Role In History Research Articles

From pride to peril: Ethiopia’s crisis and its shockwaves on Horn of Africa security

ABSTRACT This study explores the implications of Ethiopia’s current crisis on the security dynamics of the Horn of Africa. By employing both primary and secondary data sources, this research highlights Ethiopia’s historical role in fostering peace and security in a region often plagued by conflict and instability. Ethiopia has been instrumental in advancing regional peace through counter-terrorism initiatives, mediation and negotiation between conflicting states, and peacekeeping missions. Furthermore, its participation in regional and sub-regional organisations has promoted regional integration and development. However, the ongoing crisis, characterised by multifaceted internal conflicts, persistent civil wars, economic downturns, political instability, and social unrest, has severely compromised Ethiopia’s ability to sustain regional stability. This study finds that the crisis has significant regional ramifications, transforming Ethiopia from a stabilising force into a potential destabilising factor, thus diminishing its previous contributions to peace and security in the Horn of Africa.

Ancient Era Hospitals “Asclepions” and their Heritage to the Day

Asclepios is the god of medicine and health in mythology. In ancient times, healing was sought in the worship of Asclepios. Ancient hospitals built in the name of Asclepios are called “Asclepion”. In ancient times, around three hundred and twenty Asclepions were built within the borders of Greece and Türkiye today. The most important of these ancient hospitals are located in Epidauros, Pergamon, Kos, Athens and Knidos. There was also a health center (an ancient hospital) in Allianoi. In this study, the most significant locations, architectural features, treatment methods, historical and cultural roles of the ancient hospitals among the Asclepions in Western Anatolia and Greece were investigated. When the treatment methods in Asclepions are examined, it is seen that holistic medical practices were applied with a biopsychosocial approach to the patients called guests. Diseases were not seen as one-dimensional but as the result of complex processes and negative environmental, social and psychological interactions. Patients were treated with respect as beings with mental, ethical, emotional, social, moral and natural characteristics. Centuries earlier in Asclepions, the first functional applications of hospital architecture and individual and holistic medical approaches are seen. We think that today's hospital architecture and treatment approaches have many features that can be learned from the heritage of ancient hospitals in history.

Reimagining our Intellectual Apostolate through the House of Writers

This article reimagines the Jesuit intellectual apostolate by proposing the revival of ‘houses of writers’ as agile, mission-focused complements to universities. While universities remain valuable for Jesuit education, their institutional ‘sclerosis’ and bureaucratic demands can limit flexibility and responsiveness. Drawing on the historical role of houses of writers, with a contemporary case study of Brotéria in Lisbon, the essay argues for the establishment of ‘houses of public intellectuals’ as dynamic spaces fostering hospitality, erudition, and independence. These houses would enable Jesuits to engage directly with society, offering an alternative intellectual model suited to cosmopolitan and urban contexts. The essay advocates a hybrid approach where Jesuit intellectual life can flourish beyond the confines of university structures, enriching the apostolate’s reach.

The Normativity of the Judiciary Acts in the Anglo-Saxon Legal System and Case Law Formation in a Modern National System

The paper analyzes the content of the stare decisis principle, provides the main arguments in its favor, examines the case law system, investigates the trends of its introduction into the Russian legal system. The authors conclude that the judicial precedent that played a historical role in the formation and development of the common law legal system is gradually changing its position in the system of sources of law. It has been established that in the Anglo-Saxon legal doctrine the question of precedent is now not unambiguous. It is pointed out that there is no judicial policy aimed at abolishon of precedents and it is proved that the calls of legal scholars to abandon the principle of stare decisis in the field of constitutional law are not unfounded. It has been established that, despite the denial of judicial precedent in the Russian legal doctrine and a debatable nature of this issue, in Russia the judicial precedent was gently integrated into the national legal system in the form of an interpretation precedent, which is conceptual in nature and entails the need to transform the entire system of legislation. The authors conclude that the judicial precedent does not coincide with the act of the judiciary, but is only a procedure for motivating this act that acquires mandatory force subject to the court observing this procedure for motivating in similar cases, and, as a source of law, gives normative force to the acts of the judiciary where it is contained. It is noted that a complete separation of the judicial precedent from the judgment where it is given is not true, since judicial precedent is «tied» to the factual circumstances of the case in the relevant part of the judgment.

Se moquer de la philosophie est vraiment philosopher: Plato, Aristotle and the pedagogy of irony and play in Pascal’s Pensées

ABSTRACT Plato and Aristotle, as Pascal illustrates in fragment Sellier 457 of Pensées, possess insight into the flaws of human social interactions and adeptly navigate them through intelligent dissimulation similar to Socratic irony and the pedagogy of play when dealing with authority. As honnêtes hommes, avant la lettre, they are virtuous individuals ahead of their time, recognizing the limitations of philosophy and not taking philosophical discourse too seriously in their pensée de derrière. Besides emphasizing the futility of social life as part of the human condition, not so much interested in Plato and Aristotle as historical role models, Pascal portrays the two philosophers’ character traits as consisting of a miscellaneous mixture of Socrates, Pyrrhonians, and honnêtes hommes, and claims the inadequacy and inefficacy of pagan philosophy without God wholesale in altering human behaviours. For Pascal, Plato and Aristotle, like honnêtes hommes and philosophers of other schools, are susceptible to criticism for indulging in self-love inherent to human nature, a flaw only Christianity can fully explain through the doctrine of the Fall and offer a meaningful remedy.

El rol del método inductivo como vínculo entre las teorías educativas y las prácticas de aula

This study addresses the issue of the relationship between theories and pedagogical models,focusing on their connection with educational research and classroom practice. In this context, the main objective is to analyze the role of the inductive method in the relationship between theories and pedagogical models from classroom praxis, using meta-research and reflective critique based on Grounded Theory. Thus, the definitions of theories and pedagogical models, the historical role of the inductive method in educational research, the relationship between inductive reasoning,the main theories and pedagogical models, and the practical implications of these approaches in teaching and learning are explored. The results reveal that the inductive method is essential for formulating hypotheses, theories, and models from empirical observations, providing a solid foundation for educational research. Additionally, it has significantly influenced the development of various pedagogical models, facilitating the integration of theory and practice, which is vital foreffective teaching. In conclusion, the study highlights the ongoing relevance of the inductive method in educational research and its potential to improve pedagogical practices, especially with the advancement of technology, which offers new opportunities to enhance data collection and analysis.

U.S. Foreign Policy in the Middle East: Strategic Goals, Oil Interests, and the Promotion of Democracy

This research explores the historical and contemporary role of U.S. intervention in the Middle East, with a particular focus on oil interests, political strategies, and regional stability. The study examines key agreements like the "fifty-fifty" profit-sharing deal in Saudi Arabia and the broader implications of U.S. involvement in Gulf politics. The strategic importance of oil to U.S. national security is a central theme, illustrating how energy concerns have shaped U.S. foreign policy in the region. A significant portion of the research delves into the tension between promoting democracy and securing U.S. strategic interests, highlighting the challenges faced in balancing these often conflicting goals. Methodologically, the research utilizes both quantitative and qualitative approaches, drawing on historical documents, diplomatic records, and contemporary analyses. The findings suggest that while the U.S. has made efforts to foster democratic reforms in the region, its interventions—such as the Iraq invasion—have often resulted in instability, sectarian violence, and the resurgence of authoritarian regimes. The research argues that the U.S. has maintained a strong presence in the Middle East primarily to safeguard its economic and security interests, understanding that the region is vital to both its energy supply and broader geopolitical strategy. The conclusion underscores that U.S. involvement in the Middle East will likely continue in the future, driven by the desire to secure energy resources, maintain regional influence, and counter rivals like Iran, China, and Russia. The research suggests that while U.S. efforts to promote democracy have been largely unsuccessful, its strategic interests will remain dominant in shaping its regional policies.

Listening to placebos: the contested lessons of antidepressants debates.

The goal of this paper is to explore a set of epistemological and ontological issues regarding the historical and philosophical role of placebos in the contested history of antidepressants. Starting from an account of the dual nature of the placebo as both an epistemic and a therapeutic tool, and against the background of the heated debates on the efficacy of second-generation antidepressants, I propose two related arguments. First, I argue that placebos as controls played a crucial but paradoxical role in the rise of so-called evidence-based approaches to depression. Second, I discuss how current research on placebo effects puts into question some of the most crucial assumptions of psychiatric technoscience regarding the ontology of affective experiences. Ultimately, this paper aims to probe discussions around placebos, placebo effects, and the status of depression both as a diagnostic category and a lived experience.

Cheong Wa Dae: The Sustainability and Place-Making of a Cultural Landmark, Reflecting Its Role in History and Architecture

Cheong Wa Dae, a site of profound historical and cultural significance, holds great potential to be reimagined as a sustainable cultural landmark that meets contemporary social, economic, and environmental needs. This research explores strategies to preserve its historical identity while transforming it into a dynamic and accessible public space. Using a qualitative approach, this study integrates history and architectural reviews and sustainability frameworks, including alignment with the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Programs were evaluated through the Sustainability Impact Assessment tool to measure their ecological, cultural, and socio-economic impacts. The findings reveal that targeted strategies—such as utilizing the physical environment for global events, promoting biodiversity, and enhancing engagement through cultural and culinary experiences—are essential for sustainable transformation. These initiatives align with 11 of the 17 SDGs, with 7 goals showing a Direct Positive Impact and 4 showing an Indirect Positive Impact. This study concludes that by merging heritage preservation with innovation and sustainability, Cheong Wa Dae can evolve into a vibrant, economically viable public space and a model for cultural place-making, fostering public engagement, economic growth, and long-term ecological benefits.

Amir Temur – A Symbol of Justice and Power

This article explores the perception of Amir Temur during the Soviet era, the restoration of his historical role and significance following Uzbekistan’s independence, and his contributions to the establishment of a centralized state. It discusses his governance, adherence to justice, economic and cultural progress during his rule, as well as his diplomatic relations with other states.

Role of K.H. Agus Salim in Educational Management in Koto Gadang 1912-1915

K.H. Agus Salim is an Indonesian national hero known as a scholar, politician, professional and journalist. Her activism can be traced from the time of the national movement to the period of defending independence. However, there is an experience that is so unique, namely when Salim fought for education in his hometown of Koto Gadang, West Sumatra. This writing uses the biographical research method of education to highlight Salim's historical role in the field of educational management. Since childhood, Agus Salim was known to be intelligent and studious. He took all of his education at the Dutch colonial school and always excelled and was fluent in many languages (polyglot). In the midst of a discriminatory colonial education system, he succeeded in establishing the private Hollandsche Inlandsche School (HIS) with the help of non-governmental organizations in 1912. He served as an advisor and teacher. Many of the school's alumni have been successfully accepted into government advanced schools, one of the reasons being that foreign language education (Dutch) is taught from an early age. Furthermore, "Studiefonds Koto Gadang" as the institution he founded helps outstanding students to get free education and continue their education. The basis of Agus Salim's contribution lies in the influence of Islamic modernism thought brought by Muhammad Abduh, that Muslims must achieve the pleasure of Allah with intellectual intelligence. Salim completes it by building awareness of nationalism and love for the motherland.

Identity and Art Consumption through a Micro-Sociological Lens : An Ethnographic Study of Urban Yuppies in Dongshankou, China

Dongshankou, a district in Guangzhou, China, represents a unique intersection of traditional Chinese and Western cultures, shaped by its historical role as a hub for the upper class and foreign influence. This distinctive cultural context positions Dongshankou as a compelling case for examining the relationship between collective identity and art consumption among young urban professionals (yuppies). This study investigates how the purchase of artworks contributes to the formation and maintenance of yuppies’ identity. Utilizing Burke and Stets’ Identity Theory, the research explores the interplay between identity formation and art consumption from a microsociological perspective. Data were collected through ethnographic methods, including participant observation and in-depth interviews with 22 yuppies selected based on income, education, and occupation. The findings indicate that art consumption enhances self-esteem, fosters community belonging, and serves as a critical mechanism for identity validation. The purchase of artworks, in particular, emerges as a key tool for sustaining collective identity within this sociocultural framework.

한국악단편성에 나타난 예술적 가치 연구

This study aims to analyze the historical role and evolution of traditional Korean ensembles, highlighting their cultural significance and value. During the Joseon Dynasty, wars had profound economic, social, and cultural impacts on the agrarian society, and in this context, ensembles played a crucial role in uniting the people and rebuilding the nation. During the reigns of the kings of that period, systematic organization and development of court ensembles were implemented, reflecting efforts to stabilize the state through music. During the Japanese colonial period, traditional Korean ensembles faced suppression due to Japan’s colonial policies, yet some musicians secretly preserved traditional music and initiated new musical movements by blending it with Western music. Subsequently, traditional Korean ensembles pursued modernization and globalization, opening new musical horizons through the fusion of traditional and contemporary elements. This study examines how Korean traditional ensembles, even amidst war and turmoil, have contributed to uniting the people, preserving cultural identity, and continuously evolving through modernization and globalization. It emphasizes the significance of traditional Korean music as a valuable cultural asset.

Judicial Statutes of 1864 and Criminal Proceedings: Historical Role and Legacy

The article reveals from a modern perspective, the historical role and significance of the Judicial Statutes adopted on November 20, 1864, which were the roots of the historical process that laid the foundation for the establishment of democratic principles of Russian criminal procedure. Among the complex phenomena and events of the judicial reform, which affected the fate of criminal proceedings, the most important will be the formation of the system and mechanism of criminal proceedings as the embodiment of judicial power, the establishment and development of the institution of jury trial as a national historical phenomenon in the Russian criminal process, the transition to the formation of a new for that era mixed historical form of criminal proceedings, as well as the introduction of true differentiation of criminal proceedings

Empire, Literature and “Archeology of Ignorance”: (Re-)reading Ewa Thompson’s Imperial Knowledge During the War

The article draws on Ewa Thompson’s concept of Imperial Knowledge as developed in her seminal book on Russian Literature and Colonialism, and understood here as a system of narratives developed by imperial ideologues (including cultural activists) with two intertwined goals: to glorify the empire, its supposedly great, “universal” culture and “unique” historical role, and, on the other hand, to undermine and depreciate the cultures of subordinate nations, deprive them of any agency and visibility. The author argues that Thompson’s book, despite some minor flaws and inaccuracies, remains highly topical, and her critical approach to imperial tenets in the most prominent works of Russian literature paves a way for much-needed deconstruction of “imperial knowledge”, that heavily influenced the West and its (mis)perceptions of Russia and Russia’s colonies.

The Substantial Difference Between USA and EU Welfare

This comparative study explores the substantial differences in nonprofit organizations (NPOs) between the United States and Europe, examining their historical origins, operational frameworks, and roles within distinct welfare models. By analyzing the socio-economic contexts of liberal, corporatist-conservative, and social-democratic welfare systems, the research highlights how cultural, political, and economic factors shape the development and functioning of NPOs in different regions. The study reveals contrasting approaches to nonprofit sustainability, tax policies, and social service provision, with the U.S. model emphasizing market-driven efficiency and individual responsibility, while European models prioritize universal access, solidarity, and collaborative welfare provision. Through a comprehensive examination of organizational structures, funding mechanisms, and societal contributions, the research illuminates the unique characteristics of nonprofit sectors in these regions and proposes future research directions for measuring their economic and social impact.

IAU South-West and Central Asian Regional Office of Astronomy for Development

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) announced its Strategic Plan on Astronomy for Development in 2009, during the International Year of Astronomy (IYA) (for 2011-2020, extended to 2021-2030). One of its main components was the creation of the Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD) and corresponding Regional Offices (ROADs) for implementation and coordination of its aims. The OAD was created in Cape Town, South Africa and later on ROADs were created in 11 regions. Since 2015, Armenia has hosted one of them, IAU South West Asian (SWA) IAU ROAD, later renamed South West and Central Asian (SWCA) ROAD. At present, already six countries have officially joined (Armenia, Georgia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Turkey), but the Office serves for a rather broad region, from Eastern Europe to Central Asia. Armenia’s geographical location and its historical role in astronomy (both for well-known archaeoastronomical heritage and the presence of the famous Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory (BAO) founded by Viktor Ambartsumian in 1946) serve as a link between Europe and Eastern Partnership countries, Middle East and Asia in general. We run activities in 3 directions, Task Forces (TF): TF1 Universities and Research, TF2 Children and Schools and TF3 Public Outreach. In addition, we participate in the OAD Flagship Projects; Flagship 1: Astrotourism, Flagship 2: Astro for Mental Health, Flagship 3: Hack4Dev. We present our projects and all other accomplishments and discuss the role of our ROAD in maintaining contacts and development of astronomy in the region, as well as contacts between Europe and the Eastern Partnership countries. The most up-to-date information about the IAU SWCA ROAD is available on its webpage at http://iau-swa-road.aras.am/eng/index.php.

Venetian Control of Information Flows with Constantinople and the Soft Power of a Renaissance State

Abstract The ability to control international flows of information constitutes one of the core elements of the soft power of any modern state aspiring to exercise some level of regional or global hegemony. This phenomenon has been previously examined by those who study long-distance communications mainly in the context of the nineteenth-century telegraph or the twentieth-century broadcast. However, inquiries focusing on the analogous historical role performed by the postal service during the early modern era are much more scarce. Building upon this premise, this study examines the strategic advantages gained by the Republic of Venice through its control of the mail exchange between Europe and the Middle East – a de facto postal monopoly established during the sixteenth century. Venice deliberately subsidized this service in order to prevent the rise of potential competition. Despite the substantial cost, this was seen as an effective investment through which the republic gained a set of tangible strategic advantages. In particular, it helped to extend Venice’s relevance on the European political scene long past the point when its traditional political, economic, and naval–military power was already fading away.

Transformation of Pesantren Education as a Starting Point for Religious Moderation in Indonesia

As a cornerstone of education in Indonesia, Pesantren education has a significant historical and cultural role in shaping religious understanding and national character. Today, pesantren are not only centers of knowledge, da'wah (preaching), and community development but also agents of change in thought and attitude towards civility and humanity. However, this latter role has not yet been fully realized. This study explores how the transformation of pesantren education can serve as a starting point towards religious moderation, specifically in transforming understanding and attitudes to ensure that students become moderate in line with the goals of religious education in Indonesia. This study employs a qualitative method with a case study design, collecting data through in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation at several pesantren in West Java, Indonesia. Curriculum development is identified as part of the transformation process. Collected data are analyzed thematically to uncover the main patterns and impacts of the transformation on students' moderate understanding and attitudes. The study finds that pesantren offering formal education with an integrated national and local curriculum impacts students' moderate understanding and attitudes in four aspects: national commitment, tolerance, anti-violence, and friendliness towards local culture.

Hyperreal Replicas in Julian Barnes' "England, England"

This article aims to examine Julian Barnes' England, England through Jean Baudrillard's influential concepts of hyperreality and simulation, illuminating profound resonances with the postmodern condition of contemporary Western societies. The novel portrays a world increasingly governed by models, signs and simulacra, challenging traditional notions of authenticity and reality. The theme park's replication of English culture, history and identity exemplifies how simulations and hyperreal constructions have saturated domains like tourism, nationhood, historical narratives and media representations. The novel encapsulates Baudrillardian themes such as the blurring of reality/illusion, the eclipse of the original by replicas, and the commodification of culture into marketable experiences. This mirrors contemporary experiences where the virtual and artificial hold sway over the authentic, fuelled by forces like consumer capitalism and the media. The actors' embodiment of historical roles reflects how mediated depictions shape public memory more than facts. Ultimately, the novel's vision of a hyperreal England supplanting traditional conceptions of nationhood resonates with contemporary anxieties about meaning and truth in a world dominated by simulations. By vividly fictionalizing Baudrillard's philosophical perspectives, the novel offers insightful views on modern complications distinguishing reality amid our self-constructed simulations.