Journal of Advanced Research in Social Sciences

From Indigenous Resistance to the Contemporary Argentine Contempt for Authority

2024-08-28T04:10:30+00:00

The political stability of a modern democracy, excluding environmental or external causes, is determined by multiple factors, all influenced by human behaviour. One indicator of political stability that takes the human factor into account is the time in office of a ruler. The stability of a ruler can be directly affected, for example, if they are killed, or indirectly, if the laws issued by the ruler are not followed. Non-compliance is dependent on the level of contempt for authority among citizens. A post-hoc hypothesis from a previous publication suggests that indigenous contempt for the authority of the white conqueror and coloniser is seen as a primary causal factor of political instability in Argentina. In this work, indigenous contempt has been shown to have originated from the mistreatment of indigenous peoples by the conqueror and coloniser, and it is expressed in practice by laws and norms being violated as a covert form of resistance. This behaviour has been spread throughout Argentine society due to extensive genetic mixing between Amerindian and Eurasian peoples, initially encouraged by the Spanish Crown. It is observed that these behaviours persist in the 21st century, partly because mistreatment and discrimination against indigenous peoples continue, and partly because pigmentocracy exists, a social system where wealth and status depend on skin colour. It is therefore crucial to understand that a large part of the causes of Argentina's political instability can be traced to the non-compliance with laws and regulations, which originated as forms of indigenous resistance to the Spanish conqueror and coloniser. Public policies aimed at improving compliance should be designed to integrate indigenous cultures into Argentine identity, ensuring that all citizens wish to comply with the laws because they now see them as their own.

Ai, ei, oi: A Project-Based Interdisciplinary Project Against Gender-Based Violence

2024-07-30T06:58:01+00:00

Competence describes pedagogical processes involving teachers, students, contents, methodologies, and skills for new social and academic grounds. It encompasses gender equality-based awareness to enhance students’ critical thinking as active educators. This longitudinal study describes an interdisciplinary project to raise awareness of gender equality at secondary school, provides a space for teachers and students to address gender-based violence in a flexible student-based and response-based PBL methodology while self-sustained engagement and motivation heightens more complex cognitive development and competence. Results conclude that intrinsic motivation levels increase dramatically when students’ awareness regarding social impact is accomplished, schools benefit from students’ inclusion in planning and decision-making processes, and gender awareness is enhanced as they become active social educators. Most importantly, students’ self-motivated and sustained increase of meta-awareness and metacognitive strategies relate to active decision-making in the context of gender-based violence and social and academic education.

The Impact of Discourse-Based Learning on Student Civic Engagement, Polarization, and Topic Comprehension

2024-08-01T05:29:27+00:00

School often serves as the first opportunity for students to learn about civics. However, current systems of civics education may not be adequately preparing students to become actively engaged citizens. Given the growing discontent and polarization in American politics, there is a need for educational solutions to stimulate civic engagement and unity. While previous studies have shown that “interactive civic activities” can increase students’ interest in American civics, less is known about the efficacy of non-partisan, discourse-based learning techniques in fostering open-mindedness and a comprehensive understanding of political issues. These prompted researchers at the Institute for Youth in Policy (YIP) to study this topic. Researchers analyzed pre- and post-workshop data from a virtual workshop (n=36) and found that discourse-based civics programs are effective in decreasing polarization levels, increasing topic comprehension, and promoting civic engagement among youth.

Transport Safety and Quality of Life in Developing Cities: An Analytical Study of Amman's Urban Transport System

2024-08-04T06:06:38+00:00

Transport safety is crucial for social sustainability, especially in rapidly urbanizing developing cities. This study evaluates the safety of Amman, Jordan's urban transport system, and its impact on residents' quality of life. Using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), we identified and prioritized five key safety indicators: accident rates, fatalities and injuries, pedestrian safety, public perceptions of safety, and the presence of safety infrastructure. The findings revealed high accident rates, inadequate pedestrian infrastructure, and poor public perceptions of safety. These issues lead to high-stress levels, limited mobility, and increased reliance on private vehicles, exacerbating traffic congestion and environmental pollution. Recommendations include stricter road safety measures, upgraded pedestrian infrastructure, public awareness campaigns, and enhanced public transport services. This research highlights the need for coordinated efforts among government agencies, private sector partners, and the community to improve transport safety and quality of life in developing cities.

‘Mapping’ China’s Art Industry: Understanding Contemporary China Through Qiu Zhijie’s Maps as a Medium of Cultural Relations

2024-08-26T07:21:01+00:00

Deeply ingrained in the fabric of Chinese society, calligraphy originated as an ancient art form and is known as the chief of all traditional arts in China. In the current artistic context of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), calligraphy has merged with contemporary art forms to reflect the dynamic changes and realities of the country. Addressing gaps in academic literature focusing on China’s soft power and cultural diplomacy, this paper focuses on cultural relations to develop a people-centered pathway that flows “organically” and enables the understanding of current-day China. Inspired by Anne Marie-Slaughter’s conceptualization of a “web” of networks, this paper employs a case study analysis of specific contemporary artworks by Chinese contemporary artist Qiu Zhijie. Indeed, this paper finds that Qiu’s maps reflect nuances of contemporary Chinese society, showcasing the intricate relationship between calligraphy, contemporary Chinese art forms, and Chinese culture and society. Further, due to the unique combination of Chinese characters and English text, woven together through cartography and Chinese calligraphy, Qiu’s maps provide international audiences with basic tools for understanding cross-cultural nuances and contemporary realities. In the context of international relations, Qiu’s maps may act as a medium for improving the international community’s understanding of current-day China.

Finding Meaning in Life for Human Flourishing and Wellbeing: A Mixed Method Research Exploring the Benefits, Possibilities and Challenges of the “On Our Journey” Cards

2024-08-26T07:25:20+00:00

The “On Our Journey” cards are an innovative resource and an accompaniment to live a happy life, helping individuals to identify, express and regulate their feelings, reflect, make healthy choices, validate their values/principles, and calibrate their life compass. The resource presents a process map where one can find meaning in one’s own actions and life and develop positive mental health which may not only change one’s life but create positive energy that will spread to people who play together with the “On Our Journey” cards, creating a sense of wellbeing and peace. The cards were developed by the Happy Life (Relationships are Forever Foundation) in Malta, together with a team of professionals. Through a set of questionnaires answered by participants who attended a three-day workshop training on the use of the “On Our Journey” cards, and a focus group with seven participants, four main themes emerged that explored the possibilities and the challenges of the cards. These are: the search for meaning in life and spirituality, positive mental health, wellbeing, and present-moment awareness. Results highlight the importance of understanding how to use the cards and the importance of being prepared for potentially challenging initial reactions. Mastery of card usage and allowing time to trust in their effectiveness can lead to significant improvements in human flourishing, mental health, well-being, spirituality, self-awareness, and meaning in life. This paper provides a valuable opportunity for educators and professionals to consider integrating the "On Our Journey" cards into their personal lives and professional practices.