Pivotal Figure Research Articles

إسهامات الدكتور إبراهيم محمد إبراهيم في تطور الأدب العربي والأردي: دراسة حياته وأعماله

Dr. Ibrahim is a renowned scholar whose extensive contributions to Arabic and Urdu literature have had a profound impact on the academics and literary researchers of both languages and cultures. After obtaining his foundational education, he pursued higher studies in Urdu at Al Azhar University, followed by advanced degrees from Punjab University, Lahore, where he completed his Master's and Ph.D. in Urdu language and literature. His books, translations, research papers, articles, lectures and seminars offer new insights and interpretations between Arabic and Urdu. His translations have made significant literary works accessible to a broader audience fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. Arabic being his mother tongue and Urdu learnt and lived at its home - Pakistan, made him arise as an established translator and critic. He won many prestigious awards including ‘Father of Urdu Maulvi Abdul Haq award’ and Pakistan’s national award ‘Tamgha-e-Imtiaz’. Throughout his career, Dr. Ibrahim has been a prolific writer, contributing extensively to both Arabic and Urdu literature. His works reflect a deep understanding and appreciation of both languages, bridging cultural gaps and enriching literary discourse. Dr. Ibrahim's life and works stand as a testament to his dedication and passion for literature. His contributions continue to inspire and influence scholars and students alike, making him a pivotal figure in the development of Arabic and Urdu literary studies.

Organic intellectuals from modern India: B. R. Ambedkar and R. M. Lohia on inequality, intersectionality, and justice

ABSTRACT This article revisits the intellectual history of inequality in the thinking of Dr Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar (1891–1956) and Dr Ram Manohar Lohia (1910–1967). Both were pivotal figures in the intellectual history of inequality in colonial and postcolonial India. Yet little work has been done to systematically juxtapose the two and their thinking on inequality. This article offers a first comparison, arguing that their ideas on inequality can be seen as the emergence of a unique, Indian version of what, in this article, we term “organic intersectionality.” We build this argument on four claims. First, both were organic intellectuals whose thinking was molded in the marginalized groups from which they arose, but whose ideas developed in unique and organic ways. Second, both had a unique eye to the intersectional and holistic character of Indian inequality, cutting across caste, class, race, and gender. Third, their thinking grew from a deep engagement with religion, which they saw as both legitimizing and delegitimizing inequality. Fourth, both these figures exemplify postcolonial hybridity and thus stand in contrast both to a diffusionist approach whereby ideas are simply diffused from the West to the East, and to a nationalized, self-contained, or decolonial history of ideas.

Coaching Behavior and Student-Athlete Performance in a Women’s Universty in China

Coaching in the realm of sports has transcended its traditional boundaries, evolving into a multifaceted discipline that encompasses much more than simply teaching technical skills or devising winning strategies. Coaches are now recognized as pivotal figures who wield immense influence over the development, motivation, and performance of student-athletes.This study determined the relationship between coaching styles and student-athlete performance with the end view of developing a comprehensive guide for a team-building program for both the coaches and athletes.The researcher used the descriptive-comparative correlational research design,The researcher will only select the athletes who are actively involve in the sports program of the university and who are bonafide athlete of Hunan Women’s University during the conduct of the study. The researcher made use of the researcher-made questionnaire which was the main tool to gather the data in this research.Statistical Treatment of the Data includes Frequency Count and Percentage,Weighted Mean,t-test/Analysis of Variance (F-Test),Pearson’s r.The analysis of athlete respondents' perceptions reveals a high level of satisfaction and positive perception regarding their relationship with the coach.The self-assessment of student athlete respondents demonstrates a noteworthy trend of consistent and high levels of self-assurance and confidence across various dimensions of their athletic performance.There is strong positive correlations observed between coach behavior and athlete self-assessment and it underscores the importance of supportive, communicative, and motivating coaching approaches in enhancing athlete performance and well-being. Based on these findings, the study proposes six measures such as prioritizing sports programs and strengthening injury prevention programs.

The Movement of Sundanese Karawitan Artist in the Indie Music From the Perspectiv of Music Sociology

This research delves into the attitudes and perspectives of Sundanese karawitan artists toward the indie music movement through the lens of music sociology. Employing qualitative methodologies such as literature review and fieldwork, the study reveals that these artists do not merely act as preservers of cultural heritage but also actively adapt and integrate their traditional music into the indie music scene. As pivotal figures, they engage in collaborations with global elements within the indie world, making substantial contributions to the evolution of indie music. This active participation fosters a unique harmony that mirrors the diverse and dynamic nature of Indonesian culture. The study offers a comprehensive analysis of how Sundanese karawitan artists interact with and influence the indie music scene. Their involvement is not just a preservation of traditional art forms but a dynamic adaptation that enriches both their cultural heritage and the broader indie music movement. By blending traditional and contemporary elements, these artists create innovative music that appeals to a global audience while retaining its cultural roots. Furthermore, this research highlights the significant role of Sundanese karawitan artists in the indie music scene, showcasing their ability to navigate between tradition and modernity. Their contributions reflect a broader trend in the Indonesian music landscape where traditional art forms are not static but are continually evolving and adapting to new contexts and influences. This dynamic interplay between tradition and innovation is crucial for the sustainability and growth of both traditional and indie music genres in Indonesia.

E-Commerce and Live Stream Slip-Ups: Sic Transit Gloria Italian Top Influencer Chiara Ferragni. Uncovering New Attitudes in both Consumer Behavior and Brand Strategies

For those unacquainted with Latin brocards, the title alludes to the downfall of the Italian influencer Chiara Ferragni, currently embroiled in a significant scandal. In contemporary times, numerous international brands resort to influencers to endorse and bolster the sales of their products. Among the various prominent figures, such as footballers, singers, and actors, the 36-year-old Chiara Ferragni distinctly stands out as one of the most renowned fashion bloggers, a designated celebrity, and an influential opinion leader on the global stage. In a span of just a few years, Ferragni successfully established an extensive economic and commercial empire, facilitating the launch and sale of products bearing her name. Moreover, she became a pivotal figure for numerous luxury companies, leveraging her media influence to enhance their profitability, constituting the foundational underpinning of social influencer marketing. Over time, Ferragni endorsed a myriad of products from renowned brands, spanning clothing, female beauty accessories, and food products, amassing a current fortune of 45 million euros. However, on December 15, 2023, the Italian Antitrust Authority (AGCM) imposed a fine of over 1 million euros on Ferragni for deceptive advertising practices and consumer deception. According to the AGCM, the influencer omitted pertinent information in her online advertisements, disseminated false information, and employed forms of undue influence. Subsequently, Ferragni also faced suspicions of alleged criminal fraud. This qualitative research paper aims to explore the ongoing investigations, Ferragni’s defense strategies, and the reactions of her followers and clients. The findings reveal a trend where numerous significant brands are severing ties with Ferragni as sponsors, leading to an erosion of consumer trust in the influencer category, and prompting a shift towards a more discerning consumer attitude.

Social Media’s Role in Shaping Millennials Halal Shopping Trends in Malaysia

Social media influencers (SMIs) have emerged as pivotal figures in advertising and critiquing products and services. They serve as credible sources, disseminating persuasive messages that significantly influence consumer purchasing behavior, particularly among Millennials. This paper investigates the factors pertaining to SMIs that shape the purchasing behavior of Muslim Millennials in Malaysia towards halal food products. Employing a non-probability sampling method, the study surveyed 403 respondents using Structural Equation Modelling-Partial Least Square (SEM-PLS). Data collection utilised a structured closed-ended questionnaire as the survey instrument. Results indicate that SMIs’ expertise impacts consumers’ attitudes and behaviors towards halal food products, with expertise serving as the sole mediator. Furthermore, SMIs wield significant influence over consumer purchasing behaviour by disseminating product reviews and advertisements to a broad audience. Factors such as trustworthiness, attractiveness, and expertise among these influencers directly impact the purchasing decisions of millennials. This study makes a significant contribution by enhancing comprehension of the latest digital and social media technologies’ relevance and importance.

مسميات المختصين بالدين في القرآن الكريم: صفاتهم ومسؤوليتهم دراسة موضوعية

This study examines the terminology used in the Holy Quran to describe scholars and religious specialists across various legal contexts. It aims to collect these terms, elucidate their meanings and occurrences, and emphasize the critical role of scholars in societal development. Through an inductive approach, the researcher gathered the different terms and analysed their contextual relevance, while the analytical approach clarified their relationship to their respective contexts. The deductive approach was employed to highlight the scholars’ roles, responsibilities, and the obligations of the people towards them. The study’s findings underscore the diversity of terms used in the Quran, reflecting differences in knowledge and the legal contexts in which they appear. It also highlights the scholars’ essential role in society, including clarifying truths, resolving disputes, and ensuring sound understanding. Ultimately, the Quran positions scholars as pivotal figures in building civilizations, serving as both religious and worldly leaders who guide people to the Creator and act as a safeguard for correct interpretation and unity across generations.

Dreamscapes of Belonging : Draft, based on the presentation at the IAJS Conference 2023, work in progress

Jungian Art-Based Research (JABR) is a distinctive methodological framework that explores the intersection of analytical psychology and the arts. It primarily utilizes Jung's theories of the psyche, integrating these with artistic processes to investigate and express unconscious dynamics. Susan Rowland, a pivotal figure in this field, has significantly advanced the understanding of how Jungian theories can be applied within art-based research (Rowland, 2023). Her contributions elucidate how artistic expressions act as mediums through which the unconscious can be explored and articulated, thereby offering profound insights into both individual and collective unconscious processes. The objectives of Jungian Art-Based Research are manifold. Firstly, JABR aims to provide a methodological approach that allows researchers and practitioners to delve deeper into the symbolic and transformative potential of art. This is achieved through the engagement of the unconscious in the creation and interpretation of art, thereby fostering a holistic understanding of the psyche. Secondly, JABR seeks to expand the scope of psychological inquiry by incorporating artistic expressions as legitimate sources of psychological data. Lastly, it aspires to foster a dialogue between psychology and art, encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration that can enrich both fields. By integrating analytical psychology with artistic creativity, JABR contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the human experience, offering valuable perspectives that challenge conventional research paradigms. This paper presents a personal journey through the application of Jungian Art-Based Research (JABR), initiated by attending a course by Susan Rowlands. It delves into the transformative experience of exploring the multiverse of dreams and their impact on the author's professional and personal development. The exploration began with the author’s repetitive dreams, characterized by detailed urban landscapes, serving as the primary material for research. By physically mapping these dreamscapes and integrating various symbolic materials, the author engaged in a deep, introspective process, highlighting the non-linear and spiraling nature of JABR. This journey further intertwined with reflections on identity, homelessness, and the longing for a sense of belonging, amplified by historical and cultural dislocations. Through spontaneous dance and subsequent reflections, the author confronts the disillusionment with idealized spaces and faces the reality of changing perspectives and attachments. The paper concludes by pondering the broader implications of our attachment to the Earth, suggesting that our efforts to save it might be hindered by our need to name and possess, rather than embrace its intrinsic, unnamed existence. Through a Jungian lens, the author proposes a reevaluation of our relationship with the planet, advocating for a detachment from specific names to foster a more universal and sustainable connection.

Dreamscapes of Belonging

Jungian Art-Based Research (JABR) is a distinctive methodological framework that explores the intersection of analytical psychology and the arts. It primarily utilizes Jung's theories of the psyche, integrating these with artistic processes to investigate and express unconscious dynamics. Susan Rowland, a pivotal figure in this field, has significantly advanced the understanding of how Jungian theories can be applied within art-based research (Rowland, 2023). Her contributions elucidate how artistic expressions act as mediums through which the unconscious can be explored and articulated, thereby offering profound insights into both individual and collective unconscious processes. The objectives of Jungian Art-Based Research are manifold. Firstly, JABR aims to provide a methodological approach that allows researchers and practitioners to delve deeper into the symbolic and transformative potential of art. This is achieved through the engagement of the unconscious in the creation and interpretation of art, thereby fostering a holistic understanding of the psyche. Secondly, JABR seeks to expand the scope of psychological inquiry by incorporating artistic expressions as legitimate sources of psychological data. Lastly, it aspires to foster a dialogue between psychology and art, encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration that can enrich both fields. By integrating analytical psychology with artistic creativity, JABR contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the human experience, offering valuable perspectives that challenge conventional research paradigms. This paper presents a personal journey through the application of Jungian Art-Based Research (JABR), initiated by attending a course by Susan Rowlands. It delves into the transformative experience of exploring the multiverse of dreams and their impact on the author's professional and personal development. The exploration began with the author’s repetitive dreams, characterized by detailed urban landscapes, serving as the primary material for research. By physically mapping these dreamscapes and integrating various symbolic materials, the author engaged in a deep, introspective process, highlighting the non-linear and spiraling nature of JABR. This journey further intertwined with reflections on identity, homelessness, and the longing for a sense of belonging, amplified by historical and cultural dislocations. Through spontaneous dance and subsequent reflections, the author confronts the disillusionment with idealized spaces and faces the reality of changing perspectives and attachments. The paper concludes by pondering the broader implications of our attachment to the Earth, suggesting that our efforts to save it might be hindered by our need to name and possess, rather than embrace its intrinsic, unnamed existence. Through a Jungian lens, the author proposes a reevaluation of our relationship with the planet, advocating for a detachment from specific names to foster a more universal and sustainable connection.

Rayimbek batyr: A Historiographical Analysis

The article delves into the achievements of Rayimbek Batyr, who led the liberation movement in the eastern Jetysu region during the concluding years of the "Ak Taban Shubyrindі, Alkakol Sulama" period. Rayimbek emerges as a pivotal figure, dedicating his life to the collective liberation struggle of the Kazakh people. Central to his endeavors is the quest to free his homeland and alleviate the suffering of his people under the oppressive rule of the Jungars. Additionally, the study explores the historical sources provided by K. Sauranbayev concerning Khangeldi, the grandfather of the renowned warrior, shedding light on the loyal companions who accompanied him, including Bakay Batyr, Aralbay Batyr, Kopay Batyr, Satay Batyr, and Iryskeldi Batyr. Through an examination of Rayimbek's valiant efforts and the accounts of his contemporaries, this research offers insight into the historical context and the enduring legacy of his struggle for freedom.

Characteristics of Using Oriental Medicine Clinics during the Japanese Occupation: An Analysis of the 1931 Seoul Bochun Clinic Account Book.

This article analyzes the "account book" of Kim Young-hoon (1882-1974), which summarizes information about patients at his Bochun Clinic in Seoul (then Gyeongseong) in 1931. Kim Young-hoon was a pivotal figure in the medical scene throughout the Korean Empire, the Japanese occupation, and the early years of the Republic of Korea. He left behind a large amount of documentation during his 60 years of practice at the Bochun Clinic, which he opened in the spring of 1909. In particular, the 1931 "account book" offers an insight into the daily life histories of his patients. Among the patient-visitors recorded in the account book, there were many influential people of the time, ranging from privileged individuals to anti-Japanese independence activists, from those in political and economic fields to those in academic and entertainment fields. At the same time, a significant number of lower-class people also visited the Clinic. Geographically, patients were centered in the city center of the capital, Gyeongseong, but were also widely distributed throughout the country. There are indications that those from the rural areas stayed in the homes of their acquaintances in Seoul. As such, the account book provides a tangible, concrete picture of the clinic's management for the year 1931, including visitor demographics, visiting diagnoses, telephone consultations, and the total cost of medicinal prescriptions. Because the account book is a one-year statistic, it has its limitations; however, it is the smallest unit that can be analyzed statistically. It provides insights into how many people came in over the course of a year and how much they spent. The expenditures are kept per individual family. The patient's name, prescribed medication, and the price of the medicine are mandatorily included, and in many cases, the place of residence and family relationships are also noted. The account book shows several layers of householders, servants, and employees in the extended family; it also shows people in various occupations. A few privileged families accounted for nearly half of the total expenditures, and the powerful visited frequently, utilizing Oriental medicine for many of their daily needs. For some, the Bochun Clinic is reminiscent of the royal temples of the dynasties. Patients come from the center and suburbs of Seoul, as well as from all over the country. In one year, more than one thousand types of prescriptions are issued and the total cost of medicines is about 33 seom (≒180 liters of rice). Although there is a concentration of high-frequency prescriptions, more than a thousand prescriptions are prescribed only once, which shows that the practice is specialized for each individual. Patient visits, consultations, and telephone use are observed, and the use of new drugs, quinine, and special ginseng as one-herb medication (danbang) are also noticeable. The statistical analysis of the 1931 Bochun Clinic "account book" can serve as a milestone for comparative analysis of the patterns of herbal medicine use before and after that year. Meanwhile, the Bochun Clinic "account book" shows the continuation of traditional practices of herbal medicine by both the powerful and the masses. On the one hand, Koreans responded to the coercive tide of modernity symbolized by the Imperial Governorate of Japan, but on the other hand, they were unwilling to let go of tradition and their own authority. While actively embracing the tide of civilization, Koreans also internalized their own rationality and sought to open a new path forward, a sentiment discernible between the lines of the "account book."

Unveiling the Nuances and Enduring Relevance of Machiavelli’s Theory: The Process of Acquisition to Power and Maintenance Statecraft in a Multipolar World

Niccolo Machiavelli, a pivotal figure of the Renaissance era, epitomized rationality and realism in his political philosophy, bridging the gap between medieval and modern political thought. His seminal works, including “The Prince” and “Discourses on Livy”, marked a revolutionary shift in political discourse, earning him the title of “First Modern Political Thinker”. Machiavelli's life was characterized by a quest for pragmatic knowledge and a deep engagement with the political landscape of his time. Influenced by a myriad of philosophers and writers, ranging from Thucydides to Dante Alighieri, Machiavelli synthesized diverse ideas to craft his unique perspective on statecraft. Employing historical, empirical, and inductive methods, he dissected the acquisition and preservation of power, emphasizing pragmatic realities over abstract ideals. The central theme of Machiavelli’s political theory was the notion of statecraft as a practical endeavor tailored to contemporary needs rather than a product of divine ordination. He delineated methods for seizing power, advocating for a blend of force, cunning, and citizen support. Machiavelli prescribed specific qualities for rulers, urging them to embody a combination of fortitude and cunning. Regarding morality, Machiavelli distinguished between state morality and personal morality, endorsing a pragmatic approach for rulers while upholding individual virtue for the ruled. He emphasized the separation of politics and religion, asserting that each realm should fulfill its distinct functions without interference. Despite criticism for perceived inconsistencies and immorality, Machiavelli’s enduring legacy lies in his transformation of political thought. His influence on practical politics and his role as a harbinger of the modern era underscore his profound impact on the trajectory of political philosophy. While his theories continue to provoke debate, Machiavelli remains an enigmatic figure whose ideas reflect the evolving ethos of his time.

From theory-building to institution-building: the contributions of Anne Vernez Moudon to urban morphology

This paper examines Anne Vernez Moudon’s contributions as a pivotal figure in the field of urban morphology. Employing a combination of a comprehensive literature review, personal interviews with Moudon, and archival research, the paper explores three critical aspects: (i) her research on San Francisco during the 1970s, where she developed a typomorphological method; (ii) her comparative analysis of the three major schools of urban morphology in the 1980s; and (iii) her critical role in facilitating the inaugural meetings of the International Seminar on Urban Form (ISUF) in the 1990s. In doing so, it offers a nuanced understanding of Anne Vernez Moudon’s multifaceted impact on the field urban morphology, highlighting not only her theoretical contributions but also her role as a catalyst in the institutional evolution of the field.

Revealing Changes in Ovarian and Hemolymphatic Metabolites Using Widely Targeted Metabolomics between Newly Emerged and Laying Queens of Honeybee (Apis mellifera).

The queen bee is a central and pivotal figure within the colony, serving as the sole fertile female responsible for its reproduction. The queen possesses an open circulatory system, with her ovaries immersed in hemolymph. A continuous and intricate transportation and interchange of substances exist between the ovaries and hemolymph of queen bees. To determine the characteristic metabolites in the hemolymph and ovary, as well as understand how their rapid metabolism contributes to the process of egg-laying by queens, we reared Apis mellifera queens from three different age groups: newly emerged queen (NEQ), newly laying queen (NLQ), and old laying queen (OLQ). Using widely targeted metabolomics, our study revealed that the laying queen (NLQ and OLQ) exhibited faster fatty acid metabolism, up-regulated expression of antioxidants, and significant depletion of amino acids compared to the NEQ. This study revealed that the levels of carnitine and antioxidants (GSH, 2-O-α-D-glucopyranosyl-L-ascorbic acid, L-ascorbic acid 2-phosphate, etc.) in the NLQ and OLQ were significantly higher compared to NEQ. However, most of the differentially expressed amino acids, such as L-tryptophan, L-tyrosine, L-aspartic acid, etc., detected in NLQ and OLQ were down-regulated compared to the NEQ. Following egg-laying, pathways in the queens change significantly, e.g., Tryptophan metabolism, Tyrosine metabolism, cAMP signaling pathway, etc. Our results suggest that carnitine and antioxidants work together to maintain the redox balance of the queen. Additionally, various amino acids are responsible for maintaining the queen's egg production.

The impact of mainstream financial press attention on stock pricing efficiency in the China stock market

AbstractAs the pivotal figure of information transmission in the capital market, the mainstream financial press has a significant impact on the operation of the stock market. Based on the mainstream financial press, this study obtains the news reports of 945 China A‐share listed companies in 2010–2019 and analyzes the relationship between the attention of the mainstream financial press and the efficiency of stock pricing. Further, we explore the mediating effect of corporate governance in this correlation. The empirical results show that the more reports on listed companies from the mainstream financial press the lower the delay level of the stock price of listed companies. At the same time, the characteristics information of the stock price increases, the higher the stock pricing efficiency. The attitude of press reports of listed companies also has an impact on the efficiency of stock pricing. The improvement of pricing efficiency will be achieved through neutral reporting. Mainstream financial press reports indirectly improve the efficiency of stock pricing by reducing the agency costs of the two types, and corporate governance plays a significant intermediary role in it. Finally, compared with market‐oriented media, the effect of policy‐oriented mainstream financial press on pricing efficiency is more significant.

Multiscale Structural Engineering Boosts Piezoelectricity in Na0.5Bi2.5Nb2O9-Based High-Temperature Piezoceramics.

High-temperature piezoelectric materials, which enable the accurate and reliable sensing of physical parameters to guarantee the functional operation of various systems under harsh conditions, are highly demanded. To this end, both large piezoelectricity and high Curie temperature are pivotal figures of merit (FOMs) for high-temperature piezoceramics. Unfortunately, despite intensive pursuits, it remains a formidable challenge to unravel the inverse correlation between these FOMs. Herein, a conceptual material paradigm of multiscale structural engineering was proposed to address this dilemma. The synergistic effects of phase structure reminiscent of a polymorphic phase boundary and refined domain morphology simultaneously contribute to a large piezoelectric coefficient d33 of 30.3 pC/N and a high Curie temperature TC of 740 °C in (LiCeNd) codoped Na0.5Bi2.5Nb2O9 (NBN-LCN) ceramics. More encouragingly, the system has exceptional thermal stability and is nonsusceptible to mechanical loading. This study not only demonstrates that the high-performance and robust NBN-LCN high-temperature piezoceramics hold great potential for implements under harsh conditions but also opens an avenue for integrating antagonistic properties for the enhancement of the collective performance in functional materials.

Surviving the Disappearance of Landscape: Joan Merli, the Catalan Exile Who Printed Argentine Modernity

abstract: This article reenacts the trajectory of Catalan art critic and editor Joan Merli (1901–95), who was exiled to Argentina after the Spanish Civil War (1936–39) and became a pivotal figure in the local artistic field. Departing from prewar Barcelona—where Merli gained recognition as an art dealer, magazine editor, and art critic—the text advances to analyze how his contribution to a landscape-dominated art canon was refracted to the first stages of his exile, when he wrote art criticism aimed at the Catalan diaspora in Argentina. Nevertheless, the dialogue with Buenos Aires's cosmopolitan art scene influenced Merli's abandonment of his self-sufficient gaze on art, conceived as a tool to represent and preserve stability. This transformation in Merli's art criticism went hand in hand with his emergence as a central player in Argentine modernity from the 1940s and 1950s, when he directed the country's leading art-specialized publishing house, Poseidón.

Supporting the professional sports coach in the workplace: presenting the pedagogue as the missing scientist

ABSTRACT This is a positional paper in which we consider (re)imagining the role of the pedagogue as one who is specifically employed in a multi-disciplinary team of experts that can advise the professional sports coach. Our rationale is underpinned by multiple factors including the low impact of coach education, issues with knowledge translation, and current prevailing discourses in elite sport. Consequently, we employ ethnodrama as a “way in” to explore the precarious existence of elite coaches, cohering specifically around the profligate “hiring and firing” cultures found in professional football. This enables the inquiry to highlight how the pedagogue – the missing scientist – can utilise practical solutions on the ground responding to real-world problems. Going further, we consider how this role could also become a pivotal figure of resistance to the current value system inherent within elite sport reported to jeopardise athletes’ health and wellbeing. Thus, we respond to numerous challenges replete in elite sport organisations that are attracting increasing attention.

BERZIARAH KE MAKAM SYEKH YUSUF AL-MAKASSARI

The study investigates the implications of undertaking a pilgrimage to the tomb of Syekh Yusuf Al-Makassari, whose significant contributions have profoundly shaped Islamic thought and civilization. Following his passing, his burial site has become a crucial destination for pilgrims, leading to socio-economic effects on the surrounding community. Employing historical methodologies within a socio-economic framework, the research aims to elucidate the socio-economic conditions of the community surrounding Sheikh Yusuf Al-Makassari's tomb. Recognized as a pivotal figure and scholar in Indonesian history and beyond, Sheikh Yusuf's enduring influence is evident through the influx of pilgrims from diverse regions to his gravesite, highlighting his ongoing societal significance. The findings of this study reveal various social and economic aspects, including the financial status of the local population, employment opportunities, and microeconomic dynamics.

An Ethiopian “Renaissance” Queen? Mentewab as Protector of Arts and Patron of Iconography

In Ethiopia, the period from the late 16th and 17th Centuries has caused a controversy because some consider this period as Ethiopia’s recovery from religious, civil conflicts as well as sectarian discord, while others including Kofi Darkwah (1975), define it as a continued descent prosses for the empire. In line with this disagreement, factual information can speak for itself in the course of this study. Emperor Susenyos (1572-1632 CE) was a strong supporter of Catholicism, yet his son, Fasilidas (1603-1667 CE) as his successor, reinstated Ethiopian miaphysite Orthodoxy. The establishment of Gondar as the permanent capital in 1636, is an event heralded by Henze (2000) as the onset of an Ethiopian Renaissance, particularly in artistic, architectural, and musical domains. After Fasilidas’s demise, his son, Yohannes I reigned from 1632-67 CE. Yet, it was Fasilidas’s grandson, Iyasu I the Great (r. 1682-1706 CE), who distinguished himself through extensive architectural projects, notably transforming Gondar into a captivating city. Iyasu I’s assassination caused significant turmoil in Gondar, subsequently resulting in a gradual loss of political power. When Iyasu I’s son, Bakaffa (r. 1721-1730 CE) ascended to the imperial throne, the arts - namely, chant (zema), poetry (qene), interpretation (tergum) and refinement of the court minstrels’ music had already been supported and vigorously promoted. However, it was Bakaffa’s wife and later widow, Mentewab (1706-1773 CE), who emerged as the pivotal figure in this Ethiopian “Renaissance”. Additionally, the diverse styles of Ethiopian iconography sponsored by Mentewab, some adorned with elements reminiscent of the decorative style of the Rococo period, illustrate the queen’s remarkable aesthetic standards. The research on Mentewab, also known as Welete Giyorgis, has been guided by portrayals in iconographies, chronicles, paintings, testimonials from church builders and castles, and indirectly by information provided in texts such as Kebre Negast, and Fetha Nagast. To this end, special attention has been drawn on Mentewab’s legacy as the founder, protector, and patron of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church Narga Selassie, renowned for its resplendent Qwara style that fused European, Islamic, and Indian elements while retaining strong Ethiopian traits. With special attention to the iconographic representations of Queen Mentewab as the ktetor of Narga Selassie Church, the study explores symbolic significances embedded within relevant creations and artistic styles. By contextualising them within their historical framework, this analysis explores Mentewab’s influence on her contemporary politics, religion, art, and literature in Ethiopia.