Journal of Sociology

The Impact of Social Media on Contemporary Social Movements

Shavlyn Mosiara — 2024-01-23

The study investigates the dynamic interplay between social media and contemporary social movements, emphasizing the transformative impact on mobilization, organization, and outcomes. Drawing on case studies from the Arab Spring, Black Lives Matter, Idle No More, anti-austerity protests in Europe, environmental movements in Scandinavia, and the #FeesMustFall movement in South Africa, the research navigates the complexities of digital activism. Social Network Theory serves as a foundational lens, elucidating the patterns of connections and interactions within the virtual realm. The study recognizes the global reach of social media, showcasing its role in fostering connectivity, amplifying marginalized voices, and facilitating cross-border solidarity. The findings underscore the multifaceted nature of social media's influence, extending beyond quantitative metrics to qualitative dimensions such as emotions, narratives, and online/offline hybrid strategies. While social media empowers activists, challenges like shallow engagement and surveillance necessitate nuanced understanding. The study proposes interdisciplinary approaches to comprehend the evolving dynamics, emphasizing the need for ongoing research to navigate the intricate web of interactions between digital platforms and social movements. The research contributes to theory by advancing the understanding of the transformative role of social media in activism, rooted in Social Network Theory. Practically, activists gain insights into leveraging digital strategies effectively, and policymakers receive guidance on safeguarding digital spaces. Bridging theory, practice, and policy, the study provides a comprehensive analysis of the impact of social media on contemporary social movements, recognizing the multidimensional nature of this relationship.

The Role of Gender in Shaping Career Choices

Christina Nzasi — 2024-01-23

Career choices play a crucial role in shaping individuals' lives and contributing to societal dynamics. This study explores the multifaceted factors influencing career decisions, with a specific focus on the role of gender. Societal norms, cultural expectations, and economic opportunities all contribute to the complex landscape of career choices. Gender, in particular, emerges as a significant determinant, with persistent occupational segregation evident globally. The study adopts a comprehensive approach, drawing on Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT) to analyze the interplay of individual factors, contextual influences, and learning experiences in shaping gendered career choices. Empirical reviews from the United States, Canada, Europe, and Africa highlight the pervasive influence of gender stereotypes on career aspirations. Educational experiences, family dynamics, and institutional structures contribute to the perpetuation of gendered career norms. While progress has been made in challenging traditional gender roles, gaps persist, especially in cross-cultural perspectives, intersectionality, and innovative methodologies. These knowledge gaps underscore the need for a more diverse and nuanced understanding of the factors shaping gendered career choices. The study contributes to theory by enriching existing frameworks, particularly SCCT, offering insights into how societal norms and cultural expectations influence career decisions. In practice, the findings inform educators, career counselors, and employers on designing interventions that challenge stereotypes and foster inclusivity. Policy implications call for targeted interventions, including educational curricula reforms and initiatives to address structural barriers in the workforce. The study serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, educators, and organizations striving to promote gender equity in diverse professional domains. Ultimately, it contributes to the ongoing discourse on gender and careers, providing evidence-based recommendations for creating equitable and fulfilling career opportunities worldwide.

The Social Divide in Access to and Use of Information and Communication Technologies

Tracy Kimani Tracy Kimani — 2024-01-23

The study investigates the social divide in access to and use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) across different regions and countries, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of digital inequalities. Drawing on a comprehensive review of existing literature, the research explores the persistent impact of socioeconomic factors on ICT access, regional disparities, and the intersectionality of social identities. Insights from the United States, Canada, Europe, and Africa highlight unique challenges in each context. The study employs theoretical frameworks such as Social Reproduction Theory to understand how social structures contribute to digital disparities. The findings emphasize the need for tailored interventions that address specific contextual factors, ranging from income and education to regional planning and infrastructure development. The study contributes to theoretical advancements, practical interventions, and policy formulations, providing valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and advocacy groups working towards digital inclusion.

The Impact of Cultural Resources on Socioeconomic Status

Charles Wale — 2024-01-24

Socioeconomic status (SES) is a multidimensional construct influencing health, education, and occupation globally. This study explores the nuanced relationship between cultural resources and SES, acknowledging the cross-national applicability of SES-health relationships in the USA, Canada, Europe, and Africa. While disparities exist, understanding the global phenomenon of SES is crucial for equitable policy formulation. Cultural resources, encompassing education, language proficiency, and social networks, are integral components of SES. Income inequality persists in the USA, with a substantial gap between the top and bottom income brackets. Despite efforts, the influence of cultural resources on SES remains understudied. This study seeks to fill this gap, comprehensively examining the multifaceted relationships between diverse cultural resources and SES outcomes. Reviewing literature reveals consistent patterns where cultural resources significantly impact SES globally. Educational achievements, language proficiency, and social networks influence socioeconomic trajectories. Despite variations, recognizing cultural resources as a form of capital and understanding their interconnectedness with identity dimensions is crucial for a comprehensive analysis. This study adopts a comprehensive review approach, synthesizing existing literature to understand the impact of cultural resources on SES. The synthesis informs the research framework and questions, providing insights into theories, methodologies, findings, and knowledge gaps. The comprehensive review identifies consistent patterns across diverse contexts. Cultural resources, from language proficiency to familial support, influence educational opportunities, occupational mobility, and income levels. The intergenerational transmission of cultural resources plays a pivotal role in shaping SES, emphasizing the enduring impact of cultural resources on socioeconomic status. In conclusion, the study contributes to sociological theory by enriching the understanding of how cultural resources shape SES outcomes. It provides actionable insights for educators, policymakers, and community leaders, informing evidence-based strategies to address socioeconomic disparities. The study offers a foundation for policymaking that acknowledges the role of cultural resources in shaping socioeconomic trajectories, contributing to both theoretical understanding and practical interventions.

The Impact of Gentrification on Urban Communities

Blessings Martha — 2024-01-24

The impact of gentrification on urban communities is a multifaceted phenomenon that has garnered extensive research attention. This comprehensive study synthesizes findings from diverse global contexts, including the USA, Canada, Europe, and African countries, to provide a nuanced understanding of the consequences of gentrification. The research employs Social Capital Theory to explore the intricate relationship between gentrification and social networks, trust, and shared norms within communities. The economic impacts of gentrification, such as rising property values and income inequality, are examined through examples from the USA and Canada. Social displacement, a significant concern, is elucidated through research in European and American cities. Cultural changes in urban communities undergoing gentrification are explored, including the effects on identity and heritage in European and African contexts. The rise of community activism in response to gentrification is highlighted, emphasizing the agency of residents in shaping the impact. The study delves into the influence of gentrification on public services and infrastructure, with implications for community accessibility. Acknowledging gentrification as a global phenomenon, the research emphasizes the need for a holistic understanding, considering social, economic, and cultural dimensions. The study addresses research gaps, advocating for a more nuanced exploration of positive aspects, a global perspective, and longitudinal methodologies. The findings contribute to theory by integrating Social Capital Theory, offer practical insights for community resilience, and provide policy recommendations for inclusive and sustainable urban development in the face of gentrification. This interdisciplinary approach aims to guide evidence-based policies and community-driven initiatives, fostering social justice and equitable urban development.