Symbol Of Identity Research Articles

Body and Society: Symbolic Equation in Vampire Academy Series

The body serves as a symbol that describes the relationship between individual parts of an organism and the system as a whole. A structure of the social system of society can be found within the body. Literature works as the product of a culture and is considered a mirror of society. The body in literature is often a theme or symbol rich in meaning because the body can reflect various aspects of human life, such as identity, emotion, culture, politics, spirituality, and social relationships. The use of the body in literature often involves multidimensional exploration that inspires readers to understand the human experience more deeply. The Vampire Academy series brings about a body issue representing certain social structures of a society. This study aims to explore the symbols underlying the vampire body in the Vampire Academy series. The material and data were gained from library sources using a literary study method. The objects of this study are six novels by Richelle Mead from the Vampire Academy series, which tell the story of the lives of teenagers who fight against the class division structure in a school. The results include the body becoming a symbol of group identity, as seen in the tattoos of the Dhampir guardians’ class and the Human Alchemists, symbols of sexuality in body shape, and symbols of power in the blood, skin colour, and tooth shape.

The Church at the End of Russia: Historical and Ethnographic Context of Building

The article is devoted to the ethnographic aspects of building a modern Orthodox church, the deeds and personality of its investor and constructor. This is the first time an Orthodox church is considered as a social and cultural object from the perspective of historical and anthropological methods, and the actions of its creator — as a response to the social and cultural requirements and demands of the modern era. The author considers the significance of the Church of the Intercession of the Holy Virgin in Kondratyevo as a symbol of ethnic and cultural local identity. The construction of a votive Orthodox church is a unique phenomenon in modern construction. Narratives about the construction of the Church of the Intercession, including motifs about miracles, which formed among the village church parish, eventually become a cultural text for the entire pan-Russian tradition. The personality and religiosity of the investor and the creator of the Church of the Intercession are considered. His personality is studied within the problem of “personality and history”, “personality and individuality in culture”. The author compares the process of building the Church to the spiritual perfection of its creator; his moral growth — to the construction of the church, and its construction itself is described as a spiritual process. The Church of the Intercession — a church at the end of Russia nowadays fulfills protective and defensive functions as well as canonical ones due to its location at the state border. Its significance as a symbol of ethnic and cultural identity in the changing historical context is increasing.

Eating "rubbish"? Exploring the herbal secrets of "Laji-He," a traditional herbal rice snack from southern China

BackgroundLaji-He is a traditional rice-based snack from the Beibu Gulf region in southern China. In the Beibu Gulf region, "Laji-He" (literally "garbage He") signifies the removal of toxins from the body, making it a truly "green" food. Laji-He holds essential cultural and medicinal value, incorporating various medicinal plants into its preparation. Despite its local importance, there is limited scientific documentation on the ethnobotanical properties and cultural relevance of the plants used. This study aims to analyze the medicinal plant used in Laji-He and its implication in human medicine.MethodsEthnobotanical surveys and interviews were conducted in the Beibu Gulf region, covering local markets and communities. Voucher specimens were collected and identified for each plant collected, using botanical references, while the relative frequency of citation index was used to assess the cultural importance of each plant. Additionally, the medicinal properties of these plants were categorized based on traditional Chinese medicinal theory and modern pharmacological literature. A detailed review of historical texts and local chronicles was also performed to trace the historical development and cultural changes of Laji-He.ResultsA total of 63 medicinal plants from 36 families and 53 genera were documented, with Rubiaceae, Fabaceae, and Lamiaceae being the most frequently represented families. The most commonly used plants, such as Paederia foetida, Piper sarmentosum, Houttuynia cordata, Centella asiatica, and Morus alba, were primarily utilized for their heat-clearing, detoxifying, and wind-dampness expelling properties. Laji-He serves as a symbol of cultural identity and community cohesion, particularly during traditional festivals and family gatherings, reinforcing collective memory and local heritage.ConclusionsLaji-He is a traditional functional snack, with the plants used in its preparation serving as both food and medicine. Preserving and promoting the culture of Laji-He can contribute to enhancing food security and sovereignty at both the local and national levels.

Age-related differences in information, but not task control in the color-word Stroop task.

Older adults were found to struggle with tasks that require cognitive control. One task that measures the ability to exert cognitive control is the color-word Stroop task. Almost all studies that tested cognitive control in older adults using the Stroop task have focused on one type of control - Information control. In the present work, we ask whether older adults also show a deficit in another type of cognitive control - Task control. To that end, we tested older and younger adults by isolating and measuring two types of conflict - information conflict and task conflict. Information conflict was measured by the difference between color identification of incongruent color words and color identification of neutral words, while task conflict was measured by the difference between color identification of neutral words and color identification of neutral symbols and by the reverse facilitation effect. We tested how the behavioral markers of these two types of conflicts are affected under low task control conditions, which is essential for measuring task conflict behaviorally. Older adults demonstrated a deficit in information control by showing a larger information conflict marker, but not in task control markers, as no differences in task conflict were found between younger and older adults. These findings supported previous studies that work against theories that link the larger Stroop interference in older adults to a generic slowdown or a generic inhibitory failure. We discussed the relevancy of the results and future research directions in line with other Stroop studies that tested age-related differences in different control mechanisms.

Refining the Production Date of Historical Palestinian Garments Through Dye Identification

The dyes used to produce two Palestinian garments from the British Museum’s collection attributed to the late 19th–early 20th century were investigated by high pressure liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detector and tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-DAD-MS/MS). Palestinian embroidery is a symbol of national identity and the topic of scholarly research. However, little attention has been given to the dyes and how these changed with the introduction of new synthetic formulations in the second half of the 19th century. The results revealed the use of natural indigoid blue and red madder (Rubia tinctorum), in combination with tannins. Yellow from buckthorn (probably Rhamnus saxatilis) and red from cochineal (probably Dactylopius coccus) were found mixed with synthetic dyes in green and dark red embroidery threads, respectively. Early synthetic dyes were identified in all the other colours. These include Rhodamine B (C.I. 45170), Orange II (C.I. 15510), Orange IV (C.I. 13080), Metanil Yellow (C.I. 13065), Chrysoidine R (C.I. 11320), Methyl Violet (C.I. 42535), Malachite Green (C.I. 42000), Fuchsin (C.I. 42510), Auramine O (C.I. 41000) and Methyl Blue (C.I. 42780). As the date of the first synthesis of these dyes is known, the production date of the garments was refined, suggesting that these were likely to be produced towards the end of the 1880s/beginning of the 1890s. The continuous use of historical local sources of natural dyes, alongside new synthetic dyes, is of particular interest, adding rightful nuances to the development of textile-making practices in this region.

Специфика религиозной идентичности армянской молодежи в России и в Армении

<p><strong>Objective. </strong>The aim of the study is to identify the role of values in the relationship between religious identity and psychological well-being of Armenian respondents in Armenia and the Krasnodar Territory of Russia.<br><strong>Background. </strong>At present, religious identity, especially in Armenia, is an important marker of ethnic identity, a consolidating factor for Armenians as a social community and a process of forming the civil self-consciousness of an individual. Since the church plays an important role in the history and life of the Armenian people, for Armenians it is a symbol of national identity and a link between the Armenian diaspora and the title ethnos. <br><strong>Study design. </strong>The study examined the relationship between religious identity of Armenians in Russia and Armenia and other social identities, the link between social identities and psychological well-being, their relationship with values. These characteristics were tested using univariate analysis of variance (ANOVA), regression analysis (hierarchical regression), and moderation analysis. <br><strong>Participants. </strong>The total sample consisted of 245 participants. Russian sample: 113 people (44% men, 56% women) aged 18-30 years (<em>M</em> = 20,3;<em> SD</em> = 2,5). Armenian sample: 132 people (13,6% men, 86,4% women) aged 18-41 years (<em>M</em> = 19,94; <em>SD </em>= 1,86). <br><strong>Measurements. </strong>Russian-language versions of scales from the international project "Mutual Intercultural Relations in Pluralistic Societies" (MIRIPS) and the questionnaire by S. Schwartz PVQ-R. Psychological Well-Being Scale by C. Ryff. Author's questionnaire for socio-demographic characteristics. <br><strong>Results. </strong>Armenians of Armenia and Kuban differ significantly in ethnic, civil, religious and local identities and psychological well-being. Religious identity in both groups was associated with ethnic, civil and local identities. The influence of values on the level of religious identity, as well as the effect of values in the relationship between religious identity and psychological well-being, was established. <br><strong>Conclusions. </strong>There is a relationship between religious identity and other social identities; value orientations influence religious identity.</p>

Portrait of Historical Figures in Engraving Graphic Printing Techniques as A Means of Visual Communication to Spread National Identity

The portrayal of historical figures through graphic print techniques plays an important role in spreading national identity. This technique involves slaughtering fine lines on metal plates that produce detailed images. Images produced with this technique can be found in banknotes, stamps, coins, and various educational media. The visual image not only strengthens respect for historical figures but also acts as a symbol of national identity. Grafir utilizes and strengthens the symbol of nationalism by including several elements of local culture, such as batik and flora motifs. In addition, graphir is also used as a security feature on money and official documents. The results of this study helped prove the perception that a strong graphir in creating a national symbol that is eternal, iconic, and easily recognized by all levels of society.

Arnis in Physical Activities Towards Health and Fitness (Pathfit) 3 and 4 Courses: A Deep Dive into Faculty Experiences in Teaching Arnis

Filipino Martial Arts (FMA), or Arnis, embodies the rich martial arts heritage of the Philippines, utilizing various weapons for combat and self-defense (Martin et al., 2018). Recognized as the national martial art and sport through Republic Act 9850 in 2009, Arnis has since gained a formal place in education. This study explores faculty experiences teaching Arnis in Physical Activities Towards Health and Fitness (PATHFit) 3 and 4 courses across colleges and universities in Central Luzon (Region III). Employing Colaizzi's 7-step phenomenological technique, with data gathered through interviews and audio-visual recordings, the study uncovers five key themes: (1) The Pedagogical and Cultural Significance of Including Arnis in the Curriculum (2) Enhancing Student Safety and Holistic Development through Arnis (3) Fostering Social Connections, Personal Growth, and Cultural Integration through Arnis (4) Addressing Challenges and Promoting Engagement in Arnis Education and, (5) Enhancing the Teaching and Promotion. Findings revealed that Arnis education transcends physical instruction, fostering cultural pride, resilience, and personal growth among educators and students. Faculty members experienced professional transformation, adopting innovative teaching methods to sustain cultural heritage while addressing modern educational demands. For students, integrating Arnis into PATHFit courses boosted confidence, discipline, and community involvement, strengthening their cultural identity. This study underscores the significance of Arnis as a culturally relevant educational tool that bridges traditional practices with contemporary fitness education. The findings advocate for the development of dynamic, culturally inclusive curricula and faculty training programs, ensuring the sustained relevance of Arnis in academic and societal contexts. By preserving this martial art, educators can inspire both personal development and community cohesion, reinforcing Arnis as a symbol of Filipino identity.

Pengaruh Penggunaan Bahasa Gaul Dalam Interaksi Mahasiswa : Studi Kualitatif Tentang Penggunaan Bahasa Gaul Dikalangan Mahasiswa IKM UINSU

This research aims to explore more deeply the phenomenon of slang use among UINSU Public Health students and its impact on social dynamics and the development of their identity. Through a qualitative approach involving in-depth interviews and participant observation, this research seeks to understand how slang plays a role in forming social bonds, creating a sense of belonging to a group, and influencing the way students interact with each other. Preliminary findings show that slang not only functions as a communication tool, but also as a symbol of identity and a means of expressing oneself. However, on the other hand, the use of slang that is too intense can blur the boundaries between formality and informality, thus potentially hampering the learning process and effective academic communication. Therefore, this research highlights the importance of balancing the use of slang with good and correct language rules, so that students can communicate effectively in various contexts without sacrificing their group identity.

Analysis Of The Opak Abang Dance As A Symbol Of Kendal Regency Identity Through Costume Design With Objective Aesthetics

Opak Abang dance is the identity art of the Kendal Regency community, as a local culture that has historical importance. The form of Opak Abang dance costume design includes, headband, long shirt, kolor pants, songket cloth, white socks, sampur, belt / slepe, ear fan, sash, sunglasses. The research focused on “analyzing opak abang dance as a symbol of the identity of kendal district through costume design with objective aesthetics” using a qualitative approach. Data analysis techniques used in this research are data reduction analysis, narrative analysis, and content analysis. Data collection in this study through observation, interviews, documentation and audio-visual materials. The results showed that the design in Opak Abang dance as a Symbol of Identity of Kendal Regency has meaning and is formed from different elements through the balance of design components, thus creating an aesthetic and attractive visual unity with a combination of harmonious patterns, terns, color contrast and texture. The results of costume design research in Opak Abang Dance which is a typical art of Kendal Regency have meaning and are formed from different elements through the balance of component design, which makes an aesthetic and attractive visual unity with a harmonious blend. Innovation in the process of making costumes for Opak Abang Dance Kendal Regency has a relatively simple and unique form. The design is formed as an illustration of the story of heroism and the spread of Islam in Kendal Regency .

Sustainability of the Malay Landscape Aesthetic Model in Urban Design: Case Studies of Kota Tinggi, Kuala Kangsar, and Kota Bharu

This study examines the application of Malay cultural landscape aesthetic elements in the context of contemporary urban development, focusing on Kota Tinggi, Kuala Kangsar, and Kota Bharu. The main issue of this study is the pressure of urbanization and modernization that threatens the sustainability of traditional elements such as gateways, gardens, and mosques, which are crucial for cultural identity and fulfilling the needs of modern society. The primary objective of this study is to identify the similarities and differences in the application of aesthetic elements among these three cities and analyze how these elements meet the needs of society in terms of biological, cultural, emotional, intellectual, and religious aspects. This study employs a qualitative approach using a multiple case study design. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, direct observations, and document analysis, focusing on five key principles: biological needs, cultural development, intellectual creativity, emotional well-being, and religious fulfillment. Research instruments include checklists and interview guides based on sustainability principles. Data were analyzed using a thematic approach to identify patterns in the application of traditional elements in the three cities. The findings reveal that traditional elements such as rivers, gardens, and mosques continue to play a significant role but have been adapted to modern technologies. For example, the protective functions of traditional city have been replaced with digital security systems, while cultural and religious elements such as palaces and mosques continue to be symbols of identity. The study also discovered that creativity in architecture and traditional arts ensures these elements stay relevant to modern society couple with strategic integration and modern elements. This study thus, provides implications for urban planners and policymakers in preserving cultural values while addressing the current needs of society.

Local Traditions as Guardians of Malay Identity among Pattani Muslims in Thailand

Pattani as a region in southern Thailand is often plagued by conflict. This conflict can be traced back to the Anglo-Siamese treaty of 1909 which declared Pattani incorporated into Thailand. Since then, until now, the Pattani community, which is predominantly Muslim, has been at odds with the Thai government. The Muslim community living in Pattani has a different culture from the majority Thai-Buddhist community. The purpose of this paper is to write down the cultures of Pattani Muslims as a form of maintaining identity amidst the pressure of the Thai government. The method used is qualitative with data collection techniques by literature study, reviewing reading sources related to the theme, conducting interviews with 8 Muslims of Thai nationality, and watching YouTube channels that match the theme. The result is that the Pattani Muslim community maintains its traditions during a feud with the Thai government by continuing to use the Malay language, the Islamic education system, Islamic law still applies, marriage dowries, making pitue gates, doing rayo 6, serving special foods such as Ashura porridge. kerabu rice and ketupat, and wearing baju kurung as a symbol of identity. The research contribution is expected to provide insight into the Pattani Muslim community as a minority that maintains traditions as a sign of their identity under the pressure of the Thai government.

CREATION OF THE DANCE MUSIC FOR THE PUCUK BANG MASCOT OF BANGLI REGENCY

Pucuk Bang, or Hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis, was established as the identity and mascot of Bangli Regency during the leadership of Regent I.B. Gede Agung Ladip (1990–1995, 1995–2000) and officially declared on Bangli's 771st anniversary on May 10, 1991. Regent Sang Nyoman Sedana Arta (2021–2026) aimed to revive Bangli's taksu through the creation of the Pucuk Bang Dance as a visual icon, communication medium, identity symbol, and representation of Bangli’s vision and mission, fostering emotional connections and broad acceptance. The Pucuk Bang flower embodies purity, love, sincerity, and courage. "Pucuk" symbolizes the peak or forefront, and "Bang" (red) represents bravery, spirit, and the deity Brahma, a manifestation of God. It reflects courage and rising to the top with purity, love, and sincerity. The Pucuk Bang concept was transformed into a creative work integrating music, dance, and technology, deeply exploring textures, shapes, colors, and meanings. Inspired by Bangli’s heritage, such as Baris dances and Gong Gede gamelans, it uses the Tri Angga structure (kawitan, pangawak, pangecet). The musical work is united by nine dancers symbolizing the Universe's greatness as Sarining Padma Bhuwana. The Pucuk Bang flower embodies purity, love, sincerity, and courage. "Pucuk" symbolizes the peak or forefront, and "Bang" (red) represents bravery, spirit, and the deity Brahma, a manifestation of God. It reflects courage and rising to the top with purity, love, and sincerity. The Pucuk Bang concept was transformed into a creative work integrating music, dance, and technology, deeply exploring textures, shapes, colors, and meanings. Inspired by Bangli’s heritage, such as Baris dances and Gong Gede gamelans, it uses the Tri Angga structure (kawitan, pangawak, pangecet). The musical work is united by nine dancers symbolizing the Universe's greatness as Sarining Padma Bhuwana.

Discursive space of Jorge Amado’s novels “The Disappearance of the Saint” and “Gabriela, Carne and Cinnamon”

The article examines the discursive space of the novels “The War of the Saints” and “Gabriela, Clove and Cinnamon” by Jorge Amado. We consider speech activity to be a discourse as both the text generation process and the result of this speech activity are the text itself. The ambivalent understanding of discourse in modern linguistics reflects the complexity of studying this phenomenon, since there are a number of scientific trends interpreting its essence in different ways. The article studies the discursive space of literary texts as a complex system of discourse pieces, which is determined by the discursive personality of the author. The discursive personality of the author of these novels expresses his own system of attitudes through the creation of fictional texts, while simultaneously representing the system of axiological values of the multinational population of Brazil. The discursive personality determines the representation of the diversity of worldview contradictions and creates a fictional text, counting on creative cooperation with the reader. The discursive space of J. Amado’s novels is structured by a special chronotope, directly related to the literary trend of magical realism, within which descriptions of real social contradictions, life situations and unreal mystical events are bizarrely combined. The extralinguistic factors are of particular importance, being associated with the description of the Candomble religious cult, which is a symbol of ethnic identity.

‘The Only Time I Think I’m a Veteran is When I’m Dressed up’ – Medals as Symbols of Second World War Veteran Identity

This article argues that the object of the campaign medal can deepen our understanding of British Second World War veterans’ sense of veteran identity and indicate how far they, as individuals, have related to their wartime experiences over time. Unlike First World War veterans, this generation were required to claim their medals themselves, making them a useful marker to understand veterans’ connections to the conflict. Using interviews with Second World War veterans, newspaper reports and archival evidence, the experiences of individual veterans are traced over time. Situating this study within the fields of veteran identity and embodiment, veterans’ narratives with a focus on medals, uncovers how decisions whether to claim, use and wear their awards can be viewed as symbolic of veterans’ changing identity. These shifts were fuelled by the post-war climate, recollection and comradeship and the changing status of the veteran at the end of the twentieth century.

Halal Label and Purchase Decisions on Food and Beverage Products: A Case Study in Cipedes Subdistrict Bandung City

<p>This study aims to understand consumer perceptions of halal labels on food and beverage products in Cipedes District, Bandung using qualitative methods. Interviews were conducted with consumers from various backgrounds and analyzed using NVivo software to identify key themes. The results showed that halal labels are considered the main indicator of halalness, quality, and product safety. Words such as halal, belief, religion, safety, and standards dominate the analysis results, confirming the importance of halal labels in building consumer trust. Respondents tend to pay attention to halal labels as the first step before checking other attributes, such as price or nutritional content. Trust in halal certification institutions in the certification process is also a key factor in strengthening consumer perceptions. These findings indicate that halal labels not only function as religious obedience, but also as symbols of quality, safety, and identity. In addition, demographic variables such as age, education, and occupation also influence how consumers interpret halal labels. The results of this study can provide insight for manufacturers to strengthen marketing strategies by emphasizing the credibility of halal certification and its relevance in the social and religious context of consumers.</p>

On the Folk Song as the Symbol of Ethnic Identity

On the Folk Song as the Symbol of Ethnic Identity

Cultural Identity of Pesantren Cadres in Indonesia

This study aims to explore the cultural identity of pesantren cadres through the rite of self-endowment (waqf basyari) at Pondok Modern Darussalam Gontor (PMDG). The research employs a qualitative field methodology with an ethnographic approach. Data were collected through participant observation, in-depth interviews with eight informants (two pesantren leaders, four senior cadres, and two junior cadres), and documentation. Data analysis followed Spradley’s ethnographic method, including identifying social domains, semantic relationship analysis, taxonomic analysis, componential analysis, and the identification of cultural themes. The findings reveal that the wakaf diri ritual at PMDG comprises three phases of a rite of passage: separation, liminality, and incorporation. Upon completing these phases, cadres gain a new status as wakaf cadres with a cultural identity encompassing symbolic and intrinsic dimensions. The symbolic identity includes the cadres' daily roles in educating students, assisting the pesantren, and pursuing studies, balanced by entitlements such as welfare as members of the pesantren community. The intrinsic identity consists of three core dimensions: (1) achievements in academic and non-academic fields, (2) dedication through the sacrifice of time, effort, thoughts, and even life, and (3) loyalty manifested as a commitment to PMDG's values, leadership, and system. The intrinsic identity reflects self-development, dedication, and profound love for the pesantren. This ritual shapes cadres who are loyal and uphold the values of the pesantren in their lives

The Art of Facial Marks as a Symbol of Identity among Hausa Communities of West Africa

The Art of Facial Marks as a Symbol of Identity among Hausa Communities of West Africa

Tradisi Grebeg Suro Sebagai Ritual Religi Desa Gerbo Dengan Pendekatan Symbolic Convergence Theory

Grebeg Suro is an important tradition in Javanese culture which is carried out in Gerbo Village, Pasuruan Regency. This tradition combines religious, cultural and social elements, and is a symbol of togetherness and cultural identity of the local community. This research uses the Symbolic Convergence Theory (SCT) approach to analyze the symbolic meaning and communication processes that occur in the Grebeg Suro tradition. The method used is descriptive qualitative with data collection techniques through interviews and documentation. The research results show that the Grebeg Suro tradition not only functions as a religious celebration, but also as a means of strengthening social relations between village residents and strengthening their cultural identity. Analysis using SCT revealed fantasy themes such as togetherness and cultural identity that emerged in group communication during the Grebeg Suro event. The symbols in this tradition, praying together, sharing food, have deep meanings that reflect the cultural and religious values of the Javanese people in Gerbo Village. This research provides insight into the importance of the Grebeg Suro tradition in maintaining and strengthening social ties and cultural identity of the Gerbo Village community. It is hoped that the results can become a reference for efforts to preserve local culture and develop cultural communication studies.