No other world: the poetry of Don Maclennan
- Authors: Robinson, Brendon Kimbale
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Maclennan, Don Maclennan, Don -- Criticism and interpretation South African poetry (English) -- History and criticism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2221 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002264
- Description: This is a study of the poetry of Don Maclennan in four chapters. Chapter One explores the poetry's deep involvement with the immediate world, and with the being that encounters it. Chapter Two examines the corpus's mistrust of abstract thought, and its suggestions for alternative ways of intepreting (or at least approaching an interpretation of) our existential situation. Chapter Three deals with Maclennan's writing on the subject of death, while the final chapter looks at the response of the poetry to the fact of death: put simply, this is to learn to love the situation we are in, and to record our thoughts for future generations, thus reaching beyond death to share with others the necessarily unique experience of our one and only life.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Robinson, Brendon Kimbale
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Maclennan, Don Maclennan, Don -- Criticism and interpretation South African poetry (English) -- History and criticism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2221 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002264
- Description: This is a study of the poetry of Don Maclennan in four chapters. Chapter One explores the poetry's deep involvement with the immediate world, and with the being that encounters it. Chapter Two examines the corpus's mistrust of abstract thought, and its suggestions for alternative ways of intepreting (or at least approaching an interpretation of) our existential situation. Chapter Three deals with Maclennan's writing on the subject of death, while the final chapter looks at the response of the poetry to the fact of death: put simply, this is to learn to love the situation we are in, and to record our thoughts for future generations, thus reaching beyond death to share with others the necessarily unique experience of our one and only life.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Newsroom convergence at the Mail & Guardian: a case study
- Authors: Van Noort, Elvira Esmeralda
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Mail & Guardian Convergence (Telecommunication) Journalism -- Management -- South Africa Mass media -- Management -- South Africa Journalism -- Technological innovations -- South Africa Online journalism -- South Africa Broadcast journalism -- South Africa Mass media -- Ownership Digital media -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3490 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002945
- Description: This case study researches newsroom convergence as a process at the Mail & Guardian newspaper and their online edition the Mail & Guardian Online. It focuses on the reporters’ and editors’ attitudes towards newsroom convergence and on cultural resistance against change; one of the major challenges in the process. With structured interviews, observations and questionnaires it was analysed that communication problems between the newsrooms, different production cycles and time management issues are other prominent difficulties. The case study furthermore provides a snapshot of the convergence phenomenon as a process in a particular South African news organisation. The outcomes could not only assist other news companies with convergence plans but also be used as a pilot study for further research on converged newsrooms in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Van Noort, Elvira Esmeralda
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Mail & Guardian Convergence (Telecommunication) Journalism -- Management -- South Africa Mass media -- Management -- South Africa Journalism -- Technological innovations -- South Africa Online journalism -- South Africa Broadcast journalism -- South Africa Mass media -- Ownership Digital media -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3490 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002945
- Description: This case study researches newsroom convergence as a process at the Mail & Guardian newspaper and their online edition the Mail & Guardian Online. It focuses on the reporters’ and editors’ attitudes towards newsroom convergence and on cultural resistance against change; one of the major challenges in the process. With structured interviews, observations and questionnaires it was analysed that communication problems between the newsrooms, different production cycles and time management issues are other prominent difficulties. The case study furthermore provides a snapshot of the convergence phenomenon as a process in a particular South African news organisation. The outcomes could not only assist other news companies with convergence plans but also be used as a pilot study for further research on converged newsrooms in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Negotiated cultural influence : a qualitative study of second year Chinese students at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in 2007 with specific reference to internet usage
- Authors: Yu, Yuanyuan
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Internet in education , Internet -- Social aspects , Students, Foreign -- South Africa , Computer networks -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8375 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/801 , Internet in education , Internet -- Social aspects , Students, Foreign -- South Africa , Computer networks -- Social aspects
- Description: This study aims to investigate the possible influence of Western culture on second-year Chinese students at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) in 2007 by focusing on their Internet usage. Roland Robertson’s theory of glocalization is employed as the theoretical framework in this study. The research design is qualitative in nature. Individual semi-structured interviews are the method of collecting research data while a thematic analysis is the means of analysing and interpreting the research data. The sample comprises twelve second-year Chinese students who are studying at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) in 2007 and have access to the Internet. This study has found that Western culture has exerted multi-faceted influences on the Chinese students through their Internet usage, and that they always negotiate such influences by selecting, adapting and appropriating what is useful in Western culture in an eclectic manner.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Yu, Yuanyuan
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Internet in education , Internet -- Social aspects , Students, Foreign -- South Africa , Computer networks -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8375 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/801 , Internet in education , Internet -- Social aspects , Students, Foreign -- South Africa , Computer networks -- Social aspects
- Description: This study aims to investigate the possible influence of Western culture on second-year Chinese students at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) in 2007 by focusing on their Internet usage. Roland Robertson’s theory of glocalization is employed as the theoretical framework in this study. The research design is qualitative in nature. Individual semi-structured interviews are the method of collecting research data while a thematic analysis is the means of analysing and interpreting the research data. The sample comprises twelve second-year Chinese students who are studying at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) in 2007 and have access to the Internet. This study has found that Western culture has exerted multi-faceted influences on the Chinese students through their Internet usage, and that they always negotiate such influences by selecting, adapting and appropriating what is useful in Western culture in an eclectic manner.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Microfinance sustainability versus development objectives: an assessment of the South African environment
- Authors: Hoskinson, Brenda
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Microfinance -- South Africa South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 1991- Poor -- Finance, Personal Microfinance -- South Africa Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2782 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002992
- Description: In a world where almost half of the population lives in poverty, the alleviation of poverty is a serious developmental challenge for many states. Microfinance has grown in popularity as a means for achieving poverty reduction all over the world. Due to the success of microfinance institutions, such as the Grameen Bank, in achieving self-sufficiency and improving the lives of its clients, the expectations for similar institutions are high. MFIs attempt to find a balance between business and development goals. It is not necessarily a contradiction to be a business seeking profit as well as being an institution committed to development. However, the values coupled with these two objectives are sometimes conflicting. Thus it is important to see how equilibrium can be achieved and to note what sacrifices must be made in order to reach a balance. This thesis will focus on examining and assessing the challenges faced by South African MFIs in balancing development goals while at the same time having to be self-sufficient. The Small Enterprise Foundation will be used as a case study to consider the particular experiences of a South African MFI. The evaluation of the unique challenges that the South African landscape presents will provide a context in which to understand microfinance operations and a clearer understanding of the particular problems and challenges faced by the South African micro-finance industry in balancing the achievement of development goals against the imperative to be self sustainable in providing services to the poor. Through that understanding the common conception of what makes a “successful” MFI will also be challenged.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Hoskinson, Brenda
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Microfinance -- South Africa South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 1991- Poor -- Finance, Personal Microfinance -- South Africa Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2782 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002992
- Description: In a world where almost half of the population lives in poverty, the alleviation of poverty is a serious developmental challenge for many states. Microfinance has grown in popularity as a means for achieving poverty reduction all over the world. Due to the success of microfinance institutions, such as the Grameen Bank, in achieving self-sufficiency and improving the lives of its clients, the expectations for similar institutions are high. MFIs attempt to find a balance between business and development goals. It is not necessarily a contradiction to be a business seeking profit as well as being an institution committed to development. However, the values coupled with these two objectives are sometimes conflicting. Thus it is important to see how equilibrium can be achieved and to note what sacrifices must be made in order to reach a balance. This thesis will focus on examining and assessing the challenges faced by South African MFIs in balancing development goals while at the same time having to be self-sufficient. The Small Enterprise Foundation will be used as a case study to consider the particular experiences of a South African MFI. The evaluation of the unique challenges that the South African landscape presents will provide a context in which to understand microfinance operations and a clearer understanding of the particular problems and challenges faced by the South African micro-finance industry in balancing the achievement of development goals against the imperative to be self sustainable in providing services to the poor. Through that understanding the common conception of what makes a “successful” MFI will also be challenged.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Melanie Klein: a psychobiographical study
- Authors: Espinosa, Marianna J
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Klein, Melanie Psychology -- Biographical methods Psychoanalysis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2971 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002480
- Description: The objective of psychobiography is a better understanding of individuals, and psychobiographical case studies add meaning and value to research (Runyan, 1988a). Melanie Klein was chosen for this study through a purposive sampling method due to her contributions to the discipline of psychology, which placed her in a distinguished position regarding twentieth century psychoanalysis. Furthermore, no other psychobiography has been written on Klein. The primary aim of this study was to present the reader with a basic description of her life, and a secondary aim was to accomplish an in-depth description of Klein within her social and historical context. Due to these aims and the nature of psychobiography, it may be said that this is a qualitative study based on a single case method, described as explorative and descriptive. Data was analysed according to Huberman and Miles’ (1994) approach which consists of data reduction, display and verification. This study was guided by Levinson’s (1996) theory of Adult Development in Women. The theory allowed for an in-depth description of Klein’s experiences and social and historical contexts by merely illuminating her life. Finally, it may be said that this study contributed to the limited amount of psychobiographical research in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Espinosa, Marianna J
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Klein, Melanie Psychology -- Biographical methods Psychoanalysis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2971 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002480
- Description: The objective of psychobiography is a better understanding of individuals, and psychobiographical case studies add meaning and value to research (Runyan, 1988a). Melanie Klein was chosen for this study through a purposive sampling method due to her contributions to the discipline of psychology, which placed her in a distinguished position regarding twentieth century psychoanalysis. Furthermore, no other psychobiography has been written on Klein. The primary aim of this study was to present the reader with a basic description of her life, and a secondary aim was to accomplish an in-depth description of Klein within her social and historical context. Due to these aims and the nature of psychobiography, it may be said that this is a qualitative study based on a single case method, described as explorative and descriptive. Data was analysed according to Huberman and Miles’ (1994) approach which consists of data reduction, display and verification. This study was guided by Levinson’s (1996) theory of Adult Development in Women. The theory allowed for an in-depth description of Klein’s experiences and social and historical contexts by merely illuminating her life. Finally, it may be said that this study contributed to the limited amount of psychobiographical research in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Locating the border the development of the framing device in Western art
- Authors: Leathem, Kevin Wolhuter
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Picture frames and framing Mural painting and decoration Art museums -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2408 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002204
- Description: A frame can be understood to act as something both complementary and even intrinsic to the work it houses. But the frame also acts as more than just a physical object. It serves as a guiding principle, perhaps even a controlling device, in the sense that it provides a context for the work as well as informing the way in which a work is read. Acting with the image it surrounds, it links the artwork to the surrounding space as well as the viewer. In this study, I explore these various functions and effects by providing an overview of framing devices that have been used by artists in the West as well as referring to guiding principles that some museums in South Africa have used when making choices about the ways in which they frame works in their collections. This examination provides a context for my paintings. Based on photographs of the walls of various small galleries in the Eastern Cape, my works take as their subject the notion of the ‘frame’ as both a physical object and the marker of a historically contextualized viewpoint.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Leathem, Kevin Wolhuter
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Picture frames and framing Mural painting and decoration Art museums -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2408 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002204
- Description: A frame can be understood to act as something both complementary and even intrinsic to the work it houses. But the frame also acts as more than just a physical object. It serves as a guiding principle, perhaps even a controlling device, in the sense that it provides a context for the work as well as informing the way in which a work is read. Acting with the image it surrounds, it links the artwork to the surrounding space as well as the viewer. In this study, I explore these various functions and effects by providing an overview of framing devices that have been used by artists in the West as well as referring to guiding principles that some museums in South Africa have used when making choices about the ways in which they frame works in their collections. This examination provides a context for my paintings. Based on photographs of the walls of various small galleries in the Eastern Cape, my works take as their subject the notion of the ‘frame’ as both a physical object and the marker of a historically contextualized viewpoint.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Journalists' appropriation of ICTs in news-gathering and processing: a case study of Grocott's Mail
- Authors: Dugo, Habtamu Tesfaye
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Grocott's Mail (Grahamstown, South Africa) Journalism -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Journalists -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Electronic news gathering -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Journalism -- Data processing -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Information technology -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Reporters and reporting -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Communication and technology -- South Africa -- Grahamstown
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3427 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002881
- Description: This study set out to investigate Grocott’s Mail journalists’ appropriation of information and communication technologies in news-gathering and processing using the social shaping of technology as a theoretical lens. It mainly focuses on digital ICTs that journalists use in news-gathering and processing including the Internet, electronic mail, and mobile telephony. Grocott’s Mail is a small-scale newspaper based in Grahamstown, South Africa. Using qualitative research method and the case study as its sub-method, the research reveals that Grocott’s Mail journalists’ appropriation of ICTs involves various opportunities and challenges in news-gathering and processing. In terms of the state of the existing technological infrastructure, the study reveals that since it embraced the digital ICTs in 2003, Grocott’s Mail boasts an adequate ICT infrastructure for a small-scale African newspaper with 30 PCs and one laptop, and professional software for 28 permanent employees. On the other hand, the research reveals serious constraints with the existing ICTs: a huge need for staff training and capacity building to fully utilise the ICTs, and the need to look for ways of raising funds to either upgrade or replace the existing ICTs. Grocott’s Mail journalists use the Internet to do background research on news stories, to verify the accuracy of information, and to check competition across other media. These are the merits of the Internet in news-gathering and processing. On the other hand, there are specific unintended consequences of the Internet such as wasting the company’s working time, and its use leading to lazy/press release journalism. Informants unanimously indicate that the main problems of the Internet are heavy dependence on other online news-sources and wasting time on online entertainment. In terms of using email in news-gathering, the research finds email technology as having advantages such as being a tool of flexibility and speed, a tool for email interviews, and as a technology that promotes participatory journalism. On the other hand, challenges related to email include its limitations because of what interviewees view as its supplementary and small-scale use because of its low contextual richness as opposed to face to face interviews. In terms of cellular telephony, the study finds that regardless of the ubiquity of cell phones and cell phone networks, they have not yet been deployed in news-gathering and processing due to various constraints. These are cell phones not being a big factor in reporting, lack of a proper funding and refunding scheme, prevalence of negative attitudes towards cell phones, and lack of a business model. Thus, cellular phones seem to have little or no relevance in news-gathering and processing at Grocott’s Mail presently.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Dugo, Habtamu Tesfaye
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Grocott's Mail (Grahamstown, South Africa) Journalism -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Journalists -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Electronic news gathering -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Journalism -- Data processing -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Information technology -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Reporters and reporting -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Communication and technology -- South Africa -- Grahamstown
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3427 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002881
- Description: This study set out to investigate Grocott’s Mail journalists’ appropriation of information and communication technologies in news-gathering and processing using the social shaping of technology as a theoretical lens. It mainly focuses on digital ICTs that journalists use in news-gathering and processing including the Internet, electronic mail, and mobile telephony. Grocott’s Mail is a small-scale newspaper based in Grahamstown, South Africa. Using qualitative research method and the case study as its sub-method, the research reveals that Grocott’s Mail journalists’ appropriation of ICTs involves various opportunities and challenges in news-gathering and processing. In terms of the state of the existing technological infrastructure, the study reveals that since it embraced the digital ICTs in 2003, Grocott’s Mail boasts an adequate ICT infrastructure for a small-scale African newspaper with 30 PCs and one laptop, and professional software for 28 permanent employees. On the other hand, the research reveals serious constraints with the existing ICTs: a huge need for staff training and capacity building to fully utilise the ICTs, and the need to look for ways of raising funds to either upgrade or replace the existing ICTs. Grocott’s Mail journalists use the Internet to do background research on news stories, to verify the accuracy of information, and to check competition across other media. These are the merits of the Internet in news-gathering and processing. On the other hand, there are specific unintended consequences of the Internet such as wasting the company’s working time, and its use leading to lazy/press release journalism. Informants unanimously indicate that the main problems of the Internet are heavy dependence on other online news-sources and wasting time on online entertainment. In terms of using email in news-gathering, the research finds email technology as having advantages such as being a tool of flexibility and speed, a tool for email interviews, and as a technology that promotes participatory journalism. On the other hand, challenges related to email include its limitations because of what interviewees view as its supplementary and small-scale use because of its low contextual richness as opposed to face to face interviews. In terms of cellular telephony, the study finds that regardless of the ubiquity of cell phones and cell phone networks, they have not yet been deployed in news-gathering and processing due to various constraints. These are cell phones not being a big factor in reporting, lack of a proper funding and refunding scheme, prevalence of negative attitudes towards cell phones, and lack of a business model. Thus, cellular phones seem to have little or no relevance in news-gathering and processing at Grocott’s Mail presently.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
First and second born twins: a comparative study utilizing the Graffiths mental development scales - extended revised
- Authors: Davidson, Gabrielle
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Griffiths Scales of Mental Development , Twins -- Intelligence testing -- South Africa , Preschool children -- Intelligence testing -- South Africa , Mental development -- Testing , Psychological tests for children
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9921 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/669 , Griffiths Scales of Mental Development , Twins -- Intelligence testing -- South Africa , Preschool children -- Intelligence testing -- South Africa , Mental development -- Testing , Psychological tests for children
- Description: Despite the concept of twins and twinning being a highly explored area of research for many years, limited research has been conducted on the comparison of first and second born twin development. The nature of twins leads people to believe that twins will present with similar characteristics, however, this study explores the possibility that due to their ordinal position they could in fact present with differing characteristics and could differ developmentally. The early holistic development of a child influences the rest of their lives. Concerning twins, the development of individuality and self-knowledge is especially important. Theorists, such as Piaget (1950), propose that child development takes place in stages and that although the order in which children proceed through these stages is the same, the pace at which this takes place can vary. The necessity of monitoring the child’s journey through these stages highlights the value of child developmental assessment. This form of assessment needs to be holistic, needs to involve a multidisciplinary team of professionals and needs to utilize assessment measures that are valid, reliable, culture-fair and standardized. The Griffiths Mental Development Scales-Extended Revised (GMDS-ER) is one such measure. This study, focusing on twin development, aimed to contribute and provide valuable information to a larger research project that is currently under way aiming to increase the applicability of the Griffiths Mental Development Scales-Extended Revised (GMDS-ER) in the South African context. The primary aim of the study, however, was to explore and compare the performance of normal first born and second born twins, aged between 2 and 8 years 4 months old, on the GMDS-ER. The purpose of the study was to generate information on the relationship between first born twins’ general development and second born twins’ general development. An exploratory, descriptive quantitative design was used. Participants were selected through a combination of non-probability purposive, convenience and snowball sampling. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics and dependent sample t-tests were employed to compare the General Quotients (GQ’s) of the first and second born twins in the sample. Results showed that no significant differences were found between the first and second born twins’ general development. Information generated from this study contributed to 1) child development research; 2) twin developmental research within a South African context; and 3) a greater group of studies on the GMDS-ER, currently underway in the United Kingdom and South Africa, aiming to contribute to the international credibility of this measure
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Davidson, Gabrielle
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Griffiths Scales of Mental Development , Twins -- Intelligence testing -- South Africa , Preschool children -- Intelligence testing -- South Africa , Mental development -- Testing , Psychological tests for children
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9921 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/669 , Griffiths Scales of Mental Development , Twins -- Intelligence testing -- South Africa , Preschool children -- Intelligence testing -- South Africa , Mental development -- Testing , Psychological tests for children
- Description: Despite the concept of twins and twinning being a highly explored area of research for many years, limited research has been conducted on the comparison of first and second born twin development. The nature of twins leads people to believe that twins will present with similar characteristics, however, this study explores the possibility that due to their ordinal position they could in fact present with differing characteristics and could differ developmentally. The early holistic development of a child influences the rest of their lives. Concerning twins, the development of individuality and self-knowledge is especially important. Theorists, such as Piaget (1950), propose that child development takes place in stages and that although the order in which children proceed through these stages is the same, the pace at which this takes place can vary. The necessity of monitoring the child’s journey through these stages highlights the value of child developmental assessment. This form of assessment needs to be holistic, needs to involve a multidisciplinary team of professionals and needs to utilize assessment measures that are valid, reliable, culture-fair and standardized. The Griffiths Mental Development Scales-Extended Revised (GMDS-ER) is one such measure. This study, focusing on twin development, aimed to contribute and provide valuable information to a larger research project that is currently under way aiming to increase the applicability of the Griffiths Mental Development Scales-Extended Revised (GMDS-ER) in the South African context. The primary aim of the study, however, was to explore and compare the performance of normal first born and second born twins, aged between 2 and 8 years 4 months old, on the GMDS-ER. The purpose of the study was to generate information on the relationship between first born twins’ general development and second born twins’ general development. An exploratory, descriptive quantitative design was used. Participants were selected through a combination of non-probability purposive, convenience and snowball sampling. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics and dependent sample t-tests were employed to compare the General Quotients (GQ’s) of the first and second born twins in the sample. Results showed that no significant differences were found between the first and second born twins’ general development. Information generated from this study contributed to 1) child development research; 2) twin developmental research within a South African context; and 3) a greater group of studies on the GMDS-ER, currently underway in the United Kingdom and South Africa, aiming to contribute to the international credibility of this measure
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Experiences and coping resources of the suicide negotiation staff at the Van Staden's Bridge
- Authors: Botha, Miranda
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Adjustment (Psychology) , Negotiation , Suicide -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9926 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/656 , Adjustment (Psychology) , Negotiation , Suicide -- Prevention
- Description: The Van Staden’s Bridge has claimed 67 lives since its construction on 11 November 1971. A team of police officials, trained as negotiators who deal with suicide and hostage negotiation, are involved with the task of convincing suicidal persons who turn to the bridge to take their own lives, not to resort to suicide. They are responsible for persuading at least three people per week to reconisider suicide at this notorious bridge. The goal of this study was to explore and describe the experiences and coping resources of the SAPS suicide negotiation staff at the Van Staden’s Bridge, Thornhill, Port Elizabeth. A mixed methods study combining both the quantitative and qualitative approaches was implemented. An exploratory-descriptive design was used, because the topic is still a relatively under-researched area in South Africa. Two data collection measures, that is, the Coping Resources Inventory (CRI) and semi-structured interviewing were employed. The researcher conducted a pilot study to enhance the trustworthiness of the study. Non-probability, purposive sampling was employed to obtain research participants from the research population (suicide negotiation team), consisting of 12 members. Eight members participated voluntary in the quantitative data collection and of these a total of five participated in the qualitative research interviews. Six themes emerged from the results of the in-depth, semi-structured interviews: (1) experiences of SAPS suicide negotiators, (2) aspects that hinder the negotiation process, (3) characteristics of a negotiator, (4) important aspects of the negotiation process, (5) coping mechanisms of SAPS negotiators and (6) recommendations for rendering support to SAPS negotiators. The results from the CRI suggested that the participants have average coping resources with the cognitive domain being the lowest and both the social and physical domains being the highest. The limitations and the value of the study were outlined and finally, recommendations for future research were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Botha, Miranda
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Adjustment (Psychology) , Negotiation , Suicide -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9926 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/656 , Adjustment (Psychology) , Negotiation , Suicide -- Prevention
- Description: The Van Staden’s Bridge has claimed 67 lives since its construction on 11 November 1971. A team of police officials, trained as negotiators who deal with suicide and hostage negotiation, are involved with the task of convincing suicidal persons who turn to the bridge to take their own lives, not to resort to suicide. They are responsible for persuading at least three people per week to reconisider suicide at this notorious bridge. The goal of this study was to explore and describe the experiences and coping resources of the SAPS suicide negotiation staff at the Van Staden’s Bridge, Thornhill, Port Elizabeth. A mixed methods study combining both the quantitative and qualitative approaches was implemented. An exploratory-descriptive design was used, because the topic is still a relatively under-researched area in South Africa. Two data collection measures, that is, the Coping Resources Inventory (CRI) and semi-structured interviewing were employed. The researcher conducted a pilot study to enhance the trustworthiness of the study. Non-probability, purposive sampling was employed to obtain research participants from the research population (suicide negotiation team), consisting of 12 members. Eight members participated voluntary in the quantitative data collection and of these a total of five participated in the qualitative research interviews. Six themes emerged from the results of the in-depth, semi-structured interviews: (1) experiences of SAPS suicide negotiators, (2) aspects that hinder the negotiation process, (3) characteristics of a negotiator, (4) important aspects of the negotiation process, (5) coping mechanisms of SAPS negotiators and (6) recommendations for rendering support to SAPS negotiators. The results from the CRI suggested that the participants have average coping resources with the cognitive domain being the lowest and both the social and physical domains being the highest. The limitations and the value of the study were outlined and finally, recommendations for future research were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Depressogenic cognitive schemas, levels of depression and hopelessness among individuals diagnosed with unipolar mood disorder
- Authors: Du Preez, Shereen
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Neuropsychiatry , Depression, Mental -- South Africa , Depressed persons -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9899 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1074 , Neuropsychiatry , Depression, Mental -- South Africa , Depressed persons -- South Africa
- Description: While mood disorders rank within the top ten disabilities worldwide, there has been limited research done on cognitive schemas and the role they play in the development of mood disorders in South Africa. Cognitive conceptualisations of depression typically emphasize the schema-based automatic processing of information. Beck (1967, 1976 & 1987) suggested that schematically driven automatic thinking is a key element in depressive disorders. Research in the field of depression has identified cognitive schemas as a factor which increases an individual’s diathesis to depression. The primary aim of this research is to explore and describe maladaptive cognitive schemas, hopelessness and levels of depression amongst individuals diagnosed with Unipolar Mood Disorder. A further aim of the research has been to explore the relationship between maladaptive cognitive schemas and hopelessness as a diathesis to depression. In order to achieve the objectives, data was collected from a sample of 50 inpatients diagnosed with Unipolar Mood Disorder. The following measures were used: Young’s Schema Questionnaire, Beck's Depression Inventory – 2nd edition and Beck’s Hopelessness Scale. The research is quantitative in nature and takes the form of an exploratory-descriptive study. Data has been analysed by means of descriptive statistics in order to identify the mean, ranges and standard deviation of the measures used. Cross-tabulations have been used to further explore the relationship between the variables mentioned above. It was found that a statistically significant correlation exists between the BDI, BHS and YSQ. Maladaptive cognitive schemas were found to have a strong positive correlation 4 to depression, whereas hopelessness was found to have a less significant role in Unipolar Mood Disorder. The most significant schemas found in relation to hopelessness, were the Social Isolation, Unrelenting Standards and Pessimism schemas. With regards to depression, the most significant schemas were found to be Mistrust, Practical Incompetence, Vulnerability, Subjugation, Self-Sacrifice, Emotional Inhibition, Unrelenting Standards, Entitlement, Insufficient Self-Control, Admiration, Pessimism and Self-Punitiveness. All the above mentioned variables proved to have a statistically significant relationship. The findings of this research study are for the most part consistent with the literature on depression, hopelessness and cognitive vulnerabilities, and all of the above mentioned concepts have been found to be related.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Du Preez, Shereen
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Neuropsychiatry , Depression, Mental -- South Africa , Depressed persons -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9899 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1074 , Neuropsychiatry , Depression, Mental -- South Africa , Depressed persons -- South Africa
- Description: While mood disorders rank within the top ten disabilities worldwide, there has been limited research done on cognitive schemas and the role they play in the development of mood disorders in South Africa. Cognitive conceptualisations of depression typically emphasize the schema-based automatic processing of information. Beck (1967, 1976 & 1987) suggested that schematically driven automatic thinking is a key element in depressive disorders. Research in the field of depression has identified cognitive schemas as a factor which increases an individual’s diathesis to depression. The primary aim of this research is to explore and describe maladaptive cognitive schemas, hopelessness and levels of depression amongst individuals diagnosed with Unipolar Mood Disorder. A further aim of the research has been to explore the relationship between maladaptive cognitive schemas and hopelessness as a diathesis to depression. In order to achieve the objectives, data was collected from a sample of 50 inpatients diagnosed with Unipolar Mood Disorder. The following measures were used: Young’s Schema Questionnaire, Beck's Depression Inventory – 2nd edition and Beck’s Hopelessness Scale. The research is quantitative in nature and takes the form of an exploratory-descriptive study. Data has been analysed by means of descriptive statistics in order to identify the mean, ranges and standard deviation of the measures used. Cross-tabulations have been used to further explore the relationship between the variables mentioned above. It was found that a statistically significant correlation exists between the BDI, BHS and YSQ. Maladaptive cognitive schemas were found to have a strong positive correlation 4 to depression, whereas hopelessness was found to have a less significant role in Unipolar Mood Disorder. The most significant schemas found in relation to hopelessness, were the Social Isolation, Unrelenting Standards and Pessimism schemas. With regards to depression, the most significant schemas were found to be Mistrust, Practical Incompetence, Vulnerability, Subjugation, Self-Sacrifice, Emotional Inhibition, Unrelenting Standards, Entitlement, Insufficient Self-Control, Admiration, Pessimism and Self-Punitiveness. All the above mentioned variables proved to have a statistically significant relationship. The findings of this research study are for the most part consistent with the literature on depression, hopelessness and cognitive vulnerabilities, and all of the above mentioned concepts have been found to be related.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Cross-cultural normative indicators on the Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS) associate learning and visual reproduction subtests
- Authors: Fike, Lauren
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Wechsler Memory Scale -- Cross-cultural studies Memory -- Testing Memory -- Cross-cultural studies Memory Assessment Scales Short-term memory -- Testing Long-term memory -- Testing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2975 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002484
- Description: A comprehensive battery of commonly used neuropsychological tests, including the WMS Associate Learning and Visual Reproduction subtests, forming the focus of this study, were administered to a southern African sample (n = 33, age range 18-40). This sample composed of black South African, IsiXhosa speakers with an educational level of Grade 11 and 12, derived through DET and former DET schooling. The gender demographics were as follows; females n = 21 and males n = 12. This sample was purposefully selected based on current cross-cultural research which suggests that individuals matching these above-mentioned demographics are significantly disadvantaged when compared to available neuropsychological norms. This is due to the fact that current norms have been created in contexts with socio-cultural influences; including culture, language and quantity and quality of education distinctly dissimilar to individuals like that composed in the sample. Hence the purpose of this study was fourfold namely; 1) Describe and consider socio-cultural factors and the influence on test performance 2) Provide descriptive and preliminary normative data on this neuropsychologically underrepresented population 3) Compare test performance between age and gender through stratification of the sample and finally to 4) Evaluate the current norms of the two WMS subtests and assess their validity for black South Africans with DET and former DET schooling with comparisons to the results found in the study. Information derived from the statistical analyses indicated that a higher performance in favour of the younger group over the older age range was consistently found for both WMS subtests. With regards to gender, some higher means were evident for the male population in the sample than was produced by the female group. Lastly, due to the fact that most scores derived from the sample were considerably lower when compared to the available norms, it is felt that socio-cultural factors prevalent to this population are a significant cause of lower test performance and thus warrant the development of appropriate normative indicators.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Fike, Lauren
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Wechsler Memory Scale -- Cross-cultural studies Memory -- Testing Memory -- Cross-cultural studies Memory Assessment Scales Short-term memory -- Testing Long-term memory -- Testing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2975 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002484
- Description: A comprehensive battery of commonly used neuropsychological tests, including the WMS Associate Learning and Visual Reproduction subtests, forming the focus of this study, were administered to a southern African sample (n = 33, age range 18-40). This sample composed of black South African, IsiXhosa speakers with an educational level of Grade 11 and 12, derived through DET and former DET schooling. The gender demographics were as follows; females n = 21 and males n = 12. This sample was purposefully selected based on current cross-cultural research which suggests that individuals matching these above-mentioned demographics are significantly disadvantaged when compared to available neuropsychological norms. This is due to the fact that current norms have been created in contexts with socio-cultural influences; including culture, language and quantity and quality of education distinctly dissimilar to individuals like that composed in the sample. Hence the purpose of this study was fourfold namely; 1) Describe and consider socio-cultural factors and the influence on test performance 2) Provide descriptive and preliminary normative data on this neuropsychologically underrepresented population 3) Compare test performance between age and gender through stratification of the sample and finally to 4) Evaluate the current norms of the two WMS subtests and assess their validity for black South Africans with DET and former DET schooling with comparisons to the results found in the study. Information derived from the statistical analyses indicated that a higher performance in favour of the younger group over the older age range was consistently found for both WMS subtests. With regards to gender, some higher means were evident for the male population in the sample than was produced by the female group. Lastly, due to the fact that most scores derived from the sample were considerably lower when compared to the available norms, it is felt that socio-cultural factors prevalent to this population are a significant cause of lower test performance and thus warrant the development of appropriate normative indicators.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Corporeal tales : an investigation into narrative form in contemporary South African dance and choreography
- Authors: Parker, Alan Charles
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Sichel, Adrienne Krouse, Matthew Dance -- South Africa Choreography -- South Africa Choreographers -- South Africa Dance criticism -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2157 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007658
- Description: In the years following the fall of Apartheid in South Africa, dance and choreography have undergone considerable transformation. This investigation stems from one observation relative to this change that has been articulated by two of South Africa's most respected dance critics, Adrienne Sichel and Matthew Krouse. Both critics have noted a growing concern for narrative in South African contemporary choreography, coupled with an apparent propensity for narratives of a distinctly personal and 'autobiographical' nature. In Part One: 'Just after the beginning', the proposed preoccupation with narrative in South African contemporary choreography is discussed in light of the relationship between narrative and the notion of personal identity. The use of the performed narrative as a medium to explore questions about identity is offered as one explanation underpinning this increased proclivity, where the interrogation of the form of the danced narrative provides a site for exploration of personal identity. Part Two: 'Somewhere in the middle' interrogates the notion of form through an in-depth discussion of the experimentation with form within theatrical and antitheatrical dance traditions over the last fifty years. Specific works by three selected South African choreographers (Ginslov, Maqoma and Sabbagha) are discussed in terms of their general approach to narrative form. This provides an illustration of some of the approaches to narrative form emergent in contemporary South African choreographic practices. Part Three: 'Nearing the end' offers Acty Tang's Chaste (2007) as a case study to illustrate the practical application of the dance narrative as a means to interrogate questions relating to personal identity. A detailed analysis of Tang's particular approach to forming the narrative of Chaste is conducted, exposing the intertextual, multimedia and multidisciplinary approach to creating the danced narrative.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Parker, Alan Charles
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Sichel, Adrienne Krouse, Matthew Dance -- South Africa Choreography -- South Africa Choreographers -- South Africa Dance criticism -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2157 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007658
- Description: In the years following the fall of Apartheid in South Africa, dance and choreography have undergone considerable transformation. This investigation stems from one observation relative to this change that has been articulated by two of South Africa's most respected dance critics, Adrienne Sichel and Matthew Krouse. Both critics have noted a growing concern for narrative in South African contemporary choreography, coupled with an apparent propensity for narratives of a distinctly personal and 'autobiographical' nature. In Part One: 'Just after the beginning', the proposed preoccupation with narrative in South African contemporary choreography is discussed in light of the relationship between narrative and the notion of personal identity. The use of the performed narrative as a medium to explore questions about identity is offered as one explanation underpinning this increased proclivity, where the interrogation of the form of the danced narrative provides a site for exploration of personal identity. Part Two: 'Somewhere in the middle' interrogates the notion of form through an in-depth discussion of the experimentation with form within theatrical and antitheatrical dance traditions over the last fifty years. Specific works by three selected South African choreographers (Ginslov, Maqoma and Sabbagha) are discussed in terms of their general approach to narrative form. This provides an illustration of some of the approaches to narrative form emergent in contemporary South African choreographic practices. Part Three: 'Nearing the end' offers Acty Tang's Chaste (2007) as a case study to illustrate the practical application of the dance narrative as a means to interrogate questions relating to personal identity. A detailed analysis of Tang's particular approach to forming the narrative of Chaste is conducted, exposing the intertextual, multimedia and multidisciplinary approach to creating the danced narrative.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Contextual obstacles to the delivery of effective psychological treatment of PTSD in a South African community setting
- Authors: Swartz, Kerry
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Post-traumatic stress disorder -- Treatment -- South Africa Rape victims -- Counseling of -- South Africa Psychic trauma -- Treatment HIV infections -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3068 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002577
- Description: The present study presents three individual cases; all three clients had endured a traumatic event, namely rape, and all three met the criteria for PTSD. Despite the fact that each of the clients was initially assessed as being a suitable candidate for psychological treatment, none of the cases proceeded to the therapy phase of treatment. A number of obstacles, both personal and contextual, were encountered during treatment implementation, preventing or limiting a successful outcome of psychological treatment in each case. An examination of these cases highlights a few of the many obstacles frequently faced when delivering psychological treatment to the South African context. In so doing, this research provides an opportunity to consider the possible reasons for the limited documentation of treatment efficacy within the South African context, as well as to enhance our understanding of and sensitivity towards the cultural and contextual factors playing a role in psychological treatment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Swartz, Kerry
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Post-traumatic stress disorder -- Treatment -- South Africa Rape victims -- Counseling of -- South Africa Psychic trauma -- Treatment HIV infections -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3068 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002577
- Description: The present study presents three individual cases; all three clients had endured a traumatic event, namely rape, and all three met the criteria for PTSD. Despite the fact that each of the clients was initially assessed as being a suitable candidate for psychological treatment, none of the cases proceeded to the therapy phase of treatment. A number of obstacles, both personal and contextual, were encountered during treatment implementation, preventing or limiting a successful outcome of psychological treatment in each case. An examination of these cases highlights a few of the many obstacles frequently faced when delivering psychological treatment to the South African context. In so doing, this research provides an opportunity to consider the possible reasons for the limited documentation of treatment efficacy within the South African context, as well as to enhance our understanding of and sensitivity towards the cultural and contextual factors playing a role in psychological treatment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Conceptualisations of 'the community' and 'community knowledge' among community radio volunteers in Katutura, Namibia
- Authors: Ellis, Hugh
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Katutura Community Radio Community radio -- Namibia Radio broadcasting -- Namibia Radio stations -- Namibia Radio journalism -- Namibia Volunteers -- Namibia Radio in community development -- Namibia Mass media -- Social aspects -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3428 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002882
- Description: Community radio typically relies on volunteers to produce and present stations’ programming. Volunteers are generally drawn from stations’ target communities and are seen as “representatives” of those communities. It is with such volunteers and their role as representatives of stations’ target communities that this study is concerned. It poses the question: “what are the central concepts that typically inform volunteers’ knowledge of their target community, and how do these concepts impact on their perception of how they have gained this knowledge, and how they justify their role as representatives of this community?” The dissertation teases out the implications of these conceptualisations for a volunteer team’s ability to contribute to the establishment of a media environment that operates as a Habermasian ‘critical public sphere’. It argues that this can only be achieved if volunteers have detailed and in-depth knowledge of their target community. In order to acquire this knowledge, volunteers should make use of systematic ways of learning about the community, rather than relying solely on knowledge obtained by living there. In a case study of Katutura Community Radio (KCR), one of the bestknown community radio stations in Namibia, the study identifies key differences in the way in which different groups of volunteers conceptualise “the community”. The study focuses, in particular, on such difference as it applies to those who are volunteers in their personal capacity and those who represent non-governmental and community-based organisations at the station. It is argued that two strategies would lead to significant improvement in such a station’s ability to serve as a public sphere. Firstly, the station would benefit from an approach in which different sections of the volunteer team share knowledge of the target community with each other. Secondly, volunteers should undertake further systematic research into their target community. It is also argued that in order to facilitate such processes, radio stations such as KCR should recognise the inevitability of differences between different versions of “community knowledge”.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Ellis, Hugh
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Katutura Community Radio Community radio -- Namibia Radio broadcasting -- Namibia Radio stations -- Namibia Radio journalism -- Namibia Volunteers -- Namibia Radio in community development -- Namibia Mass media -- Social aspects -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3428 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002882
- Description: Community radio typically relies on volunteers to produce and present stations’ programming. Volunteers are generally drawn from stations’ target communities and are seen as “representatives” of those communities. It is with such volunteers and their role as representatives of stations’ target communities that this study is concerned. It poses the question: “what are the central concepts that typically inform volunteers’ knowledge of their target community, and how do these concepts impact on their perception of how they have gained this knowledge, and how they justify their role as representatives of this community?” The dissertation teases out the implications of these conceptualisations for a volunteer team’s ability to contribute to the establishment of a media environment that operates as a Habermasian ‘critical public sphere’. It argues that this can only be achieved if volunteers have detailed and in-depth knowledge of their target community. In order to acquire this knowledge, volunteers should make use of systematic ways of learning about the community, rather than relying solely on knowledge obtained by living there. In a case study of Katutura Community Radio (KCR), one of the bestknown community radio stations in Namibia, the study identifies key differences in the way in which different groups of volunteers conceptualise “the community”. The study focuses, in particular, on such difference as it applies to those who are volunteers in their personal capacity and those who represent non-governmental and community-based organisations at the station. It is argued that two strategies would lead to significant improvement in such a station’s ability to serve as a public sphere. Firstly, the station would benefit from an approach in which different sections of the volunteer team share knowledge of the target community with each other. Secondly, volunteers should undertake further systematic research into their target community. It is also argued that in order to facilitate such processes, radio stations such as KCR should recognise the inevitability of differences between different versions of “community knowledge”.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Commodity fetishism and domination: the contributions of Marx, Lukács, Horkheimer, Adorno and Bourdieu
- Authors: Lloyd, Gareth
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Marx, Karl, 1818-1883 Lukács, György, 1885-1971 Horkheimer, Max, 1895-1973 Adorno, Theodor W., 1903-1969 Bourdieu, Pierre, 1930-2002 Commodity fetishism Capitalism Consumption (Economics) Marxian economics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2795 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003005
- Description: This thesis seeks to trace domination theory back to the influential work done by Marx on commodity fetishism. Marx's work proves to be an original account of domination that explains how the dominated many accept the rule of the privileged few. The theory of commodity fetishism develops the idea that individuals come to adopt beliefs that bolster and reproduce the status quo of capitalism. For Marx, the way that individuals experience capitalism is different from the way that it actually works because, in fact, lived experience is actually false. Oppression, inequality and exploitation are thus hidden and the main source of conflict between the oppressed many and the privileged few is obscured. I seek to develop this insight of Marx's into a more comprehensive account of how dominating capitalism self maintains. Lukács' theory of reification explains how capitalism has become all-embracing because capitalism has developed its own type of rationality. This specific rationality shapes thought, which in turn, generates false beliefs that favour the continuation of the status quo. Horkheimer and Adorno argue that capitalism extends its influence by means of its deep involvement in modern culture. Today, culture has become an massive industry which inculcates the logic and principles of capitalism into individuals. For these theorists, capitalism has penetrated all areas of life; experience, knowledge and thought have become extensions of capitalism itself. Marx, Lukács, Horkheimer and Adorno give accounts of how false beliefs are put into practice. Hence the importance of the work of Bourdieu. Bourdieu's theory of distinction describes how the status quo in capitalism is maintained by the behaviour of individuals through their daily acts of consumption. I argue that the consumption of commodities reproduces the status quo in two ways: firstly, establishing an upper-class which takes the lead in patterns of consumption, and, secondly, by creating a middle class that follows its example. Finally, I relate Bourdieu's insights to the theories of Marx, Lukács, Horkheimer and Adorno and Bourdieu in order to arrive at a more inclusive account of how.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Lloyd, Gareth
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Marx, Karl, 1818-1883 Lukács, György, 1885-1971 Horkheimer, Max, 1895-1973 Adorno, Theodor W., 1903-1969 Bourdieu, Pierre, 1930-2002 Commodity fetishism Capitalism Consumption (Economics) Marxian economics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2795 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003005
- Description: This thesis seeks to trace domination theory back to the influential work done by Marx on commodity fetishism. Marx's work proves to be an original account of domination that explains how the dominated many accept the rule of the privileged few. The theory of commodity fetishism develops the idea that individuals come to adopt beliefs that bolster and reproduce the status quo of capitalism. For Marx, the way that individuals experience capitalism is different from the way that it actually works because, in fact, lived experience is actually false. Oppression, inequality and exploitation are thus hidden and the main source of conflict between the oppressed many and the privileged few is obscured. I seek to develop this insight of Marx's into a more comprehensive account of how dominating capitalism self maintains. Lukács' theory of reification explains how capitalism has become all-embracing because capitalism has developed its own type of rationality. This specific rationality shapes thought, which in turn, generates false beliefs that favour the continuation of the status quo. Horkheimer and Adorno argue that capitalism extends its influence by means of its deep involvement in modern culture. Today, culture has become an massive industry which inculcates the logic and principles of capitalism into individuals. For these theorists, capitalism has penetrated all areas of life; experience, knowledge and thought have become extensions of capitalism itself. Marx, Lukács, Horkheimer and Adorno give accounts of how false beliefs are put into practice. Hence the importance of the work of Bourdieu. Bourdieu's theory of distinction describes how the status quo in capitalism is maintained by the behaviour of individuals through their daily acts of consumption. I argue that the consumption of commodities reproduces the status quo in two ways: firstly, establishing an upper-class which takes the lead in patterns of consumption, and, secondly, by creating a middle class that follows its example. Finally, I relate Bourdieu's insights to the theories of Marx, Lukács, Horkheimer and Adorno and Bourdieu in order to arrive at a more inclusive account of how.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Between hotel mama and petrol station manager: the represatations of women's realities in a selection of African films
- Authors: O'Reilly, Kevin Joseph
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Motion pictures -- Africa , Women in motion pictures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8404 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/789 , Motion pictures -- Africa , Women in motion pictures
- Description: The roles that women perform as depicted in African films are often dictated to by the type of society they find themselves in. At first glance traditional societies can be seen as oppressive because of the presence of certain cultural practices. Alternatively modern urban settings appear to offer women authority and empowerment through employment. However, with a closer examination one sees that the situation is not so simplistic. Such is the case when certain traditional practices that are deemed oppressive through a Western perspective, are still found in urban societies. Films on the subject of African women have to be cautious not place their characters in stereotypical roles. Therefore, it is not enough to merely portray African women as ‘oppressed’. African films that engage in a feminist critique need to present ‘realistic’ portrayals of African women. Such characters are layered and complex. The film Faat Kine (2000) depicts such a character in the authoritative protagonist Kine. The film La Vie est Belle (1987) examines the issue of polygamous marriages and patriarchy from the point of view of two African women living in France. Touki Bouki (1973) examines two young characters living in Senegal and questions the possibility of escape from ones circumstances. Traditional practices such as polygamous marriages are explored in Xala (1975), and Finzan (1989) explores cultural practices such as forced marriages and female circumcision. This treatise will consider women and work in both traditional society and urban settings. African feminism will also be investigated for the purpose of exploring common social perceptions of women in Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: O'Reilly, Kevin Joseph
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Motion pictures -- Africa , Women in motion pictures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8404 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/789 , Motion pictures -- Africa , Women in motion pictures
- Description: The roles that women perform as depicted in African films are often dictated to by the type of society they find themselves in. At first glance traditional societies can be seen as oppressive because of the presence of certain cultural practices. Alternatively modern urban settings appear to offer women authority and empowerment through employment. However, with a closer examination one sees that the situation is not so simplistic. Such is the case when certain traditional practices that are deemed oppressive through a Western perspective, are still found in urban societies. Films on the subject of African women have to be cautious not place their characters in stereotypical roles. Therefore, it is not enough to merely portray African women as ‘oppressed’. African films that engage in a feminist critique need to present ‘realistic’ portrayals of African women. Such characters are layered and complex. The film Faat Kine (2000) depicts such a character in the authoritative protagonist Kine. The film La Vie est Belle (1987) examines the issue of polygamous marriages and patriarchy from the point of view of two African women living in France. Touki Bouki (1973) examines two young characters living in Senegal and questions the possibility of escape from ones circumstances. Traditional practices such as polygamous marriages are explored in Xala (1975), and Finzan (1989) explores cultural practices such as forced marriages and female circumcision. This treatise will consider women and work in both traditional society and urban settings. African feminism will also be investigated for the purpose of exploring common social perceptions of women in Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
An investigation on the impact of the land redistribution and development (LRAD) programme with special reference to the Tsomo Valley Agricultural Co-operative farms
- Authors: Tuta, Wonga Precious
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Rural development -- South Africa , Land Redistribution for Agricultural Development (South Africa) , Land tenure -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9080 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1126 , Rural development -- South Africa , Land Redistribution for Agricultural Development (South Africa) , Land tenure -- South Africa
- Description: The purpose of the research was to assess the policy impact of the Land Redistribution and Development (LRAD) Programme, which substituted the Settlement and Land Acquisition Grant (SLAG) programme. Both these policies were meant to make land accessible to previously disadvantaged groups including Africans, Coloureds and Indians, as part of land reform policies of the post 1994 democratic government. Due to some failures of SLAG after its first five years of implementation, which were from 1995 to 1999, the land redistribution policy was revised and the LRAD programme came as an improved policy of SLAG. There has not been much research on the impact of this programme, which has been implemented since August 2001.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Tuta, Wonga Precious
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Rural development -- South Africa , Land Redistribution for Agricultural Development (South Africa) , Land tenure -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9080 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1126 , Rural development -- South Africa , Land Redistribution for Agricultural Development (South Africa) , Land tenure -- South Africa
- Description: The purpose of the research was to assess the policy impact of the Land Redistribution and Development (LRAD) Programme, which substituted the Settlement and Land Acquisition Grant (SLAG) programme. Both these policies were meant to make land accessible to previously disadvantaged groups including Africans, Coloureds and Indians, as part of land reform policies of the post 1994 democratic government. Due to some failures of SLAG after its first five years of implementation, which were from 1995 to 1999, the land redistribution policy was revised and the LRAD programme came as an improved policy of SLAG. There has not been much research on the impact of this programme, which has been implemented since August 2001.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
An investigation of the Ugandan publication Red Pepper: a case study from 2001-2004
- Authors: Opolot, Benedict
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Red Pepper (Uganda) Sex in mass media -- Uganda Liberalism in mass media -- Uganda Homophobia -- Press coverage -- Uganda Mass media -- Political aspects -- Uganda Tabloid newspapers -- Uganda -- Case studies Newspapers -- Uganda -- 21st century Journalism -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3513 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007713
- Description: Red Pepper has been the subject of much discussion in Uganda, with some accounts describing it as a liberal mouthpiece, and others as pornography. This case study, therefore, sought to investigate Red Pepper as a media phenomenon in Uganda in the 21st century, specifically between 2001 and 2004. Employing quantitative and qualitative methodologies, it focused on the production process and the text. Although sexualised content dominate its pages, and news about issues such as the environment and education are near-absent, its managers describe the publication as legitimate, normative and consistent with liberal media standards. Accordingly, to interrogate Red Pepper in terms of its journalistic functions, selected debates associated with liberal approaches to news media, media political economy, tabloidisation, pornography and gendered relations were reviewed. The analysis entailed five phases. The first was a denotative or descriptive analysis, which focused on the publication's structure and content focus. This was followed by an interview with management, a broad content analysis to establish the incidence of predefined content categories expected of the tabloid, pornographic and liberal press and, lastly, a theme-based content analysis that sought to establish the potential meanings and framing of the dominant content categories of gossip and sexualised copy. Overall, the study found Red Pepper to be a misogynistic tabloid, having elements said to belong to pornography and homophobia. According to the findings, not only does Red Pepper fall short of a liberal understanding of a newspaper in terms of diversity of topics, provision of information and professional practice, it also does not fit the understanding of an alternative public sphere, mainly because it fails to challenge the patriarchal framing of sex, sexuality and gendered relations. This framing is undertaken deliberately as a means to securing economic rather than journalistic ideals to which the editors pay lip service. Consequently, the gossip and sexualised content are not problematised and as such discourses and power relations therein are not interrogated. Neither are inadequacies in local systems addressed nor corrective action mobilised as expected of some tabloids. All in all, the publication fronts superficial entertainment content that echoes particular gender constructions and patriarchal commonsense and entrenches the (undesirable) status quo which, ironically, it claims to challenge.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Opolot, Benedict
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Red Pepper (Uganda) Sex in mass media -- Uganda Liberalism in mass media -- Uganda Homophobia -- Press coverage -- Uganda Mass media -- Political aspects -- Uganda Tabloid newspapers -- Uganda -- Case studies Newspapers -- Uganda -- 21st century Journalism -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3513 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007713
- Description: Red Pepper has been the subject of much discussion in Uganda, with some accounts describing it as a liberal mouthpiece, and others as pornography. This case study, therefore, sought to investigate Red Pepper as a media phenomenon in Uganda in the 21st century, specifically between 2001 and 2004. Employing quantitative and qualitative methodologies, it focused on the production process and the text. Although sexualised content dominate its pages, and news about issues such as the environment and education are near-absent, its managers describe the publication as legitimate, normative and consistent with liberal media standards. Accordingly, to interrogate Red Pepper in terms of its journalistic functions, selected debates associated with liberal approaches to news media, media political economy, tabloidisation, pornography and gendered relations were reviewed. The analysis entailed five phases. The first was a denotative or descriptive analysis, which focused on the publication's structure and content focus. This was followed by an interview with management, a broad content analysis to establish the incidence of predefined content categories expected of the tabloid, pornographic and liberal press and, lastly, a theme-based content analysis that sought to establish the potential meanings and framing of the dominant content categories of gossip and sexualised copy. Overall, the study found Red Pepper to be a misogynistic tabloid, having elements said to belong to pornography and homophobia. According to the findings, not only does Red Pepper fall short of a liberal understanding of a newspaper in terms of diversity of topics, provision of information and professional practice, it also does not fit the understanding of an alternative public sphere, mainly because it fails to challenge the patriarchal framing of sex, sexuality and gendered relations. This framing is undertaken deliberately as a means to securing economic rather than journalistic ideals to which the editors pay lip service. Consequently, the gossip and sexualised content are not problematised and as such discourses and power relations therein are not interrogated. Neither are inadequacies in local systems addressed nor corrective action mobilised as expected of some tabloids. All in all, the publication fronts superficial entertainment content that echoes particular gender constructions and patriarchal commonsense and entrenches the (undesirable) status quo which, ironically, it claims to challenge.
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- Date Issued: 2008
An investigation of the themes and techniques in L.L. Sebe's "Ucamngco" = Uphando ngemixholo nesimo sokubhala esisetyenziswe kwincwadi ke L.L. Sebe "Ucamngco"
- Authors: Grootboom, Zoleka Faith
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Sebe, L. L. W. (Lennox L. W.) -- Criticism and interpretation , Xhosa fiction -- History and criticism
- Language: Xhosa
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8465 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/781 , Sebe, L. L. W. (Lennox L. W.) -- Criticism and interpretation , Xhosa fiction -- History and criticism
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- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Grootboom, Zoleka Faith
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Sebe, L. L. W. (Lennox L. W.) -- Criticism and interpretation , Xhosa fiction -- History and criticism
- Language: Xhosa
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8465 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/781 , Sebe, L. L. W. (Lennox L. W.) -- Criticism and interpretation , Xhosa fiction -- History and criticism
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- Date Issued: 2008
An investigation of masculinity in J. M. Coetzee's disgrace (1999)
- Authors: Kok, Marina Susan
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Coetzee, J. M., 1940- -- Criticism and interpretation , Masculinity in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8463 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/783 , Coetzee, J. M., 1940- -- Criticism and interpretation , Masculinity in literature
- Description: The study of Masculinity is a fairly new phenomenon which developed as a refinement of gender studies. The theoretical frameworks on masculinity are still under development and are often severely contested. This study proposes to examine the dynamics of masculinity studies, critiquing the notion of ‘masculinity in crisis’. The premise of the masculinity in crisis debate is that men are experiencing an increasing sense of powerlessness. This dissertation aims to examine the masculine identities represented in Disgrace and to test whether they are better understood through the lens of masculine theory. The disgraceful situation of David Lurie is arguably not merely a result of hapless circumstance, but rather illustrates significant parallels with the crisis debate. The basic premise of this debate is that the behaviour previously condoned and applauded as healthy 'manliness' is now being labelled as anti-social and destructive. It is not just masculine roles that are under threat. Other forces behind the crisis are “the loss of masculine rights and changes in the pattern of employment” (Beynon 2002:75). One view held by theorists of masculinity studies is that for real change to occur, a fluid definition of masculine identity is needed. In J.M. Coetzee’s Disgrace (1999), the main protagonist is David Lurie. He may arguably be said to typify a masculinity that is in a state of crisis because of his stoic refusal throughout the novel to change or reform: “I was offered a compromise, which I would not accept”, he says, and: “Re-education. Reformation of the character. The code word was counselling” (1999:66). His aversion to such counselling and refusal to compromise mark his resistance to change.
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- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Kok, Marina Susan
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Coetzee, J. M., 1940- -- Criticism and interpretation , Masculinity in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8463 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/783 , Coetzee, J. M., 1940- -- Criticism and interpretation , Masculinity in literature
- Description: The study of Masculinity is a fairly new phenomenon which developed as a refinement of gender studies. The theoretical frameworks on masculinity are still under development and are often severely contested. This study proposes to examine the dynamics of masculinity studies, critiquing the notion of ‘masculinity in crisis’. The premise of the masculinity in crisis debate is that men are experiencing an increasing sense of powerlessness. This dissertation aims to examine the masculine identities represented in Disgrace and to test whether they are better understood through the lens of masculine theory. The disgraceful situation of David Lurie is arguably not merely a result of hapless circumstance, but rather illustrates significant parallels with the crisis debate. The basic premise of this debate is that the behaviour previously condoned and applauded as healthy 'manliness' is now being labelled as anti-social and destructive. It is not just masculine roles that are under threat. Other forces behind the crisis are “the loss of masculine rights and changes in the pattern of employment” (Beynon 2002:75). One view held by theorists of masculinity studies is that for real change to occur, a fluid definition of masculine identity is needed. In J.M. Coetzee’s Disgrace (1999), the main protagonist is David Lurie. He may arguably be said to typify a masculinity that is in a state of crisis because of his stoic refusal throughout the novel to change or reform: “I was offered a compromise, which I would not accept”, he says, and: “Re-education. Reformation of the character. The code word was counselling” (1999:66). His aversion to such counselling and refusal to compromise mark his resistance to change.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008