http://hdl.handle.net/2451/75722 2026-06-19T05:03:06Z 2026-06-19T05:03:06Z Whitney, Lucy http://hdl.handle.net/2451/75788 2026-06-03T15:25:41Z 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Empowering Ghanaian Youth: Integrating Local Ecological Knowledge in Environmental Education Authors: Whitney, Lucy Abstract: In the face of transboundary environmental crises, moving away from education systems with colonial legacies would empower Ghanaians to lead adaptation and resilience efforts in their communities. Nuanced, culturally relevant, place-based education can fight the entwined threats of climate change, biodiversity loss, and the rise of infectious diseases. This article delves into the environmental education landscape in Ghana, finding that integrating informal, cultural learning with formal curricula is a strong pedagogical strategy. Ghana is the focus because it is a lower-middle-income country whose formal schooling was introduced by the British colonial power. Many other formerly colonized countries face a disproportionate environmental burden, so lessons from Ghana can be helpful elsewhere. This article contributes to the ongoing discourse on preparing the next generation for the new planetary conditions, offering a roadmap for a more integrated, holistic approach that harnesses the strengths of cultural knowledge and communication.

2026-01-01T00:00:00Z Dungan, Skyler http://hdl.handle.net/2451/75783 2026-06-03T15:25:40Z 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Protest in Flames: The Symbolic and Political Power of Self-Immolation, 1963-2024 Authors: Dungan, Skyler Abstract: Self-immolation, the act of lighting oneself on fire as a form of political protest, has a long and complex history across various cultural, religious, and political contexts. This article explores the phenomenon of self-immolation, its symbolic significance, psychological underpinnings, and sociopolitical implications. Through a comparative analysis of case studies from South Vietnam, Tunisia, and the United States from the 1960s until 2024, this article uncovers the relationship between systems of structural violence—war, colonialism, and occupation—and self-immolation. Self-immolation functions as a radical form of communication, challenging authority while raising questions about martyrdom and self-sacrifice. The findings suggest that self-immolation often serves a pivotal role in political change by generating media attention and public discourse.

2026-01-01T00:00:00Z Heitman, Layla http://hdl.handle.net/2451/75785 2026-06-03T15:25:40Z 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: The Politics of Pain: A Comparative Analysis of the Opioid Crisis in the United States and France Authors: Heitman, Layla Abstract: This article addresses the critical question of how the divergent strategies employed by the United States and France have influenced their respective outcomes in combating opioid addiction. Despite the challenge of opioid overuse—a pressing global health crisis that has led to widespread social and personal suffering—the United States and France have pursued markedly different response efforts, leading to noticeable disparities in mortality rates and the overall impact of the crisis. Whereas the United States has escalated its response to a national emergency level, France has approached the issue with a suite of policies and interventions, viewing it as a significant public health concern. By conducting a thorough review of government policies, healthcare system responses, and harm reduction strategies within both contexts, this study argues for the potential benefits of integrating certain aspects of France’s approach into the United States’ strategy to forge a comprehensive and adaptive response to the evolving opioid crisis.

2026-01-01T00:00:00Z Spriggs, Ava http://hdl.handle.net/2451/75787 2026-06-03T15:25:40Z 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Retweets and Regimes: The Legacy of Political Spectacle from Ancient Rome to Modern Day Authors: Spriggs, Ava Abstract: From ancient empires to modern democracies, power has always relied on more than brute force. It requires persuasion. Throughout history, leaders have turned to media in its many forms to shape public perception and build legitimacy. This article explores the use of propaganda through various forms of media in ancient Rome, specifically during the reign of Augustus. Given the expansiveness of the Roman empire, carefully crafted means of influence were needed to control its population. This study highlights how Augustus strategically used propaganda to shape public perception and legitimize his authority. By analyzing the Roman gladiatorial games and coinage, this research reveals how these forms of media were used to instill a collective identity, reinforce political power, and disseminate messages of Roman strength and superiority across the empire. Additionally, this article draws parallels between ancient Roman political strategies and the tactics of modern political figures, with particular attention to how today’s leaders leverage social media in disseminating propaganda.

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