Studies
of political Islam; individuals and groups in a
post-Sayyid Qutb context, in a brief review that
sheds light upon the thought and historical
moments that led to the rise of political Islamic
movements on the roof of political activism in
the Arab world at the present time. This study
gives special importance to subjective factors
that have produced extremist religious thought
and enabled it to break into public affairs, taking
into account objective factors –social, economic
and political, which have paved the road for the
spread of Jihadist thought. In conclusion, this
study explores the ways by which Islamic thought
could be revived with the vision of overcoming
the negative impact of some extremist Islamic
organizations on public affairs.
By: Azzam Al-Kassir
Determining factors on the formation of
cultural identity in the Syrian child:
an ethnographic study of
cultural diversity
This study seeks to understand the determining
factors that influence the formation of cultural
identity in Syrian children. Focusing on family
upbringing and education, this study explores
the level of influence these factors may have
on a Syrian child’s cultural identity, presenting
comments and suggestions regarding the issue.
The ethnographic conclusion of this study was
that cultural influences have more of an impact
than family upbringing, and they are as follows:
socially acceptable morals, songs that reflect
heritage, one’s mother tongue (Arabic or any other
language spoken by Syrians, such as Syriac,
Armenian, Assyrian or Kurdish), stories and tales
that reflect heritage, crafts and haberdashery,
and finally wedding and holiday traditions.
Cultural influences that had greatest impact in the
context of educational institutions (nurseries and
schools) were as follows: cultural variety in school
curriculums and teaching activities, instilling in the
child feelings of pride for their cultural heritage,
instilling sentimental patriotism by emphasising
the importance of studying a shared history,
teaching children about the various cultures
and experiences of other countries, access
to a modern curriculum focused on Arabic
language, as well as extracurricular activities and
participation in national independence days. This
study concluded by confirming that the Syrian
child links their cultural identity to their mother
tongue and an open minded, socially inclusive
upbringing by both families and educational
institutions. This piece presents the research
methodology and foreword to determining factors
on the formation of identity, in which the journal
will publish forthcoming chapters in future issues.
By: Yasmine Hussein Ayoud
Delta-N Journal
Summary Edition - June 2014
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