Archive for month: August, 2024

This paper examines the concept of postmodernism in International Relations (IR), exploring its dual meaning as both a historical period and a theoretical approach. It traces the emergence of postmodernity as a description of the post-Cold War global order characterized by complex interdependence and transnational challenges. The paper then delves into postmodernism as a theoretical stance in IR, emphasizing its focus on social construction, discourse analysis, and critique of power structures. Special attention is given to social constructivism, particularly Alexander Wendt’s work, as a “mainstream” adaptation of postmodernist insights within IR. The paper argues that constructivism represents a “postmodernism with mainstream characteristics” for the IR discipline, maintaining a state-centric ontology while incorporating ideational factors in explaining international politics. Finally, the paper posits that postmodernism in IR can be understood as a historical consciousness of postmodernity, reflecting on and responding to material changes in the global order. This perspective highlights the interplay between theoretical innovations and historical context, suggesting that postmodernist approaches in IR are both timeless theoretical contributions and products of specific historical circumstances.

Raising adolescents with autism has presented families a complex journey towards facing unique challenges and transformative experiences. The parents’ shock and grief of diagnosis because of lack of awareness and subsequent emotional adjustment have encouraged families to exercise faith and acceptance to see the child’s autism as a unique identity rather than a disability. This phenomenological hermeneutical study explores the emotional landscape of ten Filipino families with adolescents diagnosed with autism in the Philippines and highlights love as the guiding theme for hope and resiliency during their initial process of grief and acceptance, of dealing persistent challenges, of sibling involvement, and of varied parental approaches.

Financial strains exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic added complexity to accessing essential therapies and services which lead to necessitating community support and creative coping strategies. The family dynamics developed during this time highlighted the pivotal roles of siblings, the balance of responsibilities, and the emotional growth within the family which includes siblings’ progression from confusion to acceptance.

Effective parenting strategies emphasize clear communication, consistent discipline, and fostered independence. A fathers’ proactive role in behavioral management and a mothers’ focus on emotional and social needs illustrate the diverse approaches required. The digital era brought new a source of support through online communities and advocacies which enabled families to share experiences, to educate themselves, and to promote awareness. Resilience and coping strategies including self-care, spiritual resilience, and embracing present moments are crucial for sustaining the demanding journey of raising adolescents with autism.

This study underscores the importance of tailored support systems, voluntary community involvement, and a holistic understanding of autism care that will offer valuable insights for professionals and policymakers.

This paper presents a comparative analysis of the contributions of Ibn Khaldun, a 14th-century Arab scholar, and Auguste Comte, a 19th-century French philosopher, to the development of sociology. While Auguste Comte is widely acknowledged in the Western tradition as the “father of sociology,” Ibn Khaldun’s seminal work, “Muqaddimah”, place the Preliminary work for a systematic approach to social and historical analysis several centuries before Comte. Ibn Khaldun’s pioneering ideas on social cohesion, economic foundations, and the cyclical nature of civilizations challenge the conventional Eurocentric narrative that places the origins of sociological thought exclusively within Western intellectual history. This paper examines the methodologies, theories, and socio-historical contexts that shaped the works of both thinkers. Ibn Khaldun’s empirical observations and his concept of “asabiyyah” (social cohesion) are compared with Comte’s positivist approach and his “Law of Three Stages,” which posits the evolution of human thought from theological to metaphysical to positive. Despite the differences in their approaches, both scholars were deeply engaged with the fundamental processes governing social life and the forces driving social change. This study argues for a broader recognition of Ibn Khaldun’s role in the evolution of sociological thought, positioning him not merely as a precursor but as a co-founder of sociology alongside Comte. By doing so, it contributes to a more inclusive understanding of the global intellectual traditions that have shaped the discipline of sociology.

The way interpersonal relationships, particularly romantic ones, are formed has gradually transitioned to the virtual realm. Digital communication media now serve as platforms where users can meet and establish relationships without the constraints of physical distance and face-to-face interactions. The phenomenon of Virtual Lovers, originating in China, explains how individuals offer services as virtual partners to accompany clients. This relationship can be understood through the concept of Mediated Relationship, where romantic relationships flourish without contextual limitations, using digital communication as the primary medium. This study aims to explore the virtual communication process and interpersonal relationships of a Virtual Lover in their profession. Using a constructivist paradigm and a qualitative approach, this study aims to examine the experiences and values of Virtual Lovers in situational romantic interactions with their clients. It was found that a Virtual Lover communicates with their client in a situational romantic relationship, engaging in conversations or sharing stories about life’s problems. Virtual Lovers create a self-profile reflecting how they wish to be perceived through virtual communication. This exchange of information builds familiarity and trust as their knowledge of each other deepens. Despite not meeting face-to-face, Virtual Lovers feel their persona as a talent is distinct from their real-life self, where talent must listen attentively and adapt to the needs of their clients. Agencies acting as intermediaries between clients and talents enforce various regulations to protect the privacy and security of all parties involved.

This study examines the Leader’s success in managing the Nurul Huda Quran Education Park (TPQ) in Kampung Mamokeng, Tulehu Village, Maluku Tengah Regency in facing various challenges faced by educational institutions in disadvantaged areas. The research method used in this study is a case study research method. The study’s results found that TPQ Nurul Huda successfully created a collaborative and innovative environment through a participatory leadership style, which supports improving the quality of teaching and strengthening relationships with the local community. Utilizing local resources, including human resources, infrastructure, and local wisdom, is the primary key to overcoming existing limitations. Indicators of the success of TPQ Nurul Huda can be seen in the increasing quality of education, active community participation, and long-term impacts on students. The strategies implemented by TPQ leaders show that with a clear vision and inclusive leadership, non-formal educational institutions in disadvantaged areas can achieve significant success. This study emphasizes the importance of community-based leadership and utilization of local resources in creating quality education that positively impacts society.