations, incremental changes, and repurposing of technologies. We propose that divergence in social patterns led to increased mobility between groups in the genus Homo, resulting in irreversible dependence on cultural exchange and complexification.