Journal of Arts and Humanities (JAH) is a peer-reviewed and leading open access journal in the academic discipline of arts and humanities. The scope of the Journal focuses on theoretical and empirical research in the broader fields of Arts and Humanities areas. JAH publishes original research, creative work, and critical discourse on traditional, contemporary, and popular issues in arts and issues in the field of humanities studies. Contributions in the field of arts may include artists’ writings, critical essays, historical documentation, interviews, performance texts and plays and book review. The journal welcomes the submission from the theoretical or empirical aspects of ... view the full scope Besides English, this journal publishes papers in French and Spanish language. JAH publishes 12 Issues per year in print and online versions.
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The Influence of Community on Identity Construction in Our Missing Hearts
In contemporary multicultural societies, ethnic minorities frequently face cultural marginalization, structural inequality, and selective silence, and such factors continually undermine their identity and sense of belonging. Our Missing Hearts, written by Chinese-American author Celeste Ng, dramatically portrays this predicament against the backdrop of a dystopian America: cultural suppression and state surveillance tear apart the identity construction of individuals and communities. This study employs community theory as its framework to explore how identity can be reconstructed through community within an unequal multicultural context. This paper aims to analyze community construction and its impact on identity reconstruction. Through close textual analysis, the study reveals differences between institutionalized communities and spontaneous communities in terms of normative control and creative participation; altruism manifests not only in material actions but also exerts influence at cultural and spiritual levels; and a sense of belonging is reconstructed through the interaction between individuals and cultural communities, all of which make a difference for identity reconstruction. This paper reveals that individual identity is profoundly shaped by multi-cultures, particularly mainstream culture, yet community provides crucial ethical spaces for minority groups to reconstruct their identities.
Copyright (c) 2025 Chonglin Yan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Negotiating boundaries: Tanztheater, DV8 and the politics of embodied risk in Physical Theatre
This article examines the legacy of Pina Bausch’s Tanztheater in shaping DV8 Physical Theatre and argues that DV8 developed a politics of embodied risk that has been central to the development of physical theatre in the United Kingdom. The establishment of DV8 in 1986 brought public recognition to the form and defined it as a distinctive practice within contemporary performance. Methodologically, the study combines historiographic research into Ausdruckstanz and Tanztheater, performance analysis of works such as Dead Dreams of Monochrome Men (1988), Enter Achilles (1995), and MSM (Men who have Sex with Men) (1993), and practice-based reflection on rehearsal processes and improvisation. The analysis shows how DV8 inherited and extended Bausch’s innovations: risk-taking in both physical expression and thematic content, the conception of the performer as a thinking and feeling subject, and the integration of spoken language with movement. By redefining choreography around individuality, everyday gesture and socially engaged themes, DV8 advanced physical theatre as an intellectually provocative and politically resonant form that clarifies the term’s genealogical and aesthetic stakes.
Copyright (c) 2025 YOU LYU https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Socio-Semiotic Aspects of Jordanian Identity in Prince Hussein's RoyalWedding Festivities
This sociolinguistic-oriented paper is primarily intended to explore major aspects of Jordanian identity as represented in Crown Prince Hussein&#39;s wedding festivities, as they were best exemplified in several culturally encoded genres such as traditional folk songs, dances, and costumes. The population of the Kingdom of Jordan, spread over twelve governorates, boosts cultural diversity as a sign of sociocultural unity and solidarity on the one hand, as well as having some unique local sub-identities on the other hand. The wedding celebrations for Prince Hussein and Princess Rajwa lasted over three weeks. These events highlighted a clear effort to bring together Jordanian folklore. They embodied the nation’s rich and united heritage during this significant occasion. Also,this study addresses three core questions, how do traditional performances at the royal wedding symbolize Jordanian identity? What meanings do these cultural elements hold within Jordanian heritage? And finally, how are they perceived across different demographics. In this research, a mixed-method approach was implemented, combining qualitative observational research with quantitative survey techniques to examine the role of folklore in shaping national identity in Jordan, focusing on the royal wedding of Crown Prince Hussein. Furthermore, The researchers adopt Peirce’s Triadic model (1960) and Fishman’s Domain theory (1971). to analyze the symbolic and linguistic dimensions of the festivities. The sociolinguistic dimensions of Jordanian identity that emerged during these royal celebrations were analyzed by collecting scenes, observing the prominent cultural features of these events, and analyzing them contextually. Findings demonstrates that traditional songs, dances, and costumes were served as powerful tools for expressing national identity, fostering unity, and supporting cultural pride. This research paper primarily aimed to examine the symbolic meanings that were associated with songs, dances, and costumes at royal weddings, with a particular focus on the manifestations of identity during these celebrations. It also analyzed the visual elements that reinforced these cultural components, how these celebrations combined modernity with traditional rituals, and how they reflected national identity, unity, and the preservation of heritage.
Copyright (c) 2025 Rand AlBzour, Marina Beiruty https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Examining the Impact of Bullying on West African Adolescents' Mental Health: The Role of Peers and Parental Support
Bullying presents a substantial threat to adolescents’ mental health. Yet, despite its status as a major global health issue, research in this area has largely been limited to Western cultures. This is unfortunate since approximately 90% of children and adolescents live in nations classified as low- and middle-income. To increase global representation, the current study utilized cross-sectional data from the Global School-based Student Health Survey (GSHS) and examined the relationship between being bullied, number of friends, and the association with vulnerability to mental health issues. Additionally, the moderating effect of parental support on the relationship between peer help and vulnerability to mental health issues was assessed. The participants were 2,536 adolescents from Benin, West Africa. The results of structural equation modeling suggested that being bullied was associated with increased vulnerability to mental health problems, whereas having more friends was associated with less vulnerability. Furthermore, the model depicting the buffering effect of parental support explained a significant portion of variability in vulnerability to mental health issues. Such that, at low levels of peer help, parental support was associated with a decrease in vulnerability to mental health issues. The discussion section offers future directions.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sheri McVay, Jon Santo, Oluronke Ajayi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Study of Morphological, Structure of Art and DNA of Antique Carved Rhinoceros Horns
This article aimed to study the art history to analyze antique carved rhinoceros horns combined with the morphology and DNA testing cytochrome b DNA barcoding using the PCR technique. The hypothesis is that DNA extracted from ancient rhinoceros horn tissue has complete DNA strand integrity and could be amplified to create a DNA profile. The results of the study found that art history and morphology analysis can be examined in antique carved rhinoceros horn considering, the structure of art such as lines, form, color, and space, because the carvings are designed and the shape of the artwork is adjusted according to the rhinoceros horn morphology. Meanwhile, the symbolic interpretations of antique carved rhinoceros horn can explain the lifestyles of the people at the time they were created. Including being able to explain changes and developments in culture, traditions, and beliefs in each era. Next, the DNA analysis of antique rhinoceros horns carved using DNA barcode techniques from 8 samples was able to confirm only 1 sample as white rhinoceros DNA, which is 12.5% of the total sample. Therefore, the research results can be concluded to reject the hypothesis because the tissue from the ancient carved rhinoceros horn could not be tested for DNA.
Copyright (c) 2025 Teeputai Saengas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Promoting positive youth development in Hong Kong: A participatory action approach to youth-led and art-based learning
In this study, the effect of positive youth development on collaborative fashion design programmes was examined through the example of the ‘Stitchable Chinese Art’ fashion design competition and fashion show 2024, co-organised by the Arts Education Section of Hong Kong Education Bureau’s Curriculum Development Institute and the School of Fashion and Textiles of Hong Kong Polytechnic University. Student attitudes were quantitatively evaluated before and after participating in the competition’s workshops and fashion show. The results indicated that collaborative fashion design activities had a positive impact on youth development, particularly by enhancing the confidence and caring domains of the 5Cs framework.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dr. Jin Lam, Dr. Chupo Ho, Miss Yunqiu Liu, Dr. Joe Au https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Gender-Based Perspectives on the Effectiveness of Instructional Methods in Teaching Social Studies for National Development in Ghanaian Senior High Schools
This study examines gender-based perspectives on the effectiveness of instructional methods employed in teaching Social Studies for national development in Ghanaian Senior High Schools. Anchored in Social Constructivism and the Pedagogical Effectiveness Theory, the research adopts a quantitative, descriptive survey design involving 245 teachers (163 males and 82 females) in the Kumasi Metropolis of Ghana. Results indicate a shared perception among both male and female teachers that current instructional methods such as group work, discussions, and inquiry-based strategies are generally effective in fostering critical thinking and aligning with national development goals. Nonetheless, a majority of respondents expressed low confidence in integrating technology into instruction, revealing significant gaps in digital competence. Chi-square tests showed no statistically significant gender differences across the research variables. The study concludes that while instructional approaches promote civic learning and curriculum alignment, challenges in digital pedagogy and teacher confidence remain. It recommends ICT-focused professional development, gender-sensitive training, and curriculum reforms to enhance teaching quality and digital integration. The findings contribute to ongoing discourse on gender and pedagogy by highlighting the complex interplay between instructional practices, teacher agency, and educational outcomes in the context of national development.
Copyright (c) 2025 DAVID ADJEI https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Integrating research into art and design curricula: A case study from the scientific college of design
Traditionally, the art and design education system follows a studio-based learning approach. However, integrating research in art and design curricula supports students in enhancing intellectual development and creative ideas, as it equips them with a deep understanding by investigating and applying it in practice. The paper focuses on integrating research into art and design curricula. For this purpose, data were collected from internal stakeholders of the college using a questionnaire that was specifically designed for the purpose. The findings reveal that research helps students understand the precedence and value of art and design research methodologies in contextualizing and developing artworks and designs. Embedding research approaches, such as experimentation, inquiry, practice-based analysis, and reflection, enhances the curriculum and supports students in making artistic and creative decisions. Furthermore, the study reveals that a research-based approach provides students with the opportunity to examine evidence from the theoretical framework, historical facts, and address cultural and societal issues. A research-based learning approach enables students to think innovatively by fostering the development of original ideas and concepts. This also supports the development of interdisciplinary applications that integrate science, technology, and the humanities. Thereby bridges the gap between theory and practice, enabling graduates from the art and design fields to enter diverse roles in the creative industries and beyond in the rapidly developing global landscape.
Copyright (c) 2025 Harini Methuku, Dr. Mona Ismail, Dr. Mona Ismail https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
THE CHURCH IN AFRICA: COMMUNITY AROUND THE FIRE
The paper highlights the significance of traditional African life and its impact on Christian presence, as noted by N. C. Egbulem. It is based solely on library research. It emphasizes the communal experience of gathering around the fire, symbolizing biblical fellowship in African culture. This gathering promotes mutual support, relationship-building, storytelling, and worship, which reflect essential African values of community and hospitality. By embracing this metaphor, the church can cultivate a nurturing environment that encourages faith, love, and solidarity. Ultimately, this approach fosters a vibrant community that strengthens individual connections and spiritual journeys.
Copyright (c) 2025 Marcel Mukadi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Codeswitching in Ukrainian Media: Social Meaning of Ukrainian-Russian Bilingualism in Ukraine
In contemporary Ukraine, the linguistic landscape reflects a complex interplay between Ukrainian and Russian, influenced by historical policies, geography, social identities, and current political dynamics. Through the analysis of Mykhailo Podolyak, Yulia Tymoshenko, and Roman Svitan, this study illuminates various facets of bilingualism, code-switching, and language interference. Podolyak exemplifies "elite bilingualism," blending languages seamlessly in formal contexts, contrasting with Timoshenko's politically motivated acquisition of Ukrainian, marked by pronounced structural borrowings from Russian. Svitan's bilingual media discourse underscores Ukraine's pragmatic bidialectalism, where language choice reflects both personal identity and societal norms. Beyond political elites, the prevalence of Surzhyk highlights a broader sociolinguistic reality, blurring distinctions between Ukrainian standards and hybrid forms. Zelensky's linguistic transition symbolizes Ukraine's evolving national identity, affirming Ukrainian as the predominant state language amid persistent Russian influence in private, media, and regional domains. This fluid diglossic environment redefines bilingual norms, emphasizing language use as a nuanced marker of identity and political allegiance in post-2014 Ukraine.
Copyright (c) 2025 Maria Mikolchak https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Pretend Play as a Pathway to Creativity: A Review of the Evidence
This review examines the role of pretend play in fostering creativity among children, exploring both theoretical and empirical perspectives. Drawing on studies conducted over the past several decades, this review evaluates the evidence linking pretend play with creative development, focusing on key cognitive and affective processes. This review also highlights the importance of high-quality play materials, adult facilitation, and supportive environments in promoting pretend play, particularly for children from diverse socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. Furthermore, our review identifies gaps in the literature, such as the lack of targeted interventions for children with disabilities and the need for research addressing gender, race, and SES differences in play behaviors. Limitations of the current body of research are discussed, including inconsistent terminology, methodological issues, and the predominance of studies based on Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, and Democratic (WEIRD) populations. We conclude by suggesting directions for future research, including the exploration of digital and traditional play integration, as well as a more inclusive approach to studying diverse populations. We call for further investigation into how pretend play can be effectively harnessed to enhance creativity across different developmental contexts.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sheri McVay, Hannah Lydiatt, Brigette Ryalls, Lisa Kelly-Vance https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Anthropomorphism in Animation: Exploring Emotional Connection and Narrative Techniques
Anthropomorphism in animation fosters emotional engagement by merging human-like traits with the distinctive behaviors of animals. This paper examines how three major 3D animated films—Kung Fu Panda (2008), Zootopia (2016), and Sing 2 (2021)—utilize anthropomorphic characters to create humor, emotional depth, and audience empathy. Using a qualitative comparative case study approach, the analysis explores how genre conventions, animation technologies, and species-specific character designs contribute to storytelling and emotional resonance. Findings highlight how advancements in facial rigging, motion dynamics, and expressive animation have enhanced the portrayal of nonhuman characters with relatable human emotions. The study emphasizes the continued versatility of anthropomorphism as a storytelling device, capable of addressing universal themes such as self-discovery, social bias, and creative aspiration across diverse narrative genres.
Graphic Design, Visual Learning, Education, Infographics, Animation, Technology.
Copyright (c) 2025 Balgum Song, Malinauskaite Gabija https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
PRODUCTION PROCESS AND ETHICAL PRACTICES OF CONTEMPORARY TATTOOING AMONG TATTOO ARTISTS IN KUMASI AND ACCRA METROPOLISES
Contemporary tattooing in Ghana is gaining popularity as a form of self-expression. However, research on the contemporary tattoo culture focuses primarily on its health implications, to the neglect of tattoo production processes and ethical practices. This study, therefore, seeks to explore the production processes and ethical practices of contemporary tattoos in Kumasi and Accra metropolitan areas. Using the ethnographic method under a qualitative approach, purposive and snowball sampling, data were collected from six (6) tattoo artists and their shops through face-to-face interviews alongside field observations. The study revealed that contemporary tattooing in Ghana goes through various major stages, such as: Tattoo consultation, artistic idea, tattooing procedure, and after-care. The findings further revealed that though tattoo artists and shops do not typically have a well-structured list of ethical considerations, there are unwritten considerations that are observed. The study recommends licensure and regulation of tattoo art and artists.
Contemporary Tattooing, Ethical practices, Tattoo artists, Tattoo Culture
Copyright (c) 2025 Christopher Oppong Effah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
PHYSIOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF LIGHT IN NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY
Newborn photography has burgeoned into a distinct professional practice, yet formal guidelines addressing the physiological impact of lighting on infants remain scarce. This study fills that gap by hypothesizing that soft, diffused lighting within international safety standards does not adversely affect neonatal visual development and may support circadian regulation. We conducted controlled measurements of natural and pulsed studio lighting across 20 sessions, performed statistical analyses of light intensity and distribution, reviewed global regulatory requirements, and analyzed case law regarding safety labeling. Our results confirm no documented ocular risks under prescribed lighting configurations and demonstrate how lighting choice influences hypothalamic function and melatonin secretion. We conclude with detailed, evidence-based recommendations for photographers, educators, and policy makers.
Copyright (c) 2025 Natalya Ignatova https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The use of lenses with function of controllable bokeh for macro photography of objects similar to the background
The article discusses various options for using portrait lenses with a controllable bokeh function for macro photography in difficult shooting conditions when the shooting objects and minor background objects are at the same distance from the camera and have similar colours. The article considers different approaches to adapting portrait lenses with a controllable bokeh function for macro photography. Test shots were taken to verify the applicability of these lenses for macro photography. Positive and negative aspects are defined, and brief conclusions are drawn on the best ways of using photo lenses with a controllable bokeh function as a new tool for macro photography in complex conditions of shooting objects similar to the background.
Copyright (c) 2025 Oleg Mamaev https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Research into aesthetic trends in advertising and design as a means of increasing consumer appeal of products
This study explores contemporary aesthetic trends in advertising and design and their impact on enhancing consumer appeal. A survey involving 76 participants, including both general consumers and industry professionals, was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of various design elements. The research employs both quantitative (statistical, correlation, and frequency distribution analyses) and qualitative (consumer opinion representation) methods. Findings reveal that minimalist design, colorful visuals, retro aesthetics, eco-friendly design, abstract and surreal elements, and augmented reality (AR) are among the dominant aesthetic trends. Notably, AR, interactive design, and colorful visuals are perceived as the most effective in capturing consumer attention. The study also highlights the role of color, sound, music, imagery, animation, branding elements, and interactive infographics in shaping brand perception. Among these, sound and music have the most significant impact on consumer engagement. Additionally, the research confirms that advertising aesthetics play a crucial role in fostering brand identity and trust. These insights contribute to the field of marketing and design by offering strategic recommendations for advertisers seeking to optimize visual appeal and consumer engagement.
Copyright (c) 2025 Kateryna Yasakova https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Types of bokeh as a way to work with the background in portrait photography
The article examines the bokeh technique as a way to neutralize, control and transform the background in portrait photography. The theoretical foundations of creating bokeh, the main types of bokeh, their features, advantages and disadvantages are considered. Examples of lenses that form the types of bokeh under consideration are also given.
Copyright (c) 2025 Natalia Mamaeva https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Total Quality Management with the Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Art and Design Pedagogy: An Innovative Era in Creative Fields
Total Quality Management (TQM) is an approach that considers customers as the centric point and employee empowerment to emphasize continuous improvement in achieving organizational overall quality/excellence. TQM principles and approaches in higher education are applicable to enhance teaching-learning, research, and other administrative services. In this paper, emphasis is given to the TQM theoretical framework, practices, key principles, and application of other aspects. The paper also explores challenges, benefits, and recommendations for implementation in the higher education sector. In addition, with the fast growth of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the higher education sector's approach to teaching-learning is rapidly changing, including art and design fields. This paper focused on integrating varied AI tools/applications in art and design curricula by indicating their benefits and further stating challenges. The paper researches pedagogical strategies, the use of AI applications, and ethical considerations that guide art and design fields for higher educators in the ethical and efficient use of AI for enhanced teaching-learning experiences.
Copyright (c) 2025 Harini Methuku https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The use of generative graphics in graphic design: aesthetics and ethics
The rapid development of generative artificial intelligence (gen AI) is transforming the field of graphic design, offering unique opportunities for automating creative processes and generating original visual solutions. However, this progress brings with it significant aesthetic and ethical challenges. This paper examines the dual nature of generative graphics: its ability to enhance visual communication through automation, alongside issues of authorship, copyright infringement, and cultural representation. The methodology includes a qualitative analysis of contemporary generative design tools and case studies of their application in real-world design projects. Findings reveal that while generative graphics expand designers' toolkits, they often lack the cultural depth and authenticity inherent in human creativity. Ethical concerns also persist, particularly regarding the use of copyrighted materials and the diminishing role of human agency in the creative process. This research underscores the need for strict legal frameworks, transparent algorithms, and ethical standards to integrate AI technologies into design while respecting authorship and cultural identity. The study serves as a foundation for further discussions on the responsible use of AI in creative industries.
Copyright (c) 2025 Daria Kutanova https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Role of Graphic Design in Educational Projects: Enhancing Learning Effectiveness Through Visual Elements
This article explores the critical role of graphic design in enhancing the effectiveness of educational projects by leveraging cognitive visual learning principles and boosting student engagement. It emphasizes the importance of tools like infographics, animation, and iconography to streamline information processing, reduce cognitive load, and improve retention of educational content. By transforming complex theoretical concepts into intuitive and visually appealing formats, graphic design fosters a deeper emotional and intellectual connection between students and learning materials. The article provides examples of successful implementations in educational contexts, such as interactive textbooks and multimedia educational films, illustrating how well-designed visuals can enhance comprehension, interest, and motivation. Studies are cited to demonstrate how visual aids improve performance and engagement, particularly in STEM disciplines where animations and infographics clarify intricate processes. Additionally, the strategic use of iconography simplifies navigation and reinforces memory retention. Graphic design not only supports diverse learning styles but also aligns with the demands of digital education, promoting inclusivity and interactive engagement. As technology evolves, the role of graphic design as an educational tool becomes increasingly significant, transforming how information is communicated and ensuring that learning experiences remain accessible and effective.
Copyright (c) 2025 Marina Maier https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Marks of the Grassland: Spatial Cognition and Perception in Mongolian Nomadic Life
This paper commences with an investigation of regional culture, with a particular focus on the traditional patterns observed in Mongolian society. These patterns are analysed in terms of the Mongolian way of living and travelling, as well as the Mongolian perception of space and the subjective construction of space embodied in Mongolian traditional patterns. This analysis is conducted at the level of body patterns and spatial experience. Finally, the paper presents a summary of Mongolian concepts of space and the pursuit of the "circle" and the yearning for a long-lasting and eternal ideal world. In conclusion, this paper presents a summary of the Mongolian conception of space, the Mongolian pursuit of the "circle" in space, and the yearning for the ideal world that stretches forever.
Regional Culture; Mongolian; Spatial Perception
Copyright (c) 2025 Ziqing Zhao https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Gender as Biology, Discourse, and Construct: The Form of Space in The Tenant of Wildfell Hall as a Subversion of the Fairy Tale “Blue-Beard”
The gendered prescriptions that permeate fairy tales can shape societal structures and perspectives. However, just as literature plays a role in reinforcing societal constructs, it can be used to challenge and subvert them. Victorian society was heavily structured by gender, which through the doctrine of separate spheres, relegated women within the domestic sphere and thus limited their contribution to the mainstream political discourse. It was through literary forms could they enter political discourse and shape the structures in society, especially with regards to gender. This paper looks at the form of space in The Tenant of Wildfell Hall by Anne Brontë (1848) as a subversion of “Blue-Beard” by Charles Perrault (1697) and its relation to shaping understandings of gender as biology, discourse, and construct. Brontë’s discourse of gender in Tenant through formative literary experimentation given the relegation of gender discourse in Victorian society—this formative discourse transcending the aesthetic into shaping the sociopolitical—enables gender to be understood as a cultural construct, dismantling and challenging traditional gender norms of prescribed roles and characteristics.
Copyright (c) 2024 Dong Chen https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Ethnic film screenings: The re-nationalization of Chinese cinema and community aesthetics
The phenomenon of ethnic film screenings at the China Golden Rooster & Hundred Flowers Film Festival in recent years raises questions about the nationalization of Chinese cinema: What is the significance of these special screenings of ethnic minority films? What are the ethnic characteristics of films in China’s New Era, and what are their cultural connotations? And, as the most prominent aspect of the nationalization of Chinese cinema, how do ethnic minority films practice re-nationalization in their creation and cultural expression? How can their inherent sense of community be expressed? From a perspective that combines film theory and ethnicity theory, this paper explores these questions using textual analysis and cultural research methods.
Copyright (c) 2024 Nan Li https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Investigating the Aspects of Vocabulary Knowledge in English Textbooks: A Case Study
The mentality of vocabulary knowledge for effective communication has been recognized since 1980s. Knowing a word is process as distinct from product, and it involves learning a range of aspects such as form, meaning, and use (Nation, 2013). Though several researchers have identified the factors that enhance vocabulary acquisition, the number of repetitions required to learn a word, and so on, there is dearth of research on how aspects of vocabulary knowledge are addressed in English textbooks prescribed for study in government schools in India. This study aimed at investigating the aspects of vocabulary knowledge that five textbooks of English—classes VI to X—have paid attention to. Based on Nation’s (2013) framework as template, 142 exercises were analysed. Findings of the study indicated that there is an inconsistency, not to say a desultory approach, in how vocabulary is approached in different classes. Meaning received maximum attention in the textbooks while form and use received least attention leading a patchy, partial and unhelpful approach
vocabulary knowledge, aspects of vocabulary knowledge, textbooks, form, meaning, use
Copyright (c) 2025 Revathi Srinivas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
On the Relationship Between Key Signatures and Music-Induced Emotions
Music induces emotions, and emotions affect people's behavior and mental health. This study investigates how different musical key signatures influence listeners' emotions. A survey was conducted to gather data on emotional responses to various music pieces, followed by an Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to identify statistical differences across key signatures. We focus on three major keys (C major, E-flat major, and E major) and three minor keys (C-sharp minor, F minor, and G minor). There are several main findings from the experimental study. First, certain keys are associated with specific emotions. For example, C major is linked to feelings of simplicity and brightness, while C-sharp minor evokes darkness and pain. Second, there is a correlation between the number of black notes in a key signature and the intensity of negative feelings. In particular, C major (with no black notes) is the most positively perceived among tested major keys, whereas G minor (with two black notes) is the least negatively perceived among tested minor keys. Third, lower pitches generally induce more negativity. This trend is especially pronounced in minor keys, with C-sharp minor (lowest pitch) eliciting the most negative emotions among tested minor keys, compared to G minor (highest pitch), which is the least negative. These findings provide empirical support for the connection between musical features and emotional responses, enhancing our understanding of music cognition theory and offering guidance on choosing suitable music for target emotions in therapeutic practice.
Copyright (c) 2025 Jerry Chang https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Ethical Language: Analyzing Reactions to Biopolitical Scenarios in Terms of Unfairness
Biopolitics, a concept popularized by 20th-century French philosopher Michel Foucault, refers to the control and regulation of human bodies by political entities. This study contrasts responses to four biopolitical scenarios—including health, citizenship rights, military supplies allocation, and targeted advertising—with four non-biopolitical counterparts. The research involves participant-based studies on twenty male high-school students from St. Mark’s School of Texas, twenty Gen X female Caucasians in Texas, and three generative artificial intelligence models: ChatGPT, Gemini, and Llama. The findings show that both human participants and AI models perceive biopolitical scenarios as more unjust than non-biopolitical scenarios. However, targeted advertising is viewed similarly to its non-biopolitical counterpart, likely due to its institutionalization in consumer culture. These results suggest that modern AI models respond to biopolitical control in ways comparable to two unique human populations. More studies may be needed for further generalizability, however, due to the relatively small sample sizes and consolidation of poll respondents in Texas. This research overall offers valuable insights into AI decision-making processes and provides a linguistic framework for policy planners seeking public support.
Copyright (c) 2024 Samuel Posten https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The role of “An ensemble of differences” in promoting the development of China’s independent bookstores
With the advent of the digital age and the impact of online e-reading, offline physical bookstores have gradually developed a diverse range of business models, and independent bookstores are no exception. By investigating four independent bookstores in (Southwest) China to summarize the distinctive features and spatial benefits of the “spatial turn” of independent bookstores that have created multiple spaces. The survey shows that the spatial turn of independent bookstores in China is mainly based on crossover business as a spatial medium of “ensemble of differences”. Finally, it is suggested that independent bookstores should maintain an active independent cultural character in the context of industry and commercialized market competition.
Toward Technical Being: A Perspective on Irigaray’s Ethic of Belonging
Luce Irigaray puts forth an ethic of belonging rooted in a return and reconsideration of the natural world and our place within it. Starting from a Heideggerian conception of world, Irigaray argues that we get caught up in our everydayness which includes our tool-being mode of engagement with the world as a world of objects ready to be used. Instead, Irigaray argues that it is in recognizing the necessity of mere presence at hand in the natural world where our true sense of relationality can be noted and felt. Graham Harman’s object-oriented ontology asserts it's a real object as that which is withdrawn from relation, and in this regard all objects have a world which is their own, and to which we can apply Irigaray’s conception of belonging. This paper explores Some of the key highlights of this ethic of belonging as well as some of the problems that arise from treating it from a Heideggerian perspective. In revising it to fit within Harman’s notion of realism, the ethic of belonging takes on a whole new meaning.
Copyright (c) 2024 Zachary Alan Isrow https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Description and analysis of the strategy to promote and conserve the Pipiripau Christmas Crib through the production and availability of phonecards in Brazil
The construction of the Pipiripau Christmas Crib (PCC) was carried out during the 20th century in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Telemar, a telecommunications company in Brazil, made phonecards available that were printed with images referring to the anniversary of the institution and artifacts such as the centenary of the PCC, with a small number of these cards made available in presentation folders. The objectives, of this study, were to describe the phonecard, presentation folder and centenary ceremony and to discuss how the circulation of these cards contributed to the existence, promotion and conservation of the PCC. The front of the phonecard and presentation folder inner face is printed with an overview image of the crib and a message explaining its significance. Thirty-two different versions with a total print run of 1,204,330 units, of the phonecards, were produced and made available for purchase by the general public in 15 Brazilian states operated by Telemar for its use in public pay phones. The centenary ceremony, held in 2006, represented the commencement date for the availability of the phonecards and included information from the public authorities about the allocation of the budget for its restoration, which was conducted and finally completed in 2017. The production and availability of phonecards and the centenary ceremony contributed to the encouragement of conservation by the authorities, the promotion of visits by people from other regions and the preservation of the PCC.
Copyright (c) 2025 Wagner de Souza Tavares https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Multimodal Analysis of Visual Framing in Bola Tinubu’s Presidential Campaign Video
This paper examines a political campaign video through the lens of multimodal visual and emotional framing. Focusing on a specific instance where Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the then- presidential candidate and current president of Nigeria, proclaimed in Yoruba, "Emi ló kán" ("It is my turn"), I employ Systemic Visual Grammar to elucidate how visual frames are strategically utilised to underscore critical issues pertinent to an effective political campaign. The findings indicate that (i) emotional and visual semiotics are instrumental in framing the legitimacy matter, and (ii) visual frames associated with elite closure, kinship, and ethno- religious resources underscore the necessity of executing a speech act with the relevant thematic emphasis. This paper underscores the variations in cultural signals and emotional framing within hybrid political regimes, thereby contributing to the discourse on political communication, particularly regarding frame analysis in such contexts.
Copyright (c) 2024 Patrick Agbedejobi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0