Sociological Framework Research Articles

A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS IN THE CONTEXT OF LITERARY SOCIOLOGY: REFET AND JANE EYRE

Literary Sociology, which involves the relationship between literature and society, has been handled in a multifaceted way since the 1900s by providing readers new perspectives to evaluate the events in history. Feminism, for instance, has been an altering concept of literary canon and is one of the essential studies of literary sociology. Although it has been defined and evaluated in various ways, feminism refers to the women’s struggle for equal rights and liberty. While the women’s movement emerged and accelerated in the Western societies throughout the beginning of the 19th century, it became prominent after the Tanzimat Reforms in 1839 in the Turkish culture. This study, within the literary sociology framework, clarifies the traces of feministic improvements in the Victorian and the Tanzimat Periods: two groundbreaking periods of the British and the Turkish cultures. Written at times when feminism was discussed, Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre (1847) and Fatma Aliye’s Refet (1898) represent women’s status with the new laws and regulations in the 19th century patriarchal societies. Therefore, within the scope of this study, Jane Eyre and Refet were comparatively analyzed to present a sociological interpretation of the British and Turkish cultures, regarding the women’s movements in the 19th century.

Re-enchanting sustainable consumption: Cultural intermediaries, charisma, and fashion

Cultural intermediaries play an essential role in shaping the ‘moral textures’ of sustainable consumption. Drawing on Bourdieu and Weber’s cultural sociologies of religious personas, this article analyses how cultural intermediaries deploy different charismatic modalities in the field of fashion to advocate for sustainable consumption. Using illustrative methods and media examples, we illuminate how ‘prophetic’ taste influencers, ‘ascetic’ producers of upcycled fashion, ‘priestly’ secondhand clothing recyclers, and ‘mystic’ guides to minimalist lifestyles deploy these ideal-typical charismatic performances to frame, albeit unstable, re-enchanting affinities between the domains of sustainable production, circulation, and consumption. We suggest that via such charisma sustainable fashion consumption gestures towards the formation of neo-confessional identities, further symbolizing the possibility of individual and collective salvation of humanity through an elect group of sustainable consumers. We conclude by proposing a research agenda focused on how the different tensions present in the charisma-sustainability-consumption nexus are best addressed through a cultural sociological framework.

The end of the ‘time of the streets’: Temporality in the life course of a Russian ex-gangster

We present the analysis of two biographical narratives by an ex-gangster from the Russian city of Kazan. We address the different times in his life – his childhood, youth, and adulthood, his time on the streets, his decision to leave the gang, and his reflections and memories of his past as reconstructed through these different narratives. We analyze the synchronicity of macro, meso, and micro scales of time in his biography and show how his memory of the time in the gang has dramatically changed between the first and second interviews, as he looked retrospectively on his former self from the vantage point of his current law-abiding life. In our analysis, we use the theoretical and conceptual framework of processual sociology and Bakhtin’s concept of chronotope.

Ifa Concept on Environmental Pollution

Environmental pollution, expectedly, has been looked at from technological and scientific perspectives. However, this important subject has not been sufficiently examined from Ifá, the wisdom bag of the Yorùbá people of South-western Nigeria. Ifá corpus has revealed the importance of preserving the environment from being polluted. Ifá plays a leading role in teaching some ethics on socio-cultural and inter-personal relationships among the Yorùbá people but also their relationship to the ecosystem. The study will examine the concept of Ifá on the environment using Wande Abimbola's Ìjìnlẹ̀ Ohùn Ẹnu Ifá II, interpreting it with the mirror image approach of sociological framework. It will also evaluate the impact of pollution on the contemporary society. Finally, it will reveal the values of protecting the environment against any form of pollution which may hamper the healthy living of humans and non-human organisms in the environment.

Navigating accounting reforms: a qualitative comparative analysis of accrual implementation in Italian local governments

PurposeThis research aims to contribute to the ongoing debate on the prospective advantages of implementing accrual accounting in countries where such a transition is underway, with a focus on Italian municipalities. The research seeks to ascertain the requisite conditions, in public sector accounting mangers’ perception, for a useful transition from modified cash accounting to full accrual accounting within the Italian context.Design/methodology/approachThe methodology adopted is Qualitative Comparative Analysis, which involves conducting a survey through semi-structured interviews with accounting managers in municipal accounting departments. The sample is drawn from municipalities in the Emilia-Romagna region with populations exceeding 15,000 inhabitants.FindingsThe study shows that some stakeholders have a tangible demand for financial statement information. They believe that accrual accounting statements provide accurate insights into municipal financial health and that these statements are comparable across municipalities. All these factors together constitute sufficient conditions for considering useful the implementation of accrual accounting in local governments, in the opinion of public sector accounting managers.Originality/valueThis paper contextualises the broader international debate on transitioning to full accrual accounting in the New Institutional Sociology framework. The Qualitative Comparative Analysis is an underutilised methodology within the field of public sector accounting, and the public sector accounting managers’ point of view is scarcely investigated in literature.

Rethinking Climate Justice: Insights from Environmental Sociology

This paper reexamines climate justice through the framework of environmental sociology, offering fresh perspectives on the intersection of social and ecological systems in the face of escalating global climate crises. It emphasizes that inequality lies at the heart of global climate politics, often obstructing pathways toward achieving a true climate solution. Drawing from established traditions within environmental sociology—such as the new ecological paradigm, the post-growth society, and the environmental justice paradigm—the paper advocates for profound systemic and structural reforms in political and economic systems to tackle entrenched inequalities. By integrating these frameworks, the paper proposes a comprehensive model of climate justice, encompassing material, procedural, compensatory, and transformative dimensions of justice. This holistic approach not only addresses environmental sustainability but also prioritizes social equity, ensuring that marginalized communities are included in the global response to climate change. The paper thus positions this model as a critical component of broader environmental and social transformation.

Ecological anthropology and sociology applications to accounting education and practice

Purpose: The ecological framework in anthropology and sociology is an integrated approach that studies sustainability within the broader context of the environment, business and society. The framework is applied to study the integration of sustainability into the accounting curriculum. Approach: The paper has integrated ecological ethics and land ethics from ecological anthropology, and the resources-based approach from organisational ecology-sociology to study the integration of sustainability into the accounting curriculum. Findings: Ecological anthropology has examined how cultural and social forces have evolved in ecological and land ethics in business education. Organisational ecology has related the resource-based transaction cost approach for the integration of sustainability into the accounting curriculum. Originality/Value: Ecological anthropology and organisational sociology disciplines have been concerned with sustainability, environmental management, and conservation of natural resources for many years. These issues have now become the cornerstones in sustainability education in the accounting curriculum and professional practice. Keywords: Ecological Anthropology; Organisational; Sociology; Accounting; Sustainability.

Women’s voices in literary translation: a Bourdieusian look at symbolic capital in post-revolution Iran

ABSTRACT The present paper utilizes Pierre Bourdieu’s sociological framework to examine how Iranian women literary translators have earned and utilized symbolic capital in the literary translation field over the past four decades since the 1979 Revolution. The study investigates how these women have acquired and applied symbolic capital. The paper specifically delves into the challenges women translators encounter in obtaining and managing symbolic capital and the complex cultural, social, economic, and linguistic dynamics involved in their translation process. Furthermore, the paper evaluates whether they experience similar opportunities compared to their male counterparts. To achieve this, the study employs quantitative methodologies, such as surveys conducted through questionnaires, and qualitative research, including in-depth interviews with influential figures in Iran’s literary translation field, such as literary translators, publishers, and university scholars of both genders. The findings of this study suggest that symbolic capital can be a significant goal and an external source of motivation for many Iranian women working as literary translators, as it has the potential to offer rewards and recognition in their professional pursuits.

Contested role boundaries and professional title: Implications of the independent review of podiatric surgery in Australia.

In October 2023, the Podiatry Board of Australia commissioned an independent review of the regulation of podiatric surgery in Australia, with a remit to re-evaluate the regulatory framework, identify any risks to patient safety and recommend improvements to public protection. It reported in March 2024 and set out 14 key recommendations. The review was prompted by a number of complaints about podiatric surgeons but also reflected calls for reform by the medical profession and several critical media reports. This paper sets out to examine the review report, alongside the concerns of the medical profession and the media articles expressed within it, through the lens of an established sociological framework focused on interprofessional conflict and the contested use of professional titles. As a review rather than the research paper, the Independent Review of Podiatric Surgery (the 'Paterson Report') served as data for the sociological analysis, adopting a Neo-Weberian and Bordieuan framework to examine the strategies adopted by the medical profession and media reports cited in the report, consistent with the exercise of professional power. The sociological analysis provides insights into the ways in which professions seek to maintain symbolic, social, cultural and economic privileges and rewards through the exclusion of competitors, using strategies such as social closure, symbolic violence, symbolic devaluation, gatekeeper roles, and jurisdictional disputes. The review report acknowledges the influence of the medical profession and its opposition to the practice of podiatric surgery and use of the title 'podiatric surgeon'. The arguments made and strategies deployed are consistent with those found in the wider literature. In light of these findings, the implications for the future of podiatric surgery are considered in terms of professional practice, use of professional title, and access to public funding.

Access, Choice, and Pleasure: Towards a New Model of Disability Sexual Rights

The paper offers a comprehensive exploration of the concept of disability sexual rights by integrating insights from both legal and sociological frameworks. Sexuality is an integral and inseparable part of human existence, encompassing a wide range of biological, physiological, psychological, and social aspects. Our understanding of sexuality developed over time, and contemporary social models view sexuality as shaped by social, cultural, and political factors. The rise of disability studies and social and critical models marked a significant shift in the way disabled sexuality is perceived. These studies underpin social aspects and constructions that contribute to the disabling process. Current Literature situates disability and sexuality within broader sociological frameworks of sexual citizenship, disability legal studies, and human rights, emphasizing the importance of recognizing disability sexual rights in forming an inclusive society. We examine the evolution of human rights discourse, mainly focusing on disability sexual rights as a marginalized subject within the human rights and disability rights agendas. We conclude by weaving together theories from disability studies, sexual citizenship, and law, proposing a new theoretical model of sexual rights that situates them in the intersection of disability, sexuality, law, and society. The model suggests three essential elements that cover the full scope of disability sexual rights: Access, choice, and pleasure. These elements can be applied to all aspects of disabled sexuality, encompassing sexual needs, participation, and autonomy.

Reiterated Fact-Making: Explaining Transformation and Continuity in Scientific Facts

Scientific facts are an essential element of modern life. Yet, despite an abundance of illuminating work in science and technology studies (STS), we lack a rigorous sociological framework for explaining how scientific facts emerge, gain traction, and then change over time. This article fills that gap. Drawing on Fleck ([1935] 1981), Haydu (1998), and a wealth of STS scholarship, I develop a comparative-historical approach called “reiterated fact-making” that analyzes scientific facts according to (1) the prevailing conditions of possibility; (2) the networks of expertise, social mobilization, and power built up around them; and (3) the epistemic and material path dependencies that accrue over the course of their careers. To demonstrate the utility of this framework, I draw on a mixed-methods study and explain the uneven histories of three genetic variants (XYY, Fragile X, and the 22q11.2 microdeletion) that have been used to delineate and diagnose new medical conditions associated with neurodevelopmental differences for the past several decades—taking on very different scientific, clinical, and social meanings as facts in the process. Reiterated fact-making helps us combine comparative-historical sociology and STS to explain how scientific facts can combine deep continuity and radical transformation as they are enrolled in shifting fields of research and practice.

Rethinking official statistics: A sociological perspective

Does the current dialogue on the development of statistical systems provide adequate scope for transforming official statistics to deliver their social role? Can statistical systems, as currently defined, provide opportunities to people and non-state institutions to influence “what” statistics and “how” should be produced and used? This paper provides a sociological framework to investigate these questions within a broader understanding of the social functions of official statistics as part of public statistics required for a democratic society.

How strong is the democratic defence of ‘defence spending?’ Consequence of military expenditure for democracy in OECD countries

AbstractThe article identifies and seeks to abridge a gap in the literature consisting of the problem of relations between military expenditure and democracy, especially the consequences of the first for the second. It specifically investigates the consequences that military expenditure produces for democracy among contemporary Western and comparable societies such as OECD countries during 2006–2017. It first surveys the relevant pertinent literature about the relationship of military expenditure and militaristic processes with democracy and political, civil and individual liberties. Then it proposes a theoretical sociological framework for approaching the problem of military expenditure and democracy, focusing on the consequences of the first for the second variable. It develops this framework by formulating testable hypotheses regarding the nature of consequences that military expenditure has for democracy. Next, it specifies data and their sources, the method and variables that the study uses. It reports empirical findings such as descriptive and proximately causal (regression) results. It infers that these findings for the most part support the theory and hypotheses that large and increasing military expenditure has adverse consequence for liberal democracy in general, and in OECD countries in particular.

Understanding Dual Effects of Social Network Services on Digital Well-Being and Sustainability: A Case Study of Xiaohongshu (RED)

Social networking services (SNSs) address estrangement in cyberspace through their communication, recognition, and resonance features, yet they simultaneously generate new forms of alienation. This dual effect can both advance and hinder sustainability. This phenomenon is particularly evident in Xiaohongshu (RED), a platform widely used in China and beyond, which has evolved from providing consumption guidance to facilitating lifestyle sharing. This paper utilizes Hartmut Rosa’s Resonance Theory to explore resonance and alienation within RED, examining the multifaceted impact of SNSs on digital well-being and sustainability through qualitative methodologies, including netnography and thematic analysis. The study reveals that RED fosters material, spiritual, and social resonance, thereby enhancing digital well-being and sustainability. However, RED also generates alienation in these dimensions, which can impede sustainability. Moreover, the resonance and alienation generated by the RED platform affect not only its own sustainability but also broader environmental, social, economic, and cultural sustainability. Theoretically, this study constructs a sociological framework integrating resonance and alienation within SNSs to interpret digital well-being and sustainability. Practically, it offers recommendations for promoting sustainable practices among SNSs, addressing material, spiritual, and social dimensions.

L’analisi scientifica del potere: il contributo della sociologia politica

The article examines the evolving field of political sociology and highlights the need for a modern reassessment in the context of rapid global changes. The aim is to distinguish the framework of political sociology from that of other social sciences such as history, law and economics. The article emphasises the importance of understanding political power and its transformations in the context of crises such as economic downturns, pandemics and geopolitical conflicts. Reflecting on the seminal theories of Max Weber and Talcott Parsons, the discussion highlights how political power, legitimacy and the interplay with other forms of power (economic, technological, etc.) shape contemporary governance. Finally, the article suggests a focus on the dynamics of political power and its legitimacy in the globalised era, noting the growing influence of technological power and the complex challenges posed by modernity.

English and local languages in linguistic structuration of the public space in Islamabad and the neighbouring town

ABSTRACT Research studies in the linguistic landscape (LL) in Pakistan seem to have been getting a foothold and topics like the survey of commercial public signs, the glocalisation of English in public signs, traffic signboards on highways, the cinematic-built environment, bilingual advertisements and LL in a tourist place of natural beauty have emerged recently in the LL field. In this study, three commercial locations from Islamabad city and one location from a neighbouring town were selected for data collection in the form of photo clips. The data were analysed by following the model introduced by Ben-Rafael [2009. A sociological approach to the study of linguistic landscapes. In E. G. Shohamy & D. Gorter (Eds.), Linguistic landscape: Expanding the scenery (pp. 40–54). Routledge] that is a sociological framework formed by four structuration principles which are the presentation of self, good reasons, collective identity and power relations. The data were compared to show the attitude of the surrounding population about English and local languages. Moreover, 12 shop owners, three from each location, were interviewed to know their motives behind the language selection on their signboards. The findings revealed that English dominated on signs in the city's commercial locations while Urdu or transliteration overwhelmed the signboards in the neighbouring town. Future studies should explore customers' points of view as well with regard to signboard language.

Reconceptualising Transparency in Journalism: Thinking Through Secrecy and PR Press Releases in News Cultures

ABSTRACT This article re-examines debates about transparency in journalism by using a sociological framework that analyses how transparency is held in a dynamic tension with secrecy. I use a specific empirical case study as the grounding for my analysis and then proceed to expand its scope to consider significant developments in transparency in the media. I take as my case study the relationship between UK journalists and public relations (PR) practitioners. Specifically, I analyse the ways in which press releases are shaped by PR practitioners, targeted at journalists, and are taken up by journalists in a UK news media context in which such “information subsidies” may be becoming ever more prevalent. Reframing transparency as one element in a compound phenomenon (the secrecy–transparency dynamic), I argue that practices of both transparency and secrecy are not merely situated within social contexts but are active in creating society and social relations. This approach pays close attention to how power operates in this shifting dynamic and offers new challenges for thinking about journalism’s role in society.

Examining the Potential of Community-Based Interventions in Promoting Physical Activity and Healthy Lifestyles in Rural China

Background: In recent years, community-based health programs and policies are adopted for the prevention of major diseases in population. Aim: This study aims to examine the potential of community-based interventions in promoting physical activity as well as healthy lifestyles within the context of rural China. Method: A non-RCT was carried out in comparison as well as intervention areas, in the form of a two-year intervention program from the mid of 2019 until 2021. A sociological framework was considered for building the intervention area, which took place in different settings including workplaces, community health centers, schools, and neighborhoods. The data was collected through two cross-sectional surveys from respondents aged between 18 to 64 years, which were conducted during 2019 to 2021, and completed by 2015 respondents. Results: The results showed a decrease in smoking in nine areas within a month after the implication of intervention (p < 0.0011), indicating an awareness of healthy lifestyle among the associated individuals. Moreover, the physical activity among the individuals also increased after intervention (p < 0.0011), as revealed in the increase in its metabolic equivalent. Conclusion: In conclusion, a two-year community-based intervention helps in reducing smoking and promoting healthier lifestyles. Implications: The current study also presented important implications within the context of community-based interventions.

Трансисторические структуры российского аграрного общества

Within the framework of historical sociology, the author develops the concept of transistorical structures of Russian society caused by a number of internal and external factors, primarily the dangerous geopolitical environment and the limited resources of the extensive agrarian economy. The analysis shows that transhistorical structures, as an integral authoritarian complex, were formed during a long-term historical process, complicated by a difficult geopolitical environment, the extensive economy of the agrarian society, and abnormal natural and geographical conditions. The thesis is clarified and analyzed that for a long historical period the transhistorical structures, primarily autocracy, militarism, empire, large-scale economy, served as the basis and mechanism for the formation and maintenance of social order and stability in Russian agrarian society. It is shown that due to various social fluctuations, these structures sooner or later led the Russian state to stagnation, and then to catastrophic restructuring (the Troubles, the Revolution of 1917, the collapse of the USSR).

Translating Cultures Unveiling the Art of Uzbek Literary Transformations

This study conducts a linguocultural analysis of 20th-century Uzbek literary translations, illuminating the complex interaction between language and culture, particularly in the nuanced translation of stories like "Shum bola" into "A Naughty Boy." Existing research often overlooks the depth of cultural understanding required for effective literary translation, a gap this study addresses by highlighting the challenges and strategies in preserving the original texts' emotional and cultural essence. Employing an integrated approach of linguistic, cultural, and sociological methods, the research examines several translations to demonstrate how cultural context significantly impacts the translation process. Results underscore the necessity for translators to have a profound comprehension of both source and target cultures to ensure meaningful translations. The findings advocate for enhanced translator training in cultural competencies, contributing to the fields of translation studies and intercultural communication. Highlights: Intricate Relationship: Emphasizes the complex interplay between language and culture in translation. Cultural Knowledge: Highlights the essential role of deep cultural understanding for effective translation. Methodological Approach: Utilizes an integrated linguistic, cultural, and sociological framework to explore translation challenges. Keywords: Linguocultural Analysis, Translation Studies, Cultural Context, Literary Translation