Historical Origins Research Articles

Eco-fascism: an oxymoron? Far-right nationalism, history, and the climate emergency

Can we conceive of a continuity in the way right-wing nationalisms address environmental issues from the origins of fascism to the currently ongoing global “polycrisis”? This article explores the use of the term “eco-fascism” in connection with the climate crisis and considers the political relationship between ecologism and the contemporary far right through a historical perspective, seeking to determine persisting patterns in the relationship between the far right and the environment. Section 1 travels back to the historical origins of this relationship between nationalism, fascism and the environment, arguing that the conceptions of nature adopted and nourished by fascism had scarcely anything to do with ecology in its contemporary meaning. Section 2 explores the most well-known and consolidated studies on the relationship between the far right and climate change denialism, identifying a broad consensus that unites scholars from various disciplines on the density, intensity and persistence of this political relationship in the current millennium. The article concludes by underlining the irreality, falsifiability and internal contradictions of the notion of “eco-fascism” at a time when right-wing regimes have seized power in many countries through the use of vocabularies and sentiments in defense of the territory and its resources, but with a substantial refusal to tackle global environmental problems.

Social processes in Modern Georgia: Is There any Potential for the Development of Russian-Georgian Cooperation?

The authors of the article, participants in the discussion “Georgia’s Communication Regime: Development Trends,” presented their views on social processes in modern Georgia. It is substantiated that the spiritual ties between Georgians and Russians are based on Orthodoxy and the mutual assistance that Russians and Georgians have provided to each other for centuries. The historical and cultural origins of Russian-Georgian relations are examined. The common historical past contributed to the interpenetration of cultures and traditions. However, under the influence of Western ideologies, a large part of modern Georgian youth has formed a different worldview. The authors of the article propose how to overcome the ideological gap through the implementation of cultural projects. Promising areas of cooperation between Russia and Georgia are considered in the absence of diplomatic relations and the anti-Russian position of the Georgian authorities. Youth communications and cooperation in the economy (primarily in agriculture) are also promising. The following risks of cooperation are considered: the unresolved issue of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, fluctuations of the political elites of Georgia, the chaotic nature of the Georgian economy, the role of anti-Russian position of Russians in Georgia, insufficient work with Georgian society on the Russian side and the need to activate the potential of the Georgian diaspora in Russia.The article was prepared based on the materials of the international round table “Georgia’s Communication Regime: Development Trends” (conducted by the National Research Institute for the Communications Development in December 2023).

Sovereignty, Territoriality, and Private International Law in Classical Muslim International Law

Abstract Scholars in recent years have shown interest in challenging the historical origins of international law and its normative claims to universality. This Article challenges the prevailing conceptions of Islamic international law (al-siyar), first set out in English-language scholarship by Majid Khadduri, as primarily an ad-hoc response to the failed aspiration of a universal Muslim commonwealth. It shows that Islamic international law, in its classical phase (eighth–thirteenth centuries), as first formulated by Iraqi, and later, Central Asian, scholars (who together later came to be known as Ḥanafīs), understood all legal order as being rooted in sovereignty and territoriality, with shared religion a secondary concern. This theory of legal order arose out of an understanding of political order as emerging from a natural and universal condition of war that is incidental to the individual’s natural sovereignty. I trace the genealogy of this conception to the founding moment of the Muslim commonwealth and describe its manifestation in classical Ḥanafī solutions to a series of cases in “private international law.”

Protection for Whom? Police Legitimacy and the Historical Origins of Carceral Feminism

In a reflection on Anne Gray Fischer’s The Streets Belong to Us, this article considers how her scholarship on sexual policing in 20th century America situates sexual policing and the state’s criminalization of women as central rather than supplemental to our broader understanding of policing. Fischer’s analysis demonstrates how police used sexual policing to bolster their authority amid threats to their legitimacy and to defend and protect a racially segregated patriarchal social order. Her research also uncovers the centrality of anti-Black and gendered policing to gentrification and urban economic revival. Finally, Fischer historicizes white dominance feminists’ partnership with law enforcement by demonstrating law enforcement’s historical (and racialized) decriminalization of white women’s public sexual lives. Fischer’s pathbreaking analysis suggests the need for historians of policing and the carceral state to view gender and sexuality as foundational to the construction of modern policing and the broader development of the racialized carceral state.

A Comparative Study on the Aesthetics of Chinese and Russian War-themed Movies from the Perspective of Big Data

As an important component of national cinema, war-themed movies represent the strength of the national film industry and modern technology. From a historical perspective, Chinese war-themed films have been influenced by the aesthetics of Soviet cinema. This paper begins by exploring the historical origins and development of Chinese and Russian war-themed mainstream films, and conducts an aesthetic comparison from the aspects of ideological consciousness, humanistic reflection, new paradigms, and application of network big data technology. It elucidates the spiritual aspirations of Chinese and Russian war-themed films and grasps the development direction of such films in China.

An In-Depth Exploration of the Metaverse and Its Effects on Humanity

Abstract: Thanks to their revolutionary developments, Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) have revolutionised the technological landscape and captured the attention of people worldwide. These technologies have paved the way for a plethora of forthcoming innovations that will find widespread use in various domains to improve user experiences. As time goes on, more and more firms are incorporating these innovative technologies to improve their goods and services. The "Metaverse" idea has gained traction in mainstream media, which has led to an extraordinary increase in interest in VR and AR recently. The active pursuit of metaverse development by major corporations indicates a notable shift in focus. This review aims to clarify the notion of the metaverse, trace its historical origins, and investigate its benefits. I

Cultural and Historical Differences of Surnames in Chinese, Vietnamese, and English Perspectives

Surnames, functioning as indicators of familial ties within societal frameworks, play a pivotal role in differentiating individuals. They encapsulate the most vibrant, unified, and thought-provoking aspects of humanistic and historical intricacies within traditional cultures, serving as foundational elements that contribute to the manifestation of unique national cultures. Every individual globally possesses a distinct surname and given name.The space Chinese, Vietnamese, and English systems of surnames intricately intertwine with their corresponding national histories, religious beliefs, traditional cultures, and social customs. These systems distinctly reflect the images and evolution of their social histories, the origins and progression of ancient civilizations, the amalgamation and enrichment of Chinese, Vietnamese, and English societies, as well as the transformations and reforms in social norms. Furthermore, they provide valuable insights for delving into the histories and cultures of these nations. Chinese, Vietnamese, and English surnames have undergone evolution within two disparate social environments, enduring extensive periods of historical refinement and accrual. They manifest various cultural idiosyncrasies, emanating distinctive historical allure, spotlighting individual national traits, and revealing diverse valuable orientations and aesthetic standards. This thesis delves into the concepts and connotations of Chinese, Vietnamese, and English surnames. On one hand, it scrutinizes and dissects differences in their formation times, historical origins, developmental trajectories, cultural characteristics, national amalgamation, and cultural connotations. On the other hand, it aims to identify primary factors arising from social reforms, religious beliefs, national psychologies, valuable conceptions, and political and economic elements. The study explores the semantic significance of surnames, uncovering variations in Chinese, Vietnamese, and English histories and cultures while nurturing cross-cultural awareness. The examination of historical and cultural differences in Chinese, Vietnamese, and English surnames proves valuable in acknowledging both shared traits and unique distinctions in cultural customs, facilitating a more profound understanding of societal development. The analysis of these differences in cross-cultural communication is essential, serving as a pivotal means for expanding cultural awareness in Chinese, Vietnamese, and English contexts. Moreover, it plays a pragmatic role in enhancing historical knowledge, broadening traditional culture, fostering mutual understanding, and improving cultural communication.

A Forgotten Mission, An Unrealized Referendum

This article delves into the ongoing conflict in Western Sahara, emphasizing the recent rise in hostilities and the breakdown of the ceasefire between Morocco and the Frente POLISARIO. It analyzes the historical origins of the conflict and the establishment of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) in 1991. Through a comprehensive analysis of the challenges faced by MINURSO, particularly regarding voting eligibility and human rights, the article underscores the detrimental impacts of the mission’s compromised impartiality, particularly focusing on the implications of the United States’ biased foreign policy. In proposing policy recommendations, the article advocates for renewed UN Security Council involvement and neutrality, to reignite negotiations towards a referendum for self-determination. It warns of escalating tensions and the risk of full-scale conflict, emphasizing the importance of immediate action to maintain peace in Western Sahara and uphold the region’s stability within the broader Maghreb context.

The Roots of Ethnic Conflict in Post-World War II Myanmar, Malaysia, and the Philippines

The impacts of colonial history on present-day ethnic relations in Southeast Asia, a region known for its cultural and ethnic diversity, remain significant in understanding the sociopolitical developments within the countries of the region. This paper examines the historical origins and contemporary implications of long-standing ethnic conflicts in Southeast Asia, focusing on Myanmar, Malaysia, and the Philippines. I argue that these conflicts stemmed from colonial legacies and can be traced back to each country’s respective colonial periods, which took place at different points in history. From the imposition of territorial boundaries to racial classification and differential treatment, colonial policies resulted in enduring tensions between ethnic populations, which continue to shape ethnic relations in these countries today. British colonial rule in Myanmar fostered tensions between the Bamar majority and non-Bamar minorities, while in Malaysia, disparities between Malays and ethnic Chinese were fueled by British migration policies. In the Philippines, conflicts involving the Muslim minority in Mindanao originated from attempts by the Spanish at Christianization and subjugation, further exacerbated by American imperialism. Despite variations in colonial experiences and timelines, ethnic conflicts underscore the lasting impact of colonization on these countries’ present-day social and political dynamics.

Historical lime‐based flooring mortars from the Church of Santa Maria de Alcobaça monastery (12th century), Portugal: A multi‐analytical approach

AbstractThe Monastery of Alcobaça houses in reserve the ceramic tiles that adorned the floor of the church's apse. These tiles were removed during rehabilitation works and many preserve part of their original fixing mortars. A comprehensive analysis of 21 samples was conducted using a multi‐analytical approach (X‐ray fluorescence, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy–energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, μ‐Raman spectroscopy, thermogravimetry–differential thermal analysis, optical microscopy, and colorimetry). Results suggest compositional variations in the samples from the back and sides of the ceramic tiles; however, the mineralogy and general characteristics of the aggregates remained consistent between the samples and are coherent with the local geology, suggesting a shared historical origin.

Origins of the Economic Approach to Crime and Punishment

Abstract The economic approach to crime and punishment began to be applied to a research program based on a rigorous and mathematically structured theoretical model by Becker (1968. “Crime and Punishment: An Economic Approach.” Journal of Political Economy 76 (2): 169–217) in his paper Crime and punishment: An economic approach. However, only brief mentions regarding the historical origins of the “economic” thought on crime and punishment can be found in the field’s pioneering modern texts. Thus, our main objective is to rebuild this history. In this paper, we do this by reviewing the thoughts of Adam Smith and Cesare Beccaria (1759–1776). In section one, we show how Smith’s position, despite being different from that of the utilitarian outlook, actually hides passages where the author comes very close to employing an economic rationale to reflect on criminality. In section two, we revisit Beccaria’s arguments and find surprising nuances and exceptions, even though he is a thinker explicitly recognized as influential by Becker and other authors linked to the Law and Economics movement. We conclude by highlighting key insights and looking for a broader history where the economic rationale on crimes and punishments can be traced back from centuries ago to modern times.

Innovative Sunday School Strategy Shaping the Character of Generation Alpha

This research explores innovative strategies to shape the character of Generation Alpha within Sunday School settings, addressing the challenges posed by technological advancements and generational shifts. Employing a qualitative approach and thematic analysis, the study reviews literature on Sunday School innovations, technology integration, character formation, and project-based learning. It identifies key themes: the historical origins of Sunday Schools, the integration of technology in Sunday School learning, character education through storytelling, and project-based learning. Findings underscore the significance of Sunday Schools in shaping moral character and adapting to contemporary needs. Examples of effective technology-based learning media are discussed, emphasizing the importance of aligning content with Christian values. Project-based learning is highlighted as a means to internalize Christian values and promote empathy and responsibility. Blended learning approaches are suggested to enhance motivation and engagement. This research contributes insights and recommendations for educators and church leaders to effectively mold the character of Generation Alpha within Sunday School contexts.

THE ROLE OF WOMAN IN BIRTH RITUALS OF KAZAKH AND TURKISH PEOPLE

This article delves into the captivating world of birth rituals in Kazakh culture, uncovering the rich tapestry of traditions, customs, and beliefs surrounding the sacred process of bringing new life into the world. Drawing upon ethnographic research, historical records, and interviews with Kazakh elders, this study aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of the significance and evolution of birth rituals within the Kazakh and Turkish community. The article begins by setting the cultural context of Kazakh society, emphasizing the deeply rooted respect for family, community, and spiritual connection. It highlights the fundamental role of birth in perpetuating the Kazakh lineage and its influence on the social fabric of the community. Moreover, the article delves into the historical origins of these rituals, tracing their roots back to ancient nomadic traditions and the interplay between Islam and local animistic beliefs. The subsequent sections of the article meticulously examine the diverse stages of birth rituals, commencing with preparations leading up to childbirth, followed by the actual delivery process, and concluding with postpartum practices. Each stage is scrutinized in terms of its symbolic significance, associated practices, and the roles of key individuals involved, such as midwives, elders, and family members.

Examining the formation of legal guarantees for equal acces to civil service: historical origins and modern application

The aim of the work is to demonstrate the historical progression of access to civil service across different historical epochs – Ancient World, Middle Ages, New Era, and Modern Times. The developmental phases of equal access to civil service mirror the primary trends in shaping the relationship between individuals and the state. The article demonstrates the peculiarities of legal guarantees, which are closely intertwined with the complex global political, economic, social, and cultural transformations of humanity, giving scholars the space to go far beyond modern history. Employing a theoretical research model focused on a human-centered perspective, it scrutinizes the essence of legal assurances. The historical method is employed to comprehend the retrospective formation and progression of the civil service. Additionally, the axiological method forms the basis for considering equal access to the civil service as a value category.
 Results of the research highlight that the legal guarantees of the right to equal access to the civil service have evolved over time, dating back to the Ancient World. This evolution is attributed to the formation of the civil service institution. The legal guarantees for equal access to the civil service are not only recognized at the national level but are also enshrined in international legal standards aimed at protecting human and civil rights. The study acknowledges that restrictions on the right to equal access during periods of special legal regimes can limit citizens’ political opportunities for contributing to good governance. Author concluded that from the time of the Ancient World to the present, as a product of the evolutionary formation of the civil service institution, legal guarantees of the right to equal access to the civil service have been formed, including legality and fairness of selection procedures, equality, and non-discrimination of applicants for civil service positions, requirements for professionalism and competence, remuneration, etc.

The Customary Atlas of Ancien Régime France

Customary law governed most European societies during the Middle Ages and early modern period. To better understand the roots of legal customs and their implications for long-run development, we introduce an atlas of customary regions of Ancien Régime France. We also describe the historical origins of French customs, their role as a source of law, and their legal content. We then offer some insights into the research possibilities opened by this database.

Democracy for the Democrats? Historical Origins of Soviet and Post-Soviet Intelligentsia

Tomila Lankina’s The Estate Origins of Democracy in Russia, published by Cambridge University Press in 2021, is a very powerful and thought-provoking book. It contains a bold argument, exhibiting the author’s erudition across several disciplines, as well as an unusual richness of empirical evidence and an exquisite prose style. The book delves into the intricacies of social resilience in the aftermath of the Russian Revolution. Contrary to the notion that the Bolshevik Revolution served as “the great leveler,” Lankina demonstrates the enduring presence of Tsarist-era estates within the social fabric throughout the Soviet era and even into the post-Soviet period. The estates encompassed a system of legal classifications that stratified Russian imperial society into distinct categories: aristocracy, clergy, merchants, and meshchane (petty bourgeoisie), as well as peasants. Lankina’s primary focus lies upon the meshchane, an estate that, by the twilight of the tsarist regime, accounted for approximately 10 percent of the empire’s total population.1 Within Lankina’s narrative, the meshchane emerged as an imperial middle class – comprising individuals such as small shopkeepers, rentiers, doctors, teachers, engineers – who mostly resided in urban centers and towns. Many among this group hailed from ethnic and religious minority backgrounds, including Jewish, Polish, German, Old Believers, and others.

Australian child and adolescent mental health services

We aim to describe the Australian child and adolescent mental health system, which has its historical origins in the child guidance clinic, with recent efforts at modernisation to meet community needs and major policy innovations, including the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and expansion of digital/telehealth services. Shared funding/responsibility across commonwealth and state/territory governments has resulted in country-wide variations, allowing innovation but also introducing fragmentation and duplication. The increase in demand outstripping supply (which was exacerbated by workforce shortages resulting from the pandemic), the lack of robust evaluation, and poor service integration (which make navigation difficult for families) are ongoing challenges.

Entrance to the multifaceted world of CD4+ T cell subsets

This review provides a detailed examination of CD4+ T lymphocyte subsets, crucial components of the immune system originating from the thymus. This study explores the distinct roles and mechanisms of various T helper (Th) cell subsets, including Th1, Th2, Th17, Th22, regulatory T cells (Tregs), Th9, and T follicular helper (Tfh) cells, focusing on their induction by specific cytokines, regulation by transcription factors, and the production of post-induction cytokines. The study traces the historical origins of Th lymphocyte research, emphasizing the unique cytokine profiles and functional implications of each subset in immune regulation and pathology, including autoimmune diseases, allergies, and cancer. Key findings include the delineation of cytokine-mediated induction processes, highlighting factors like interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), interleukin-4 (IL-4), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), and IL-6. The review delves into transcription factors such as T-box transcription factor 21 (T-bet), GATA binding protein 3 (GATA3), and forkhead box P3 (Foxp3), underlying the lineage-specific development of these cells, and discusses the significant roles of post-induction cytokines. The research underscores the clinical relevance of CD4+ T cell subset dysregulation in various diseases, advocating for a nuanced understanding of these subsets for potential therapeutic advancements in immune-related disorders.

Creativity in the Ancient Greek Philosophy: The Politics of Demiourgein

ABSTRACTWhere does creativity come from and what is its purpose? The paper revisits these ever‐turning questions to correct the prevalent but, arguably, inaccurate historical interpretation of creativity as a concept that emerged in modernity. First, I substantiate that a close study of the ancient Greek texts suggests that although creativity seems to occupy a peripheral position in the ancient philosophical thinking, it is a central, yet, hidden, subject of speculation. Second, I overturn the worn‐out view that the ancient Greek philosophy conceives creativity as a God‐given talent breathed into a fortunate few. Last, I demonstrate that a more encompassing understanding of creativity is implied by several Greek philosophers. To achieve this, (a) I discuss the contemporary interpretations of the ancient notion; (b) I examine the historical origin and etymology of the Greek term demiourgein (“to create”) to discuss its relevant uses; and (c) I develop a nuanced framework for conceptualizing ancient creativity and its interrelation to human agency, politics, and social life.

NA’s Future Peacekeeping Engagement Through a Case of Operation Lifeline in UNMISS

The essay delves into Nepal's substantial involvement in UN peacekeeping, particularly examining the Nepali Army's role in Operation Lifeline within the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). It traces the historical origins of Operation Lifeline Sudan (OLS) and its transformation into Operation Lifeline (OLL) within UNMISS, emphasizing Nepal's enduring commitment to global peace. The narrative focuses on OLL-54, where the Nepali High Readiness Company (NEPHRC) played a crucial role, exceeding agreed-upon limits to ensure the safe passage of the barge in a complex security situation. The essay underscores the operational credibility and professionalism of the Nepali contingents especially NEPHRC, suggesting it as a case for Nepal's unique contribution to future UN peacekeeping efforts. It advocates for the systematic documentation of such experiences, envisioning the development of a unique Nepali peacekeeping model for the world. In conclusion, the essay asserts that Nepal has an opportunity to showcase its commitment and achievements in international peacekeeping, reinforcing its position as a significant contributor to the evolving landscape of UN peace missions.
 Nepali Army's (NA) six decades in United Nations (UN) peacekeeping is a reflection of Nepal's enduring commitment to global peace and security. This is not merely a legacy or an aggregate of numbers of participation, achievements, and sacrifices. NA today carries a huge baggage of experience and knowledgebase derived from different peacekeeping environments of conflict zones across the world from as many as 44 traditional and multi-dimensional UN peacekeeping missions. Quite significantly, NA can offer the UN a Nepali peacekeeping model based on lessons acquired through involvement and practice. From each mission and (the number of) contingents in those missions, NA has gathered tremendous lessons and learning (experience) from individuals - leaders and men alike and participating units. Yet very few attempts were made to collect those experiences and bring about inferences for its future application. The author believes that Nepal can contribute to the world with a unique outlook for future UN peacekeeping, which is always evolving. This paper, however, only attempts to discuss Operation Lifeline (OLL) of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) in particular to derive lessons relevant for Nepal/NA to consider for the future.