Self-esteem Research Articles

Confronting Moral Stress and Fostering Change with Humanism and Human Dignity.

Confronting Moral Stress and Fostering Change with Humanism and Human Dignity.

“What a Piece of Work Is Man”: Human Dignity in The Killer Angels on Its Fiftieth Anniversary

“What a Piece of Work Is Man”: Human Dignity in The Killer Angels on Its Fiftieth Anniversary

The dynamics of household sanitation services and faeco-oral diseases externalities in Osun State, southwest Nigeria.

Maintaining human dignity through sanitation is a perennial challenge and highlights the externalities of sanitation and hygiene services (SHS). In Nigeria, 23.2% practise open defecation, and 45.5% use basic sanitation services, although conventional sewerage systems are rare. This study determines SHS and their predictors in the context of local governance in southwest Nigeria. The cross-sectional study applied a five-stage sampling technique and elicited information from 542 respondents using a validated semistructured questionnaire. The study results are presented by descriptive and inferential statistics. The mean age of respondents was 48.2±0.8 y. Of these, 64.2% were homeowners, and 40.0% were in the lower wealth quartiles. While 76.9% of respondents had access to toilets, only 16.6% and 18.1% benefitted from safely managed and basic sanitation services, respectively, with 21.2% practising open defecation. Open defecation (42.6%) was prevalent primarily in the Ayedaade local government area (LGA), while safely managed sanitation services (27.6%) and limited sanitation services (54.1%) were predominant in the Olorunda and Ilesa-West LGAs. The predictors influencing household sanitation services included residence, ethnicity and wealth. There were significant inequalities in sanitation access and critical infrastructure, and sanitation quality gaps exist among respondents. The prevalence of open defecation was high, and there was variation in access to sanitation services across different LGAs.

The Human Life and Dignity in a Trans-humanist Context

The main scope of the paper is to analyze the human life and dignity in a transhumanist perspective. The approach we propose is a historical and analytical one. We will start from the milestones in the Greek philosophy regarding the virtues of the superior human, as was viewed in that era of mankind (what today is known in philosophy as a superhuman). After the historical analysis, we will start the analytical approach and discuss the passage from humanism to transhumanism regarding the superhuman. The discussions will focus on the concepts of divine transcendence and the pseudo-transcendence discussions, the dehumanization of man, the transformation of man into a superhuman under the influence of technology. Our conclusions are that man needs to feel protected, to feel free and to feel human, but what it means to be human is different according to the historical age we consider in the timeline of humanity.

Eksplorasi Wawasan Pedagogis KH. Abdul Wahid Hasyim: Tinjauan Sistematis Terhadap Literatur Pendidikan

KH Abdul Wahid Hasyim is a prominent figure in Islamic education in Indonesia. This research explores his views on education, teaching methods, and their application in modern contexts. The aim is to understand his contributions deeply, evaluate the relevance of his concepts in current educational practices, and provide a foundation for innovation in progressive education systems. The research employs the Systematic Literature Review method to systematically explore Hasyim's pedagogical insights. Researchers gather, evaluate, and synthesize information from journals published between 2019-2024. Hasyim's educational perspective reflects the belief that education plays a strategic role in guiding individuals towards maturity, enhancing human dignity, and improving social conditions. The goal is to create individuals who are religious, knowledgeable, and intellectually sound, relevant in the modern educational context by integrating religious values with contemporary needs. Teaching methods like Wetonan, Sorongan, Hafalan, and Tutorial illustrate an adaptation between tradition and modernity, creating a holistic educational environment. According to Hasyim, teachers are agents of change, and students are active, creative, and independent learners. Hasyim's contributions in advocating inclusivity, liberalizing thought, reforming curricula, and establishing the Islamic University of Indonesia reflect his efforts to transform Islamic education to be more inclusive, progressive, and relevant to the times. Future research will focus on implementing Hasyim's teaching methods in modern education, evaluating the roles of teachers and students, and assessing his contributions to contemporary education, while promoting discussion forums to share thoughts on the implications of Hasyim's educational views in current educational practices.

Waves of Discrimination and Racism against Afghan Immigrants in Iran: Historical Patterns, Social Dynamics, and Human Rights Implications

Iran has historically been a host country for Afghan immigrants due to shared cultural, linguistic, and religious ties and geographical proximity. Migration, a fundamental aspect of human social life, can be driven by various factors, including persecution and the pursuit of better opportunities. However, this migration has sometimes led to nationalist sentiments and xenophobia in the host country, defined as attitudes, prejudices, and behaviors towards individuals perceived as foreign, often resulting in racist behaviors and human rights violations. In recent years, particularly following the Iranian elections in 2024, there has been a noticeable increase in anti-immigrant sentiment and xenophobia towards Afghan immigrants. This trend is alarming as it forecasts potential social divisions between Iranians and Afghan immigrants. The lack of clear media guidelines and specific laws has contributed to the growth of anti-immigrant expressions and racism within Iranian society, media, social networks, and culture. The situation has escalated with the spread of stereotypes and discriminatory information against immigrants on social networks, leading to prejudiced attitudes throughout Iran. This has highlighted a perceived superiority of Iranian citizens over minority groups, a sentiment that has been reinforced in the social and political structure. Many Iranian politicians and parliament members have openly expressed opposing views on immigration, citing national security concerns, without making efforts to enact laws that would uphold human dignity and properly manage immigration issues. Policies against Afghan immigrants, including those born and raised in Iran across multiple generations, have been criticized for being inhumane. Economic challenges in the country are often unjustly attributed to Afghan immigrants, with claims that they are the root cause of inflation, housing shortages, and other social issues. This narrative is supported by government propaganda and racist individuals through social media and other platforms, exacerbating the situation. The discrimination against Afghan immigrants has led to various forms of violence and insults, with many being denied fundamental rights such as purchasing food or renting homes. They are often segregated into specific areas for their basic needs, alienating them from society. This situation underscores the urgent need for comprehensive policies and societal change to address the discrimination and racism faced by Afghan immigrants in Iran, ensuring their rights and dignity are protected. Waves of Discrimination and Racism against Afghan Immigrants in Iran

LEGAL COLONIALISM, THE DECOLONIAL TURN AND THE PRINCIPLE OF HUMAN DIGNITY IN BRAZIL

This research aims to analyze, through the Decolonial Turn, the effectiveness of the Principle of Human Dignity for historically subaltern individuals in Brazil. Thus, it became necessary to understand the historical process of colonization of Latin America and its consequent domination of Amerindian peoples. Therefore, the teachings formulated by Immanuel Wallerstein were categorically used to understand the inconsistencies in the functioning of the modern world-system, presented since the theological and scientific clash between Las Casas and Sepulveda. Furthermore, to understand the Decolonial Turn, the research used researchers within the spectrum of subalternity, for example: Catherine Walsh, Frantz Fanon, Enrique Dussel, Walter Mignolo. Through the contributions of the researchers, it was possible in this research to present a historical-social panorama of how colonialism was established in the legal-normative sphere, and, finally, reflections on the principle of human dignity constructed on the basis of decolonial reinterpretation for better adequacy with the real needs of Latin American individuals, especially in Brazil. To this end, the qualitative method was used, with a bibliographic survey of productions related to decoloniality, legal colonialism and the principle of human dignity.

When Hope Fades: Considering Self-Esteem, Depression, Social Support, Loneliness in The Context of Suicide Prevention

Individuals engaging in suicidal ideation or making suicide attempts are a substantial demographic group to investigate preventive mental health due to inherent high risks associated with potential outcomes of suicidal behaviors for public health. Factors increasing the likelihood of suicide might include self-esteem, depression, social support, loneliness, or certain demographic profiles, and the purpose of this study is to synthesize these variables to advocate for effective strategies to intervene in cases of suicide. Specifically, this commentary aims to identify suicidal coping mechanisms and psychological resilience factors among suicidal individuals through the enhancement of self-esteem, intervention of depressive symptoms, and promotion of connectedness. Through discussing the determinants that might play a role in the onset of suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts, this paper has important implications for suicide prevention strategies and the identification of psychological resilience factors that can predict suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts in individuals.

From a Wretched Past to an Uncertain and Undignified Future: The Open Secret of Manual Scavenging in India

India promises liberty, equality, justice and fraternity with dignity of life through the Constitution to every citizen without any discrimination. However, a particular section of society has been deprived of these promises due to their birth, gender and occupation. This section happens to be part of the generically termed ‘Dalits’ who are the lowest of the lower castes among the Hindus. They are known as manual scavengers who carry human excreta and clean dry latrines, sewers, and septic tanks more often with bare hands. This practice of manual scavenging is involuntary in nature. The scavengers not only suffer from extreme forms of social exclusion but also gross violations of human rights and dignity. However, ironically, despite several efforts as well as denial of its existence by the government, this inhuman practice still continues to exist in India. In fact, it has given birth to a new subtle form of untouchability which is an anathema to the constitutional promise. Therefore, the main aim of this article is an investigation of the nexus between caste and occupation. This article, in fact, suggests that for the annihilation of this practice, there is the need for an inclusive approach and overall behavioural change.

Reforming Strip Search Protocols in Prisons: Challenges, Standards and Solutions

In prisons, the practice of strip searches is a contentious method employed to uncover contraband and maintain safety. While these searches aim to curb the trafficking of firearms, narcotics, and other unlawful items, they also give rise to critical concerns regarding their ethical ramifications, the invasion of inmates' privacy, and the psychological distress they may inflict. This review delves into the possible psychological repercussions, alongside the dual role of strip searches in enhancing prison security. The legality of such practices varies across different jurisdictions, highlighting the need for stringent protocols to ensure they are conducted lawfully and without excessive intrusion. The review underscores the psychological effects of strip searches, which may include enduring issues such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD, particularly for vulnerable populations who have previously faced trauma. It stresses the delicate balance between security demands and the respect for human dignity in light of legal and ethical considerations. Moreover, alternative methods - such as body scanners - are evaluated as potential solutions that could uphold security while reducing the need for invasive searches. To promote equity, compassion, and adherence to international human rights standards in strip searches, this review advocates for necessary reforms.

A Review on Psychological Factors of Eating Disorders

Abstract: Eating disorders (ED) are a common mental health problem that affect people all over the world and can have serious repercussions. It is essential to comprehend the psychological components of these disorders to effectively prevent and treat them. Finding the important factors can help develop individualised treatment plans, which will eventually lead to better mental health outcomes and the promotion of healthier eating habits. This study examines the psychological factors (PF) that influence ED and their effects on individual eating behavior and mental health. The article begins with an introduction to key psychological variables, including self-esteem (SE), perfectionism, anxiety, depression, and body image, emphasizing their importance in the development of ED. These psychological variables are categorized into emotional factors, cognitive factors, and behavioral factors, and the article analyzes how these elements affect individual eating habits and attitudes. Further empirical studies indicate that low SE and perfectionism are significantly correlated with ED, illustrating that women with low SE are more likely to develop unhealthy eating patterns. Additionally, anxiety and depression have notable effects on eating behavior, potentially leading to the onset of ED. Finally, the article outlines several treatment approaches for ED, including cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy, and medication, discussing their effectiveness and limitations across different individual cases. Overall, a deeper understanding of these psychological variables will help develop more effective intervention strategies to support individuals with ED, promoting improved mental health and healthier eating behaviors.

On the Axiological Shift in Europe and Its Impact on the European System of Human Rights as Exemplified by the Council of Europe and European Union

Abstract This article investigates shifts in the primary sources of political and axiological discourse in Europe in the area of human rights. Assumed that there may have been two main causes, firstly, the ongoing cultural change in Europe and the departure from the Christian cultural and axiological foundations in Europe, which also affects the interpretation of human rights, is discussed. Secondly, there may perhaps have been progressive change in the source of human rights, and a departure from the concept of human dignity as a universal source of human rights, in the direction of a European cultural interpretation. This change will be shown by reference the Council of Europe and the EU. The theoretical inspiration for this article has been the theory of Christian Reus Smit, who in his own way shows an alternative history to the formation of the structures of the international system, showing that its fragmentation has been taking place around the consolidation of societies (and states) around newly-created rights. Taking this inspiration into account, the article tries to look at Europe through this prism and the European system of human rights protection in relation to the universal one.

RURAL BANDITRY AND HUMAN RIGHTS IN SOUTHWEST NIGERIA (2017-2022): A STUDY OF OYO AND ONDO STATES

Government in an ideal society strives to promptly crush security challenges like banditry with a view to safeguarding human rights of the people but regrettably the reverse is the case in Nigeria. This study investigated the effect of rural banditry on human rights in Oyo and Ondo States, Nigeria. The study adopted descriptive survey research design and quantitative method using self-structured questionnaire to collect data. A total of 400 respondents were sampled adopting stratified random sampling technique while ANOVA analysis was used to test the research hypotheses of the study. The study revealed that rural banditry activities violated the freedom of movement, rights to privacy, property, human dignity, liberty and security of life, among other civil and political rights of the people in Oyo and Ondo States. It also disclosed that rural banditry grossly violated the freedom of religion, rights to education, property as well as social and cultural rights of the people in Oyo and Ondo States. The study concluded that rural banditry activities like kidnapping, robbery, village raids, hostage and ransom taking, maiming and murder, among others severely impacted on the rights of people in both Oyo and Ondo States. The study recommended that government should establish special court to try and swiftly deal with the cases of banditry while Amotekun security outfit, which was established to confront the menace should be empowered through intensive training and supply of adequate and modern weapons and equipment.

Future-proofing integrity in the age of artificial intelligence and neurotechnology: prioritizing human rights, dignity, and equity

Future-proofing integrity in the age of artificial intelligence and neurotechnology: prioritizing human rights, dignity, and equity

Self-Defense Training for Enhancing Self-Esteem: Sexual Harassment Preventive Strategy—A Pilot Study among High School Girls of Coastal Region of Karnataka, India

Abstract Background Sexual harassment is a major public issue among teens. As a result, encouraging teenage girls to claim their rights and providing an atmosphere free of prejudice and violence is vital. Promoting high self-esteem may minimize the probability of teenagers experiencing the negative repercussions of harassment. Objective This study sought to explore the potential of self-defense training to enhance self-esteem among high school girls. Methods A quantitative research approach with quasi-experimental design was adopted. Three government high schools from seven clusters were randomly selected from Mangalore South Zone and 38 high school girls were recruited (control group =18 from two schools and intervention group =20 from one school). Data were collected using sociodemographic proforma and Rosenberg self-esteem scale. After pretest, eight sessions of self-defense training were conducted and a posttest was administered with an interval of 7 days, 1 month, and 3 months after the intervention. Ethical approval for the study was obtained. Results A significant difference was found between the self-esteem scores of the intervention and control groups (p < 0.001). Conclusion This study revealed that the self-defense training was effective in enhancing self-esteem. Enhancement of self-esteem and awareness of self-protection is key to remaining free from violence, assault, and harassment.

Human dignity and patient’s interests above all: assisted dying in Switzerland and the UK

Abstract This paper delves into the complex issue of the right to die with dignity, focusing on assisted dying practices within the legal frameworks of Switzerland and the United Kingdom. It examines the emerging challenges and contradictions that this right presents, especially in relation to the fundamental right to life. Highlighting the nuanced interplay between self-determination and the sanctity of life, the study delineates the ethical, medical, and cultural hurdles associated with euthanasia and assisted suicide. It underscores the necessity for legal systems to remain flexible and adaptable, bridging the gap between static legal texts and dynamic real-world applications. This paper seeks to provide a comprehensive analysis of how both countries manage the delicate balance between protecting human dignity and navigating the ethical complexities of assisted dying.

Human Trafficking In The Islamic View (Comparative Study Of Al-Azhar And Al Misbah Interpretation)

This study aims to examine and compare Islamic views on human trafficking based on two prominent tafsir works, namely Tafsir Al-Azhar by Buya Hamka and Tafsir Al-Misbah by M. Quraish Shihab. Human trafficking, as a form of modern slavery, is a global problem that is very contrary to human values. From an Islamic perspective, protection of human dignity and rights is strongly emphasized, including the prohibition of all forms of human exploitation. Tafsir Al-Azhar, with a contextual and sociological approach, emphasizes the importance of maintaining human honor and freedom and condemns slavery in the socio-cultural context of Indonesia. On the other hand, Tafsir Al-Misbah, with a linguistic and historical approach, highlights human trafficking as a violation of the principles of justice and humanity in Islamic teachings. This study found that although the two tafsirs have different approaches, both are in line in the view that human trafficking is an act that is prohibited in Islam and contrary to the universal values taught by the Qur'an.

The Grainger Test Challenged? Thomas v Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust

ABSTRACT This note analyses the decision of the Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) (Sheldon J) of Thomas v Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and Brett. The central message of the case is that English Nationalism with an anti-Islamic, anti-immigrant tinge does not deserve legal protection as a philosophical belief under s.10 Equality Act 2010. Thomas raises an interesting point of principle regarding the question of whether the fifth limb of the Grainger v Nicholson test—namely whether philosophical beliefs are worthy of respect in a democratic society, compatible with human dignity or are in conflict with the fundamental rights of others (fifth limb)—should be expanded to exclude from protection beliefs espousing intolerance or discrimination, and provides helpful clarity on how tribunals may take into account material beyond what is pleaded by the claimant in order to ascertain what the true nature of a purported philosophical belief may be. The note concludes that the former point is a move which should be resisted given the importance of rights under Articles 9 and 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights, and also critiques the reasoning of the Employment Appeal Tribunal in countenancing this possibility. It also concludes that the latter point will be of particular interest to practitioners who plead these sort of cases before the tribunals and predicts respondents to be bolder in their use of extraneous material to interrogate the nature of a claimant’s beliefs beyond what is pleaded or contained in their witness statements. The note also concludes that tribunals can also have more confidence, in light of Thomas, in relying on such material in their judgments without excessive caution that they have blurred the lines of overreliance on manifestations of beliefs as opposed to focusing on the beliefs themselves.

Giving space to the unknown and transcendence – Art education as guardian of the child's authentic gesture

AbstractThe main concern of this article is to introduce the concept of the authentic gesture as a vital, largely self-determined expression of the child and to make it fruitful for art education. Because of the assumed educational importance of the concept, some hints to other learning areas will also be given. This should be done from a historical and systematic perspective against the background of relevant literature, above all the German-language literature and some other important voices, in which a number of further leading ideas can be found and discussed. Explicated in this way, the concept at issue leads to the question of the unknown per se, to which art education and education in general should open itself. This means that education opens up to something that, in its material and/or social form, evades a final assessment. Something enigmatic thus comes into view, because the unknown, by definition, is beyond exact description and extern evaluation. However, in and for the modern world, it can be paraphrased with a secular approach of transcendence as an inner-psychic space which is withdrawn from instrumental intervention including educational intervention and which must be protected at all costs as a central condition of freedom and human dignity.

INCLUSION OF PERSONAL DATA PROTECTION IN THE BRAZILIAN CONSTITUTION: REFLECTIONS ON FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS AND GUARANTEES

The Constitution of the Federative Republic of Brazil of 1988, known as the Constitution of the Federative Republic of Brazil, represents a milestone in Brazilian legal and political history, establishing a wide range of fundamental rights and guarantees. This article aims, first, to analyze such rights and guarantees, discussing their importance and implications for the protection of human dignity and the consolidation of Brazilian democracy. Then, the intersection between fundamental rights and guarantees and the protection of personal data, the General Data Protection Law and Constitutional Amendment No. 115 was made. The methodological approach used was based on a review of the legal literature and constitutional provisions. Finally, it is concluded that Constitutional Amendment No. 115/2022 is a crucial step in strengthening the right to the protection of personal data in Brazil, aligning itself with international trends and reaffirming the country's commitment to defending the privacy and dignity of its citizens. With this change, the Federal Constitution begins to reflect more clearly and directly the importance of protecting personal data, establishing a solid constitutional basis for the development and application of public policies and regulations related to the topic.