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Research Article
AlUla Archaeological Decorations Regarding Ornamental Accessories Using Contemporary Printing Techniques by Metal Surface Treatment
Khadijah Mohammed Nouruldeen*
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
179-192
Received:
27 August 2024
Accepted:
26 October 2024
Published:
14 November 2024
Abstract: The research aimed to explore the use of archeological rock ornamentations from AlUla in designing and manufacturing decorative accessories globally, employing up-to-date printing methods on metal surfaces. AlUla is the place in northwest Saudi Arabia that boasts a very rich cultural tradition expressed through different forms of ancient rock carvings, inscriptions, and decorative motifs. These archaeological constituents represent a great opportunity for the integration of historical art forms with state-of-the-art design practices in line with KSA Vision 2030, set on cultural promotion coupled with technological advancement. The central research problem looks into how AlUla's cultural motifs could be adapted for use in ornamental accessories by employing advanced surface treatment techniques on metals. The approach followed in the research is descriptive and analytical to explore, from a theoretical viewpoint, the historical significance and artistic value of the archaeological decorations in AlUla. It further probes into an experimental methodology of applying methods of contemporary digital printing on metal surfaces. This will not only try to bring to light how these ancient symbols influenced the evolution of the decorative arts in the Kingdom, but also how present-day technology may revitalize these traditional designs for today's market. The findings prove that digital printing techniques are actually useful in producing very complex and culturally inspired metal accessories, thus proving the point of heritage meeting innovation. From this research, it is necessary to establish that it holds great potential for functionality and aesthetic enhancement of ornamental accessories to foster cultural heritage via contemporary art. It goes to recommend further explorations of technological advances in digital printing and applications within metal accessory industries for further emphasis on integrating traditional art forms with modern technologies of production for added value to the cultural heritage and commercial practices.
Abstract: The research aimed to explore the use of archeological rock ornamentations from AlUla in designing and manufacturing decorative accessories globally, employing up-to-date printing methods on metal surfaces. AlUla is the place in northwest Saudi Arabia that boasts a very rich cultural tradition expressed through different forms of ancient rock carvi...
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Research Article
Place of Food in the Lives of Peoples of Nkam Division-Cameroon: Symbolic Reading of the Act of Food During Certain Events of the Life Cycle
Hen Mbah Roméo Gervain
,
Bike Mbah Jean Baptiste*
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
193-201
Received:
26 September 2024
Accepted:
25 October 2024
Published:
18 November 2024
Abstract: This article questions the place of food in certain events of the life cycle among the Nkam peoples, namely childbirth, traditional marriage and death. A substantial observation has been made. The different stages of the family cycle are punctuated by events marked by rites. These are always associated with a food component which, at each phase, presents particular specificities. It is this observation that motivated the present research, the main objective of which is to highlight the symbolic charge which accompanies the rites which punctuate said events. It is therefore an invitation to explore an identity heritage which constitutes a cultural reference for these groups. The results obtained are based on qualitative surveys carried out in the Nkam department, Littoral-Cameroon region. These investigations, carried out through interviews and participant observation which were held during the course of the events but also during the scheduled meetings. These interviews were combined with the exploitation of literature. This therefore made it possible to organize the present work which revolves around food as an inseparable component of socio-cultural life. In addition, the act of eating appears to be ritualized and carries identity, giving it meaning and imposing itself at each stage of the fabric of human existence.
Abstract: This article questions the place of food in certain events of the life cycle among the Nkam peoples, namely childbirth, traditional marriage and death. A substantial observation has been made. The different stages of the family cycle are punctuated by events marked by rites. These are always associated with a food component which, at each phase, pr...
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Research Article
Challenges Faced by Start-up Entrepreneurs in Agriculture Sector to Access Finance: A Case of Agro-dealers in Zambia's Central Province
Nicholus Obby Mainza*,
Chipego Kafunga Hachinene
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
202 -209
Received:
2 October 2024
Accepted:
13 November 2024
Published:
21 November 2024
Abstract: Background: This study evaluated financial barriers limiting the growth and sustainability of agro-dealers in Zambia's Central Province. It also examined the impact of these challenges on the agricultural supply chain, assessed the adequacy of existing financial services, and investigated the role of government policies, financial institutions, and development programs in facilitating or hindering access to finance. Methods: Using a cross-sectional design, the study surveyed 384 agro-dealers. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression models to identify predictors of credit access and sales impact. Results: Major financial barriers identified were high interest rates (80.2%), collateral requirements (85.1%), and complex application processes (76.8%). These barriers led to inadequate stock (87.2%), lost sales (82.0%), and reduced product quality (50.8%). Logistic regression showed high interest rates significantly increased credit access (AOR = 6.68) and increased sales impact likelihood (AOR = 5.71). Collateral requirements also increased sales impact likelihood (AOR = 4.07). Thematic analysis highlighted inadequate government support, stringent lending criteria, and limited development program reach. Conclusions: The study highlights the need for targeted interventions, including simplifying application processes, developing tailored financial products, increasing government support, and enhancing development program reach. These measures are crucial for improving agro-dealers' financial stability and growth, thereby strengthening Zambia's agricultural sector and economy.
Abstract: Background: This study evaluated financial barriers limiting the growth and sustainability of agro-dealers in Zambia's Central Province. It also examined the impact of these challenges on the agricultural supply chain, assessed the adequacy of existing financial services, and investigated the role of government policies, financial institutions, and...
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Research Article
A Far Cry for Enlightenment: Power Shapes Perception in Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness
Asma Yasmin*
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
210-216
Received:
23 September 2024
Accepted:
25 October 2024
Published:
26 November 2024
Abstract: Joseph Conrad is celebrated for his profound portrayals of postcolonial experiences. His Heart of Darkness reveals how the power dynamics shape the perceptions of enlightenment. This research sheds lights on the binary oppositions inherent in British colonialism which erodes the established norms and enlightening ideals. Colonialism has created a detrimental impact on modern humanity, fostering detachment, loss of faith, existential turmoil, and the disintegration of social structures. Conrad’s depiction of Africa underscores the harsh reality of unconscious fears and deep-seated anxieties projected by English interference which stifles African autonomy. Through the dual lenses of Edward Said’s postcolonial theory and Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalysis, the research, explores the decline of western values critically addressing the colonial mindset and interrogating European civilization’s alleged superiority. The research investigates how the imposition of power dynamics reshapes Europeans’ perceptions of indigenous African population exposing the civilizing mission as a façade for hypocrisy and brutality under the pretense of moral edification. The findings offer significant insights into Conrad’s enduring influence and persistent resonance with contemporary literary enthusiasts.
Abstract: Joseph Conrad is celebrated for his profound portrayals of postcolonial experiences. His Heart of Darkness reveals how the power dynamics shape the perceptions of enlightenment. This research sheds lights on the binary oppositions inherent in British colonialism which erodes the established norms and enlightening ideals. Colonialism has created a d...
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Research Article
Archaeological Ceramics as an Object of Study and Restoration
Tatyana Nikolaevna Krasnova*
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
217-222
Received:
20 October 2024
Accepted:
11 November 2024
Published:
28 November 2024
Abstract: The article considers the problems of preserving the information potential of archaeological ceramics during their restoration. A review of sources containing fundamental information on achievements in the field of archaeological ceramics research and the results obtained with their help, which are of interest to researchers from different fields of knowledge, is made. A retrospective of the study of ancient ceramics as a historical source clearly demonstrated the possibilities of revealing the information potential inherent in the products of ancient pottery production depending on the formulation of new tasks and the use of instrumental research methods of related disciplines. Not all archaeological ceramics extracted from an excavation are well preserved, and therefore need restoration. Over the course of its existence, restoration has developed its own methods for saving destroyed objects, giving them a "second birth". However, not all of them are safe. Some modern restoration methods lead to a change in the physicochemical properties of ancient artifacts and introduce new materials into their structure. A change in the authenticity of ancient objects leads to a distortion of the information contained in them. This is a big problem for both restoration and other sciences, because ceramics is considered one of the most durable materials and therefore much less attention is paid to new methods of its restoration than to other materials. Awareness of the specifics of archaeological objects made of ceramics and the role they played in primitive society and continue to play in the modern world should contribute to the development of a new strategy for the preservation of this type of cultural heritage using new restoration approaches and technologies.
Abstract: The article considers the problems of preserving the information potential of archaeological ceramics during their restoration. A review of sources containing fundamental information on achievements in the field of archaeological ceramics research and the results obtained with their help, which are of interest to researchers from different fields o...
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Research Article
Hisbah as a Model of Community Policing in Nigeria
Mohammed Jamilu Haruna*,
Kawu Adamu Sule
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
223-228
Received:
22 January 2024
Accepted:
19 November 2024
Published:
29 November 2024
Abstract: As a religious police, there is an ongoing debate on whether Hisbah can aligned itself to the philosophy of community policing that stressed the need for the uniformed officers to engage local citizens in law enforcement activities, which shall be accomplished through flexible hierarchies and protocols, with a view to address the root causes of neighborhood crimes and disorder. In view of the above, this paper examined the nature of Hisbah police work in the Moslem dominated northern Nigeria where it was established with a view to understand how the elements common to all community policing approaches are observed. It was established that community policing attributes including partnership, organizational transformation and problem solving are not only found in Hisbah policing, but also a prerequisite without which no Hisbah policing can take place. In fact, the study has established that Hisbah policing is another model of community policing, which was ignored by the academia and criminal justice commentators. The paper posited that in the Hisbah community policing model, there is always a constructive engagement of the citizens in the police enterprise, especially in addressing moral decadence which often give birth to crime and disorder in the community. Finally, the study has established that community policing has been recognized by and practiced in Islamic sharia states, which prompted the debate on whether the philosophy of community policing was copied from the Hisbah policing model, being the oldest (more than 1000 years old), or it was just a mere coincidence. The debate is opened for researchers to explore.
Abstract: As a religious police, there is an ongoing debate on whether Hisbah can aligned itself to the philosophy of community policing that stressed the need for the uniformed officers to engage local citizens in law enforcement activities, which shall be accomplished through flexible hierarchies and protocols, with a view to address the root causes of nei...
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Research Article
Contextual Theology and the Challenge of Globalization
Reuben Turbi Luka*,
Danjuma Leo Byang
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
229-235
Received:
7 November 2024
Accepted:
23 November 2024
Published:
12 December 2024
Abstract: For several decades, particularly from the 1950s, discussions began about the need to contextualize the Gospel message to make it relevant to specific contexts of people groups in order for proper integration and establishment of the message of Jesus Christ among the various cultures of the world. In this article, we shall show that several arguments have been used to establish contextual theologies in a bid to demonstrate their relevance in the frontiers of Christian missions on the vanguard of Christian campaigns. Even the field of systematic theology and practical theology are not left out as the discussion of contextualization is argued through biblical theology, to show that God all along has used the approach and methodology of contextualization in reaching His creation, and deployed the same through the redemptive process—incarnation, thus, the need to recognize its critical position, and hence secure for it a seat of prominence in theology and ministry. Given that the context discussion of contextualization arose essentially seven decades back—a time, when nations of the world were divided along cultural, religious, political and economic barriers, contextual theologies were critical to making sense of the Gospel of Jesus Christ among the different worldviews and cultures of the world. In recent times, however, the world has shrunk to a global village, thereby collapsing these barriers and erasing diversity. Against this background, a historical methodology is employed to critically examine and demonstrate how globalization has become a thorn in the flesh of contextual theologies.
Abstract: For several decades, particularly from the 1950s, discussions began about the need to contextualize the Gospel message to make it relevant to specific contexts of people groups in order for proper integration and establishment of the message of Jesus Christ among the various cultures of the world. In this article, we shall show that several argumen...
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Research Article
Adapting Through Belief: The Persistent Rituals of Phuket’s Jia Cai Festival
Jularat Kamnoi*
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
236-245
Received:
17 November 2024
Accepted:
27 November 2024
Published:
13 December 2024
DOI:
10.11648/j.hss.20241206.18
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Abstract: The Jia Cai Festival, commonly known as the Phuket Vegetarian Festival, has its origins in the early 19th century when Chinese immigrants from Fujian brought their religious practices to Phuket. Initially a private religious ceremony, it has since evolved into a prominent public and globally recognized event, attracting both local and international attention. This paper critically explores the historical roots and cultural significance of the Jia Cai Festival, tracing its origins to a malaria outbreak among Chinese immigrants. In seeking divine intervention, these immigrants dedicated themselves to nine days of vegetarian fasting in honor of the Nine Emperor Gods. Over time, this devotion has solidified into a deeply rooted tradition that reflects both religious faith and cultural identity. The research highlights how the Jia Cai Festival has been shaped by a synthesis of Chinese Taoist and Thai ritualistic elements, creating a unique cultural expression. The enduring belief in vegetarianism has driven adaptations in vegetarian food offerings to suit contemporary tastes while retaining the festival's core spiritual and cultural rituals. This delicate balance underscores the ongoing tension between preserving tradition and embracing modernity. However, the festival faces challenges, particularly the risk of cultural erosion due to increasing commercialization and tourism-driven modifications. By examining these dynamics, the study underscores the Jia Cai Festival's role as a symbol of cultural resilience. It demonstrates how the festival continues to foster social solidarity, cultural diversity, and economic prosperity, even amidst evolving societal contexts. Ultimately, this research contributes to broader discussions on cultural preservation, highlighting the significance of adaptive strategies in maintaining the integrity of traditional practices while ensuring their relevance in a modern, globalized world. The Jia Cai Festival stands as a testament to the enduring power of cultural heritage in promoting community identity and cohesion.
Abstract: The Jia Cai Festival, commonly known as the Phuket Vegetarian Festival, has its origins in the early 19th century when Chinese immigrants from Fujian brought their religious practices to Phuket. Initially a private religious ceremony, it has since evolved into a prominent public and globally recognized event, attracting both local and international...
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Research Article
The Ideology of Islamic Secularization of Muḥammad ʻAbduh, the Most Prominent Pioneer of Enlightenment Thinkers in the Middle East and the Arab World
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
246-253
Received:
19 November 2024
Accepted:
2 December 2024
Published:
19 December 2024
DOI:
10.11648/j.hss.20241206.19
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: As is known, secularism is the principle that separates the government, its institutions, and political authority from religious authority or religious figures. Secularism is known as a principle and intellectual approach that sees that human interaction with life should be based on a worldly basis, not a religious one. Secularism is commonly promoted as the separation of religion from state affairs. Here, the title of the article was chosen as The Ideology of Islamic Secularization, because many modern thinkers or reformers have applied this secular mechanism in dealing with Islamic doctrinal, jurisprudential, and historical issues. Such a trend can be called the modern rational school or enlightenment thinkers. Perhaps the most prominent pioneer in this field is the Islamic thinker with a reformist tendency, Muḥammad ʻAbduh, the most prominent pioneer of enlightenment thinkers in the Middle East and the Arab world. Muḥammad ʻAbduh is considered the founder of secularism in modern Egypt, but there has been much controversy over his attribution to secular or Salafist thought. This study follows the approach adopted by Muḥammad ʻAbduh and his influence on Middle Eastern thought by dividing the study into three fundamental axes. This study is considered the first and only one that deals with the problem of Muḥammad ʻAbduh affiliation in a precise manner. ʻMuḥammad's ʻAbduh historical reform and criticism had an ideological character influenced by the Enlightenment movement. He played a role in reforming Al-Azhar, endowments, Sharia courts, Arabic language, religious sciences, and others. He also dealt with historical criticism from a modern perspective. The research focused on some ideological aspects that changed his intellectual path to adopt another conservative ideology transferred by Muḥammad Rashīd Riḍā. It can be said that Rida's reformist ideology for Islamic history and thought is a continuation of what Muḥammad ʻAbduh began, although he deviated slightly from the intellectual path despite being influenced by his teacher Muḥammad ʻAbduh, even though some Salafi reformers considered him a reformer that belonged to the Salafi school of thought.
Abstract: As is known, secularism is the principle that separates the government, its institutions, and political authority from religious authority or religious figures. Secularism is known as a principle and intellectual approach that sees that human interaction with life should be based on a worldly basis, not a religious one. Secularism is commonly promo...
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