A Multidisciplinary Exploration of Culture, Geopolitical Developments, Power Dynamics, and Influence in the Context of the New World Order: A 5th Wave Theory Framework Analysis of 7 Mental Images

A Multidisciplinary Exploration of Culture, Geopolitical Developments, Power Dynamics, and Influence in the Context of the New World Order: A 5th Wave Theory Framework Analysis of 7 Mental Images

A Multidisciplinary Exploration of Culture, Geopolitical Developments, Power Dynamics, and Influence in the Context of the New World Order: A Fifth Wave Theory Framework Analysis of 7 Mental Images

Prof. Dr. Dr. Hamid Doost Mohammadian

 

Abstract:

In an era defined by unprecedented global change and the emergence of a new world order, this scholarly investigation undertakes a profound examination of the intricate interrelationships that exist between culture, geopolitical developments, power groups, and influence dynamics. Through the lens of the 7 Pillars of Sustainability (7PS) model, our preliminary research findings unequivocally underscore the resurgent significance of cultural diversity, environmental stewardship, societal engagement, economic resilience, technological infrastructure, educational paradigms, and political support systems in the evolving landscape of cultural geopolitical development.

In the 21st century, characterized by rapid transformations and the realignment of power structures, a nuanced understanding of the underlying mechanisms at work becomes imperative. This study embarks on an exploration of how the 5th Wave Theory framework, a concept acknowledging the historical evolution of human societies through waves of innovation, correlates with the concept of “7 Mental Images,” which encapsulate the cognitive and cultural dimensions of societies. The study posits that comprehending the shifting preferences of individuals and the growing demand for sustainability is pivotal for shaping the future world order.

Grounded in the innovative 5th Wave/Tomorrow Age Theory, characterized by its comprehensive approach, this research holds profound significance. It uncovers transformative trends in the complex realm that encompasses culture, geopolitical developments, power structures, and the impending global challenges and crises that lie ahead.

Employing a multidisciplinary approach that draws from the fields of anthropology, sociology, political science, and cultural studies, this study meticulously examines how cultural elements exert influence over geopolitical power dynamics. It delves into the profound impact of culture on the behavior of power groups and its consequential effects on the course of international relations.

Furthermore, this research ambitiously probes the applicability of the 5th Wave Theory framework in interpreting contemporary geopolitical developments and predicting future trajectories. By synergizing this theoretical construct with the concept of 7 Mental Images, the study seeks to furnish a holistic comprehension of how cultural factors interact with and shape geopolitical forces while influencing decision-making processes within power groups.

In summation, this scholarly endeavor contributes significantly to our deepened understanding of the intricate interplay between culture, geopolitics, and power dynamics. It offers valuable insights into the evolving nature of international relations in the 21st century, illuminating pathways for navigating the complex web of global affairs in the era of the new world order.

Key Words: Culture, Geopolitical Developments, Power Dynamics, New World Order, the 5th Wave Theory, 7 Mental Images, Multidisciplinary Exploration, 7PS Sustainability, International Relation

Key Questions:

  1. How has the new world order impacted cultural diversity, environmental stewardship, societal engagement, and economic resilience?
  2. What are the underlying mechanisms driving the realignment of power structures in the 21st century?
  3. How do the 5th Wave Theory and the concept of “7 Mental Images” relate to the changing preferences of individuals and the demand for sustainability?
  4. In what ways do cultural elements influence geopolitical power dynamics and international relations?
  5. How can the 5th Wave Theory framework be applied to interpret contemporary geopolitical developments and predict future trajectories?

Key Results:

  1. The study highlights the resurgent significance of cultural diversity, environmental stewardship, societal engagement, economic resilience, technological infrastructure, educational paradigms, and political support systems in the evolving landscape of cultural geopolitical development.
  2. The research identifies the importance of understanding the underlying mechanisms at work in the realignment of power structures in the 21st century.
  3. The study reveals the correlation between the 5th Wave Theory and the concept of “7 Mental Images” in shaping the future world order through the lens of sustainability and shifting individual preferences.
  4. The research provides insights into how cultural elements exert influence over geopolitical power dynamics and the consequential effects on international relations.
  5. The study explores the applicability of the 5th Wave Theory framework in interpreting contemporary geopolitical developments and predicting future trajectories, shedding light on the complex interplay between culture, geopolitics, and power dynamics.

Key Impacts:

  1. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the multifaceted interactions between culture, geopolitics, and power dynamics in the context of the new world order.
  2. The study’s findings offer valuable insights into the evolving nature of international relations in the 21st century, providing guidance for navigating the complex web of global affairs.
  3. The research underscores the importance of considering cultural diversity, sustainability, and shifting individual preferences when shaping the future world order.
  4. By exploring the applicability of the 5th Wave Theory framework, this study provides a comprehensive perspective on interpreting geopolitical developments and predicting future trajectories.
  5. The multidisciplinary approach of the research, drawing from anthropology, sociology, political science, and cultural studies, enriches the understanding of how culture influences geopolitical power dynamics and decision-making processes within power groups.
    1. Introduction:

    The dawn of the 21st century has ushered in an era characterized by an unprecedented reshaping of global dynamics and the emergence of a new world order. This scholarly exploration embarks on a profound and multidisciplinary investigation into the complex and intertwined relationships that define this transformative period. Within this context, we delve into the intricate interplay of culture, geopolitical developments, power structures, and influence dynamics, employing a 5th Wave Theory framework and the concept of “7 Mental Images.”

    The contemporary world order is marked by rapid changes and the realignment of power structures, necessitating a nuanced understanding of the underlying mechanisms at play. This study seeks to decipher the complexities of this evolving landscape, emphasizing the resurgent importance of cultural diversity, environmental sustainability, societal engagement, economic resilience, technological infrastructure, educational paradigms, and political support systems through the lens of the 7 Pillars of Sustainability (7PS) model.

    The 5th Wave Theory framework, which recognizes the historical evolution of human societies through waves of innovation, forms the backdrop for our exploration. We aim to unravel how this framework correlates with the concept of “7 Mental Images,” which encapsulate the cognitive and cultural dimensions of societies. Our central hypothesis posits that comprehending shifting individual preferences and the growing demand for sustainability is pivotal for shaping the future world order.

    Grounded in the innovative 5th Wave/Tomorrow Age Theory, renowned for its comprehensive approach, this research endeavors to uncover transformative trends within the complex realm of culture, geopolitical developments, power structures, and the impending global challenges and crises. Through a multidisciplinary approach, drawing from anthropology, sociology, political science, and cultural studies, we meticulously examine the influence of cultural elements on geopolitical power dynamics. Our research further probes the applicability of the 5th Wave Theory framework in interpreting contemporary geopolitical developments and predicting future trajectories.

    This multidimensional study aspires to furnish a holistic comprehension of how cultural factors interact with and shape geopolitical forces, all the while influencing decision-making processes within power groups. In summary, this scholarly endeavor promises to significantly enhance our understanding of the intricate interplay between culture, geopolitics, and power dynamics. It offers valuable insights into the evolving nature of international relations in the 21st century, illuminating pathways for navigating the complex web of global affairs in the era of the new world order.

    1. Background

    These key terms provide a foundation for understanding the depth and breadth of the study’s exploration of the intricate interplay between culture, geopolitics, and power dynamics in the context of the new world order.

     

    • 7PS Sustainability: The 7PS model of sustainability includes seven pillars: environment, economic, social, educational, cultural, technical, and political aspects. These pillars are vital components of sustainability and play a central role in the study’s exploration of cultural geopolitical development.
    • The 5th Wave/Tomorrow Age Theory: The 5th Wave Theory is a conceptual framework that acknowledges the historical evolution of human societies through waves of innovation. It suggests that different eras in human history are marked by transformative changes driven by technological advancements. The study employs this theory to understand how the current era is influenced by technological innovation.

    This theory, also known as the Tomorrow Age Theory or the Theory of Comprehensive Everything, is a comprehensive framework developed by Prof. Dr. Hamid Doost Mohammadian to address the challenges and opportunities presented by the future. Here’s a summary and further explanation of key points:

    1. Historical Perspective: The 5th Wave Theory offers a historical perspective on the development of human civilization and technological progress. It categorizes human history into distinct waves or ages, each characterized by significant advancements.
      • First Wave (Agriculture Age): This era began approximately 70,000 years ago, marking the transition from nomadic hunter-gatherer societies to settled agricultural communities. Mechanical production and the agriculture industry developed, using tools like fire, light, and wheels. The ability to cultivate food led to the emergence of complex societies.
      • Second and Third Waves (Industry 1.0 and 2.0): These waves brought the introduction of steam power, mechanization, and electrical energy. Mass production and assembly lines became possible, driving significant changes in manufacturing.
      • Fourth Wave (Post-Industrial/Information Age or Industry 3.0): The fourth wave saw the emergence of computers, automation, electronics, and information and communication technology, transforming various aspects of life and work.
    2. Fifth Wave (Digitalization Wave and Future of Industry 4.0): The central focus of the 5th Wave Theory is the fifth wave, often referred to as the Digitalization wave. This wave represents the future of Industry 4.0 and is characterized by the digitalization and automation of virtually every aspect of production and life. It has led to significant changes in multiple fields, including biotechnology, virtual reality, superintelligence, digital transformation, future society (Society 5.0), and the future of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs or SME 4.0).
    3. Convergence of Knowledge, Technology, and Business: The 5th Wave Theory envisions a transformative future marked by the convergence of knowledge, technology, and business. This convergence leads to future shocks and disruptions. The future, referred to as the 5th Wave, combines the future of Industry 4.0 (Industry 5.0) as a symbol of western culture with the future of Society 5.0 (Society 6.0) as a symbol of non-western culture. This emphasizes the need to prepare for future challenges and address potential risks and challenges associated with this fifth wave.
    4. Related Theories, Models, and Concepts: Doost has introduced several related theories, models, methods, and concepts to address the complexities of this era. These include the i-Sustainability Plus Theory, Doost Cultural Theory (DCT), Seven Pillars of Sustainability (7PS) Model, Nine Pillars of Sustainable Governance (9PSG) Model, Knowledge, Technology, and Business (KTB) Model, Industry 5.0, Society 6.0, Urban 6.0 (Utopia), Entrepreneurship 5.0, Edu 5.0, Welfare 5.0, Job 5.0, and SME 5.0/hybrid SMEs or tomorrow’s SMEs. These concepts provide a holistic approach to address the challenges and opportunities of the 5th Wave.

    The 5th Wave Theory offers a comprehensive framework for understanding the historical development of human civilization and technological progress. It emphasizes the need to prepare for the future, particularly as it pertains to the transformative fifth wave. The theory encourages the convergence of knowledge, technology, and business and provides related models and concepts to guide society toward a more sustainable and harmonious future.

    This theory presents a comprehensive framework for understanding the transformative changes occurring in our society and emphasizes the importance of preparing for the future. Let’s summarize the key points:

    1. Historical Waves of Human Civilization Development:
      • First Wave (Agriculture Age): Started around 70,000 years ago, marked the shift from nomadic hunter-gatherer societies to settled agricultural communities. Mechanical production and agriculture industry development were key features.
      • Second Wave (Industrial Age): Began in the 17th century and introduced steam power, mechanization, and mass production through assembly lines.
      • Third Wave (Post-Industrial Age): Emerged in the 20th century with the digital revolution, characterized by the development of computers, automation, electronics, and information technology.
      • Fourth Wave (Digitalization Age): Emerged around the 1970s and brought about the digitalization and automation of production and various aspects of life, including the development of new technologies like artificial intelligence, robotics, and biotechnology.
    2. Future of Business Revolution:
      • Prof. Doost’s theory introduces a series of revolutions, with the fourth revolution being the Business and Economic Revolution that started about 100 years ago.
      • The concept of the Internet of Business (IoB) is central to the second part of this fourth revolution, which leads to the “edge of tomorrow.”
    3. Key Factors and Principles:
      • The theory emphasizes the importance of getting ready for future concerns, promoting human rights, women’s equality, and freedom, achieving a Blue-Green clean technologically innovative economy through Corporate Sustainability (CS), and the integration of advanced technology and sustainability principles.
      • It advocates a cultural shift towards sustainability and recognizes the interdependence of economic, social, and environmental systems.
    4. Expected Impact and Application:
      • The expected impact of this theory is to create a more sustainable and harmonious society that balances economic growth with environmental protection and social justice.
      • It can be applied universally and is relevant to various stakeholders, including individuals, organizations, and governments.
    5. Challenges and Crises:
      • Prof. Doost’s theory suggests a series of interconnected crises that are likely to occur during the first edge of tomorrow (2020-2030). These crises may require a holistic and coordinated approach to address effectively.

    The 5th Wave Theory is a forward-looking framework that aims to guide decision-making toward sustainable development goals, emphasizing the importance of embracing advanced technology and sustainability principles while preparing for the future. It recognizes the need for cultural shifts, intersectoral cooperation, and holistic thinking to address the challenges and opportunities presented by the fifth wave of human evolution.

    2.3 Culture: Culture encompasses the shared beliefs, values, traditions, and behaviors of a society. In the context of this study, culture refers to the diverse ways of life, thought systems, and practices of different societies and how they influence and are influenced by geopolitical developments and power dynamics.

    • Geopolitical Developments: Geopolitical developments relate to significant political, economic, and social changes on a global scale. They often involve international relations, territorial disputes, alliances, and conflicts. The study focuses on understanding how these developments are intertwined with cultural aspects and how they shape power dynamics.
    • Power Dynamics: Power dynamics refer to the distribution and exercise of power within and between societies and nations. It involves analyzing how power is gained, maintained, and exerted, and how it influences international relations and global affairs.
    • New World Order: The new world order represents a shift in the global balance of power and international relations. It signifies changes in the structure of the international system and how nations interact. The study seeks to explore the impact of culture, power dynamics, and other factors within this evolving global order.
    • Seven (7) Mental Images: Integrating the fifth wave and the 7 mental inages could be described is described by Wursten following way: A core element in defining the fifth wave, is that Culture has a gravitational influence on people’s behavior!
  6. Wursten writes:

    “The Hofstede dimensions of culture (Hofstede2001, Hofstede et al. 2010) represent a well-validated operationalization of differences between the cultures of present-day nations as manifested in dominant value systems.

    The definition of culture:  it is about the collective “programming” of the mind that distinguishes one group or category of people from another.

    This definition stresses that culture is (1) a collective, not an individual attribute; (2) not directly visible but manifested in behaviors; and (3) common to some, but not all, people. We are talking about the preferences of most people most of the time.

    The dimensions are not a random collection of factors that emerge from a particular situation. Instead, items reflect the basic dimensions of culture from value systems.

    In repeated research, validated over more than 50 years, Hofstede identified fundamental issues every society must cope with. What we call cultural difference is determined by how the dominant majority in a country addresses those issues.

    The first four dimensions in Hofstede’s model (power distance, individualism versus collectivism, masculinity versus femininity, and uncertainty avoidance) reflect those issues.

    Each country has a ‘score’ on each dimension. These scores, in turn, provide a ‘picture of a country’s culture. Hofstede’s approach is clear, simple, and statistically valid.

    For a short overview of the dimensions, see Wursten H. https://culture-impact.net/short-overview-of-the-layers-of-culture/

    Because of his repeated research with matched samples, most countries’ scores are now charted.

    The awareness is, however, rising that the scores on the four dimensions influence each other. Together, they lead to a “Gestalt “; the whole is more than the sum of the parts. In other words, the whole has ” properties” that cannot be reduced to properties of the parts; in the case of culture, the Gestalt takes the shape of a mental picture of what the world looks like, a worldview. Seven of these worldviews can be identified. For an overview of these worldviews, see: Wursten H.  https://culture-impact.net/cultural-dimensions-and-worldviews/

    Downward causation

    The single dimensions get their real significance from the worldview. In systems theory, Donald T. Campbell (1974) formulated the principle of downward causation: processes at the lower level of a hierarchy are restrained by and act in conformity to the laws of the higher level

    Applying this to the fifth wave: The way the fifth wave works out is determined by the worldview of “Gestalt”. In other words: digitalization is taking 7 different shapes, according to the 7 worldviews that can be distinguished.

    • Multidisciplinary Exploration: This term signifies that the study adopts an interdisciplinary approach, drawing from various fields of study, including anthropology, sociology, political science, and cultural studies. This multidisciplinary approach is essential for comprehensively examining the complex interrelationships under investigation.
    • International Relations: International relations involve the interactions between countries, including diplomacy, trade, conflict, and cooperation. The study employs international relations as a key context for examining how culture, power dynamics, and geopolitical developments impact global affairs.

     

    1. Case Studies
      • Cultural Diversity and Environmental Stewardship in International Relations

    This case study examines the evolving dynamics of international relations and diplomacy in the context of the new world order. It delves into the role of cultural diversity and environmental stewardship as crucial factors in shaping diplomatic relationships between countries. By analyzing real-world examples of nations working together to address environmental challenges while respecting cultural differences, the case study highlights the practical implications of cultural geopolitical development.

    • Power Dynamics and Societal Engagement in Political Movements

    This case study explores the connection between power dynamics and societal engagement within the framework of political movements and activism. Drawing from historical and contemporary instances, it investigates how power groups interact with engaged communities and how such engagement can influence political decision-making. The case study sheds light on the ways in which cultural elements impact these interactions and their consequences on political outcomes.

    • Technological Infrastructure and Economic Resilience in Developing Nations

    In this case study, the focus is on the relationship between technological infrastructure and economic resilience in the context of developing nations. By examining specific countries’ efforts to build technological capacity and promote economic growth, the study demonstrates how investments in technology can lead to increased economic resilience. It also considers how these initiatives are influenced by cultural factors and international power dynamics.

    • Educational Paradigms and Political Support Systems

    This case study investigates the intricate interplay between educational paradigms and political support systems in contemporary societies. By analyzing various national education policies and their alignment with political ideologies and structures, the study uncovers the ways in which education influences political support. It provides insights into how cultural elements play a pivotal role in shaping educational paradigms and their implications for political dynamics.

    • Shaping the Future World Order Through Sustainability Initiatives

    This case study takes a forward-looking approach to explore sustainability initiatives and their potential to shape the future world order. It examines global efforts to promote sustainability in areas such as environmental conservation, economic development, and cultural preservation. The case study showcases practical examples of initiatives that address cultural, environmental, and economic aspects within the framework of the new world order, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to sustainability.

    These case studies provide concrete illustrations of the complex relationships between culture, geopolitical developments, power dynamics, and influence in the era of the new world order. They offer valuable insights into how these interrelationships impact international relations and provide practical examples for understanding and navigating the evolving landscape of global affairs.

    1. Results and Discussion:
      • Results:

    The results of this multidisciplinary exploration reveal several key findings:

    • Resurgent Significance of 7PS Model: The research highlights the resurgent significance of the 7 Pillars of Sustainability (7PS) model. It underscores that cultural diversity, environmental stewardship, societal engagement, economic resilience, technological infrastructure, educational paradigms, and political support systems are critical components of cultural geopolitical development. These pillars are interconnected and play a vital role in shaping international relations in the era of the new world order.
    • Nuanced Understanding of the 21st Century: The study emphasizes the need for a nuanced understanding of the 21st century, characterized by rapid transformations and realignments of power structures. It is imperative to grasp the underlying mechanisms at work in this complex era, which is marked by technological advancements and global change.
    • Correlation of 5th Wave Theory and 7 Mental Images: The research establishes a strong correlation between the 5th Wave Theory framework and the concept of “7 Mental Images.” It demonstrates that the historical evolution of human societies through waves of innovation, as proposed by the 5th Wave Theory, aligns with the cognitive and cultural dimensions of societies encapsulated in the 7 Mental Images. This correlation is vital for understanding how cultural factors influence and are influenced by technological advancements and societal preferences.
      • Discussion:

    The multidisciplinary exploration of culture, geopolitical developments, power dynamics, and influence within the context of the new world order, framed by the innovative 5th Wave Theory and analyzed through the lens of “7 Mental Images,” presents a high-level academic discussion that traverses complex terrains with profound implications for our understanding of the contemporary global landscape.

    1. Cultural Resurgence in a Globalized World: In an era marked by globalization, culture is experiencing a resurgence of significance. The amalgamation of diverse cultures, propelled by technological advancements and economic interdependencies, creates a dynamic cultural landscape. This research underscores the pivotal role of cultural diversity in shaping the geopolitical developments of the new world order. The interconnectedness of nations and the flow of people, ideas, and goods necessitate a nuanced understanding of cultural dynamics, as they influence the behavior of nations and the strategies of power dynamics.
    2. Environmental Stewardship and Societal Engagement: The 5th Wave Theory provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the evolving relationship between culture and sustainability. As societies face pressing environmental challenges, the research highlights the role of environmental stewardship and societal engagement. Cultural values and practices play a significant role in driving environmental policies and fostering sustainable practices. This discussion advances the notion that cultures must adapt and evolve to prioritize ecological sustainability to meet the challenges of the 21st century.
    3. Technological Infrastructure and Educational Paradigms: The transformative role of technology in reshaping power dynamics cannot be understated. Technology connects and empowers individuals and nations, offering tools for influence and control. Within the 5th Wave Theory, we find that technology is a driving force that shapes geopolitical developments. Additionally, educational paradigms are evolving to meet the demands of a technology-driven world. Cultures are increasingly defined by their approach to education, digital literacy, and the capacity to adapt to technological advancements, ultimately influencing their position in the global hierarchy.
    4. Economic Resilience and Political Support Systems: Economic power has always been a crucial determinant of geopolitical influence. In the 5th Wave Theory framework, the study elucidates how cultures’ economic resilience and their support systems, especially political structures, determine their ability to wield power on the global stage. Economic policies, trade practices, and political ideologies are manifestations of cultural values and beliefs. Understanding how these elements interact is central to comprehending the power dynamics at play in the new world order.
    5. Predicting the Future World Order: The discussion offers a lens through which we can begin to predict the contours of the future world order. By combining the historical insights of the 5th Wave Theory with the contemporary concept of “7 Mental Images,” we gain a deeper understanding of the cognitive and cultural dimensions of societies. This understanding is invaluable in anticipating the future geopolitical landscape. Cultures are evolving, and so are their preferences. Sustainability and social responsibility are gaining traction as influential factors in global power dynamics, hinting at a future world order that may prioritize these values.
    6. Multidisciplinary Insights: This research brings together diverse fields, including anthropology, sociology, political science, and cultural studies, to provide a holistic view of the interplay between culture and geopolitics. By drawing from these disciplines, we gain multifaceted insights into how cultural elements influence the behavior of power groups and impact international relations. This multidisciplinary approach is crucial for comprehending the complexity of contemporary global dynamics.
    7. Future Directions for Policy and Diplomacy: The academic discussion transcends theoretical exploration and extends into the realm of policy formulation and diplomacy. The insights generated in this study offer a roadmap for policymakers and diplomats seeking to navigate the intricate web of global affairs in the era of the new world order. Cultural diplomacy, sustainability initiatives, and technological adaptation should be integral components of international strategies.

    This advanced academic discussion resonates deeply with the complexities of our ever-evolving world. It not only underscores the significance of culture in shaping power dynamics and geopolitical developments but also offers a roadmap for embracing a future that values sustainability, cultural diversity, and interdisciplinary thinking. As we stand on the cusp of a new world order, this discussion serves as a beacon, guiding us toward a more harmonious, sustainable, and inclusive global society. The discussion section delves into the implications and significance of the research findings:

    • Complex Interplay of Culture and Geopolitics: The research highlights the complex interplay between culture and geopolitics. It discusses how cultural elements exert influence over geopolitical power dynamics, shaping international relations. This insight is crucial for diplomats, policymakers, and scholars aiming to navigate the intricate world of global affairs.
    • The Role of Culture in Decision-Making: The profound impact of culture on the behavior of power groups is a central point of discussion. The study reveals that culture plays a significant role in decision-making processes within power groups, influencing their strategies, alliances, and policies. This understanding is essential for anticipating the actions of influential entities in the global arena.
    • Applicability of the 5th Wave Theory: The research ambitiously probes the applicability of the 5th Wave Theory framework in interpreting contemporary geopolitical developments and predicting future trajectories. It is argued that this theoretical construct provides valuable insights into understanding the evolving nature of international relations in the context of the new world order.
    • Holistic Comprehension of Cultural Factors: By synergizing the 5th Wave Theory with the concept of 7 Mental Images, the study furnishes a holistic comprehension of how cultural factors interact with and shape geopolitical forces. This comprehensive understanding is crucial for addressing global challenges and crises while promoting sustainability in the modern world.
    • The 5th wave theory application

    The title and abstract of this scholarly investigation encapsulate a multidisciplinary exploration into the complex web of cultural, geopolitical, and power dynamics in the context of the evolving new world order. The study employs a comprehensive framework grounded in the innovative 5th Wave Theory, which traces the historical evolution of human societies through waves of innovation, and draws from the concept of “7 Mental Images” that encapsulate the cognitive and cultural dimensions of societies. This discussion will analyze how the 5th Wave Theory framework is employed to provide valuable insights into the interplay between culture, geopolitics, and power dynamics in the context of the 21st century’s new world order.

    1. The Significance of Cultural Diversity: The 5th Wave Theory’s historical perspective is vital in understanding the significance of cultural diversity. As this theory posits, different waves of human development have led to shifts in cultural and technological paradigms. By recognizing this, the study can underscore the resurgence of cultural diversity as a crucial element in the evolving landscape of cultural geopolitical development. The first wave, characterized by the development of agriculture, brought about the diversification of societies and the emergence of distinct cultures as people settled in one place. This historical context is invaluable in understanding the current reevaluation of cultural diversity’s role in shaping geopolitics and power structures.
    2. Sustainability in the New World Order: The study highlights the growing demand for sustainability in the 21st century’s new world order. It posits that comprehending shifting preferences and sustainability is pivotal for shaping the future world order. The 5th Wave Theory, specifically the fourth wave, which focuses on digitalization and automation, aligns with this notion. The transformative changes in production and lifestyles brought about by the digitalization wave are closely tied to sustainability concerns. Concepts within the theory, such as Industry 4.0 and Society 5.0, encompass sustainability and technological advancements as integral components of the new world order. This aligns with the study’s focus on economic resilience, technological infrastructure, and environmental stewardship as central to the evolving cultural geopolitical landscape.
    3. A Multidisciplinary Approach: The study employs a multidisciplinary approach drawing from anthropology, sociology, political science, and cultural studies. This approach mirrors the 5th Wave Theory’s holistic perspective, which recognizes the convergence of knowledge, technology, and business. By meticulously examining how cultural elements influence geopolitical power dynamics, the study acknowledges the interdisciplinary nature of the challenges posed by the new world order. It aligns with the theory’s emphasis on the interdependence of economic, social, and environmental systems in addressing these challenges.
    4. A Holistic Understanding: The application of the 5th Wave Theory in interpreting contemporary geopolitical developments and predicting future trajectories offers a holistic understanding of how cultural factors interact with and shape geopolitical forces. The theory’s emphasis on future forecasting and prevention measures is echoed in the study’s quest to unravel the mechanisms that can help shape the future world order. By synergizing the 5th Wave Theory with the concept of 7 Mental Images, the study seeks to provide a comprehensive framework for navigating the complex web of global affairs in the era of the new world order.
    5. Contribution to Our Understanding: In conclusion, this scholarly endeavor significantly contributes to our understanding of the intricate interplay between culture, geopolitics, and power dynamics in the 21st century’s new world order. It showcases how the 5th Wave Theory, with its historical context and comprehensive approach, can illuminate pathways for addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by the evolving global landscape. As the world navigates this new era, this study serves as a guiding light for policymakers, scholars, and individuals alike, emphasizing the importance of culture, sustainability, and interdisciplinary thinking in shaping the future world order.

    This scholarly endeavor significantly contributes to our deepened understanding of the intricate interplay between culture, geopolitics, and power dynamics. It offers valuable insights into the evolving nature of international relations in the 21st century, providing pathways for navigating the complex web of global affairs in the era of the new world order. The research underscores the importance of considering culture, technological advancements, and sustainability in the context of global diplomacy and governance.

    1. Conclusion and Future Suggestions
      • Conclusion:

    In conclusion, our multidisciplinary exploration delving into the intricate interplay of culture, geopolitical developments, power dynamics, and influence within the framework of the new world order, propelled by the innovative 5th Wave Theory, has unearthed profound insights with far-reaching implications for the contemporary global landscape.

    This scholarly endeavor has underscored the resurgent importance of cultural diversity, environmental stewardship, societal engagement, economic resilience, technological infrastructure, educational paradigms, and political support systems in shaping the evolving milieu of cultural geopolitical development. In the epoch characterized by rapid transformations and a realignment of power structures, our nuanced understanding of the underlying mechanisms governing this era has emerged as an imperative.

    The amalgamation of the 5th Wave Theory, founded upon the historical evolution of human societies through waves of innovation, with the concept of “7 Mental Images,” encapsulating the cognitive and cultural dimensions of societies, has opened new vistas in comprehending the shifting preferences of individuals and the burgeoning call for sustainability as pivotal forces in shaping the future world order.

    Inherent in the comprehensive and transformative nature of the 5th Wave Theory is the capacity to not only apprehend the past but also to predict, prepare, and navigate the complex future, marked by global challenges and crises that lie ahead. Employing a multidisciplinary approach bridging anthropology, sociology, political science, and cultural studies, this exploration has meticulously illuminated how cultural elements exert profound influence over geopolitical power dynamics and, consequently, the course of international relations.

    With profound implications for the evolving nature of international relations in the 21st century, our research contributes significantly to our deepened understanding of the interplay between culture, geopolitics, and power dynamics. It offers invaluable insights into the complexities of global affairs in the era of the new world order, emphasizing the pivotal role of culture, sustainability, and interdisciplinary thinking in shaping the world’s future.

    The implications of this exploration extend beyond the academic realm, permeating into the domains of policy formulation, diplomacy, education, and sustainable development. As we traverse this uncharted territory of the new world order, armed with the 5th Wave Theory and a deeper comprehension of culture’s influence on power dynamics, we are better equipped to navigate the complexities and embrace the opportunities that lie on the horizon. In essence, our work serves as a beacon, guiding us toward a more harmonious, sustainable, and inclusive global society.

    In an age marked by profound global transformations and the dawn of a new world order, our scholarly investigation has ventured into the intricate nexus of culture, geopolitics, power dynamics, and influence. Through the lens of the 5th Wave Theory framework, this study has offered an unprecedented perspective on the evolving landscape of cultural geopolitical development in the 21st century. Drawing from the 7 Pillars of Sustainability (7PS) model, we have unequivocally affirmed the enduring significance of cultural diversity, environmental stewardship, societal engagement, economic resilience, technological infrastructure, educational paradigms, and political support systems.

    The nuanced understanding of the underlying mechanisms that define the 21st century has emerged as a central theme of this study. As the global stage witnesses rapid transformations and power structures realign, comprehending the shifting preferences of individuals and the burgeoning demand for sustainability has proven pivotal in shaping the future world order. The study has thus served as a beacon, illuminating the path toward this future.

    The application of the 5th Wave Theory framework, with its profound historical context, has yielded transformative insights. This innovative approach to understanding human societies’ historical evolution through waves of innovation has provided a unique lens through which to examine the complex realm encompassing culture, geopolitical developments, power structures, and the imminent global challenges and crises we face. The theory has given us the ability to not only comprehend the past but also predict and prepare for the future.

    Through a multidisciplinary approach that bridges anthropology, sociology, political science, and cultural studies, our study has carefully scrutinized how cultural elements wield influence over geopolitical power dynamics. We have delved into the profound impact of culture on the behavior of power groups and the consequential effects on the course of international relations. This multidisciplinary perspective echoes the 5th Wave Theory’s comprehensive approach, which emphasizes the convergence of knowledge, technology, and business as we navigate the complex web of global affairs.

    As we conclude this investigation, we reaffirm the significance of understanding the interplay between culture, geopolitics, and power dynamics. This research contributes immeasurably to our comprehension of the evolving nature of international relations in the 21st century. We have illuminated pathways for navigating the complex web of global affairs in the era of the new world order, and we stress the pivotal role of culture, sustainability, and interdisciplinary thinking in shaping the world’s future.

    • Future Suggestions:

    The insights generated by this study offer a foundation for future research and practical applications. The following suggestions are critical for advancing our understanding and responding effectively to the challenges of the new world order:

    1. Longitudinal Studies: Conduct longitudinal studies to trace the evolution of cultural, geopolitical, and power dynamics over time. Such studies will provide a comprehensive view of the ongoing transformations and their consequences.
    2. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Encourage more interdisciplinary collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and practitioners. This will enable a holistic approach to addressing complex global issues.
    3. Impact Assessment: Evaluate the impact of culture on geopolitical power dynamics in specific regions and assess the effectiveness of various policies and initiatives aimed at cultural preservation and promotion.
    4. Scenario Planning: Develop scenarios based on the 5th Wave Theory framework to anticipate potential geopolitical developments and global challenges. This proactive approach can help policymakers and organizations prepare for the future.
    5. Cultural Diplomacy: Promote cultural diplomacy as a tool for soft power in international relations. Understanding how culture influences power dynamics can lead to more effective diplomatic strategies.
    6. Sustainability Initiatives: Advocate for sustainability initiatives that address the 7 Pillars of Sustainability within the context of evolving cultural geopolitical development. These initiatives can help create a more resilient and balanced world order.
    7. Educational Paradigm Shift: Reconsider educational paradigms to include comprehensive cultural and geopolitical education, equipping the next generation with the skills and knowledge required for the new world order.
    8. Political Support Systems: Examine and enhance political support systems to align with the changing preferences and demands of individuals in a world that increasingly values sustainability and cultural diversity.

    The multidisciplinary exploration guided by the 5th Wave Theory framework has provided a profound understanding of the interplay between culture, geopolitics, and power dynamics in the context of the new world order. Future research and actions in these suggested areas can contribute to a more harmonious and sustainable global society, embracing the challenges and opportunities of this transformative era

    References:

    • Hofstede, G., Hofstede, G. J., & Minkov, M. (2010). Cultures and Organizations: Software of the Mind. Revised and Expanded 3rd Edition. McGraw-Hill Education.
    • Toffler, A. (1980). The Third Wave. Bantam Books.
    • Huntington, S. P. (1996). The Clash of Civilizations and the Remaking of World Order. Simon & Schuster.
    • Meadows, D. H., Meadows, D. L., Randers, J., & Behrens III, W. W. (1972). The Limits to Growth. Universe Books.
    • Keohane, R. O., & Nye, J. S. (2001). Power and Interdependence: World Politics in Transition. Pearson.
    • Schwab, K. (2017). The Fourth Industrial Revolution. Crown Business.
    • Toffler, A. (1980). “The Third Wave.”
    • ‘’MOOCs policies on national and international level regarding best practices in German educational SMEs through the 5th wave theory and 9PSG model‘’, in the 2022 IEEE conference, 2022 IEEE Learning with MOOCS (LWMOOCS), in Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala, from 29-30 September 2022
    • ‘’Mapping the future sustainable, through the 5th wave/tomorrow age theory or theory of comprehensive everything with a focus on educational SMEs’’, in the 2022 IEEE conference, Global Engineering Education Conference (EDUCON), in Tunis, Tunisia, from 28-31 March 2022
    • ‘’Smart Governance for Educational Sustainability: Hybrid SMEs & the 5th wave theory Towards Mapping the Future Education in Post-Covid Era’’, in the 2022 IEEE conference, Global Engineering Education Conference (EDUCON), in Tunis, Tunisia, from 28-31 March 2022
    • ‘’Cyber Government for Sustainable Governance: Examining Solutions to Tomorrow’s Crises and Implications through the 5th wave theory, Edu 5.0 concept and 9PSG model’’, in the 2022 IEEE conference, Global Engineering Education Conference (EDUCON), in Tunis, Tunisia, from 28-31 March 2022
    • ‘’A multidisciplinary study of the 5th wave theory and the related theories and models in management and humanities’’, in the International Research Conference on Management & Humanities (IRCMH) 2020 BOSTON, 27th-28th November 2020
    • ‘’Digital Transformation in Academic Society and Innovative Ecosystems in the World beyond Covid19-Pandemic with Using 7PS Model for IoT’’, in the 2020 IEEE conference LWMOOCS VII, Learning with MOOCS 2020 in Antigua Guatemala, from 30 September – 02 October 2020.
    • ‘’The 5th Wave and i-Sustainability Plus Theories as Solutions for SocioEdu Consequences of Covid-19’’, in the 2020 IEEE conference LWMOOCS VII, Learning with MOOCS 2020 in Antigua Guatemala, from 30 September – 02 October 2020.
    • ‘’ Blue-Green Smart Mobility Technologies as Readiness for Facing Tomorrow’s Urban Shock toward the World as a Better Place for Living (Case Studies: Songdo and Copenhagen)’’, Technologies, MDPI, Published: 2nd of July 2020, https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7080/8/3/39
    • ‘’IoT-education policies on national and international level regarding best practices in German SMEs’’, in the 2020 IEEE Global Engineering Education Conference (EDUCON). 27-30 April. Porto, Portugal. 2020.
    • ‘’ i-Sustainability Plus Theory as an Innovative Path towards Sustainable World founded on Blue-Green Ubiquitous Cities (Case Studies: Denmark and South Korea)’’, Inventions, MDPI, Published: 26 March 2020, www.mdpi.com/journal/inventions
    • ‘’Sustainable Innovative Project Management: Response to Improve Livability and Quality of Life:Case Studies: Iran and Germany’’, Inventions, MDPI, Published: 29 September 2019, mdpi.com/journal/inventions.
    • Wursten Huib (2023a) Culture and Geopolitics. Are we diverging? https://culture-impact.net/culture-and-geopolitics-are-we-diverging/
    • Wursten Huib (2023b) Short description of the four layers of Culture . https://culture-impact.net/short-overview-of-the-layers-of-culture/
    • Wursten Huib (2023c) Cultural dimensions and worldviews. https://culture-impact.net/cultural-dimensions-and-worldviews/

 

data independence

Annexe:
Acquisition of sovereignty African States
Country Date of acquisition of sovereignty Acquisition of sovereignty:

Algeria: 3 July 1962 French recognition of Algerian referendum on independence held two days earlier
Angola:11 November 1975 Independence from Portugal
Benin: 1 August 1960 Independence from France
Botswana: 30 September 1966 Independence from the United Kingdom
Burkina Faso: 5 August 1960 Independence from France
Burundi: 1 July 1962 Independence from Belgium
Cabo Verde: 24 September 1973, 10 September 1974 (recognised) 5 July 1975[bg] Independence from Portugal
Cameroon: 1 January 1960 Independence from France
Central African Republic:13 August 1960 Independence from France
Chad: 11 August 1960 Independence from France
Comoros: 6 July 1975 Independence from France declared
Democratic Republic of the Congo: 30 June 1960 Independence from Belgium
Republic of Congo: 15 August 1960 Independence from France
Djibouti:27 June 1977 Independence from France
Egypt: 28 February 1922 The UK ends its protectorate, granting independence to Egypt
Equatorial Guinea:12 October 1968 Independence from Spain
Eritrea: 1 June 1936, 5 May 1941, 19 May 1941, 10 February 194719 February 1951, 15 September 1952 Abyssinian campaign Independence from Ethiopia declared
Eswatini:6 September 1968 Independence from the United Kingdom
Ethiopia: 5 May 1941 Abyssinian campaign
Gabon: 17 August 1960 Independence from France
Gambia: 18 February 1965 Independence from the United Kingdom
Ghana: 6 March 1957 Independence from the United Kingdom
Guinea: 2 October 1958 Independence from France
Guinea-Bissau: 24 September 1973, 10 September 1974 (recognised), 5 July 1975[bh] Independence from Portugal declared
Ivory Coast:  4 December 1958 Autonomous republic within French Community
Ivory Coast: 7 August 1960 Independence from France
Kenya: 12 December 1963 Independence from the United Kingdom
Lesotho: 4 October 1966 Independence from the United Kingdom
Liberia: 26 July 1847 Independence from American Colonization Society
Libya: 24 December 1951 Independence from UN Trusteeship (British and French administration after Italian governance ends in 1947)
Madagascar: 14 October 1958 The Malagasy Republic was created as autonomous state within French Community, 26 June 1960 France recognizes Madagascar’s independence
Malawi: 6 July 1964 Independence from the United Kingdom
Mali: 25 November 1958 French Sudan gains autonomy, 22 September 1960 Independence from France
Mauritania: 28 November 1960 Independence from France
Mauritius: 12 March 1968 Independence from the United Kingdom
Morocco: 7 April 1956 Independence from France and Spain
Mozambique: 25 June 1975 Independence from Portugal
Namibia: 21 March 1990 Independence from South African rule
Niger: 4 December 1958 Autonomy within French Community, 10 November 1960 Independence from France
Nigeria: 1 October 1960 Independence from the United Kingdom
Rwanda: 1 July 1962 Independence from Belgium
São Tomé and Príncipe: 12 July 1975 Independence from Portugal
Senegal: 30 September 1989 Independence from France
Seychelles: 29 June 1976 Independence from the United Kingdom
Sierra Leone: 27 April 1961 Independence from the United Kingdom
Somalia: 1 July 1960 Union of Trust Territory of Somalia (former Italian Somaliland) and State of Somaliland (formerly British Somaliland)
South Africa: 11 December 1931 Statute of Westminster, which establishes a status of legislative equality between the self-governing dominion of the Union of South Africa and the UK, 31 May 1910 Creation of the autonomous Union of South Africa from the previously separate colonies of the Cape, Natal, Transvaal and Orange River
South Sudan: 1 January 1956 Independence from Egyptian and British joint rule
Sudan: 1 January 1956 Independence from Egyptian and British joint rule
Tanzania: 9 December 1961 Independence of Tanganyika from the United Kingdom
Togo: 30 August 1958 Autonomy within French Union, 27 April 1960 Independence from France
Tunisia: 20 March 1956 Independence from France
Uganda: 1 March 1962 Self-government granted, 9 October 1962 Independence from the United Kingdom
Zambia24 October 1964 Independence from the United Kingdom
Zimbabwe:11 November 1965 Unilateral declaration of independence by Southern Rhodesia, 18 April 1980 Recognized independence from the United Kingdom as Zimbabwe

 

Source: Wikipedia Acquisition of sovereignty

 

The cultures of geopolitics in Africa: from colonization to equal partnership

The cultures of geopolitics in Africa: from colonization to equal partnership

*Dr. Luc Zwaenepoel

Abstract: The essay will research different forms of geopolitics culture in Africa over many decades. The evolution of colonial geopolitics (occupation) towards the ideas of international equal partnership based on budget support and funding. The following items will be researched: Cultures of colonization, struggle for independence, international cooperation, Regional Economic Integration, and new forms of South-South cooperation.

Keywords: colonization/decolonization culture, cooperation/development culture, culture of equal partnership, culture in the struggle for independence, regional economic integration culture, negritude movement.

Introduction (3)

The essay will research different forms of geopolitics culture in Africa over many decades. The evolution of colonial geopolitics (occupation) towards the ideas of equal partnership (EU) based on budget support and development funding. The history and actual state of the cultures of geopolitics in Africa will be researched.

To discuss the geopolitical relevance of culture, to be used as a frame of this essay, is the analysis by Dr Nayef Al-Rodhan.

In his study, he found 5 substrates to explain the geopolitical relevance of culture. The substrates have connotations with the cultural dimensions of Hofstede:

Large Collective Identities as a distinct actor (collective)

Large collective identities as distinct actors in geopolitics are weighting in global politics. The emotionality of states and large collective identities can be seen as distinct actors in the area of globalization. Other collective actors are multinational organizations, transnational corporations, gender issues, and reactive actors such as the environment and resources. Geopolitical interference can be seen when the holders of “large collective identities” feel threatened as a consequence of conflict, stereotyping, disrespect, demonization, or alienation. In that case, the emotionality of states functions as a distinct actor in geopolitical interventions and shaping a new order. (e.g., Israel versus Hamas)

The Multi-Sum Security Principle (Risk aversion)

The multi-sum security principle accounts for cultural respect as a security concern. “The principle states that: “In a globalized world, security can no longer be thought of as a zero-sum game involving states alone. Global security, instead, has five dimensions that include human, environmental, national, transnational, and transcultural security. “Therefore, global security and the security of any state or culture need to be achieved through good governance at all levels that guarantee justice for all individuals, states, and cultures”. Risk aversion of the different actors is given by the sense of justice, the universal human rights in common shared values and respect of human rights during the war period. 

Transcultural Security and Synergy (long-term vision)

Transcultural security searches for the integrity of large collective identities and the absence of hostile clashes between members of different cultures. To reach this goal, citizens are threatened with human dignity, with respect and dignity as a fundamental. If no alignment can be found with other people, cultures or nations transcultural security cannot be sustainable. Coexistence and transcultural synergy are critical but demand time and history. The plurality of cultures has a great impact on global security and the future well-being of humankind.

Ocean Model of Civilization” (hierarchy/dominance)

The idea of global civilization was part of the colonization but largely mixed up with the self-interest and economic motives of the colonial collective actors. The hierarchy of human civilization was largely built on the achievements of other cultures whose golden years have passed (Old Europe). The clash of cultures, as in multiple and competing civilizations, is creating a multiple geo-political domain that contains cultures and subcultures. The making of one fluid human story of its civilization is prime but hard to realize.

Sustainable History

Forward-thinking and attuned to the conditions of a globalized, connected and interdependent world can contribute to a sustainable history of mankind. No sustainable prosperity or security can be attained at the expense or marginalization of others. Indeed, this is also based on common values of human dignity and justice, in today’s world, humanity will either triumph or fail as a whole. “Dignity is much more inclusive than freedom and means much more than just the absence of humiliation and includes nine governance-related needs, which are: reason, security, human rights, accountability, transparency, justice, opportunity, innovation, and inclusiveness. This is critical for transcultural relations, too often determined by undignified and antagonistic exchanges that are injurious to security and mutual coexistence.”

The past colonial times in Africa: geopolitical history (4,5,8,15)

The Large Collective Identities and distinct actors in the colonization (collective) and the partition of the African continent are strong examples of the culture of colonization.

What was called the Scramble of Africa (1833-1914) was the moment that control of the African continent was divided under the European countries.

The Scramble for Africa is the name given to how European countries brought nearly all of the African continent under their control as part of their separate empires. The Scramble for Africa began in the 1880s. By 1914, the only African countries not controlled by a European power were Liberia and Ethiopia.

It was the Berlin conference (1884) that made official the invasion, annexation, division, and colonization of most of Africa by seven Western European powers during an era known as “New Imperialism (between 1833 and 1914). The 10 percent of Africa that was under formal European control in 1870 increased to almost 90 percent by 1914.

The Berlin Conference regulated European colonization and trade in Africa during the last quarter of the 19th century; considerable political rivalries between the European empires provided the impetus for the Scramble. The later years of the 19th century saw a transition from “informal imperialism” – military influence and economic dominance – to direct rule.

The so-called decolonization and the granting of independence to most African countries was seen in the sixties. (see list of independence days of African states). However, the culture of the colonial system and the existence of the old imperial blocs of power influenced until today the politics and the economy of African nations. A good example is the francophone countries in West Africa, still depending on their economy and the cultural language of the links with France. (CFA, la Francophonie)

A good example of brute colonization is the Congo Free State and the Belgian King Leopold II (14,16)

From 1869 to 1874, Henry Morton Stanley was secretly sent by Leopold II to the Congo region, where he made treaties with several African chiefs along the Congo River and, by 1882, had sufficient territory to form the basis of the Congo Free State. The goal was to have a Belgian colony, to colonize and use resources (rubber and ivory) to make Belgium an industrial state.

Congo Free State; personal property of King Leopold II (16)

In the Congo Free State was such a terror regime on the colonized people installed, including mass killings and forced labor, that Belgium, under pressure from the Congo Reform Association, ended Leopold II’s rule and annexed it on 20 August 1908 as a colony of Belgium, known as the Belgian Congo.

From 1885 to 1908, many atrocities were perpetrated in the Congo Free State; in these images, Native Congo Free State laborers who failed to meet rubber collection quotas were punished by having their hands cut off.

The brutality of King Leopold II in his former colony of the Congo Free State was well documented; up to 8 million of the estimated 16 million native inhabitants died between 1885 and 1908. According to Roger Casement, an Irish diplomat of the time, this depopulation had four main causes: “indiscriminate war”, starvation, reduction of births and diseases.

This example of the colonial culture where, at the beginning of the colonization, the local population was murdered by main causes: “indiscriminate war”, starvation, reduction of births, and diseases. This falls under the substrata of dominance, hierarchy, injustice, and lack of human dignity.

Red rubber, ivory and gold

The book Red Rubber by E.D Morel gives a brief and updated narrative about the Congo tragedy and the personal, uncontrolled, and unfettered management of the independent Congo state by King Leopold. Red Rubber” was a name assigned to the brutal slave system of Africa during the late 1800s. The laborers in Congo were forced to work to maximize the rubber production for King Leopold for nothing. The enforcement included mass murder, killing, cutting off the right hand of laborers and mutilation.

A grand Civilization project with a stream of Christian missionaries

After the Congo Free State, the name of the colony changed to the Belgian Congo. Under International pressure and reactions of the Belgian establishment (the Roger Casement Report, a new approach was doctored: the civilization of the Congo by annexation and installation of a colonial administration. In parallel, the Christianization of the “Congolese heathens” was also an important target.

Catholic missionaries played an important role in the colonial scramble in Africa and the subsequent years. They served as educators and medical support for the state in many cases. The state relied on missionaries to staff schools, educate the population, and aid in the civilization of the Africans.

At any rate, it was the missionaries who provided most of the means to enable Africans to participate more effectively in colonial society by providing education and by opening teaching and preaching jobs in providing high-status employment opportunities. Without question, missionaries were an important factor in promoting economic change. They introduced and encouraged the use of foreign products (clothing, tea, etc.), which undermined the former self-sufficiency of the subsistence economy. This brought Africans more and more into a market economy.

On the other hand, the arrival of Christianity in Congo also contributed to the maintenance of the colonial system and the existence of cultural imperialism. The Bantou culture (Ubuntu)was seen as backward and Congolese intelligentsia were educated to become a kind of Belgians called “évolués), meaning Congolese who graduated to have a level of Belgian modern culture. This is the second impact of the culture of colonization, the undervaluation of local cultures, tribal arrangements, and familial traditions. It is placed under the substrata of geopolitics culture: “hierarchy” and the non-existence of a common history where human dignity and justice prevail.

Is Africa an important geopolitical player? (16,17,18)

Africa, by its size and population, is an important geopolitical player but not yet in the global international relations and the global sphere. The importance of Africa as of today is based on three aspects:

  1. The abundance of strategic resources, the demographic dividend of a young population and attractive growth perspectives

An important geopolitical player despite the continent’s bright prospect, intra-regional conflicts, poverty and all forms of corruption that stand as risk and hindrances

Africa’s population will reach 2.5 billion people by 2050 and will constitute what is expected to be a quarter of the world’s populace. The African continent boasts 30% of the world’s mineral reserves, and demand for rare earth metals alone is expected to reach 315,000 tons by 2030, more than double the volume in 2021.

From colonial occupation to independence: independence culture

At the end of the colonization area, a movement of independence fighters emerged in colonized Africa. Colonial powers had planned a longer transitional period towards independence but made a mistake by underestimating the will of the colonized intelligentsia to fight for freedom and independence.

The culture of searching or fighting for full independence from the colonizer had three important elements:

  • the violent reduction of native populations to cultural and social insignificance
  • about any significant destruction or degradation of the essential elements of the culture and traditions of the colonized peoples
  • to break the cultural resistance of the colonized peoples has been assimilation

 

The collective positive and negative actors in the fight from occupation to independence were the following groups:

  • An initial minority that, even if it wants the end of foreign domination, clings to the ruling colonial class and openly opposes this movement in defense of its social security.
  • A majority of vacillating or undecided elements.
  • A second minority whose members participate in the creation and leadership of the liberation movement and are its main source of life.

Cabal and the role of culture

Amilcar Cabral stresses in his essay the role of culture in the struggle for independence. (3)

“The fact that independence movements are generally marked from the very outset by a flurry of manifestations of things cultural has led to the observation that these movements are preceded by a cultural renaissance of the dominated people. The argument is even taken one step further, and it is said that culture is a method for collective mobilization, a weapon, that is, in the struggle for independence.

The cultural resistance of the people – the popular masses – in the colonies are fighting not only the foreign domination but also the impact of cultural imperialism of the colonizers.” These facts fall under the substrata: Large Collective Identities as a distinct actor (collective) and Transcultural Security and Synergy (long-term) (4)

Two historical cases of independence culture and its reaction: 

  • The killing of Lumumba by the CIA and Belgium (dominance) (7)

Patrice Émery Lumumba was a Congolese politician and independence leader who served as the first prime minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo from June until September 1960, following the May 1960 election. The U.S. CIA (Central Intelligence Agency) and their counterparts in Britain and Belgium paid a group of Congolese military men (including Joseph Mobutu) to kill him.

 He was executed by a firing squad on January 17, 1961, after a long torture session. Before they killed him, they made me eat the paper on which my Independence Day speech was written. After his assassination, people all over the world protested the destruction of democracy in Congo.

 

  • Che Guevara importing the revolution in Congo (7)

A second case of bringing revolution to Congo was the failed liberation revolution by Che Guevara in Kongo (South Kivu). In line with other revolutions in Africa (Tanzania), Che Guevara came to Congo with a liberation army to make Congo free in the post-colonial time under Mobutu. Che Guevara and the Cuban forces were only in the Congo for nine months; the first couple of months were spent waiting for troops and training them upon arrival. In November of 1965, Guevara abandoned the revolutionary cause and retreated to Havana with what remained of his troops. He tried to start a guerilla revolution in Bolivia. In the autumn of 1966, Guevara went to Bolivia to create and lead a guerrilla group in the region of Santa Cruz. After some initial combat successes, Guevara and his guerrilla band found themselves constantly on the run from the Bolivian army. On October 8, 1967, the group was almost annihilated by a special detachment of the Bolivian army aided by CIA advisers. Guevara, who was wounded in the attack, was captured and shot.

From underdeveloped countries to nations on the way towards development and the equal partnership Cooperation culture

The theory of underdevelopment and the culture of cooperation toward development came after the granting of independence.

Once independence was granted and according to the underdevelopment perspective, which has close links to the dependency and world-systems perspectives, the economies of colonized countries were distorted to meet the needs of emerging capitalism in Western Europe.

One of the central features of Samir Amin’s analysis is the argument that the periphery is underdeveloped because of super-exploitation and that the resulting super-surplus is transferred to the center (the former colonizing power). “Development of underdevelopment” described that the economic processes in the periphery are the opposite of the development in the core. Poorer countries are impoverished to enable a few countries to get richer.”

In the sixties and seventies, international organizations and countries started the creation of development funds and were sending out development aid workers working in outside planned development projects in different fields and regions.

The UN agencies like UNDP (the U.N. Development Programme, the FAO, and UNICEF are the most known collective cultural actors in the post-independence phase. European countries worked on programs called “la cooperation au dévelopement “and had fixed target rates for the BNP to spend yearly on international cooperation.

This was, of course, the case of Africa, where former colonizers (France, UK) could keep more grip on further development and financing under strict rules.

Some international projects have been successful and contributed to the economy of Africa, like infrastructure and new techniques in agriculture. Other international projects had a sustainability problem and disappeared some years after the end of the project. Development in the African countries was managed following the cultural management principles of the West, where efficiency and effectiveness (results-based) were important for the home country.

Equal partnership culture (8,13)

After thirty years of development cooperation and with a young African elite with Western education and new political ideas, a new concept was introduced: equal partnership in the cooperation process. The following are several EU-AU Agreements that shaped the new partnership processes, that made the change in cooperation culture and the importance of Africa in the global economy. This was staying far from the culture of colonization and the cooperation culture.

EU Africa agreements (8,10)

The Africa-EU Partnership is a multi-actor partnership guided by the EU and African Union (AU) Member States along with several non-state and civil society organizations, youth bodies, economic and social actors, and the private sector. The renewed partnership is grounded in an ongoing dialogue with the EU’s African partners. At the 6th EU-AU Summit in Brussels in February 2022, the partners adopted a “Joint Vision for 2030”.

The EU’s partnership with Africa is a key priority for the Commission. As Europe’s closest neighbour, Africa not only shares a rich history with EU countries but also common values and interests. Through the Africa-EU partnership, there is an engagement in structured political and policy dialogues and define new cooperative relationship with Africa.

People-centred partnership

Non-state actors, such as civil society, local authorities, youth representatives and the private sector play an active role in the Africa-EU Partnership and its decision-making process. In preparation for the institutional meetings, various stakeholder groups meet regularly to bring their views and recommendations to the table. In the margins of the 6th EU-AU Summit, over 20,000 people from Europe, Africa and beyond participated in the first Africa-Europe Week and the 7th EU-Africa Business Forum (EABF). Hosted in a hybrid format in Brussels and virtually, the forum aimed to strengthen cross-continent people-to-people relations, by providing a space for youth, civil society (CSO), cultural actors and the private sector to discuss the aspects of the Africa-Europe partnerships that matter most to them.

The Cotonou Agreement (8,10)

The current EU relationship with ACP countries is governed by the ACP-EU partnership agreement (2000), also known as the Cotonou Agreement, which unites over 100 partner countries and some 1.5 billion people. It is the most comprehensive partnership agreement ever signed between the EU and third countries.

The Cotonou Agreement was initially built on the following principles:

  • partners’ equality
  • global participation
  • structured dialogue

To adjust to new challenges, the agreement was revised in 2005 and 2010 to add focus on:

  • regional integration
  • security and political stability
  • the growing challenge of climate change
  • inclusiveness and sustainability
  • aid effectiveness

Post-Cotonou OACPS-EU relations

In April 2020, the ACP Group of States became an international organization: the Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS).

Beyond this change, the upcoming expiry of the Cotonou Agreement was an opportunity to rejuvenate and strengthen the EU relationship with OACPS countries while considering the new realities and global challenges facing us. 

What is an association agreement in South Africa?

This type of agreement regulates the relationship between the members of a Close Corporation and is generally entered into at the beginning. stages of the relationship. Having an association agreement is not compulsory, but it may prevent disputes and conflicts which can arise between the partners.  

Intra-African geopolitics (8,10,11, 12) 

  • The Regional Economic Communities (RECs)

On the other side, African economic regions are organized in Regional Economic Communities (REC) to become equal partners with the EU and the international donor communities.

RECS (see list at annexes) are promoting Trade facilitation and regional integration. An example of regional cooperation in Africa is based on the Custom Unions in Europe (BENELUX), the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC), and the European Union.

In Africa on the geopolitical level, there African Union (AU) and the different RECS.

The RECS are mirroring the European models. New organizations are the BRICS and (AfCFTA).

The Regional Economic Communities (RECs) are regional groupings of African states. The RECs have developed individually and have differing roles and structures. Generally, the purpose of the RECs is to facilitate regional economic integration between members of the individual regions and through the wider African Economic Community (AEC), which was established under the Abuja Treaty (1991). The 1980 Lagos Plan of Action for the Development of Africa and the Abuja Treaty proposed the creation of RECs as the basis for wider African integration, with a view to regional and eventual continental integration. The RECS is increasingly involved in coordinating AU Member States’ interests in wider areas such as peace and security, development and governance.

The RECs are closely integrated with the AU’s work and serve as its building blocks. The relationship between the AU and the RECs is mandated by the Abuja Treaty and the AU Constitutive Act and guided by the 2008 Protocol on Relations between the RECs and the AU; and the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation in the Area of Peace and Security between the AU, RECs and the Coordinating Mechanisms of the Regional Standby Brigades of Eastern and Northern Africa.

The AU recognizes eight RECs, the:

  • Arab Maghreb Union (UMA)
  • Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA)
  • Community of Sahel–Saharan States (CEN–SAD)
  • East African Community (EAC)
  • Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS)
  • Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)
  • Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD)
  • Southern African Development Community (SADC).

 

  • Intra-African geopolitics (8,11)

New organizations are formed: BRICS and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

BRICS is an intergovernmental organization comprised of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. It was formed in 2010 by the addition of South Africa to its predecessor BRIC. The BRICS nations encompass about 27% of the world’s land surface and 42% of the global population.

BRICS refers to certain emerging market countries—Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and more—that seek to establish deeper ties between member nations and cooperate on economic expansion, including trade. The countries act as a counterbalance to traditional Western influence.

What countries are being invited to BRICS? (8,11)

During the fifteenth summit was the agreement to admit six new member countries: Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, who will officially join the group in January 2024.

The challenge ahead will not be who joins the BRICS as a partner country but who holds the key to decisions on policy positions. The consensus-driven decision-making process of the BRICS will not make policymaking easier, but attempting to democratize is worth a serious effort. The start of the BRICS is an important geopolitical moment as it gives weight to more South-South cooperation from different continents. In the geopolitical culture, it embodies the first substrata of new collective actors in world geopolitics.

 

           . The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is a free trade area encompassing most of Africa.

AfCFTA is the latest organization for geopolitics in Africa, mainly based on the globalization of Free Trade Agreements already worked out by RECs. It is an example of the substrata Hierarchy in the domain of further regional economic integration and trade facilitation.

According to the World Bank, The AfCFTA agreement aims to provide broader and deeper economic integration across the continent as well as attract investment, boost trade, provide better jobs, reduce poverty and increase shared prosperity in Africa.

The AfCFTA aims, for instance, to promote trade liberalization and market-oriented reforms within Africa; boost economic growth; and increase the size, diversity, and integration of African economies and markets.

What are the disadvantages of AfCFTA?(8,11)

Fears of significant tariff revenue losses and an uneven distribution of costs and benefits are among the main obstacles to the continent’s integration.

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement will create the largest free trade area in the world measured by the number of countries participating. The pact connects 1.3 billion people across 55 countries with a combined gross domestic product (GDP) valued at US$3.4 trillion. It has the potential to lift 30 million people out of extreme poverty but achieving its full potential will depend on putting in place significant policy reforms and trade facilitation measures.

Difficulties ahead

Creating a Regional identity is difficult because of the cultural, organizational differences in political, economic and tribal systems.

What is needed to achieve these objectives? Firstly, there must be the political will to adhere to regional integration objectives and to give them priority over domestic considerations. Secondly, a resolute effort must be made to achieve greater institutional and economic policy convergence. Strong, efficient regional institutions are required. Such institutions should be authorized to develop appropriate policies independent of national interests without, however, losing sight of each member’s particular situation.

Lessons from Regional Integration Initiatives in French-speaking Africa (13,17,18)

Almost all the countries represented here in this great assembly of French-speaking countries are associated with some form of regional initiative. However, the CFA franc (1,2) zone countries, in particular, have been able to transform their economic and monetary cooperation effort into a powerful driving force for economic policy coordination and integration. These countries are currently putting in place the structures required to achieve their ultimate objective, which is the creation of a genuine single market.

It is true that the single currency (the CFA franc) has been and continues to be the cornerstone of this integration. Long experience with a monetary policy conducted by a strong institution that must preserve its independence vis-à-vis national governments has accustomed these countries to yielding some of their economic policy matters to a regional organization.

Why do they speak about decolonization sixty years later? (de-colonization culture)  

Decolonization is the process of freeing a state institution, the sphere of activity, etc., from the cultural or social effects of colonization and the culture of the former colonial power. When recent talks about full decolonization, it is said that the decolonization of the museum’s galleries was important and long overdue. More stolen artifacts and cultural and ethnic objects are requested to be returned to the original country. Some countries are already in the process of an orderly return of museum pieces. e.g. Benin-France

But is it the only fact of decolonization and to finalize the process after 60-70 years of independence from their European rulers?

Between 1945 and 1960, three dozen new states in Asia and Africa achieved autonomy or outright independence from their European colonial rulers. There was no unified process of decolonization. In some areas, it was peaceful and orderly. In many others, independence was achieved only after a protracted revolution.

Colonization may be used as a method of absorbing and assimilating foreign people into the culture of the imperial country. One instrument to this end was linguistic imperialism, or the use of non-indigenous colonial languages to the exclusion of any indigenous languages from administrative (and often, any public) use. This was the case of the use of English in former British colonies and is still visible in the Commonwealth, where some former colonies still have King Charles III as their monarch and head of state.

The same can be seen in the French-speaking countries that not only have a monetary system linked to the French treasury but also have grouped former colonies into la Francophonie, promoting the French culture and language.

 

La Négritude movement (9,14,19)

In the early Thirties, a cultural movement started in the African diaspora called the promotion of black consciousness called “la négritude”. “Négritude” is a framework of critique and literary theory, developed mainly by francophone intellectuals, writers, and politicians of the African diaspora with names as Césaire, Leopold Senghor and Damas. The Négritude intellectuals disavowed colonialism, racism and Eurocentrism. They promoted African culture within a framework of persistent Franco-African ties.

It can be seen as a cultural reaction against the remainder of cultural imperialism that links African intelligentsia to the culture and the language of the former colonizer.

 

Transcultural Security and Synergy (long-term vision)

 

Lately, a great number of coup d’états were seen in the former colonies of France. Coup players are young military that like to loosen links with France, especially on the military defense side and the monetary arrangements. Countries like Gabon, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali do have a population that no longer wants French influence and urge for a change of government. Geopolitical, it is a problem for France having many troops in the area against the fundamental Islamists in the Nord but also relying heavily on raw resources like uranium, copper, and cacao.

  

Conclusions: different types of geopolitics culture

In this essay, geopolitics in Africa was analyzed by using the 5 substrata of the culture of geopolitics and the historical evolution of the role of the African continents in geopolitics.

Africa was geopolitical important for the European Empires and the repartition of the continent was called the Scramble of Africa and was signed in the Conference of Berlin. The culture of colonization was defined as the invasion, annexation, division, and colonization of most of Africa. The cultural substrata were the common action of large collectivities being the powers in Europe.

The culture of decolonization originated in the cultural imperialism in the colonies and in the fight for freedom and independence. This was made clear in the essay by Amilcar Cabral, stressing the role of culture in the struggle for independence.

After the colonization, the international community focused on the processes of development of the underdeveloped countries in Africa. The culture of Aid and international cooperation had quite some elements of continuously serving the interest of the donors.

The culture of equal partnership was the next phase in the geopolitical role of the African continent. It was promoted by the European Union and laid out in several international arrangements and funding with the African Union and the Member states.

The culture of Regional integration and trade facilitation through regional economic communities made Africa an important player in international relations. New regional organizations like The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement will win in importance. More South-South cooperation is seen in the establishment of the BRICS with member states of different continents except Europe but with Russia and China.

The latter shows the shift in the culture of cooperation between like-minded countries in strengthening their economies and international relations.

Some geopolitical new elements were not mentioned, like the culture of the exportation of war and weapons to create permanent conflict. (Wagner Group, Al Shabab, North Kivu)

Lately, the influence in geopolitics has been seen by the dominance of satellites in influencing the Ukraine-Russian war (Elon Musk) (6). He curtailed his Starlink satellite service to prevent Ukraine from using it for a sea-drone attack on Russia’s Black Sea Fleet in Crimea.

The collective actors that have ICT tools and the creation of disinformation channels are new factors in the culture of geopolitics

Annexe:

Acquisition of sovereignty Country Date of acquisition of sovereignty Acquisition of sovereignty. See: data

Bibliography:

  1. A Balance Sheet Analysis of The Cfa Franc Zone. Retrieved from https://ideas.repec.org/p/ris/jhisae/0143.html
  2. Agbohou, N. (2015). In D. M. Dembélé & C. Cardoso, The CFA Franc: A Vector of Monetary Nazism (pp. 40-60). Trenton, NJ: Africa World Press.
  3.  Al-Rodhan N; The Geopolitics of Culture: Five Substrates- Harvard International Review; June 24, 2014
  4. Amin Samir, Neocolonialisme in West Africa, Open Journal of Political Science > Vol.10 No.2, April 2020
  5. Cabral, Amilcar, and Michel Vale. “THE ROLE OF CULTURE IN THE STRUGGLE FOR INDEPENDENCE.” International Journal of Politics, vol. 7, no. 4, 1977, pp. 18–43. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/27868865. Accessed 9 Nov. 2023.
  6. Champion Marc, Opinion columnist, Elon Musk Has Power in Ukraine. Does He Know How to Use It? An amateur military strategist is making life-and-death calls, Bloomberg “,8 September 202
  7. De Witte Ludo, The assassination of Lumumba, Hause Publishing, fiction, 1999 (English 2001)
  8. EU-Africa: https://international-partnerships.ec.europa.eu/policies/africa-eu-partnership_en
  9. Georges, D. (2016). Bantous: la quête des origines.
    https://www.jeuneafrique.com/mag/316823/culture/bantous-quete-origines/
  10. Geslin, M. M. M. (2019). Les principaux obstacles aux échanges commerciaux intra sous-régionaux en Afrique Centrale: Cas de la Communauté économique et Monétaire de l’Afrique Centrale (CEMAC).
  11. Global Perspectives: The BRICS Summit 2023: Seeking an Alternate World Order? Global Memo by ORF, SWP, SAIIA, SVOP, SIIS, RSIS, FGV, and CFR Aug 31, 2023
  12. Jacqueline, D. (2005). Le développement de l’Afrique centrale dans une perspective d’avenir. Afrique contemporaine No. 215.
    https://doi.org/10.3917/afco.215.0029
  13. Lédaga Néhémie SabrinaWei HongMfoubou Elvis Presley Cultural Perspectives in the Economic Development of African Regional Integration: The Case of the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (EMCCA);Central China Normal University (CCNU), Department of Politics and International Studies, Wuhan, China
  14. Mbonjo, Moukoko Pierre. The Political Thought of Kwame Nkrumah: A Comprehensive Presentation. Lagos: University of Lagos Press. 1998
  15. Ouattara Alassane D.,Deputy Managing Director, International Monetary Fund at the First Conference of Ministers of Economy and Finance
    of French-Speaking Countries (Francophone), Regional Integration in Africa: An Important Step Toward Global Integration, Monaco, April 14, 1999
  16. Stanard Matthew G. “Made in Congo ?” On the Question of Colonial Culture in Belgium. In: Revue belge de philologie et d’histoire, tome 88, fasc. 4, 2010. Histoire médiévale, moderne et contemporaine. pp. 1301-1318; doi : https://doi.org/10.3406/rbph.2010.7981 https://www.persee.fr/doc/rbph_0035-0818_2010_num_88_4_7981

(*)Dr. Luc V. Zwaenepoel is a highly qualified manager, strategic planner, senior Institutional Development expert and results management specialist with a breadth of international experience, acquired in the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe, Latin America and South East Asia. He is holder of a PhD in Economic Management from the California University School of Management, and a Drs in Development Economics from the KU Leuven.

 
 
Note:
  1. Champion Marc, Opinion columnist, Elon Musk Has Power in Ukraine. Does He Know How to Use It? An amateur military strategist is making life-and-death calls, Bloomberg “,8 September 2023De Witte Ludo, The assassination of Lumumba, Hause Publishing, fiction, 1999 (English 2001EU-AFRiCA: https://international-partnerships.ec.europa.eu/policies/africa-eu-partnership_en

 

CULTURE AND GEOPOLITICS

CULTURE AND GEOPOLITICS

                                 CULTURE IMPACT JOURNAL

  

                                                                 December 2023                

                                       

                                        Culture and Geopolitics

Colophon: https://culture-impact.net/colophon-culture-impact-journal/

                                                                                                     

                                                                                            Content:

 

Editorial:

As a result of recent developments like Brexit, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the massacre committed by Hamas in Israel, and the different opinions about the subsequent reaction by Israel, the world is facing the risk of fragmentation.

This is very dangerous. In a recent thriller, “Never”, Ken Follett describes convincingly how this could inadvertently lead to the destruction of the globe.  To avert this, creating a new, consistent narrative is necessary. A narrative based on an awareness that in coping with an accumulation of global challenges like climate change and pandemics and wars, “we are in this together” and the trust that (cultural) preferences are taken into account and that despite different value systems, there is a willingness to work together.

To do so, it is necessary to understand the differences. The articles in this special of the Culture Impact Journal aim to chart these differences.

Done by eight authors with eight different nationalities. The publishers do not necessarily share the opinions of the various authors.

H.W.

 

Prof. Anton Carpinschi: Culture, geopolitics, and captive thinking in Romanian society. Reflections of an Involved Observer

Synopsis: This essay uses an autobiographical narrative and participatory observation to explore the symptoms of thinking enslaved by errors, illusions, and prejudices under and after communism. Also, from a comprehensive reflexive perspective, the connections between geopolitical developments, the psycho-cultural profile of Romanian society, and the phenomenon of captive thinking are explored. Thus, at the meeting of the participatory observation with the comprehensive reflection, the reflections of the participant observer were born, an observer always aware of the precarious condition of the prisoner of captive thinking.

For full text, see: https://culture-impact.net/anton-carpinschiculture-geopolitics-and-captive-thinking-in-romanian-society-reflections-of-an-involved-observer/

Huib Wursten: Culture and Geo-politics. Are we diverging?

Synopsis: The combination of global warming, CO2, and immigration cannot wait to be solved. The polarization of countries is undermining the will to develop joint efforts. The real existing differences need a framing that creates room for the acceptance of diversity in approaches. The worst thing that can happen is if a wrong framing creates more tension.

For full text, see: https://culture-impact.net/culture-and-geopolitics-are-we-diverging/

 

Walter Jahn: India’s balancing act in Geopolitics seen through the Mirror of India’s National cultural values.                                                                

Synopsis: India is praised as the biggest democracy. The electorate has repeatedly shown to change political power holders at the national and federal state level. This is remarkable considering that Indian national culture shows a strong deference to power holders.

Internationally, India traditionally tries to keep equidistance to most influential countries, be they democracies or autocracies, seeing itself as a “soft power” upholding international law for maintaining peace. Hence, no surprise for India’s 2023 G20 presidency theme “One Earth, One Family, One Future”. Yet, the Indian Government has not condemned or criticized Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. How does the Indian Government communicate this apparent contradiction?

Domestically, constitutional principles are under strain. A populist Hindu nationalist Government presides over discriminatory policies and a rise in persecution affecting the Muslim population. The constitution guarantees civil liberties, but harassment of journalists, NGOs, and other government critics has increased significantly under PM Modi reports this year’s “Freedom in the World Report”.

There are apparent contractions, and they may find an explanation in the cultural values of the country and the corresponding artful mode of communication of the power holders. Elaborating on this issue is the subject of this paper.

For full text: https://culture-impact.net/culture-identity-and-geopolitics-the-case-of-india/

Fernando Lanzer: Geopolitics and Culture: What Is Driving the Power Games?

Synopsis: Geopolitics is all about nations trying to impose their world views and values upon others, in the firm belief that this will ensure their own survival in the short term and sustainability in the long term. In order to understand the playing field, we must come to know what the underlying values of the relevant global players are, how they affect the way the power games are played and how that all this affects us, the pawns in the planetary chess game. This paper will propose a values framework that might shed some light on what is driving the relevant players’ behavior and what can be expected to happen in the near future.

 For full text: 

Amer Bitar: Narrating Change: Cinema’s Role in the Cultural Discourse during the Arab Spring. 

Synopsis: The Middle East’s recent history, marked by the Arab Spring, presents a rich tapestry of socio-political transformations. Yet, an essential, often overlooked aspect of this period is the role of cinema, both as a reflection of and an influence on these profound changes. This article ventures into the heart of this dynamic, investigating how the cinematic landscape has interwoven with national cultural contexts across the Middle East during this pivotal era. Through an exploration of diverse films from various Middle Eastern nations, this study unveils how cinema has not merely mirrored society’s ambitions and dissent but has been intrinsically tied to the cultural ethos of each nation. Filmmakers, often working within or against traditional cultural frameworks, have crafted narratives that resonate deeply with local sensibilities while also touching on universal themes of revolution, freedom, and identity. By analyzing thematic motifs, narrative structures, and cinematic techniques, this article delves into the intricate ways films have integrated or challenged cultural norms and how these artistic choices communicate subtle and overt political messages. It underscores cinema’s potency in shaping perceptions of both domestic and global audiences, bridging cultural gaps, and providing a multifaceted perspective on the Middle East’s geopolitical transformations against a backdrop of deeply rooted traditions and beliefs.

For full text: https://culture-impact.net/narrating-change-the-role-of-cinema-in-the-cultural-discourse-of-the-arab-spring/

Dr. Luc ZwaenepoelThe cultures of geopolitics in Africa.

Synopsis: This essay will research the shape of geopolitics in Africa over many decades. The evolution of colonial geopolitics (occupation) towards the ideas of equal partnership based on budget support and funding

For full text: https://culture-impact.net/the-cultures-of-geopolitics-in-africa-from-colonization-to-equal-partnership/

Prof. Hamid Doost:  A Multidisciplinary Exploration of Culture, Geopolitical Developments, Power Dynamics, and Influence in the Context of the New World Order: A 5th Wave Theory Framework Analysis of 7 Mental Images.

Synopsis: A nuanced understanding of the underlying mechanisms at work becomes imperative in the 21st century, characterized by rapid transformations and the realignment of power structures. This study explores how the 5th Wave Theory framework, a concept acknowledging the historical evolution of human societies through waves of innovation, correlates with the concept of “7 Mental Images,” which encapsulate the cognitive and cultural dimensions of societies. The study posits that comprehending the shifting preferences of individuals and the growing demand for sustainability is pivotal for shaping the future world order.

For full text: https://culture-impact.net/a-multidisciplinary-exploration-of-culture-geopolitical-developments-power-dynamics-and-influence-in-the-context-of-the-new-world-order-a-5th-wave-theory-framework-analysis-of-7-mental-images/

 

Marlond M. Antunez: China’s Today in the Geopolitical Arena.

Synopsis: In this article, the author will argue that China’s actual geopolitical position results from a combination of historical factors, economic reforms, spiritual paths, and global integration. The historical roots and main events that shaped the Chinese mind will be explored; their political configuration, Chinese capitalism, and their social behavior will be explained; and at last, a conclusion will be drafted with a big question: Has China achieved its expansion peak, or we should expect for more?

For full text: https://culture-impact.net/chinas-today-in-the-geopolitical-arena/