Societal Conflicts Research Articles

Evolving Woman in Film

Throughout the time, the film industry has always mirrored the troubling issues in the society. Especially on the evolving societal norms and the uprising feminist movements. This paper examines the change in female portrayal and social critique on both Swept Away (1975) and Promising Young Woman (2021). Both films closely examine the patriarchal constraints in an contrasting directions, creating a trend from submissible to resistance. Lina Wertmüller’s Swept Away (1975) resides in the conservative 1970s, which criticizes how the social constraints enforce the submissiveness of woman. On the other hand, Emerald Fennell’s Promising Young Woman (2021) is more current and empower woman in their ability to reject patriarchal pressure in their own advocation for justice. Through the comparative analysis, the paper highlights the transition from passive to active portrayals of woman in film and examines the evolving societal conflicts that shape and hinger woman empowerment at different times.

The Position of Contemporary Hybrid Art Practices in Shaping Ethical Response to AI Vladan Joler and Kate Crawford – Case Study

The thesis of this paper rests on the premise that the role of contemporary hybrid art practices, employing technology as a means of expression, has extended to active engagement in the complexities of societal conflicts and shaping philosophical dialogue, which is evident in its subversive endeavors, that have become the points of intersection between power dynamics, technology, and ethics. Namely, the position of art has become the pragmatic and utilitarian one, and art aims at confronting society with the antagonisms of the mechanisms of power and the consequences of high technology development. With a view to support the thesis of this essay, I will analyze Vladan Joler's and Kate Crawford's art project “Anatomy of an AI System”. The aim of this essay is to show that the role of hybrid art is reflected in its contribution to the society, by helping it to anticipate and develop policies and systems of rules with a view to regulate behavior in borderline situations of advanced technology and ethics. Research methods applied in this paper are analysis, synthesis, observation, generalization, and comparative text analysis.

Exploring the Hero's Journey in Kate Chopin’s The Awakening and Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist

This research paper explores the quest journeys of the protagonists in Kate Chopin’s The Awakening and Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist using Joseph Campbell’s concept of the Hero’s Journey from The Hero with a Thousand Faces. The study highlights how the archetypal quest myth is presented in modern narratives. Edna Pontellier in The Awakening embarks on a journey of self-discovery, challenging societal norms and seeking personal freedom. Santiago in The Alchemist follows a more traditional hero’s path, driven by a recurring dream to find a hidden treasure, ultimately realizing that the true treasure lies within. Both journeys lead to significant personal transformations, though their outcomes differ dramatically. While Santiago's journey aligns with the classic structure of departure, initiation, and return, Edna's quest highlights the constraints of her societal context, leading to a tragic conclusion. Santiago encounters physical and spiritual trials in the desert, guided by mentors like Melchizedek and the Alchemist, and returns home enlightened. Conversely, Edna, influenced by characters like Mademoiselle Reisz and Robert Lebrun, faces internal and societal conflicts that ultimately lead her to seek freedom in death. This comparative study illustrates how modern narratives adapt and reinterpret the Hero’s Journey to explore diverse themes and experiences. It emphasizes the enduring relevance of Campbell's monomyth in understanding the complexities of human struggles and aspirations, showing how both protagonists, despite their different paths, reflect universal quests for identity and self-fulfillment. The paper underscores the impact of societal constraints on personal freedom and the varied outcomes of such quests in different cultural contexts.

Dynamics of the Protracted Chieftaincy Conflict in Nkwanta of the Oti Region of Ghana

The study examines the dynamics of the Nkwanta conflict from the lens of the causes, the effects of the conflict, and the measures that militate against the management of the protracted conflict in the Oti Region of Ghana. It draws the theoretical insights from Azar’s “extended societal conflicts" which postulates that conflicts or disputes in society are because of interlinked networks of insufficient development, structural deficiencies, and divisions in identity among other factors. The study utilizes largely a qualitative research design in which 23 interviewees shared their views, opinions, and perspectives on the Nkwanta conflict in the Oti Region of Ghana. The Nkwanta area is also closer to the Togo border which makes the area strategic and could make the conflict have a spill-over effect on Ghana and Togo due to the close ethnic relations of the Nkwanta people of Ghana and those in Togo. The study found that chieftaincy and land ownership are the main causes of the conflict. Other factors that contribute to the conflict include partisan politics and the vested interest of some individuals in the area. In terms of the effects of the conflict loss of lives and properties are the main effects while effective conflict resolution stems from the involvement of all the parties through respect, compromise, and forgiveness from the parties involved in the conflict. The study recommends the involvement of unbiased external mediators with a high sense of professionalism toward the resolution of the protracted Nkwanta conflict in the Oti Region of Ghana.

Comparative analysis of mediation in the legislation of Kazakhstan and the People’s Republic of China

This study addressed the growing importance of mediation in the legal frameworks of Kazakhstan and the Peopleʼs Republic of China, focused on the need for more efficient conflict resolution methods in both countries. The aim of this research was to explore the specific features of mediation as defined by the laws of these two nations, highlighting the similarities and differences in their legal systems. A variety of methods were employed in the study, including the comparative legal method, formal-legal analysis, and the method of synthesis and comparison. The analysis revealed that both Kazakhstan and China have developed robust frameworks for mediation, though they differ significantly in their cultural and legal approaches. In Kazakhstan, the mediation process is formalized and heavily regulated, with a strong emphasis on the certification and professionalization of mediators. In contrast, Chinaʼs system, rooted in Confucian traditions, allows for a more community-based approach with a broader scope, including minor criminal cases. The study found that while both countries value mediation as a non-adversarial means of conflict resolution, there is a need for further legislative development, particularly in Kazakhstan, to enhance public understanding and prevent potential abuses of the mediation system. Additionally, the study highlights the role of public education and the importance of integrating mediation into state-citizen dispute resolution processes. The practical value of this research lies in its potential use by policymakers and legal professionals in Kazakhstan and China, as it provides insights into improving mediation frameworks and ensuring their effectiveness in addressing modern societal conflicts

Corporate Social Responsibility in The Disinformation Age

Following a long period in which pressures to adopt CSR practices came largely from the left, the current communication environment has become far more divisive with the rise of illiberal political pressures from the right. These conflicting pressures arise from irreconcilable communication logics that threaten the future of CSR. This paper examines how these disruptive communication logics reflect the changing roles of disinformation in CSR communication, highlighting two overlapping eras: (1) the history of some companies using disinformation strategically to avoid or misrepresent CSR commitments; and (2) the more recent addition of what we term systemic disinformation generated by politicians, think tanks, and irresponsible competitors. These disinformation spheres challenge liberal democratic values and amplify attacks on CSR values. We discuss the dilemmas for companies seeking to adopt more responsible business practices and explore the implications of CSR communication becoming increasingly linked to larger societal conflicts over the nature of democracy.

Nano-punk and Nanotechnology Genre in Literature: A Scientific and Cultural Analysis of Neal Stephenson’s The Diamond Age

Technology and society have been interconnected since the dawn of civilization. Literature has always served as an active medium to represent the interaction between these two fields. Fiction often utilizes technology as a backdrop for exploring societal conflicts. Science fiction, in particular, frequently depicts the complex interactions between technology and civilization. Nanopunk emerges as a significant genre within the realm of fiction, wherein the potential advantages and drawbacks of nanotechnology are explored within the imaginative landscapes of nanopunk narratives. This subgenre, a derivative of cyberpunk or biopunk, highlights forms of nanotechnology referred to as nano or nanites. Literature assumes a crucial role in depicting the nuances of nanopunk reality. In 1995, Neal Stephenson published his seminal science fiction novel, "The Diamond Age: Or, a Young Lady's Illustrated Primer." This novel delves into the intricate relationship between literature and technology within a dystopian future heavily influenced by molecular nanotechnology. Through its narrative, the novel raises pertinent questions regarding power dynamics and the sociological impacts of technological integration in a futuristic setting. This paper seeks to analyze the implications of these emerging technologies as portrayed through fiction and their potential effects on contemporary society and future generations. It concludes that literature, culture, and fiction will continue to wield significant influence in shaping societal perceptions and attitudes towards the future of nanotechnology.

An Investigation of Private School Psychological Counseling and Guidance Teachers’ Views on Immigrant Students

Migration continues to emerge as a significant issue in the present day, extending beyond its historical context. This phenomenon not only forms a broad spectrum of impact in social, economic, and cultural realms but also holds notable consequences in the realm of education. Migration, on one hand, has the potential to stimulate cultural interaction, enhancing diversity in knowledge and experience. On the other hand, immigrant individuals may encounter early challenges such as educational inequalities or negative attitudes. This intricate relationship between migration and education contributes to cultural development while simultaneously bringing about areas of societal conflict. Understanding the effects of migration on the younger generation falls within the responsibilities of Psychological Counseling and Guidance (PCG) teachers. These educators aim to support students’ academic, personal, social, and emotional development, particularly addressing the challenges posed by the education of immigrant students in the context of social diversity. Research on understanding the attitudes among school stakeholders towards immigrant students contributes valuable insights to this field. In this context, the study is an original work focusing on the perspectives of PCG teachers concerning the attitudes of other stakeholders in schools with immigrant students in private schools. Conducted using qualitative research methods and the phenomenology design, the study involved 12 PCG teachers working in private schools in Gaziantep, Kilis, and Mersin, which are among Turkey’s cities experiencing significant migration. Data collected through interviews were analyzed using content analysis. The findings revealed that, overall, teachers and students in private schools with immigrant students tended to have a positive attitude, while parents held a negative outlook. A collective evaluation of all data suggests a notably positive perception and attitude toward immigrant students.

<성진사전>의 문제의식과 사회적 갈등의 해소 양상

<Seong Jinsa-Jeon> was written by Lee, Ok, a writer in the late Joseon Dynasty. It deals with a fraud case that Jinsa Seong, Hui-ryong in Sangju went through. However, the social critical consciousness of <Seong Jinsa-Jeon> draws attention to the serious economic imbalance in late Joseon society and class conflicts between the yangban and the common people, the rich and the poor through the appearance of refugees caused by famine, not just in fraud cases. In particular, the essence of <Seong Jinsa-Jeon> lies in its approach to resolving societal conflicts. The purpose of this study is to the perspective on and proposed solutions to conflict within <Seong Jinsa-Jeon> with a particular focus on the relationship between its two protagonists, Seong, Hui-ryong and a beggar. The narrator argues that Seong, Hui-ryong's self-refinement[謹身] was instrumental in resolving the conflict, exploring the broader connotation of such self-refinement. Within <Seong Jinsa-Jeon> the ‘door’ represents both the starting point of the incident and is the boundary that separates the space between Seong, Hui-ryong and the beggar. The space in <Seong Jinsa-Jeon> is divided into a rich inner space inside the door where the rich reside along the boundary of the door, and an outer space outside the door of the refugees who become beggars and wander after losing their homes. Therefore, it is recognized that the ‘door’ should be closed and protected for the rich, and open for the beggars. Nonetheless, the door also serves as a conduit that connects and associates the two worlds inside and outside. By opening the door and recognizing the beggar as another subject, Seong, Hui-ryong facilitates conflict resolution through dialogue. Face-to-face communication fosters empathy centered on the other, paving the way for conflict resolution. In other words, ‘face-to-face’ is to recognize the other outside the door as another subject like me. ‘Self-refinement’ encompasses not only self-cultivation but also placing others at the core of one's concern. The possibility of resolving such conflicts offers insights into bridging the gap between the reality of laws and legal sentiments. In a space governed by legal standards, endless opposition between legality and illegality persists due to a binary perception that merely seeks a stronger law to satisfy one's legal sentiments. Recognizing the other as a mutual subject through communication allows for attentiveness to one's conscience, unveiling hidden truth, and enabling forgiveness through empathy. This is the way to resolve conflict suggested by <Seong Jinsa-Jeon>. Although it is a short work, what <Seong Jinsa-Jeon> has achieved is truly great.

Navigating Common Good for Religious Moderation in Indonesia's Multicultural

As a nation with highly multicultural societies, Indonesia comprises various ethnic groups, customs, cultures, and religions. This often triggers societal conflicts between tribes, cultures, and beliefs. For this reason, a model or approach is needed to increase tolerance and respect. Therefore, the researchers carry the concept of the Common Good as a concept of universal religious moderation through a philosophical approach that integrates the idea of the common good in the context of universal religious moderation. This concept emphasizes the need for cooperation between various beliefs to achieve common goals in creating an inclusive and harmonious society by emphasizing universal moral principles in developing a framework for religious moderation. Specifically, this research aims to apply the concept of the common good as a universal religious moderation value in Indonesian society as a nation with a significant plurality. The method used in this research is qualitative library research using secondary data. The results formulate the concept of universal religious moderation by carrying the idea of the common good as a solution to the problems of diversity and plurality of religions, cultures, tribes, ethnicities, and groups in Indonesia as a nation with a high level of multicultural communities.

HESS Opinions: The unsustainable use of groundwater conceals a “Day Zero”

Abstract. Water scarcity is a pressing global issue driven by increasing water demands and changing climate conditions. Based on novel estimates of water availability and water use in Chile, we examine the challenges and risks associated with groundwater (GW) withdrawals in the country's central-north region (27–35° S), where extreme water stress conditions prevail. As total water use within a basin approaches the renewable freshwater resources, the dependence on GW reserves intensifies in unsustainable ways. This overuse has consequences that extend beyond mere resource depletion, manifesting into environmental degradation, societal conflict, and economic costs. We argue that the “Day Zero” scenario, often concealed by the uncertain attributes of GW resources, calls for a reconsideration of water allocation rules and a broader recognition of the long-term implications of unsustainable GW use. Our results offer insights for regions worldwide facing similar water scarcity challenges and emphasize the importance of proactive and sustainable water management strategies.

언어학적 갈등분석과 갈등대화 연구

The purpose of this paper is to explore the classification and causes of conflict, as well as to investigate the potential for conflict research based on linguistic aspects. Conflict and discord are inevitable in our lives because our perspectives and understandings are diverse, making conflict a natural outcome. To achieve this, we seek to understand the characteristics and patterns of conflict discourse and examine the linguistic strategies and features employed in conflict dialogue. Conflict naturally manifests itself in non-verbal forms, but it is more effectively expressed when mediated through language. This is because linguistic symbols can reflect differences in opinions, conflicting understandings, and clashes of interests. The resolution of conflicts is rooted in mutual understanding and effective dialogue, emphasizing the importance of comprehending and respecting the other party's perspectives. From this perspective, linguistic scrutiny of conflict plays a crucial role in understanding and resolving societal conflicts.

Textual Trajectories : Analysing Linguistic Evolution in Indian English Novels

This study explores the evolution of linguistic and narrative styles in Indian English novels, reflecting the socio-cultural transformations of postcolonial India. Employing thematic analysis through Leximancer and linguistic pattern analysis via NVivo, the research analyzed novels from the 1950s to the present. The findings reveal a significant shift from the formal, British-influenced English of the early post-independence period to a more colloquial and Indianized form in contemporary times. This linguistic evolution includes the incorporation of local dialects, Indian idioms, and a narrative style resonant with India's oral storytelling traditions. The study also identifies a thematic progression from colonial struggles to issues of globalization, urbanization, and modern societal conflicts. Narratively, there has been a transition from linear, conventional storytelling to complex, non-linear narratives with multiple perspectives, mirroring the complexities of modern Indian life. These shifts in Indian English novels are not only stylistic but also reflect deeper socio-cultural and political dynamics. This research contributes to the broader understanding of postcolonial literature and its role in cultural and societal representation.

Beyond the Male Stereotype: Complicating Female Geek and Nerd Figures in Contemporary US Comedy Series

The “nerd” or “geek” in US-American film and television has been a popular mainstay to represent distinct social hierarchies. This article aims to highlight the emergence of engaging and relatable female nerds and geeks that subvert the stereotypes associated with such figures in comedy TV series and sitcoms. Humour in these comedy series exposes the silliness of perceived stereotypes associated with geekdom and “othered” cultures, while at the same time questioning and resisting them through complex female characterization. This article analyses these current shifts in representational patterns that highlight different dimensions including race, sexuality, societal conflicts and interpersonal relationships of funny and “nerdy” female characters in American television. Through a comparative analysis of the geeky characterizations of Amy Santiago from Brooklyn Nine-Nine (2013-2021) in juxtaposition to Betty from Betty en NY (2019), and Devi Vishwakumar from Never Have I Ever (2020-2023) it demonstrates that gender and racial stereotypes influence the portrayal of “geeky” female characters who frequently have not been permitted to be fully developed characters but had to suppress their intelligence to be likeable. This portrayal has significantly changed into the depiction of powerful female nerds on screen in the last two decades.

Repotting Transitional Justice

The field of transitional justice—concerned as it is with the mechanisms of recovery from societal conflict and mass violence—has long found its de facto home in legal theory. While this is in many respects a natural pairing, I argue that just as transitional justice has expanded in scope from the regime-change paradigm to general situations of human rights violations, so too should our conception of it expand from the purely legalistic to the more explicitly ethical. This paper makes the case that while transitional justice remains undertheorized along ethical dimensions, increased attention to both the ethical underpinnings of justice interventions and the ability of ethical work to center the individual experience might go a great distance towards addressing what Pablo de Greiff has identified as three of the chief challenges facing transitional justice today: insufficient attention to context, formulism, and technocratic tendencies.

헌법상 가족 개념의 변화와 동성혼에 관한 논의

When societal conflicts rage over an important issue, such as those surrounding same-sex marriage, it is not easy to find a way to resolve them. In terms of democratic legitimacy, it is preferable for parliament to resolve the issue, but if that process does not work and human rights violations continue, the judicial process could resolve complex political issues rather than leaving them unresolved. Court judgments have emerged as a form of civil discourse linking judicial activism, social movements, and human rights movements. Additionally, civil discourse on law, rights, and justice is no longer the exclusive domain of experts because judicial decisions have become a catalyst of democratic communication between people and the state. Moreover, judicial dialogues play a positive role in overcoming the limitations of democratic institutions. For this reason, the active role of the courts is not incompatible with democratic principles but also enforces the active obligation of the state to address issues such as grave human rights violations caused by delayed political decision-making. The Same-Sex Marriage Act was passed by the German Federal Council (Bundesrat) on July 7, 2017, and was passed by both houses of parliament without constitutional amendments. This would not have been possible without the role of the Federal Constitutional Court of Germany. It has made a significant contribution by ensuring that the constitutional concept of family is interpreted more dynamically to reflect changing realities and by removing a number of discrimination surrounding marriage. A complete ban on same-sex marriage is hardly a necessary restriction. It is also contrary to the Law of Balancing as it is difficult for a state restricting individual freedoms and rights to justify the serious harm that same-sex couples would suffer as a result of a complete ban.

CONSTRUCTING INTERFAITH HARMONY THROUGH THE DA’WAH OF KH. MAHFUD RIDWAN IN SEMARANG, INDONESIA

Religious activists or da'i enlighten the mad'u (disciples) to coexist well and peacefully, require tolerant and wise da'wah, and convey the message of Islam as a mercy for all nature. However, the practice of da'wah is often faced with difficulties and obstacles. To overcome these challenges, a person needs to understand the concept of state life that binds all people from various groups and social groups to prevent unexpected societal conflicts. The purpose of this research is to gain a better understanding of the condition of Semarang Regency society before and after KH. Mahfud Ridwan's preaching. In addition, this research will also analyze the role of da'wah in creating inter-religious harmony from 1984 to 2015. This research was conducted in a descriptive qualitative manner using a historical approach. Research data were obtained through observation, interviews, and documentation. The reduction, presentation, and conclusion drawing process was used to analyze the data, and triangulation was used for data validation. The results showed that the condition of the people of Semarang Regency had been better before KH. Mahfud Ridwan's preaching was better afterward. His preaching uses various methods, such as the bil hikmah method, using noble reasoning, wisdom, and a clean heart. Various social and religious organizations, including the NGO Yayasan Desaku Maju, Forum Gedangan, FSUB, and the SOBAT movement, preach based on this bill hikmah. KH also established Edi Mancoro Islamic Boarding School. Mahfud Ridwan benefits the community and forms santri with religious, national, and societal insights. The method of bil mau'idzah hasanah is by holding regular recitations, teaching in pesantren and madrasah, holding seven minutes sermons, and holding activities on Islamic holidays. The bil mujadalah method is used by discussing with people of various religions.

Changes of Identity Recognition in the Internet Age and Its Impact

In modern digital era, the Internet has transformed the way individuals perceive and construct their identities. This essay delves into the profound impact of the Internet on identity formation and interpersonal relationships, focusing on its "strangeness". The essay uses a case study, explaining the phenomenon of online identity experimentation among Chinese college students. The concept of "strangeness" online challenges traditional relationship dynamics. It empowers them to forge novel virtual identities, transcending geographical and social boundaries. However, this newfound freedom also gives rise to challenges, as division between online and offline personas can lead to societal conflicts. A pivotal study on Chinese college students sheds light on the intricate relationship between online identity experimentation and self-identity. The research highlights the influence of online social tendencies and compulsive Internet use on this connection. In summary, the Internet is offering opportunities for self-discovery and connection while posing challenges related to authenticity and the "strangeness" of online interactions. This essay reminds people that as the internet continues to evolve, it shapes our identities and relationships, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach in this digital age.

Ownership of Land: Legal Philosophy and Culture Analysis of Land Property Rights

Land stands as a fundamental aspect of human existence, serving as a cornerstone for meeting diverse needs and holding considerable economic significance. Its limited capacity often becomes a trigger for societal conflicts, spanning both vertical and horizontal dimensions. A well-crafted land policy holds the potential to foster community prosperity and ensure environmental sustainability. However, the imposition of state-driven evictions often leads to agrarian conflicts, undermining customary rights. This study examines the intricate relationship between land and humanity through the lenses of legal philosophy and the concept of land property rights within legal culture. Employing a formative juridical research approach, the authors aim to uncover a comprehensive human understanding rooted in philosophical perspectives, legal theory, dogmatic legal norms, and legal culture. From a philosophical standpoint, land represents a space where the spiritual connection between humans and their divine entities takes form. Furthermore, within the realm of legal culture, land is perceived as an integral part of the human essence, symbolizing the place of birth, growth, mortality, and final resting.

The Body in the Field of Tensions between Biopolitics and Necropolitics

The article contributes to the understanding of how societal conflict, aggression, and racism are intertwined with the concepts of the body and necropolitics. Achille Mbembe’s exploration of historical conflicts refers to the way in which states and other necropolitical entities exert control over life and death. Persistent conflicts reflect a form of necropolitics in which certain groups are subjected to violence and death as a means of maintaining power. Frank B. Wilderson III’s analysis of aggression towards Black individuals reveals how the body, particularly the Black body, is subjected to policing and violence. This speaks to the concept of necropolitics as it highlights how certain bodies are deemed expendable or “killable” in society, and how the policing of Blackness can be seen as a form of controlling and subjugating these bodies. The rationalization of racist acts against meticulously selected groups and bodies that are highly racialized in contemporary necrocapitalism illustrates how the politics of death and violence are used to maintain class and racist hierarchies and control over different bodies.