Socio-cultural Landscape Research Articles

The Role of Trust and Social Networks in Promoting Ponzi Schemes in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria

In the oil-rich, yet, often marginalised Niger Delta, the promise of financial liberation, ironically, flows not just from the earth but also from the insidious currents of Ponzi schemes, where deeply ingrained social trust becomes the very pipeline through which exploitation is pumped. This study examined the critical role of trust and social networks in the proliferation of Ponzi schemes within the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. The study was guided by Marvin Wolfgang’s Victim Precipitation Theory (VPT) developed in 1958. An exploratory survey design was utilised. Key informant interview was used with 28 victims of Ponzi scheme, aged 18-60 years. Purposive and respondent-driven sampling techniques were utilised in the selection of respondents. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Findings revealed that Ponzi schemes in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria are effectively promoted through the exploitation of trust within social networks, including family, community ties and religious affiliations, leading to significant financial losses for victims who often rely on endorsements from trusted individuals. This study contributes to knowledge by providing a context-specific understanding of trust exploitation within the Niger Delta region’s unique socio-cultural landscape. It moves beyond individual blame, framing vulnerability as a product of manipulated social conditioning and emotional appeals within trusted networks. The study recommended the urgent need for culturally informed financial literacy programmes, stronger community-based awareness initiatives and targeted policy interventions to build resilience against these pervasive financial scams. The study suggests further research on the link between sociocultural dynamics and financial fraud, particularly in rural or impoverished areas.

Rural-Urban Communities: In the Context of Developed India 2047

India, with a population of over 1.4 billion people, is home to a dynamic mix of rural and urban communities. Around 65.53% of India's population resides in rural areas, with the remaining 34.47% living in urban settlements. However, the landscape of rural and urban India is evolving rapidly, driven by factors like urbanization, technological advancements, migration, and economic transformation. India is a land of diverse cultures, traditions, and communities. The role of technology, globalization, and policy interventions in these transformations provides a comprehensive view of how both rural and urban India will evolve into the centenary year of independence, 2047. Rural areas have historically been the backbone of Indian society; urbanization, modernization, and globalization are gradually reshaping the country’s social fabric. The rural-urban divide has always been a central theme in Indian social discourse. However, by 2047, the dynamics between these two regions will likely evolve significantly due to advancements in technology, policy changes, and economic growth. While urban areas will continue to grow, rural societies will not remain static. The interplay between rural and urban values, lifestyle changes, and cultural adaptation will define the future of India’s socio-cultural landscape. This paper examines the socio-cultural & socio-economic dimensions of present and future rural and urban communities in India, focusing on their distinct characteristics, cultural practices, social structures, and the impacts of modernization. The study highlights how these differences influence lifestyle, economic opportunities, education, and societal values in rural and urban settings, while also emphasizing the growing convergence between the two.

The Socio-Cultural Impact of Arya Samaj Movement in 18th to 20th Century’s Punjab

The Arya Samaj movement, founded by Swami Dayananda Saraswati in 1875, was a significant socio-religious reform movement in India during the 19th and 20th centuries. The movement emerged as a response to the social, cultural, and economic changes brought about by British colonial rule in India. Punjab, a region in northwestern India, was a key site for the movement's activities, and the Arya Samaj had a profound impact on the region's socio-cultural landscape.

Intertextuality in Transcultural Literacy for Global Education and Soft Power Diplomacy

Intertextuality remains underexplored in transcultural literacy. Wing Kardjo’s work serves as a case study in this research. Kardjo was an Indonesian poet who shaped Indonesian literature from 1955 to 1998 and studied in Paris. This study i. analyzes Kardjo’s intertextual engagement with French literature in his sonnet “Pasar,” which critiques urbanization in Indonesia by drawing on Baudelaire’s Les Fleurs du Mal and Rimbaud’s Illuminations, and ii. explores the transposition of the poète maudit myth from Verlaine and French Symbolism into Indonesian Modernism in “Le Poète Maudit”. Using Kristeva’s comparative intertextual analysis, grounded in Kristeva’s theory, it shows how Kardjo recontextualizes these themes, transforming the poète maudit myth into a symbol of national struggle during Indonesia’s New Order. This study reveals that i. Kardjo’s “Pasar” not only resonates with Baudelaire’s and Rimbaud’s works but also adapts these themes within the Indonesian socio-cultural landscape, and ii. the poète maudit myth in his sonnet reflects Indonesia’s ideological shifts. The findings suggest that Kardjo’s intertextuality fosters cross-cultural understanding and highlights important implications for educators by showing how literature can address global issues like cultural identity, with broader impacts on global education, international dialogue, and soft power diplomacy.

Translation of bioethics across cultural borders: exploring the adoption of the four-principles approach in palliative care provision on the Chinese mainland

BackgroundThe four-principles approach is widely incorporated into Chinese curricula and training programs in medicine. Notably, in the training of palliative care practitioners, the literature and the empirical evidence show that the principlist framework appears to be the sole ethical framework taught. However, this framework does not align well with the prevailing cultural practice in China - the family-led decision-making model.MethodsTo better capture the moral and cultural nuances in palliative care provision, 35 practitioners were recruited via purposive and snowball sampling from nine sites in Eastern China for one-on-one semi-structured interviews. All interviews were conducted in Mandarin, the participants’ native language, to accurately reflect the moral claims underlying their clinical practices.ResultsEmpirical evidence reveals three key insights. Firstly, families on the Chinese mainland assume a dominant role in medical decision-making, with the power to make decisions regarding care planning and treatment provision on behalf of the patient. This family-led feature is depicted as normative by Chinese HCPs. Secondly, the four-principles approach is the predominant ethical framework recognised by participants. Nevertheless, while the four-principles approach is extensively taught through university courses and occupational training, the family-led decision-making model remains intact in practice and justified by legislation. Finally, a practical solution of a family-first coping mechanism was proposed by the participants, in accordance with the Familistic feature. In this mechanism, the patient is able to make autonomous choices, albeit on the (implicit) precondition of family approval.ConclusionsEmpirical data indicates that the translation of the four-principles approach remains incomplete in Chinese contexts due to its failure to consider the local socio-cultural landscape. The principlist framework overlooks the distinctive conceptualisation of the decision-making unit as a holistic family entity in China and disregards the legal and perceived moral necessity of familial participation in medical decision-making. Consequently, the application of Western bioethics in this context falls short of transcending cultural boundaries, raising critical questions about the validity of conclusions drawn from this theoretical framework.

Black Low-Income Mothers’ Experiences With a Local Peer Support Group: A Qualitative Exploration

Maternal empowerment, particularly by enhancing resourcefulness and support systems, has emerged as a promising approach to address inequities. The aim of this study was to explore the lived experiences of Black low-income women during the postpartum period and the interplay between cultural context, resourcefulness, and motherhood. The study employed a novel methodological approach that combined focused ethnography with grounded theory analysis. Six focus groups ( n = 35) were conducted with Black mothers who had given birth within 5 years and were self-identified as low-income. Data analysis followed grounded theory principles of constant comparison and theoretical sampling. A grounded theory emerged, “the journey to empowered motherhood includes both navigation and transformation.” Three categories, (1) individual context, (2) strength alongside relationships, and (3) transition to motherhood, developed this theory which describes a dynamic process whereby mothers navigate sociocultural landscapes, leading to a transformed sense of self. This study offers insights into the complex nature of maternal empowerment among Black low-income mothers. The findings underscore the need for interventions that focus on fostering mothers’ existing strengths and abilities within their specific sociocultural contexts, culturally sensitive maternal care that acknowledges and addresses the unique contextual challenges faced by Black low-income mothers, and a shift in perspective from deficit- to strength-based approaches in maternal health.

FEMINIST CONSCIOUSNESS AND PATRIARCHAL RESISTANCE IN MANJU KAPUR’S DIFFICULT DAUGHTERS

Contemporary Indian women writers such as Arundhati Roy, Kiran Desai, Gita Hariharan, and Manju Kapur have shifted their literary focus from broad social concerns to the nuanced struggles of women within patriarchal structures. Their narratives challenge colonial influences and traditional portrayals of submissive womanhood, emphasising women's fight for self-definition and emancipation. Kapur’s Difficult Daughters delves into the complexities of female identity, self-awareness, and resistance to patriarchal expectations, reflecting the evolving socio-cultural landscape of India. This paper explores the themes of feminist consciousness, patriarchal resistance, and generational shifts in women’s struggles, analyzing how Kapur's novel critiques societal norms and redefines womanhood. Manju Kapur’s Difficult Daughters is a poignant exploration of women’s resistance within a patriarchal society. Through Virmati’s struggle for self-identity, Kapur critiques socio-cultural restrictions imposed on women and highlights the generational evolution of feminist consciousness. The novel asserts that while women have made significant strides in asserting their independence, they continue to face entrenched societal barriers. By giving voice to women's lived experiences, Kapur not only challenges patriarchal norms but also paves the way for a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of feminist resistance in Indian literature.

Bereavement and Commemoration as a building block in Israel’s collective Identity

In October 2023, Hamas carried out a terrorist attack on Israel, resulting in many casualties among the Israeli population, followed by 1300 funerals. This was a horrifying event in the history of the State of Israel, but not the only one, and it appears that cumulative impact of wars, conflicts, and losses over several decades has profoundly shaped Israelis’ collective identity. These events have left a lasting imprint on the nation’s socio-cultural landscape. This article explores the complex relationship between individual experiences of loss and the formation of collective identity in contemporary Israeli society, with a particular focus on the roles of bereavement and commemoration. A semi-structured interview was conducted with 30 participants who had not lost first-degree relatives, they had experienced the deaths of friends, neighbors, military colleagues, or classmates. Additionally, an online survey with open-ended questions was administered to 132 individuals who had lost first-degree kin over the past 50 years. The article traces the evolution of bereavement practices, highlighting the influence of collective memory and trauma on Israeli identity. Drawing on Social Identity Theory (Tajfel & Turner, 1979), the analysis examines how individuals categorize themselves based on shared experiences of bereavement, incorporating concepts of social categorization, comparison, and group membership. Insights from Cultural Trauma Theory (Alexander, 2004) further illuminate the lasting effects of war and loss on Israeli identity. Collective Memory, as examined by Halbwachs (1992), Olick (1998), and Schwartz (1992), emerges as a key factor in fostering resilience and a shared national identity. The conclusion enhances understanding of how historical traumas shape cultural narratives, influencing both individual perceptions and societal ethos. The article discusses the implications for Israeli collective identity and offers recommendations for future research. It provides valuable insights for researchers, policymakers, and others interested in the intricate interplay between bereavement, commemoration, and collective identity in contemporary Israeli society.

Celebrations Marking Centenary of Senate Square Uprising (1925) in Socio-Cultural Landscape of Western Siberia

This article focuses on the preparation and execution of events commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Senate Square Uprising. To provide a detailed examination of the topic, the research is confined to the geographical boundaries of Western Siberia. The relevance of this study is underscored not only by the enduring interest in Russian history but also by the upcoming 200th anniversary of the Decembrist uprising in 2025. The article primarily highlights the contributions of archival and museum staff in uncovering unique information about the lives and activities of exiles in Siberia. By engaging a wide array of sources, it identifies the main forms of commemoration activities, including thematic exhibitions, lectures, and reports, as well as efforts to locate burial sites of Decembrists, among others. The organization of anniversary celebrations in educational institutions across Siberia is characterized in detail. Unique aspects of the celebrations for significant anniversaries within the month are revealed, such as the 20th anniversary of the December Uprising in Moscow and the centenary of the Senate Square Uprising. It is noted that the preparatory activities sparked considerable interest in Decembrist history. The article reports that these events have facilitated a number of scholarly studies based on previously unpublished materials, while also highlighting the pressing issue of preserving and memorializing historical sites associated with the lives of exiles.

The semiotic interpretation of ‘virtual reality’ and its relevant issues

Abstract Virtual Reality (VR) technology has given rise to a new type of ‘reality’—‘virtual reality’, and whether this ‘reality’ is fundamentally virtual or real has sparked different opinions across various disciplines. Yet, the ‘virtual reality’ in the technological sense is merely a narrow interpretation of ‘virtual reality’. Therefore, this article aims to provide a semiotic view of ‘virtual reality’ by disclosing how it is represented as a multi-layered semantic matrix so as to have a more comprehensive understanding of the essence, cultural potentials, and social significance of ‘virtual reality’. First, as a technological media environment, ‘virtual reality’ makes a ‘digital reality’ that can be both virtual and real at the same time. Second, as an interface metaphor, ‘virtual reality’ demonstrates greater potentials in ‘interactive narration’ than any traditional narrative forms, which witnesses the transformation of the subjects of experience from ‘the reader-receiver’ to ‘the user-player’. Third, as a socio-cultural landscape, ‘virtual reality’ has a dual developmental path—‘the virtualization of reality’ and ‘the actualization of virtuality’, which is actually a diachronic process of development from ‘the virtual’ to ‘the real’. As a result, the discussions on how to interpret ‘virtual reality’ and its relevant issues should be presented in different contexts.

The role of impairment in the diagnosis of autism.

Within the medical model, 'impairment' is required for a diagnosis of autism. However, the diagnostic manuals provide limited guidance as to how to interpret impairment, which can impact diagnostic rates and the provision of support. Impairment is discussed within the context of the medical model and current sociocultural landscape.

Relevance of Islamic Education Values in Malay Pantun

Purpose of the study: Malay pantun, as an oral cultural heritage, carries noble values that transcend generations. This study aims to analyze the relevance of Islamic educational values embedded in Malay pantun within the context of contemporary society. It explores how these values can serve as a moral compass in shaping individual and societal character. Methodology: This research employs a qualitative descriptive approach with textual analysis to examine selected Malay pantun. The data were obtained through literature review and document analysis, focusing on identifying Islamic values such as honesty, patience, tolerance, and compassion within the pantun texts. Main Findings: The analysis reveals that Malay pantun contains fundamental Islamic educational values that remain relevant despite the evolving socio-cultural landscape. These values continue to play a significant role in character formation, fostering moral awareness and strengthening social harmony. Additionally, Malay pantun serves as an effective medium for da'wah, as its poetic and rhythmic nature enhances the reception of religious and ethical teachings. Novelty/Originality of this study: This study highlights the untapped potential of Malay pantun as a tool for cultural preservation and Islamic education in modern contexts. It provides new insights into how traditional oral literature can be adapted to contemporary educational frameworks, ensuring that Islamic teachings remain accessible and engaging for younger generations.

The spatial distribution of archways in Chaozhou: tracing the transition from the Qing Dynasty to the Republic of China

This paper investigates the evolution of the spatial distribution of archways in Chaozhou from 1762 to 1949, particularly with respect to the ways in which these archways have been integrated into and influenced the changing urban landscape over time. An investigation of three editions of historical local gazetteers reveals various changes in the number, type, and distribution of archways. On the basis of a literature review, archways can be subdivided into five types. The study reveals that archway types that exhibit a more public nature or have more positive social implications are typically characterised by larger scales, more intricate forms, and more advantageous locations. Furthermore, the clustering characteristics of such archways are distinct, and two patterns can be identified: the cluster on Big Street, which contains dozens of archways, strongly reinforces the urban main axis and represents the dominant landscape element, whereas the clusters on the subaxes, which contain several archways, normally act as affiliated landscape elements that emphasise the associated institutional buildings. Varying locations, densities, and types of archway clusters regulate the roles played by these features within the urban landscape over time. Furthermore, the number and location of different types of archways have evolved in response to broader sociopolitical transitions. This study reveals the functions and characteristics of archways in terms of their effects on both physical and sociocultural landscapes in traditional Chinese cities.

The Role of Traditional Elders in the Rancakalong Tourism Village in Preserving the Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Ngalaksa Traditional Ceremony

The Ngalaksa traditional ceremony is a significant cultural practice in Rancakalong, Sumedang, West Java, serving as a vital medium for preserving intangible cultural heritage. While prior studies have explored the broader significance of such ceremonies, limited research has examined the specific roles and challenges faced by traditional elders in safeguarding these traditions amid modernization and globalization. This study addresses this gap by analyzing the multifaceted roles of traditional elders in the Rancakalong Tourism Village in preserving the intangible cultural heritage embodied within the Ngalaksa traditional ceremony. Employing a qualitative approach with a case study method, data were collected through observations, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The findings highlight the critical roles of traditional elders as ceremonial leaders, guardians of cultural values, and, most importantly, key knowledge transmitters who bridge the past and present, ensuring the authentic transmission of traditions to younger generations. This study reveals that the elders’ efforts extend beyond ceremonial continuity; they also serve as a form of resistance against the homogenizing forces of modernization, playing a crucial role in maintaining cultural identity and local wisdom. The study concludes that supporting and empowering traditional elders is essential not only for preserving the Ngalaksa traditional ceremony but also for ensuring the continuity of cultural heritage amid evolving socio-cultural landscapes. These findings have implications for policy development aimed at strengthening community-based cultural preservation initiatives and promoting sustainable tourism practices that respect and value indigenous knowledge systems.

Exploring the assemblage of migration: A Deleuzian analysis of Laila Lalami's hope and other dangerous pursuits

Background and Purpose: Migration is a multidimensional phenomenon that extends beyond geographical displacement to encompass socio-economic and ideological transformations. Laila Lalami’s Hope and Other Dangerous Pursuits (2005) captures migration’s complexities, reflecting themes of deterritorialization and reterritorialization. Using Deleuze and Guattari’s Assemblage Theory, this study examines how these narratives contribute to broader migration discourses, including those relevant to the Asian context, where transnational movements and postcolonial identities shape socio-cultural landscapes. Methodology: This study employs a qualitative research design, utilizing thematic analysis to explore key passages that illustrate the processes of deterritorialization (disrupting established boundaries) and reterritorialization (reconstructing identity in new contexts). A purposive sampling method was employed to select passages that best represent these themes. The analysis was structured through iterative coding and categorization, enabling the identification of narrative patterns and their alignment with theoretical constructs. The study further examines characters’ identity negotiations and systemic interactions to illuminate the complexities of migration. To ensure analytical rigor, the research process incorporated reflective journaling, peer feedback, and meticulous documentation, fostering transparency and coherence. Findings: Findings highlight how Lalami’s narrative resonates with global migration struggles. Aziz’s economic sacrifices, Faten’s identity adaptation, and Halima’s resilience offer insights into broader issues of displacement and adaptation. This study underscores migration as a personal and structural phenomenon shaped by colonial histories, economic policies, and transnational networks. Contributions: By situating Lalami’s narrative within a broader global migration framework, this research extends Assemblage Theory’s applicability, offering nuanced perspectives on migration as a multifaceted and interconnected phenomenon. Keywords: Assemblage theory, migration, identity, deterritorialization, reterritorialization.

Traditional Sari And Bhatiali Songs Of Bengal

India’s vast culture and traditions have led to a diversity of Indian folk songs. All around the nation it is sung in many different dialects and languages. Folk songs of Bengal are an enthralling fusion of tradition, emotion, culture and artistic expression. A tangible depiction of Bengal’s everyday life, struggles, beliefs and joy is painted with every song. These folk songs are more than just catchy melodies, it represents the heartfelt manifestation of a rich and diverse cultural legacy. Every song has its own story. Every rhythm narrates a story about the land and its inhabitants, weaving a melodious tapestry that embodies the actual essence of Bengal. These folk songs be it the spiritual baul or be it the reflective Bhatiali or Sari song, carry the significance of the cultural identity of Bengal and still continue to influence contemporary music and art form. The understanding of the socio-cultural landscape of the terrain is improved by the folk songs of Bengal which provide an insight into the cultural aspects of the area. Bhatiali and Sari songs, mostly performed by boatmen, and through these songs the image of Bengal’s riverine life is revealed. The songs are harmonic and catchy in tone and often revolved around nature, rivers and the fishermen’s lives. Nevertheless, as time has gone on, globalization, urbanization, modernization and westernization have made this kind of Bengali folk music confront the difficulties of the modern era. The purpose of this paper is to explore an in-depth analysis of Bengali Sari and Bhatiali songs, their cultural relevance and their impact on modern music.

Beyond the Smile: Exploring the Mental Well-Being of Dental Students Across Institutions.

A high frequency of mental issues has been reported amongst dental students in recent years. The aim of this study was to explore the frequency of depression, stress, and anxiety amongst undergraduate dental students in a developing country and identify factors which may contribute to the poor mental health of dental students. After obtaining ethical approval, undergraduate dental students from 14 dental institutions were invited to participate in an online study. Data were collected using two globally validated scales for screening mental health. The survey inventory also included two open-ended items and was administered using Google forms. Complete responses were received from 639 participants, which included 71.67% (n = 458) females and 28.33% (n = 181) males. The overall response rate was 43%. The modal age group was 18-21-year-olds (63.54%, n = 406), followed by 22-25-year-olds (35.52%, n = 227). The mean score on PHQ-9 was 10.37 (SD ± 6.13) and 48.67% of participants showed moderate to severe depression. The mean DASS-21 score was 20.81 (SD ± 14.64) and 48.21% of participants were screened positively for moderate to extremely severe depression, 49.30% for moderate to extremely severe anxiety, and 30.36% of participants showed features of moderate to extremely severe stress. Significantly positive correlations were observed for the whole sample and demographic factors for participant scores on PHQ-9 for Depression, and Depression, Anxiety, and Stress scores on DASS-21. Academic workload, social interactions, personal factors, academic environment, and financial difficulties were reported as the main causes of poor mental health. This study shows a high prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress amongst undergraduate dental students in a country with a unique socio-cultural landscape. The study also identified underlying factors which adversely affect the mental health of dental students and provides recommendations to address these challenges.

Portrayal of gender roles in Emirati television dramas: a content analysis.

This research investigates the portrayal of gender roles in Emirati television dramas and movies, contextualizing them within the evolving socio-cultural landscape of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The study conducts a comprehensive analysis of Emirati dramas and movies, categorizing prevalent gender role trends and their alignment with Emirati culture. Through content analysis, the research identifies four primary patterns: the ratio of male to female characters, gender role diversity and plot-power, themes relating to culture and religion, and the intensity of gender role manifestation with external factors. Findings reveal a predominant focus on male characters in Emirati media, reflecting traditional values where men are depicted as providers and leaders, while women are often relegated to caretaking roles. Implications of the research highlight a gradual shift toward gender equality in the UAE, evidenced by the increasing participation of women in the workforce. However, entrenched cultural values continue to influence societal expectations, perpetuating certain gender stereotypes. The study underscores the importance of media literacy in fostering critical analysis and demands for more nuanced female representation in Emirati media. Recommendations are proposed for media producers and regulators, to collaborate in promoting gender-sensitive content and fostering social change. By embracing evolving gender dynamics while preserving cultural heritage, the UAE has the potential to emerge as a global exemplar of contemporary society, championing diversity and inclusivity on a regional and international scale.

The Dialectical Relationship Between Philosophy and Art: The Interplay of Thinking and Creativity

Philosophy has traditionally provided the foundation for thought and culture, defining creativity as an inherent dimension of human nature and art as a medium for conveying the meanings of existence. This scholarly inquiry aims to focus on the analysis of the dialectical relationship between philosophy and art, with an emphasis on how these two spheres interact and influence each other. The objectives of the article are centred on their mutual influence: philosophy structures the axiological foundations of the artistic domain, while art expands the epistemological boundaries of philosophical thought. The methodology adheres to the standards of qualitative research. It is oriented towards a comprehensive review of sources and literature, followed by a systematic and comparative analysis of the relationship between philosophy and art. The findings indicate a gradual transformation of the dialectical interaction between these disciplines towards innovative synergetic dimensions, wherein philosophy and art do not merely accompany each other but form a unified interplay of creative and logical components. The article also delves into the methodological significance of these relations in the era of globalisation, wherein art and philosophy serve as cultural bridges and contribute to shaping perspectives on socio-cultural reality. A promising direction for further research involves examining philosophy and art through the principles of interdisciplinarity, multiculturalism, and methodological pluralism. Consequently, the modern socio-cultural landscape is gradually shaping a new epistemological paradigm that establishes pragmatic principles of functionality and efficiency in the interaction between philosophy and art. At the same time, the axiological and teleological constants retain their autonomy within the distinct rational-logical and cultural-creative dimensions.

Challenges in advanced heart failure care in Japan: Bridging the gap in durable mechanical circulatory support utilization and heart transplantation.

Challenges in advanced heart failure care in Japan: Bridging the gap in durable mechanical circulatory support utilization and heart transplantation.