GPH-International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research

SALT AND LIGHT AS SYMBOLS OF CHRISTIAN CALLING: A STUDY OF MATT 5:13-16

2025-09-07T10:23:27+00:00

Matt 5:13-16 is an aspect of the Sermon on the Mount. It is the longest teaching from Jesus in Matthew’s Gospel. It forms a transition from identifying those who are to live according to the demands of the Sermon on the Mount in the present (5:17-7:27) and those who will live the life of blessedness in the future (5:3-12). The audience is metaphorically identified as “The salt of the earth” and “the light of the world.” The metaphors of “salt” and “light” in Matthew 5:13-16 serve as indicators of the expected influence of Christians in society, a concept that resonates profoundly within the context of Nigeria. This paper will examine practical applications of these metaphors among Nigerian believers, highlighting effective Christian engagement in social issues such as poverty alleviation, education, and interfaith relationships. As Christians fulfill their calling to be salt and light, they can significantly impact the moral and social fabric of Nigeria, encouraging a transformative movement toward a more equitable and harmonious society. Ultimately, this study aims to inspire Nigerian Christians to realize their potential as agents of change, fostering an environment where faith and active citizenship converge for the common good.

THE ROLE OF TRADITIONAL EDUCATION THROUGH THE PORO IN COMMUNITY MANAGEMENT AND THE PRESERVATION OF FOREST SANCTUARIES IN URBAN AREAS:

2025-09-10T10:22:13+00:00

This study explores the tension between the resilience of traditional systems and the transformation of collective consciousness surrounding the traditional PORO system in Korhogo. From a sociological perspective, it examines the PORO as a traditional institution that mobilizes collective representations, ritual knowledge, and legitimization mechanisms to act as a guardian of sacred heritage. Through the lens of Senufo society in Korhogo, the study analyzes traditional education related to the PORO based on semi-structured interviews with key actors in this tradition village and land chiefs, custodians of sacred forests, and initiates of the sacred woods. The findings indicate that the PORO tradition serves as an identity marker within Korhogo’s urbanization process, through the spatial organization of sacred forests used for transmitting traditional values that are socially recognized and reinforced in the local collective consciousness. This identity marker integrates with and adapts to the dynamics of the urban environment through innovations in PORO practices, fostering collaboration and integration in a multicultural urban setting.

STRENGTHENING NATIONAL RESILIENCE THROUGH DEFENSE ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN THE ERA OF GLOBALIZATION

2025-09-11T10:24:12+00:00

This study aims to analyze the role of defense entrepreneurship in strengthening national resilience in the era of globalization. Globalization demands that countries be independent in the defense sector, particularly through innovation, strategic industrial independence, and strengthening the defense entrepreneurship ecosystem. The research method used is a qualitative case study approach. Primary data was obtained through in-depth interviews with academics, defense industry practitioners, and policymakers, while secondary data was collected from policy documents, official reports, and related scientific publications. Data analysis was conducted using NVivo 12 Plus software for coding, categorizing, and thematic analysis. Within the theoretical framework, this study uses the National Resilience Theory, which emphasizes the importance of ideological, political, economic, socio-cultural, and defense and security aspects (Asta Gatra), and is supported by the concept of Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Theory to explain the dynamics of defense innovation development. The results show that defense entrepreneurship plays a strategic role in increasing the independence of the defense industry through collaboration between the government, academics, and business actors. In addition, the emergence of defense technology start-ups can strengthen national competitiveness amidst the pressures of globalization. This study concludes that strengthening national resilience requires the integration of defense innovation policies, entrepreneurial support, and the use of digital technology. Research recommendations are directed at establishing a defense entrepreneurship ecosystem that is inclusive, sustainable, and adaptive to global dynamics.

Conflict Management in Real Estate Development: Brazilian Case

2025-09-15T10:50:04+00:00

This case study examines a complex negotiation in the real estate sector, where a developer successfully acquired a strategic plot of land from three distinct landowners. Through a comprehensive analysis of the negotiation process, this research highlights the importance of identifying zones of possible agreement and best alternatives to a negotiated agreement (BATNA).The study demonstrates how creative deal structuring and effective communication can facilitate mutually beneficial agreements in complex negotiations.By applying theoretical frameworks from negotiation and conflict management, this research provides insights into the strategic decisions that underpinned the successful conclusion of the deal. The findings offer valuable lessons for practitioners and scholars seeking to navigate similar complex negotiations in the real estate sector and beyond.

CAUSES AND CONSEQUENCES OF FREQUENT POWER GRID FAILURES IN NIGERIA

2025-09-22T13:14:55+00:00

This study examines the causes and consequences of frequent power grid failures in Nigeria. Several causes were responsible for the frequent power grid failure in Nigeria such as infrastructure decay, poor maintenance, poor funding and vandalism which had consequently affect the economic and social lives of the country. The aim of this study was examine the causes and consequences of frequent power grid failures in Nigeria. The study adopted cross-sectional survey research design. The population of this study comprised of managers of Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company covering Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross Rivers, and Rivers States. There were thirty six (36) managers. The Simple Regression Statistical tool was adopted with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 23). Our findings suggest that infrastructure decay, inadequate maintenance, and vandalism are significant causes of power grid failures, resulting in economic losses and social instability. The study concludes that the causes of frequent power grid failure in Nigeria have significant consequences on the economy, daily life of the people and businesses at large. We recommend that the government invest in infrastructure upgrade, implement effective maintenance strategies, and enhance security measures to prevent vandalism.

The Impact of Workplace Environment on Concentration and Cognitive Performance: A Cognitive Psychology Perspective

2025-09-27T10:24:41+00:00

Workplace environments play a significant role in shaping human attention, cognitive performance, and overall productivity. From the perspective of cognitive psychology, the design and characteristics of a workspace influence how individuals allocate attentional resources, manage cognitive load, and sustain mental performance. Drawing on Cognitive Load Theory, Selective Attention Theory, and Attention Restoration Theory, this paper examines how factors such as noise, lighting, color, and spatial layout affect concentration and cognitive efficiency. For instance, excessive background noise or visual distractions can increase extraneous cognitive load, while natural light and exposure to greenery may restore attentional capacity and reduce mental fatigue. Furthermore, the balance between open-plan designs and private work areas highlights the tension between collaboration and focused work. The findings suggest that applying principles of cognitive psychology to workplace design not only enhances concentration and task accuracy but also promotes well-being and long-term productivity. This theoretical approach provides implications for organizations seeking to optimize employee performance through evidence-based environmental interventions.

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN ZIMBABWE’S PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION: OPPORTUNITIES, CHALLENGES, AND ETHICAL IMPLICATIONS OF E-GOVERNANCE

2025-09-28T06:54:02+00:00

Zimbabwe's bold commitment to digital evolution in public administration marks a game-changing moment for e-governance, despite operating in a resource-poor context. This is a mixed methods study of the opportunities, challenges and ethical implications of Zimbabwe's initiatives (e.g. ZimConnect) combining quantitative data about governance and access to digital technologies with qualitative, interviews and document analysis of both government reports and media. The findings highlight demonstrable improvements in service delivery in public administration, but these are restrained by long-standing urban-rural digital divides and infrastructure issues. The ethical ramifications of data use and potential misuse, especially in a politically sensitive context, raise questions about protocols and frameworks. The innovative recommendations (e.g. solar-powered digital hubs, oversight through blockchain and a lab for digital model that is culturally reflexive) suggest a viable and equitable way of delivering governance. Will Zimbabwe be able to mobilize the initiative to leverage its mobile-led characteristics to rethink the public administration? This study calls for scholars and practitioners to think critically and creatively about possible avenues in building a new kind of ethical e-governance to support public administration, establishing Zimbabwe as a lighthouse for future transformed digital development in the Global South.

EMBODIED WORSHIP: THE THEOLOGICAL AND PASTORAL SIGNIFICANCE OF GESTURES AND POSTURES IN THE CATHOLIC LITURGY

2025-09-28T09:13:05+00:00

This article argues that gestures and postures in Catholic liturgy are essential sacramental actions, not mere ceremonial elements. Outward signs instituted by the Church prepare participants to receive grace and embody ecclesial faith. The study analyzes actions such as standing, sitting, kneeling, bowing, genuflecting, making the sign of the cross, participating in processions, and exchanging peace, demonstrating that worship involves both the body and the spirit. Each gesture is rooted in Christ's Paschal Mystery and draws meaning from specific aspects of His passion, death, and resurrection. For example, standing during the Gospel expresses participation in His Resurrection, while kneeling reflects Christ's humility during the Passion. These connections make liturgical actions expressions of Christ's salvific work. Drawing on the General Instruction of the Roman Missal, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Sacrosanctum Concilium, and relevant scholarship, the article shows that these acts foster reverence, unity, humility, and openness.

However, there are ongoing debates regarding the extent to which embodiment in liturgy should incorporate local cultural expressions without compromising their universal significance. Critics argue that excessive adaptation might lead to superficiality, potentially detracting from intended spiritual engagement and diluting the universal message of the liturgy. Some scholars express concern that certain gestures might risk being reduced to empty rituals rather than meaningful spiritual expressions, questioning their effectiveness in fostering genuine participation. Addressing these critiques, this article maintains that gestures and postures, as sacramentals, are foundational to ecclesial identity, spiritual formation, and active participation in the Church, provided they are approached with intentional theological education and cultural sensitivity.

The article recommends renewed catechetical initiatives to prevent ritualism, promote inclusivity, and enhance the spiritual lives of the faithful across diverse contexts. The main sections address the historical and theological foundations of liturgical gestures, their communal and spiritual dimensions, and catechetical and pastoral implications. Together, these sections provide a comprehensive account of the significance of embodied worship in Catholic liturgy. This study contributes to post-Vatican II liturgical renewal by offering insights into embodied prayer and the relationship between earthly and heavenly worship. It presents practical catechetical and pastoral strategies to address ritualism. For instance, implementing a catechetical program where parishioners engage in workshops that focus on the theological meanings behind liturgical gestures can deepen understanding and participation. Additionally, parish leaders might establish a mentorship system pairing experienced congregants with newcomers to guide them through the liturgical practices and their significance. By integrating theological, biblical, and pastoral perspectives, the article shows that gestures and postures are central to Catholic liturgy and spiritual formation. In doing so, it supports full, conscious, and active participation in the liturgy.