Sociocultural Dimensions Research Articles

Integrating Sustainable Design Principles into Construction Practices: A Comprehensive Review

The global push for sustainable development has placed significant pressure on the construction industry to prioritize sustainable practices. However, navigating the complexities of sustainability in construction presents challenges, given the multitude of variables and the lack of a unified evaluation framework. In this study, we conducted an extensive literature review to redefine sustainable construction and identify existing evaluation frameworks. Our findings led to the development of a conceptual framework that incorporates specific indicators and criteria across sociocultural, economic, technical, and environmental dimensions. This framework offers a structured approach to assess the sustainability of construction practices. Recommendations for its implementation are also provided.

The conundrum of sustainable fishery: fishers’ experiences of the exclusionary processes of the EU Common Fisheries Policy

This study delves into the effects of the European Union's (EU) quota-based regulations on fishers’ access to marine resources, focusing on the experiences of fishers from North Shields, UK. Employing Hall, Hirsch, and Li's framework of powers of exclusion, this study examines how fishers experience evolving access to sea resources within the EU CFP. The findings illuminate the intricate interplay of regulatory, market, and legitimization powers, which drive exclusionary processes and profoundly influence fishers' access to resources and livelihoods. Importantly, this research underscores the necessity of comprehending the complex dynamics of exclusion within quota-based fisheries management, particularity within the unique socio-cultural contexts of fishing communities. Based on this research, further investigation into the socio-cultural dimensions of fishing is advocated to foster more inclusive policies and practices in fisheries management.

How and why aversive personality is expressed in political preferences.

Political orientation reflects beliefs, opinions, and values that are, at least in part, rooted in stable interindividual differences. Whereas evidence has accumulated with regard to the relevance of basic personality dimensions, especially concerning the sociocultural dimension of political ideology, less attention has been paid to the more specific dispositional tendency to assign a higher weight to one's own utility above others' (i.e., socially aversive personality), which is likely to play a pivotal role concerning the economic dimension of political ideology in particular. In three studies with over 66,000 participants from 38 countries, we show that individuals with elevated levels in aversive personality tend to endorse more right-wing political orientations in terms of a single left-right dimension, hold relevant ideological beliefs tied to both sociocultural and economic conservatism, and report corresponding electoral voting behavior. We further provide support for the idea that this overlap between a dispositional tendency toward aversive behavior and a right-wing political orientation can be attributed to shared belief systems. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Building a decision-support tool to inform sustainability approaches under complexity: Case study on managing wild ruminants.

In wildlife management, differing perspectives among stakeholders generate conflicts about how to achieve disparate sustainability goals that include ecological, economic, and sociocultural dimensions. To mitigate such conflicts, decisions regarding wildlife management must be taken thoughtfully. To our knowledge, there exists no integrative modeling framework to inform these decisions, considering all dimensions of sustainability. We constructed a decision-support tool based on stakeholder workshops and a Bayesian decision network to inform management of wild ruminants in the federal state of Lower Austria. We use collaborative decision analysis to compare resource allocations while accounting for trade-offs among dimensions of sustainability. The tool is designed for application by non-technical users across diverse decision-making contexts with particular sets of wildlife management actions, objectives, and uncertainties. Our tool represents an important step toward developing and evaluating a transparent and replicable approach for mitigating wildlife-based conflicts in Europe and beyond.

Disentangling the Effects of Cognitive, Affective, and Sociocultural Factors on Risk Information Avoidance: A Meta-Analysis

Risk information avoidance (RIA) has become an increasingly ubiquitous behavior for people to deal with massive volumes of information. Given its detrimental impact, abundant studies were conducted to explore its antecedents. Nevertheless, the results are scattered and, in some cases, inconsistent. We thereby conducted a meta-analysis to present a synthesis of the current findings by identifying the most relevant antecedents and moderators. Guided by the framework of Planned Risk Information Avoidance, we examined 11 antecedents along cognitive, emotional, and sociocultural dimensions. Based on 52 articles across various contexts, the results indicated that information overload ( r = .30), efficacy belief ( r = −.11), fatalism ( r = .18), information insufficiency ( r = −.09), anxiety ( r = .26), worry ( r = −.08) and information avoiding norms ( r = .50) were significant predictors of RIA. Furthermore, uncertainty avoidance and information type were identified as moderators.

Engaging the public in decisions about emergency vaccine deployment strategies: Lessons from scenario-based discussions in Sierra Leone

ABSTRACT The COVID-19 pandemic has amplified discussions on emergency vaccine deployment strategies, with current perspectives often neglecting extensive community involvement in ethical, logistical and political aspects. Existing social science literature predominantly delves into factors influencing trust, overlooking the untapped potential for community engagement. Our study examines community preparedness in Sierra Leone’s Kambia District, exploring diverse viewpoints on vaccine deployment strategies, emphasising Ebola and COVID-19 vaccinations. Utilising extensive ethnographic research from the Ebola vaccine trials (EBOVAC Salone) conducted in Kambia District from 2015 to 2021, including participant observation and tailored focus group discussions, we investigated various deployment scenarios with community leaders and citizens. Our findings underscore the multifaceted contributions of social science research with communities in shaping emergency vaccination strategies. These contributions span logistical insights, aligning campaigns with local livelihoods and social structures, and grounded ethical concerns assessing social justice outcomes across epidemic scenarios. This study emphasises the imperative of integrating discussions on vaccine confidence and deployment. It highlights communities’ proficiency in epidemiological reasoning and their ability to bring this in conversation with salient socio-cultural, economic and religious dimensions. We therefore promote the cultivation of public dialogue, collaborative creation of impactful vaccination initiatives alongside relevant communities in recognition of their invaluable perspectives .

The impact of migration on culturally-embedded and subjective perceptions of habitability in a context of environmental change

Environmental change is increasingly challenging the habitability of places around the world, particularly with regard to resource-dependent rural areas in the Global South. Apart from objectively measurable, bio-physical indices, it is likewise important to look at individual and group-specific perceptions of habitability, which are embedded in their respective socio-cultural context(s). Migration as a well-established household risk diversification strategy has the potential to increase people’s adaptive capacity, their well-being, and can shape the way people perceive the habitability of places. This study utilizes a human-centered approach in order to unravel the impacts of migration on culturally-embedded and subjective perceptions of habitability in a rural community in Northern Ghana which faces increasing pressure of environmental changes. Based on qualitative empirical research, we utilize place attachment, social status, and community cohesion as exemplary socio-cultural dimensions with particular relevance in this specific local context to showcase 1) the subjectivity and cultural embeddedness of habitability perceptions and 2) the respective potential of migration to influence such perceptions to both positive and negative ends. Positive migration impacts on the underlying socio-cultural context(s) can serve to undergird (collective) responsibility and adaptive action towards improving local habitability in parallel to encouraging efforts that strive to maintain cultural integrity. Integrating this knowledge in future habitability assessments can pave the way for context-sensitive and locally-adjusted resilience-building strategies that take the potential benefits and disadvantages of migration into account.

Role of Biodiversity and its Importance in Sustainable Development: A Comprehensive Review

Biodiversity, the variety of life on Earth, plays a crucial role in sustainable development by providing essential ecosystem services, supporting livelihoods, and fostering resilience to environmental changes. This comprehensive review explores the significance of biodiversity in sustainable development through an examination of its ecological, economic, and socio-cultural dimensions. The paper discusses the current state of global biodiversity, the drivers of biodiversity loss, and the consequences for ecosystems and human well-being. It also evaluates the role of biodiversity in key sectors such as agriculture, medicine, and tourism, highlighting the economic value derived from biodiversity. Furthermore, the review addresses policy frameworks and initiatives aimed at conserving and managing biodiversity, emphasizing the  importance of international cooperation and community engagement. Finally, future directions for research and action to enhance biodiversity conservation and promote sustainable development are proposed.

The impact of globalization on the revival of innovative housing models in Doha, Qatar

After the oil and economic boom of the 20th century, Doha experienced significant development in terms of the architectural scene, design, function, and sociocultural transformations. The advancements in global architecture have facilitated innovative and streamlined construction processes, while creating a paradigm shift in the overall architecture of dwellings and how people navigate around the house. In this context, this research aims to study the impact of globalization on housing typologies and the factors influencing their evolution, focusing on the city of Doha as a case study. This study is based on a qualitative research approach that centers its investigation on Doha while exploring strategies for preserving Arabic-Islamic identity. The research investigation used a content analysis methodology to analyze three additional case studies within the MENA region. The results indicate that new housing typologies have emerged in cities due to globalization and changes in physical and sociocultural dimensions. In addition, preserving older neighborhoods and housing typologies through a bottom-up approach is essential for design creativity and climatic and sociocultural sensitivity while exchanging knowledge and sharing experiences between generations. Furthermore, this article promotes heritage awareness and encourages local authorities to preserve Doha’s surviving historic neighborhoods and architectural language to restore the city’s urban identity. The findings of this research can provide helpful guidance to architects and urban planners on how Doha’s housing has developed until the contemporary period.

Playing With Ancestors: Writing as an Act of Vulnerable Listening

This paper explores the possibilities of engaging in playful interactions with ancestral forces, expanding the boundaries of academic writing. Specifically, it examines the interplay between writing and inquiry, emphasizing play as a means of communion with both human and nonhuman ancestors, fostering vulnerable listening within academic discourse. Departing from conventional productivity-centric writing approaches, the paper advocates for a paradigm wherein writing responds to curiosity, evoking play, and imagination, while also embracing experimentation and learning. This conceptual shift envisions writing as a dynamic companion, extending its engagement beyond human ancestors through a posthuman theoretical perspective. Similar to play, writing emerges from interactive experiences, offering a conduit for establishing profound connections with the external world. Engaging with ancestral figures through playful frameworks necessitates embodied practice, encompassing sensory, emotional, and sociocultural dimensions. The paper employs practices of storytelling, metaphors, and nonlinear narratives in an exploration of three nonhuman ancestors in particular: moths, ladders, and trees.

Agroforestry Implementation as Farmers Resilience Strategies to Support Farming System Sustainability Facing the Land Vulnerability at The Mount Semeru Slopes, Indonesia

The terrain on the slopes of Mount Semeru is characterized by arid conditions and an abundance of sandy soil. This has led to extensive sand mining operations in the area, extending even to privately-owned agricultural lands. These mining activities have generated adverse environmental effects, such as the depletion of vegetation, and pose risks of soil erosion and biodiversity loss. This study aimed to assess the influence of implementing agroforestry as a resilience strategy by farmers on the sustainability of farming systems in response to land vulnerability on the slopes of Mount Semeru. A quantitative approach was employed, and the study site was purposively chosen in Bambang Village, Wajak Sub-District, Malang Regency. The research employed a survey methodology, incorporating observation and interviews with respondents to gather information on the implementation of agroforestry, resilience strategies, and sustainability indicators across ecological, economic, and socio-cultural aspects. The data analysis utilized the Structural Equation Model (SEM). The findings indicate that farmers practicing agroforestry exhibit elevated resilience and enhance the sustainability of their farming systems across ecological, economic, and socio-cultural dimensions.

MODERNIZATION OF THE EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM BASED ON AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH

This comprehensive article delves into the cultural expressions surrounding the concept of age, as depicted through proverbs and sayings in both English and Uzbek traditions. The analysis begins by acknowledging the multifaceted nature of age, covering biological, psychological, and sociocultural dimensions. It underscores the role of proverbs as linguistic reflections of cultural values, offering insights into societal attitudes towards age, wisdom, and the passage of time. The article underscores the importance of proverbs as cultural artifacts that encapsulate shared wisdom, offering a lens into the collective consciousness of societies as they navigate the complexities of age and its symbolic significance.

Enabling factors and critical extensions for the algal-based bioplastics industry

Emerging industries and technologies are made up of objective, practical requirements and ideas that encompass broad hopes for what future newness might enable. The bioeconomy is one such emerging industry. Its recent evolution has involved a complicated and dynamic mix of promises, reality checks and subsequent ambivalences. This article frames and investigates the emerging algae-based bioplastics industry as one niche within this broader system envisaged for social, technological, economic, political and ecological change. As such, our paper presents two categories of knowledge that in practice interrelate: 1) specific and practical recommendations that can assist a future algal-based bioplastics industry to develop in Australia in ways that are conscious of socio-ecological and socio-cultural dimensions, and 2) critical extensions that go beyond the attributes of newness, impact, suddenness and universality often emphasised in both popular and scientific research into emerging green technologies. In particular, our analysis highlights the importance of specific temporal, tonal and spatial factors when framing the contextual factors associated emerging industries, technologies and the different pathways for change they might help support.

Blue Circular Economy—Reuse and Valorization of Bivalve Shells: The Case of Algarve, Portugal

The Circular Economy emerges as an alternative to reinvent the linear production model (take–make–waste), focusing on reintegrating waste into the production cycle, and aiming to minimize both environmental disposal and the unrestrained extraction of raw materials. In this context, the concept of Blue Economy arises, an approach centered on preserving and valorizing marine and coastal resources. This article aims to develop a model for the circuit of bivalve shells, emphasizing the transformation of the residues into new products and identifying how these processes affect sociocultural, economic, and environmental dimensions. The methodology involved the surveying of local stakeholders directly involved in bivalve production and consumption to identify the relationship of these stakeholders with the production, marketing, and disposal of bivalves. It is concluded that biowaste has potential, and there is interest among local stakeholders in reusing it, but a lack of knowledge and connection among stakeholders ultimately leads to the devaluation of the product. The circuit of bivalves is necessary to identify value, propose correct collection, and stimulate interest in their reuse, both by other industries and by the aquaculture industry itself. Exploring the potential for reusing bivalves and mitigating their waste, as well as preventing improper disposal, could drive the development of the Blue Circular Economy in coastal regions.

The Turbulence of Postcolonial Displacement, Exclusion and Racism in Tahar Ben Jelloun’s Les Yeux Baissés

Abstract This article examines the Moroccan-French author, Tahar Ben Jelloun’s novel Les Yeux Baissés, translated as With Downcast Eyes. A winner of the Prix Goncourt, the author narrates the challenges of postcolonial displacement, exclusion and racism in a French multicultural neighbourhood. The novel explores the theme of displacement as one that is two-fold: firstly, it refers to the migration process, while secondly, it foregrounds the socio-cultural dimension of being “out of place” in the diaspora. I delve into the way migrants’ children experience the turbulence of displacement, exclusion, and racism. While engaging with postcolonial theoretical debates, this study considers the representation of migrants’ alienation in the narrative resulting from a lack of French hospitality and acute hostility. As such, this article demonstrates that postcolonial displacement does not enable the homogenization of cultures, but rather reinforces boundaries, at the social and cultural level, in the diaspora.

Language ideologies and language teaching in the global world: An introduction to the special issue

Aims: This special issue delves into language ideologies shaping multilingual education, aiming to unravel their impact on pedagogical practices and emergent multilinguals. By presenting empirical studies and critical analyses, the collection seeks to foster a nuanced understanding of language ideologies in diverse educational contexts. Approach: This guest editorial introduces language ideology as a lens, guiding an exploration of its manifestations in educational settings. Ten papers, spanning diverse linguistic landscapes, offer a comprehensive examination of language ideologies through varied methodologies. From scrutinizing teacher objections to linguistic pluralism to dissecting bilingual kindergarteners’ experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, the collection employs qualitative research, case studies, and critical reviews to critically engage with language ideologies in global language education. Conclusion: The special issue concludes by emphasizing the critical role of language ideologies in shaping educational landscapes and influencing emergent multilinguals’ experiences. Authors underscore the need for macro-level research, recommending a decolonial lens to address inequalities perpetuated by monoglossic practices. The collection advocates for inclusive spaces and challenges educators to reflect on their pedagogies, promoting a multilingual-as-a-resource orientation. By extending the scope beyond individual classrooms and examining sociopolitical and economic dimensions, the special issue contributes to ongoing efforts to reframe language ideologies and advance inclusivity in multilingual education. Originality: This special issue stands out for its originality in dissecting language ideologies through diverse lenses, spanning linguistic, sociocultural, and pedagogical dimensions. Notably, studies like Chang-Bacon and colleagues’ examination of objections to linguistic pluralism and Mendoza’s exploration of stylization in English-medium instruction enrich the discourse. The collection encourages scholars to engage with plurilingualism as a theoretically robust alternative to late translanguaging theory, promoting empirical grounding and fostering a deeper understanding of language ideologies.

The significance of Lakiya Negev Bedouin heritage weave – a way of knowing Israel's cultural costume

PurposeThis study aims to analyze how conventional Bedouin weaving techniques have changed through the history of Israel, offering knowledge on the craft’s cultural relevance and historical development among the Bedouin people and how their weaving and embroidery differ based on the three main geographic characteristics. It tries to comprehend the causes of the transition from organic to synthetic materials and the part played by the Lakiya Negev Bedouin Weaving women’s cooperative in maintaining this legacy.Design/methodology/approachThe main goal of this study is to trace the emergence of Bedouin weaving traditions in the Negev Desert using a qualitative research methodology that combines historical analysis and ethnographic investigation. A thorough grasp of the subject’s significance is provided through the data gathering, which consists of interviews, archival research and field observations.FindingsThrough the years, Bedouin weaving techniques have significantly shifted away from using traditional organic materials in favor of synthetic replacements, according to the research. It emphasizes the crucial part played by the Lakiya Negev Bedouin Weaving women’s organization in safeguarding this traditional legacy and giving Bedouin women access to economic prospects.Research limitations/implicationsThe limitation of the study includes its emphasis on the Negev region and the Israeli Bedouin community, which may not accurately reflect all Bedouin weaving techniques. Greater regional settings may be explored in future studies.Practical implicationsThe investigation emphasizes the value of investing in initiatives for cultural preservation and the empowerment of underprivileged groups through economic possibilities.Social implicationsBy preserving ancient weaving techniques, this research enables Bedouin women in the Negev Desert to maintain their cultural identity and socioeconomic well-being.Originality/valueBy emphasizing the socio-cultural dimensions and the organization’s role in preserving traditional craftsmanship in a changing socio-economic environment, this research presents a unique investigation of the evolution of Bedouin weaving techniques in Israel.

The impact of party competition on LGBTI+ rights: Evidence from Spanish autonomous regions (1990–2022)

AbstractPolitical competition accelerates the enactment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans*, and intersexual rights (LGBTI+) due to the dynamic, rational behavior of mainstream parties across the political aisle to adapt to the sociopolitical environment. We argue that LGBTI+ social movements capitalize on median voter shifts combined with the rising pressure of ideologically close challenger parties to enact legislation. To examine this argument, we employ quantitative event history analysis with a unique dataset with measures for social movement, institutional, political, and sociocultural dimensions across 33 years in Spanish subnational arenas. We find that rising leftist and liberal contenders challenging dominant center‐left and center‐right parties, respectively, widen the opportunity political structure of LGBTI+ organizations. Ultimately, rising political fragmentation in a multiparty, multidimensional party system turns both left and right mainstream parties into allies of LGBTI+ organizations, which propose new legislation, due to political platforms seeking to preserve and enhance their electoral base.Related ArticlesBurnett, Craig M., and Aaron S. King. 2015. “The Personal Politics of Same‐Sex Marriage.” Politics & Policy 43(4): 586–610. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12126.Lewis, Gregory B., Marc A. Rogers, and Kenneth Sherrill. 2011. “Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Voters in the 2000 US Presidential Election.” Politics & Policy 39(5): 655–77. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2011.00315.x.Skipworth, Sue Ann, Andrew Garner, and Bryan J. Dettrey. 2010. “Limitations of the Contact Hypothesis: Heterogeneity in the Contact Effect on Attitudes toward Gay Rights.” Politics & Policy 38(5): 887–906. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2010.00262.x.

Public Perception and Geopolitical Implications of China's Engagement in Albania

This study delves into the multifaceted nature of China's engagement in Albania, with a focus on understanding the nuanced public perceptions surrounding this involvement. Situated within the broader context of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), it examines the impact of China's expanding influence in the Western Balkans, particularly through the lens of Albania's strategic geopolitical positioning and rich historical context. Furthermore, by exploring the grassroots-level reception, the research aims to uncover the economic, political, and socio-cultural dimensions of China's presence in Albania and assess the broader implications of such foreign engagements in smaller, strategically located nations. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study synthesizes findings from seven comprehensive surveys from three distinct sources: the Western Balkan Security Barometer, the China-Eastern European Countries (CEEC) group surveys, and the Balkan Barometer. This time-sequenced comparative perspective reveals a complex landscape of public opinion that is characterized by a shift from initially positive perceptions towards a more cautious and critical engagement with China's role in Albania. Overall, the study highlights a growing skepticism and a strategic recalibration of Albania's international alignments, evidenced by a nuanced preference for European Union integration over a deeper alliance with China. In conclusions, the findings suggest that while there is recognition of the economic opportunities presented by China's engagement, there is also an acute awareness of the potential pitfalls and complexities of such international partnerships. In this context, the paper argues for the importance of fostering an informed public discourse to navigate the challenges posed by global diplomacy and foreign influence. As Albania stands at a crossroads in its foreign policy, the evolving public perceptions underscore the need for a balanced approach that harmonizes established Western partnerships with emerging opportunities in the East. This study contributes to a richer understanding of Sino-Albanian relations and offers insights into the critical role of awareness and information in shaping the trajectory of international relations in the context of the Belt and Road Initiative.
  
 Received: 27 February 2024 / Accepted: 22 March 2024 / Published: 23 March 2024

Analysis of tax compliance behavior of family businesses: combining social and psychology norms and legitimacy determinants

PurposeThis study aims to analyze the tax compliance behavior of family firms by integrating social and psychological norms with legitimacy determinants, focusing specifically on the Moroccan context.Design/methodology/approachEmploying a qualitative research design, the study conducted semi-structured interviews with 30 chief executive officers (CEOs) of Moroccan family firms. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis to unravel the interplay between individual beliefs and societal norms.FindingsThe findings reveal a complex interplay between the personal norms of CEOs and chief financial officers (CFOs) and wider societal and cultural expectations, significantly influencing tax compliance behavior. The study identifies the multifaceted nature of tax compliance, which is shaped by personal ethics, family values and the dominant societal tax culture.Research limitations/implicationsThe research is limited by its qualitative approach and focus on Moroccan family businesses, which may not be generalizable to other contexts. Future studies could use a quantitative approach and expand to other geographical settings for a more comprehensive understanding.Practical implicationsInsights from the study can assist policymakers and tax authorities in developing culturally sensitive tax compliance strategies that resonate with family business values.Social implicationsThe research underscores the importance of considering sociocultural dimensions in tax compliance, fostering a more cooperative relationship between family businesses and tax authorities.Originality/valueThe study contributes a novel perspective by synthesizing social, psychological and legitimacy factors in understanding tax compliance in the unique context of family businesses.