1
|
Hakeem S, Ali Z, Saddique MAB, Habib-Ur-Rahman M, Wiehle M. Dissecting wheat above-ground architecture for enhanced water use efficiency and grain yield in the subtropics. Bot Stud 2024; 65:13. [PMID: 38753196 PMCID: PMC11098988 DOI: 10.1186/s40529-024-00419-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Growing wheat under climate change scenarios challenges, scientists to develop drought and heat-tolerant genotypes. The adaptive traits should therefore be explored and engineered for this purpose. Thus, this study aimed to dissect surface traits and optimizing the leaf architecture to enhance water use efficiency (WUE) and grain yield. Twenty-six wheat genotypes were assessed for five novel leaf traits (NLTs: leaf prickle hairs, groove type, rolling, angle and wettability) under normal, drought and heat conditions following triplicated factorial randomized complete block design (RCBD). The data for NLTs, physiological traits (stomatal conductance, WUE, transpiration, and photosynthesis), and standard morphological and yield traits were recorded. Leaves were sampled at the stem elongation stage (Zadoks 34) to measure the leaf water content (%), contact angle, and to obtain pictures through scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The air moisture harvesting efficiency was evaluated for five selected genotypes. The ideotype concept was applied to evaluate the best-performing genotypes. RESULTS The correlation analysis indicated that long leaf prickle hairs (> 100 μm), short stomatal aperture and density (40-60 mm- 2), inward to spiral leaf rolling, medium leaf indentation, low contact angle hysteresis (< 10°), and cuticular wax were positively associated with WUE. This, in turn, was significantly correlated to grain yield. Thus, the genotypes (E-1) with these traits and alternate leaf wettability had maximum grain yield (502 g m- 2) and WUE supported with high photosynthesis rate, and relative water content (94 and 75% under normal and stress conditions, respectively). However, the genotype (1-hooded) with dense leaf hairs on edges but droopy leaves, spiral leaf rolling, and lighter groove, also performed better in terms of grain yield (450 g m- 2) under heat stress conditions by maintaining high photosynthesis and WUE with low stomatal conductance and transpiration rate. CONCLUSION The SEM analysis verified that the density of hairs on the leaf surface and epicuticular wax contributes towards alternate wettability patterns thereby increasing the water-use efficiency and yield of the wheat plant. This study paves a way towards screening and and developing heat and drought-tolerant cultivars that are water-saving and climate-resilient.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sadia Hakeem
- Institute of Plant Breeding and Biotechnology, MNS University of Agriculture, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Zulfiqar Ali
- Institute of Plant Breeding and Biotechnology, MNS University of Agriculture, Multan, Pakistan.
- Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan.
- Programs and Projects Department, Islamic Organization for Food Security, Mangilik Yel Ave. 55/21 AIFC, Unit 4, C4.2, Astana, Republic of Kazakhstan.
| | | | - Muhammad Habib-Ur-Rahman
- Institute of Plant Breeding and Biotechnology, MNS University of Agriculture, Multan, Pakistan
- Crop Science Group, Institute of Crop Science and Resource Conservation (INRES), University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Martin Wiehle
- Organic Plant Production and Agroecosystems Research in the Tropics and Subtropics, University of Kassel, Steinstrasse 19, Witzenhausen, D-37213, Germany.
- Centre for International Rural Development, University of Kassel, Steinstraße 19, Witzenhausen, D-37213, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Claußen L, Heidelbach T. Resistance exercising on unstable surface leads to Pupil Dilation. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2024; 16:62. [PMID: 38439063 PMCID: PMC10913668 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-024-00858-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic resistance training and acute resistance exercises improve physical performance and can enhance cognitive performance. However, there is still uncertainty about the mechanism(s) responsible for cognitive improvement following resistance training and exercise. Recent findings suggest that resistance exercise has metabolic as well as cognitive demands, which potentially activate similar neural circuitry associated with higher-order cognitive function tasks. Exercising on unstable devices increases the coordinative and metabolic demands and thus may further increase cognitive activation during resistance exercise. The measurement of pupil diameter could provide indications of cognitive activation and arousal during resistance exercise. Pupil dilation is linked to the activity in multiple neuromodulatory systems (e.g., activation of the locus coeruleus and the release of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine (LC-NE system)), which are involved in supporting processes for executive control. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare the cognitive activation measured by pupil diameter during an acute bout of resistance exercise on stable and unstable surfaces. METHODS 18 participants (23.5 ± 1.5 years; 10 females) performed ten kettlebell squats in a preferred repetition velocity in stable and unstable (BOSU® Balance Trainer) ground conditions. Pupil diameter was recorded with eye tracking glasses (SMI ETG) during standing (baseline) and during squatting. Raw pupil data were cleaned of artifacts (missing values were linearly interpolated) and subjected to a subtractive baseline correction. A student t-test was used to compare mean pupil diameter between ground conditions. RESULTS The mean pupil diameter was significantly greater during squats in the unstable condition than in the stable condition, t (17) = -2.63, p =.018, Cohen's dZ = -0.62; stable: 0.49 ± 0.32 mm; unstable: 0.61 ± 0.25 mm). CONCLUSION As indicated by pupil dilation, the use of unstable devices can increase the cognitive activation and effort during acute bouts of resistance exercise. Since pupil dilation is only an indirect method, further investigations are necessary to describe causes and effects of neuromodulatory system activity during resistance exercise. Resistance training with and without surface instability can be recommended to people of all ages as a physically and cognitively challenging training program contributing to the preservation of both physical and cognitive functioning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Claußen
- Institute of Sports and Sport Science, University of Kassel, Kassel, Germany.
| | - Tabea Heidelbach
- Institute of Sports and Sport Science, University of Kassel, Kassel, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Körner A, Strack F. Articulation posture influences pitch during singing imagery. Psychon Bull Rev 2023; 30:2187-2195. [PMID: 37221280 PMCID: PMC10728233 DOI: 10.3758/s13423-023-02306-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Facial muscle activity contributes to singing and to articulation: in articulation, mouth shape can alter vowel identity; and in singing, facial movement correlates with pitch changes. Here, we examine whether mouth posture causally influences pitch during singing imagery. Based on perception-action theories and embodied cognition theories, we predict that mouth posture influences pitch judgments even when no overt utterances are produced. In two experiments (total N = 160), mouth posture was manipulated to resemble the articulation of either /i/ (as in English meet; retracted lips) or /o/ (as in French rose; protruded lips). Holding this mouth posture, participants were instructed to mentally "sing" given songs (which were all positive in valence) while listening with their inner ear and, afterwards, to assess the pitch of their mental chant. As predicted, compared to the o-posture, the i-posture led to higher pitch in mental singing. Thus, bodily states can shape experiential qualities, such as pitch, during imagery. This extends embodied music cognition and demonstrates a new link between language and music.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anita Körner
- Department of Psychology, University of Kassel, Holländische Straße 36-38, 34127, Kassel, Germany.
| | - Fritz Strack
- Department of Psychology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Heitholt U. Veronika Settele 2020: Revolution im Stall. Landwirtschaftliche Tierhaltung in Deutschland und Paul R. Josephson 2020: Chicken. A History from Farmyard to Factory. NTM 2023; 31:461-465. [PMID: 36006453 PMCID: PMC10781832 DOI: 10.1007/s00048-022-00344-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
|
5
|
Jahn HJ, Mayer D, Hollederer A. Health promotion for the unemployed: the evaluation of the JOBS Program Germany from the trainers' perspective. Arch Public Health 2023; 81:199. [PMID: 37978535 PMCID: PMC10657034 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-023-01203-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The JOBS Program Germany is a labor market integrative and health promotion intervention for unemployed people. This study examines JOBS Program Germany trainers' view of (1) the theoretical concept of the JOBS Program, (2) its practical implementation in Germany on-site, (3) its acceptance by participants, and (4) the training effects. The study aimed at identifying potential for adaption allowing adjustments to improve the practical implementation and the training effectiveness. METHODS JOBS Program Germany trainers (two for each training) were interviewed via voluntary survey (computer-assisted web interviews) after each training. RESULTS Fourteen JOBS Program trainings have been conducted and all trainers responded resulting in 28 interviews. 78.5% and 85.7% of the respondents were rather or very satisfied with the theoretical contents and its practical implementation, respectively. Almost all trainers (96.4-100.0%) were satisfied with the on-site coordination, the cooperation with the organizer's employees, the room equipment, the training room size, and the environmental conditions in the training rooms. In 89.3% of all responses the trainers rated the last training a success. However, the trainers also provided valuable suggestions for further improvement in Germany. This concerns the revision of the training manual, the adjustment of the trainer training and the preparation of participants. CONCLUSION Besides the trainers' positive view on the different dimensions of the training content and implementation, their suggestions can help ensure that many unemployed people in Germany could benefit from a continued regular implementation of the JOBS Program Germany in the future. TRIAL REGISTRATION German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS), DRKS00022388. Registered on 20 July, 2020.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heiko J Jahn
- Section of Theory and Empirics of Health, The Faculty of Human Sciences, University of Kassel, Arnold- Bode-Str. 10, 34127, Kassel, Germany
| | - Dennis Mayer
- Section of Theory and Empirics of Health, The Faculty of Human Sciences, University of Kassel, Arnold- Bode-Str. 10, 34127, Kassel, Germany.
| | - Alfons Hollederer
- Section of Theory and Empirics of Health, The Faculty of Human Sciences, University of Kassel, Arnold- Bode-Str. 10, 34127, Kassel, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Spill C, Ditzel L, Gassmann M. Small villages and their sanitary infrastructure-an unnoticed influence on water quantity and a threat to water quality in headwater catchments. Environ Monit Assess 2023; 195:1482. [PMID: 37971672 PMCID: PMC10654200 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-12051-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
In rural catchments, villages often feature their own, separate urban water infrastructure, including combined sewer overflows (CSOs) or wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). These point sources affect the water quantity and quality of the receiving low order streams. However, the extent of this impact is rarely monitored. We installed discharge and water quality measurements at the outlet of two small, neighbouring headwater catchments, one that includes a village, a WWTP, and two CSOs, while the other is predominantly influenced by agricultural activities. We also deployed electrical conductivity (EC) loggers at the CSOs to accurately detect discharge times. Discharge from the WWTP and CSOs led to higher peak flows and runoff coefficients during events. Less dilution of EC and increasing ammonium-N (NH4 - N) and ortho-phosphorus (oPO4 - P) concentrations indicate a significant contribution of poorly treated wastewater from the WWTP. During CSO events, water volumes and nutrient loads were clearly elevated, although concentrations were diluted, except for nitrite-N (NO2 - N) and particulate phosphorus (PP). Baseflow nitrate-N (NO3 - N) concentrations were diluted by the WWTP effluent, which led to considerably lower concentrations compared to the more agriculturally influenced stream. Concentrations of oPO4 - P, NH4 - N, and NO2 - N, which are most likely to originate from the WWTP, vary throughout the year but are always elevated. Our study shows the major and variable impact rural settlements can have on stream hydrology and water quality. Point sources should be monitored more closely to better understand the interaction of natural catchment responses and effects caused by sanitary infrastructure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Spill
- Department of Hydrology and Substance Balance, University of Kassel, Kassel, Germany.
| | - Lukas Ditzel
- Department of Hydrology and Substance Balance, University of Kassel, Kassel, Germany
| | - Matthias Gassmann
- Department of Hydrology and Substance Balance, University of Kassel, Kassel, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Achaa-Amankwaa P, Kushnereva E, Miksch H, Stumme J, Heim S, Ebersbach M. Multilingualism is associated with small task-specific advantages in cognitive performance of older adults. Sci Rep 2023; 13:16912. [PMID: 37805638 PMCID: PMC10560281 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-43961-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The protective effects of multiple language knowledge on the maintenance of cognitive functions in older adults have been discussed controversially, among others, because of methodological inconsistencies between studies. In a sample of N = 528 German monolinguals and multilinguals (speaking two or more languages) older than 60 years, this study examined (1) whether speaking multiple languages is positively related to performance on tasks of interference suppression, working memory, concept shifting, and phonemic and semantic fluency, and (2) whether language proficiency and age of second language acquisition (AoA) are associated with cognitive performance of multilinguals. Controlling for education and daily activity, we found small cognitive benefits of speaking multiple languages on interference suppression, working memory, and phonemic fluency, but not on concept shifting and semantic fluency. Furthermore, no substantive correlations were found between language proficiency or AoA and cognitive performance. In conclusion, multilingualism appears to have small incremental effects on cognitive performance beyond education and daily activity in older age that are task-specific and widely independent of proficiency and AoA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priscilla Achaa-Amankwaa
- Institute of Psychology, University of Kassel, Holländische Strasse 36-38, 34127, Kassel, Germany.
| | - Ekaterina Kushnereva
- Institute of Psychology, University of Kassel, Holländische Strasse 36-38, 34127, Kassel, Germany
| | - Hanna Miksch
- Institute of Psychology, University of Kassel, Holländische Strasse 36-38, 34127, Kassel, Germany
| | - Johanna Stumme
- Institute of Anatomy I, Medical Faculty & University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1), Research Centre Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Stefan Heim
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1), Research Centre Jülich, Jülich, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Mirjam Ebersbach
- Institute of Psychology, University of Kassel, Holländische Strasse 36-38, 34127, Kassel, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Alam MS, Velayudhan SM, Dey DK, Adilieme C, Malik PK, Bhatta R, König S, Schlecht E. Urbanisation threats to dairy cattle health: Insights from Greater Bengaluru, India. Trop Anim Health Prod 2023; 55:350. [PMID: 37796345 PMCID: PMC10556117 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-023-03737-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Complex urbanisation dynamics, on the one hand, create a high demand for animal products, and on the other hand put enormous pressure on arable land with negative consequences for animal feed production. To explore the impact of accelerated urbanisation on dairy cattle health in urban farming systems, 151 farmers from different parts of the Greater Bengaluru metropolitan area in India were individually interviewed on aspects addressing cattle management and cattle health. In addition, 97 samples of forages from the shores of 10 different lakes, and vegetable leftovers used in cattle feeding were collected for nutritional analysis. Along with the use of cultivated forages, crop residues, and concentrate feed, 47% and 77% of the farmers occasionally or frequently used lake fodder and food leftovers, respectively. Nutritionally, lake fodder corresponded to high-quality pasture vegetation, but 43% of the samples contained toxic heavy metals such as arsenic, cadmium, chromium, and lead above official critical threshold levels. Therefore, lake fodder may affect cows' health if consumed regularly; however, heavy metal concentrations varied between lakes (P < 0.05), but not between fodder types (P > 0.05). Although 60% of the interviewed farmers believed that their cows were in good health, logit model applications revealed that insufficient drinking water supply and the use of lake fodder negatively impacted cattle health (P < 0.05). While it remains unknown if regular feeding of lake fodder results in heavy metal accumulation in animal products, farmers and farm advisors must address this and other urbanization-related challenges to protect cattle health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Md Shahin Alam
- Animal Husbandry in the Tropics and Subtropics, University of Kassel and Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Steinstraße 19, 37213, Witzenhausen, Germany
| | | | - Debpriyo Kumar Dey
- ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology (NIANP), Hosur Road, Adugodi, Bengaluru, Karnataka, 560030, India
| | - Chiamaka Adilieme
- Animal Husbandry in the Tropics and Subtropics, University of Kassel and Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Steinstraße 19, 37213, Witzenhausen, Germany
| | - Pradeep Kumar Malik
- ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology (NIANP), Hosur Road, Adugodi, Bengaluru, Karnataka, 560030, India
| | - Raghavendra Bhatta
- ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology (NIANP), Hosur Road, Adugodi, Bengaluru, Karnataka, 560030, India
| | - Sven König
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Gießen, Ludwigstraße 21B, 35390, Gießen, Germany
| | - Eva Schlecht
- Animal Husbandry in the Tropics and Subtropics, University of Kassel and Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Steinstraße 19, 37213, Witzenhausen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sarpe C, Ciobotea ER, Morscher CB, Zielinski B, Braun H, Senftleben A, Rüschoff J, Baumert T. Identification of tumor tissue in thin pathological samples via femtosecond laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy and machine learning. Sci Rep 2023; 13:9250. [PMID: 37291175 PMCID: PMC10250396 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-36155-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
In the treatment of most newly discovered solid cancerous tumors, surgery remains the first treatment option. An important factor in the success of these operations is the precise identification of oncological safety margins to ensure the complete removal of the tumor without affecting much of the neighboring healthy tissue. Here we report on the possibility of applying femtosecond Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) combined with Machine Learning algorithms as an alternative discrimination technique to differentiate cancerous tissue. The emission spectra following the ablation on thin fixed liver and breast postoperative samples were recorded with high spatial resolution; adjacent stained sections served as a reference for tissue identification by classical pathological analysis. In a proof of principle test performed on liver tissue, Artificial Neural Networks and Random Forest algorithms were able to differentiate both healthy and tumor tissue with a very high Classification Accuracy of around 0.95. The ability to identify unknown tissue was performed on breast samples from different patients, also providing a high level of discrimination. Our results show that LIBS with femtosecond lasers is a technique with potential to be used in clinical applications for rapid identification of tissue type in the intraoperative surgical field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristian Sarpe
- Institut für Physik, Universität Kassel, Heinrich-Plett-Str. 40, 34132, Kassel, Germany
| | - Elena Ramela Ciobotea
- Institut für Physik, Universität Kassel, Heinrich-Plett-Str. 40, 34132, Kassel, Germany
| | | | - Bastian Zielinski
- Institut für Physik, Universität Kassel, Heinrich-Plett-Str. 40, 34132, Kassel, Germany
| | - Hendrike Braun
- Institut für Physik, Universität Kassel, Heinrich-Plett-Str. 40, 34132, Kassel, Germany
| | - Arne Senftleben
- Institut für Physik, Universität Kassel, Heinrich-Plett-Str. 40, 34132, Kassel, Germany
| | - Josef Rüschoff
- Institut für Pathologie Nordhessen, Germaniastr. 7, 34119, Kassel, Germany
| | - Thomas Baumert
- Institut für Physik, Universität Kassel, Heinrich-Plett-Str. 40, 34132, Kassel, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Hoffmann EM, Schareika N, Dittrich C, Schlecht E, Sauer D, Buerkert A. Rurbanity: a concept for the interdisciplinary study of rural-urban transformation. Sustain Sci 2023; 18:1-15. [PMID: 37363312 PMCID: PMC10199291 DOI: 10.1007/s11625-023-01331-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Along with climate change, population growth, and overexploitation of natural resources, urbanisation is among the major global challenges of our time. It is a nexus where many of the world's grand challenges intersect, and thus key to sustainable development. The widespread understanding of urbanisation as a successive and unidirectional transformation of landscapes and societies from a rural to an urban state is increasingly questioned. Examples from around the globe show that 'the rural' and 'the urban' are not only highly interdependent, but actually coexist and often merge in the same space or livelihood strategy. Our concept of rurbanity provides an integrated theoretical framework which overcomes the rural-urban divide and can be operationalised for empirical research. Rurbanity is the next stringent step following the gradual widening of previous concepts from urban-centred approaches through the emphasis on urban peripheries to attempts of abolishing any distinction of a rural environment and acknowledging the highly dynamic nature of globalising urbanisation. Building on complex systems theory and assemblage thinking, our concept explores complementary aspects of the distinct epistemic worldviews dominating the natural and social sciences. Within this theoretical frame, we derive four analytical dimensions as entry points for empirical research: Endowments and Place, Flows and Connectivity, Institutions and Behaviour, and Lifestyles and Livelihoods. Two examples illustrate how these dimensions apply, interact, and together lead to a comprehensive, insightful understanding of rurban phenomena. Such understanding can be an effective starting point for assessing potential contributions of rurbanity to long-term global sustainability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellen M. Hoffmann
- Organic Plant Production and Agroecosystems Research in the Tropics and Subtropics, Universität Kassel, Steinstrasse 19, 37213 Witzenhausen, Germany
| | - Nikolaus Schareika
- Social and Cultural Anthropology, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Theaterstrasse 14, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Christoph Dittrich
- Human Geography, Georg-August Universität Göttingen, Goldschmidtstrasse 5, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Eva Schlecht
- Animal Husbandry in the Tropics and Subtropics, Universität Kassel and Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Steinstrasse 19, 37213 Witzenhausen, Germany
| | - Daniela Sauer
- Physical Geography, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Goldschmidtstrasse 5, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Andreas Buerkert
- Organic Plant Production and Agroecosystems Research in the Tropics and Subtropics, Universität Kassel, Steinstrasse 19, 37213 Witzenhausen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Philipp SM, Zander K. Orchard meadows: consumer perception and communication of a traditional agroforestry system in Germany. Agrofor Syst 2023; 97:939-951. [PMID: 37193255 PMCID: PMC10035978 DOI: 10.1007/s10457-023-00840-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Europe has a large variety of historic cultural agroforestry systems which provide numerous ecosystem services. Traditional agroforestry landscapes are characterized by a high level of biodiversity, but they lack an economic basis due to considerable time and financial effort required for cultivation, maintenance, and harvesting. Orchard meadows (OM) are a typical example for agroforestry systems. They combine large fruit trees with undercropping or livestock raising. This study investigates consumer knowledge and preferences for OM products and the possibilities of improved communication to increase consumer demand. Focus groups were conducted with German consumers. The results demonstrate that consumers have a very positive perception of OM juice in terms of taste, local production, health, and environmental benefits. In order to increase the demand for OM juice, communication with consumers needs to be improved by highlighting these positive attributes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophia M. Philipp
- Department of Agricultural and Food Marketing, Faculty of Organic Agricultural Sciences, University of Kassel, Steinstr. 19, 37213 Witzenhausen, Germany
| | - Katrin Zander
- Department of Agricultural and Food Marketing, Faculty of Organic Agricultural Sciences, University of Kassel, Steinstr. 19, 37213 Witzenhausen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Hansen-Heidelk S. Die Berliner Stadtreinigung (BSR) auf dem Weg ins „Neue Normal“ – Eine Fallstudie. Organisationsberat Superv Coach 2022. [PMCID: PMC9672650 DOI: 10.1007/s11613-022-00795-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Die COVID-19-Pandemie war der größte Transformationsbeschleuniger für die Arbeitsorganisation. Die BSR hat in einer repräsentativen Studie 2374 Beschäftigten zu Erfahrungen und Erwartungen mit mobilen Arbeiten (MoA) befragt. Es konnten keine unterschiedlichen Erwartungen bei Beschäftigten verschiedener Verwaltungsbereiche oder unterschiedlicher Altersgruppen nachgewiesen werden. Auch die familiäre Situation führt zu keinen anderen Erwartungen an das MoA. Führungskräfte wünschen sich weniger MoA. Die meisten wollen 2 bis 4 Tage im MoA arbeiten. Es bedarf daher keiner differenzierten Regelungen für unterschiedliche Beschäftigtengruppen für das langfristige Gelingen des mobilen Arbeitens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Hansen-Heidelk
- Institut für Psychologie, Universität Kassel, Holländische Straße 36–38, 34127 Kassel, Deutschland
- BSR, Ringbahnstraße 96, 12103 Berlin, Deutschland
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Dickhaut E, Li MM, Janson A, Leimeister JM. The role of design patterns in the development and legal assessment of lawful technologies. Electron Mark 2022; 32:2311-2331. [PMID: 36285152 PMCID: PMC9584246 DOI: 10.1007/s12525-022-00597-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Novel technologies such as smart personal assistants integrate digital services into everyday life. These services use personal data to offer personalized services. While they are subject to special data protection regulations at the time of development, there are few guidelines describing the transition from legal requirements to implementation. To reduce risks, services depend on external legal assessments. With developers and legal experts often missing either legal or technical knowledge, the challenge lies in bridging this gap. We observe that design patterns support both developers and legal experts, and we present an approach in which design patterns are leveraged to provide twofold value for both developers and legal experts when dealing with novel technologies. We conducted a revelatory case study for smart personal assistants and scaffolded the case interpretation through cognitive fit theory. On the basis of the findings, we develop a theoretical model to explain and predict the twofold value of design patterns to develop and assess lawful technologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mahei Manhai Li
- Information Systems, ITeG, University of Kassel, Kassel, Germany
| | - Andreas Janson
- Institute of Information Management, University of St. Gallen, Müller‑Friedberg‑Strasse 8, 9000 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Jan Marco Leimeister
- Information Systems, ITeG, University of Kassel, Kassel, Germany
- Institute of Information Management, University of St. Gallen, Müller‑Friedberg‑Strasse 8, 9000 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Wolpert F, Quintas-Soriano C, Pulido F, Huntsinger L, Plieninger T. Collaborative agroforestry to mitigate wildfires in Extremadura, Spain: land manager motivations and perceptions of outcomes, benefits, and policy needs. Agrofor Syst 2022; 96:1135-1149. [PMID: 36249598 PMCID: PMC9550154 DOI: 10.1007/s10457-022-00771-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Wildfires are increasing in severity, and magnitude in the Mediterranean Basin in recent years, reaching a yearly average of 450 000 ha over the last decade. Drivers include climate change, land-use change, and land abandonment. Wildfire mitigation requires landscape-level action as impact to each parcel is affected by the conditions of the others. We conducted a case study of a regional-level initiative that develops community efforts to mitigate wildfires through silvo-pastoral agroforestry systems, using an integrated landscape management approach. This approach involves collaboration among stakeholders to achieve multiple objectives. In order to derive insights into its potential, we asked participating land managers: (1) What motivates their participation?, (2) How do they perceive initiative outcomes?, and as urban outmigrants with non-traditional goals are increasing in rural areas, (3) Do responses differ between rural and neo-rural participants? Our results show that managers feel highly affected by wildfires and are strongly motivated to reduce wildfire risk. Land abandonment and inappropriate policy were major concerns. The initiative was seen to have positive outcomes for individual participants as well as the region, and to stimulate community connectedness. We conclude that fit to local contexts, integrated landscape management can be a well-received approach to reducing wildfire risk. Agroforestry systems in Extremadura can act as "productive fuelbreaks" that reduce fire risk over extensive areas, while restoring traditional landscapes. We suggest that programs to reduce wildfire risk can also be used as a leverage point for financing rural revival and provision of multiple ecosystem services. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10457-022-00771-6.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Wolpert
- Faculty of Organic Agricultural Sciences, University of Kassel, Steinstraße 19, 37213 Witzenhausen, Germany
| | - Cristina Quintas-Soriano
- Biology and Geology Department, Andalusian Center for the Assessment and Monitoring of Global Change (CAESCG), University of Almeria, Almería, Spain
| | - Fernando Pulido
- Institute for Dehesa Research (INDEHESA), University of Extremadura, Plasencia, Spain
| | - Lynn Huntsinger
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management (ESPM), University of California, Berkeley, USA
| | - Tobias Plieninger
- Faculty of Organic Agricultural Sciences, University of Kassel, Steinstraße 19, 37213 Witzenhausen, Germany
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, University of Göttingen, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Schullan B. Was unterscheidet Führung in Präsenz vom virtuellen Raum? Organisationsberat Superv Coach 2022. [PMCID: PMC9443621 DOI: 10.1007/s11613-022-00785-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Die Diskussion über Führung in Präsenz und in der virtuellen Welt hat durch die Covid19 bedingte Verlagerung von Arbeitsplätzen in die Homeoffices neuen Schwung aufgenommen. Jedoch muss in die Diskussion miteinfließen, wie und wodurch Führung wirksam wird. Kommunikation auf sachlicher, affektiver und emotionaler Ebene ist das Bindeglied zwischen Führungskraft und Geführten. Aber gerade Kommunikation unterscheidet sich grundlegend in Präsenz und im virtuellen Raum. Das Kommunikationsmodell von Owen Hargie beschreibt detailliert die einzelnen Kommunikationsanteile in verbaler und nonverbaler Kommunikation. Somit können die einzelnen Kommunikationsanteile für die virtuelle, also technische Übertragung einzeln untersucht und bewertet werden.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Schullan
- Institut für Psychologie, Universität Kassel, Holländische Straße 36–38, 34127 Kassel, Deutschland
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Schneijderberg C. Socialism Order of Worth and Analytical Adequacy Axiom. Hum Stud 2022; 45:283-308. [PMID: 35729948 PMCID: PMC9198621 DOI: 10.1007/s10746-022-09629-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Boltanski and Thévenot (On justification. Economies of worth, Princeton University Press, Princeton, 2006) constructed in their seminal work On Justification the Orders of Worth (OW) framework as a research program for further empirical and theoretical development. This article suggests two methodological additions to extend the analytical capacities of the OW framework: The Socialism OW and the analytical adequacy axiom. The polito-philosophical Socialism OW, which acknowledges '(collective) welfare' as its mode of evaluation (worth) and the higher principle of 'solidarity' as its test, is rooted in the political philosophy of Rosanvallon (The society of equals, Harvard University Press, Cambridge, 2013). In addition to the systematic justification of the canonical text, this article also offers a tabular presentation for the construction of a new OW in relation to the axioms. In the article, first, the existing OW are put under scrutiny discussing the test category of solidarity, which was added and creates an analytic overload for the Civic OW. Second, analyzing the case of the German binary statutory health system, comprising of a private (first-class) and a public (second-class) healthcare, the capacities of the existing OW are discussed to identify a blank spot in the OW framework for empirical analysis. Accordingly, the descriptive analysis of the German binary health system is less about how the system is justified, and much more about understanding how given OW operate within it as coordinative devices. This systematic analysis of a situation of (temporary) agreements, especially of investments in forms, amends the OW use for empirical analysis of critique and justification in a situation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Schneijderberg
- International Center for Higher Education Research (INCHER), University of Kassel, Moenchebergstrasse 17, 34109 Kassel, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Hernández-Morcillo M, Torralba M, Baiges T, Bernasconi A, Bottaro G, Brogaard S, Bussola F, Díaz-Varela E, Geneletti D, Grossmann CM, Kister J, Klingler M, Loft L, Lovric M, Mann C, Pipart N, Roces-Díaz JV, Sorge S, Tiebel M, Tyrväinen L, Varela E, Winkel G, Plieninger T. Scanning the solutions for the sustainable supply of forest ecosystem services in Europe. Sustain Sci 2022; 17:2013-2029. [PMID: 35340343 PMCID: PMC8939503 DOI: 10.1007/s11625-022-01111-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Forests are key components of European multifunctional landscapes and supply numerous forest ecosystem services (FES) fundamental to human well-being. The sustainable provision of FES has the potential to provide responses to major societal challenges, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, or rural development. To identify suitable strategies for the future sustenance of FES, we performed a solution scanning exercise with a group of transdisciplinary forest and FES experts from different European regions. We identified and prioritized fifteen major challenges hindering the balanced provision of multiple FES and identified a series of potential solutions to tackle each of them. The most prominent challenges referred to the increased frequency and impacts of extreme weather events and the normative mindset regarding forest management. The respective solutions pointed to the promotion of forest resilience via climate-smart forestry and mainstreaming FES-oriented management through a threefold strategy focusing on education, awareness raising, and networking. In a subsequent survey, most solutions were assessed as highly effective, transferable, monitorable, and with potential for being economically efficient. The implementation of the solutions could have synergistic effects when applying the notion of leverage points. Seven emerging pathways towards the sustainable supply of FES have been identified. These pathways build on each other and are organized based on their potential for transformation: (1) shifting forest management paradigms towards pluralistic ecosystem valuation; (2) using integrated landscape approaches; (3) increasing forest resilience; (4) coordinating actions between forest-related actors; (5) increasing participation in forest planning and management; (6) continuous, open, and transparent knowledge integration; and (7) using incentive-based instruments to support regulating and cultural FES. These pathways can contribute to the implementation of the new EU Forestry Strategy to support the balanced supply of multiple FES. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11625-022-01111-4.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M. Hernández-Morcillo
- Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development, Sustainable Forest Resource Economics, Schicklerstrasse 5, 16225 Eberswalde, Germany
| | - M. Torralba
- Faculty of Organic Agricultural Sciences, University of Kassel, Steinstraße 19, 37213 Witzenhausen, Germany
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, University of Göttingen, Platz der Göttinger Sieben 5, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
| | - T. Baiges
- Centre de Propietat Forestal (CPF), Santa Perpètua de Mogoda, 08130 Barcelona, Spain
| | - A. Bernasconi
- Pan Bern AG, Hirschengraben 24, 3001, Bern, Switzerland
| | - G. Bottaro
- Land Environment Agriculture and Forestry Department (TeSAF), University of Padova, Viale dell’Università 16, Legnaro, 35020 Padova, Italy
| | - S. Brogaard
- Lund University Centre for Sustainability Studies Lund University, Box 170, 221 00 Lund, Sweden
| | - F. Bussola
- Forest Service of the Autonomous Province of Trento, via Trener 3, 38121 Trento, Italy
| | - E. Díaz-Varela
- Research Group COMPASSES-Planning and Management in Social-Ecological Complex Adaptive Systems University of Santiago de Compostela. Campus Universitario, s/n 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | - D. Geneletti
- Department of Civil, Environmental and Mechanical Engineering, University of Trento, via Mesiano 77, Trento, Italy
| | - C. M. Grossmann
- Forest Research Institute Baden-Wuerttemberg (FVA), Wonnhaldestrasse 4, 79100 Freiburg, Germany
| | - J. Kister
- Department of Geography, University of Innsbruck, Innrain 52f, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - M. Klingler
- University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna, Institute for Sustainable Economic Development, Feistmantelstraße 4, 1180 Vienna, Austria
| | - L. Loft
- Working Group Governance of Ecosystem Services, Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research (ZALF), Eberswalder Str. 84, 15374 Müncheberg, Germany
| | - M. Lovric
- European Forest Institute Yliopistokatu 6B, 80100 Joensuu, Finland
| | - C. Mann
- Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development, Sustainable Forest Resource Economics, Schicklerstrasse 5, 16225 Eberswalde, Germany
| | - N. Pipart
- KU Leuven, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences Celestijnenlaan 200E, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - J. V. Roces-Díaz
- Centre for Ecological Research and Forestry Applications (CREAF), 08193 Cerdanyola del Valles, Spain
| | - S. Sorge
- Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development, Sustainable Forest Resource Economics, Schicklerstrasse 5, 16225 Eberswalde, Germany
| | - M. Tiebel
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, University of Göttingen, Platz der Göttinger Sieben 5, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
| | - L. Tyrväinen
- Natural Resources Institute Finland, Latokartanonkaari 9, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - E. Varela
- Forest Science and Technology Centre of Catalonia, Ctra. St. Llorenç de Morunys, 25280 Solsona, Spain
| | - G. Winkel
- Forest and Nature Conservation Policy Group, Wageningen University, Droevendaalsesteeg 3, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - T. Plieninger
- Faculty of Organic Agricultural Sciences, University of Kassel, Steinstraße 19, 37213 Witzenhausen, Germany
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, University of Göttingen, Platz der Göttinger Sieben 5, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Mariss A, Reinhardt N, Schindler S. The Role of Just World Beliefs in Responding to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Soc Justice Res 2022; 35:188-205. [PMID: 35194315 PMCID: PMC8853351 DOI: 10.1007/s11211-022-00388-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated whether people's personal belief in a just world (BJW) is linked to their willingness to physically distance themselves from others during the COVID-19 pandemic. Past research found personal BJW to be positively related to prosocial behavior, justice striving, and lower risk perceptions. If social distancing reflects a concern for others, high personal BJW should predict increased interest in social distancing. If social distancing reflects a concern for one's personal risk, high personal BJW should predict decreased interest in social distancing. Results of a pre-registered internet-based study from Germany (N = 361) indicated that the higher people's personal BJW, the more they generally practiced social distancing. This association still occurred when controlling for empathy, another significant predictor of social distancing. There were no mediation effects of empathy and risk perception. The findings extend knowledge on the correlates of social distancing in the COVID-19 pandemic which could be used to increase compliance among citizens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonia Mariss
- Department of Psychology, University of Kassel, Holländische Straße 36-38, 34127 Kassel, Germany
| | - Nina Reinhardt
- Department of Psychology, University of Kassel, Holländische Straße 36-38, 34127 Kassel, Germany
| | - Simon Schindler
- Department of Psychology, University of Kassel, Holländische Straße 36-38, 34127 Kassel, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Migliore G, Wagner R, Cechella FS, Liébana-Cabanillas F. Antecedents to the Adoption of Mobile Payment in China and Italy: an Integration of UTAUT2 and Innovation Resistance Theory. Inf Syst Front 2022; 24:2099-2122. [PMID: 35095331 PMCID: PMC8783184 DOI: 10.1007/s10796-021-10237-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
This research aims to investigate the adoption gap in mobile payment systems between Italy and China, focusing on users' intention to adopt mobile payment. The theoretical framing considers both drivers and barriers when combines the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology 2 (UTAUT2) with innovation resistance theory (IRT). To empirically verify the proposed model, this study gathers primary data through a web-based, self-administered survey. To analyze the data, we use structural equation modeling, and to test for significant differences between the two groups we run multi-group analysis. The respondents in Italy and China present different behaviors. Social influence plays a significant role in cultures with high uncertainty avoidance, such as Italy. The tradition barrier is the only significant barrier to the adoption of mobile payment.
Collapse
|
20
|
Michelini F. Neither vitalist nor mechanist, neither dualist nor idealist: Plessner's third way : Essay review of Helmuth Plessner, Levels of Organic Life and the Human: an Introduction to Philosophical Anthropology, New York: Fordham University Press, 2019. Hist Philos Life Sci 2021; 43:71. [PMID: 34019176 PMCID: PMC8139876 DOI: 10.1007/s40656-021-00421-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Michelini
- Institut Für Philosophie, Universität Kassel, Henschelstr. 2, Room 2143, 34127, Kassel, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Voigt A. How political philosophies can help to discuss and differentiate theories in community ecology. Hist Philos Life Sci 2021; 43:54. [PMID: 33835286 PMCID: PMC8035098 DOI: 10.1007/s40656-021-00401-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This paper uses structural analogies to competing political philosophies of human society as a heuristic tool to differentiate between ecological theories and to bring out new aspects of apparently well-known classics of ecological scholarship. These two different areas of knowledge have in common that their objects are 'societies', i.e. units composed of individuals, and that contradictory and competing theories about these supra-individual units exist. The benefit of discussing ecological theories in terms of their analogies to political philosophies, in this case liberalism, democratism and conservatism, consists in the fact that political philosophies show clear differences and particularities as regards their approach to the concepts of individuality and intentional action. The method therefore helps to expose peculiarities of ecological theories that are usually considered canonical (e.g. Clements, Gleason), as well as hybrid forms (E. P. Odum), and to differentiate between two different types of theories about functional wholes. The basis of this method is the constitutional-theoretical premise that modern paradigms of socialization structure the ecological discourse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annette Voigt
- Group of Open Space Development, Department of Architecture, Urban and Landscape Planning, University of Kassel, Kassel, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|