Hidden presences in the spirituality of the amaXhosa of the Eastern Cape and the impact of Christianity on them
- Authors: Mtuze, P T
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Spirituality -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Xhosa (African people) -- Religion , Missions -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Missionaries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Christianity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- History , Christianity and culture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTh
- Identifier: vital:1296 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015612
- Description: This thesis is an attempt to reopen the debate on the whole question of inculturation in Southern Africa especially in light of the fact that we are now in a multi-lingual and multi-religious state. It is an attempt to rehighlight the plight of the spirituality of the amaXhosa people over the last century when missionary and imperial onslaught relegated it to the doldrums. This plunged the amaXhosa in a crisis that has left them directionless, to put it mildly. This is said because the total onslaught destroyed their self-respect and their identity and begs the question as to whether their acceptability to God was contingent on renouncing their culture especially the hidden presences - Qamata, the living-dead and the notion of evil spirits. It is precisely because of these misconceptions regarding African culture and spirituality that the thesis has a strong expository and apologetic bias primarily aimed to address, and put into proper perspective, the significance of the Supreme Being, the living-dead and the evil spirits in African culture. The issues are discussed within the broader socio-historical context. The thesis is basically comparative in that it uses Celtic spirituality and the approach of the early Celtic church to the question of inculturation as its point of departure and as a foil against which the preposterous actions of the church in Africa should be seen. This comparative element is also reflected in the unmistakable `dichotomy’ of Western religion and African spirituality, or better still, lack of spirituality, that was so fervently maintained by the missionaries and the colonialists alike. It is for this reason that I concur with Chidester (1996:xiv) that `the study of religion must find itself, once again, on the frontier’. The study is informed by this approach right through. It should be stressed, from the outset, that the idea is not comparison in order to satisfy our curiosity, nor is it comparison in order to try to authenticate and vindicate the beleaguered African culture. The central idea of the study is to expose the absurdity of the policies of the past century in this regard. The myth of the pure blooded Christianity is confronted, if not exploded. Several examples of both inculturation and continuities between Christianity and other faiths such as the Jewish founding faith are given. The subtheme of cultural domination subtly spans the whole study culminating in Chapter Four where the blacks begin to appropriate some of the Christian symbols and the whites also begin to assimilate African concepts such as ubuntu.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
- Authors: Mtuze, P T
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Spirituality -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Xhosa (African people) -- Religion , Missions -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Missionaries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Christianity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- History , Christianity and culture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTh
- Identifier: vital:1296 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015612
- Description: This thesis is an attempt to reopen the debate on the whole question of inculturation in Southern Africa especially in light of the fact that we are now in a multi-lingual and multi-religious state. It is an attempt to rehighlight the plight of the spirituality of the amaXhosa people over the last century when missionary and imperial onslaught relegated it to the doldrums. This plunged the amaXhosa in a crisis that has left them directionless, to put it mildly. This is said because the total onslaught destroyed their self-respect and their identity and begs the question as to whether their acceptability to God was contingent on renouncing their culture especially the hidden presences - Qamata, the living-dead and the notion of evil spirits. It is precisely because of these misconceptions regarding African culture and spirituality that the thesis has a strong expository and apologetic bias primarily aimed to address, and put into proper perspective, the significance of the Supreme Being, the living-dead and the evil spirits in African culture. The issues are discussed within the broader socio-historical context. The thesis is basically comparative in that it uses Celtic spirituality and the approach of the early Celtic church to the question of inculturation as its point of departure and as a foil against which the preposterous actions of the church in Africa should be seen. This comparative element is also reflected in the unmistakable `dichotomy’ of Western religion and African spirituality, or better still, lack of spirituality, that was so fervently maintained by the missionaries and the colonialists alike. It is for this reason that I concur with Chidester (1996:xiv) that `the study of religion must find itself, once again, on the frontier’. The study is informed by this approach right through. It should be stressed, from the outset, that the idea is not comparison in order to satisfy our curiosity, nor is it comparison in order to try to authenticate and vindicate the beleaguered African culture. The central idea of the study is to expose the absurdity of the policies of the past century in this regard. The myth of the pure blooded Christianity is confronted, if not exploded. Several examples of both inculturation and continuities between Christianity and other faiths such as the Jewish founding faith are given. The subtheme of cultural domination subtly spans the whole study culminating in Chapter Four where the blacks begin to appropriate some of the Christian symbols and the whites also begin to assimilate African concepts such as ubuntu.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
A new role for the non-aligned movement in a post-cold war era
- Authors: Chetty, Mahesh
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Non-Aligned Movement , Nonalignment , Nonalignment -- Developing countries , International police
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2767 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002977 , Non-Aligned Movement , Nonalignment , Nonalignment -- Developing countries , International police
- Description: With the disappearance of the superpower conflict that characterised the Cold War era, many observers have begun to question whether the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) has a role to play in the post Cold War era. However the emergence of a number of issues on the international agenda, such as United Nations peacekeeping operations, global environmental issues and an increasing unwillingness on the part of the major economic powers to abide by GATT/WTO rules, have increasingly become of concern to non-aligned states. However whilst the United States has recognised that these issues require leadership in dealing with them, it has not been willing to supply that leadership. It shall therefore be argued that the changing nature of hegemony in world politics has set conditions that allow non-aligned middle powers and institutions greater scope for action and influence. The emergence of these issues has provided a scope for non-aligned middle powers, acting in accordance with their interests to play alternate leadership roles within an expanded scope for institutions, such as organisations, regimes and multilateralism, in addressing the interests of non-aligned states. Firstly in looking at an expanded role for organisations, the United States has increasingly been unwilling to play a leadership role within UN peacekeeping operations. The continuing importance of the neutrality of UN peacekeeping operations has provided a scope for nonaligned middle powers to play a burden-sharing role with the great powers in addressing the concerns of non-aligned states with regard to these operations. Secondly in looking at an expanded scope for regimes, the emergence of a regime in the issue of ozone depletion may provide a foundation to analyse how non-aligned middle powers may play a bridge-building role between North and South in the issue of climate change. Middle powers could therefore play this role in the absence of United States leadership within this issue. Thirdly, the role of the Cairns Group within the Uruguay Round in addressing non-aligned states’ interests of maintaining stable agricultural trade, can be seen as a model of small group multilateralism in bridging the divide between the major powers in issue specific areas.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
- Authors: Chetty, Mahesh
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Non-Aligned Movement , Nonalignment , Nonalignment -- Developing countries , International police
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2767 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002977 , Non-Aligned Movement , Nonalignment , Nonalignment -- Developing countries , International police
- Description: With the disappearance of the superpower conflict that characterised the Cold War era, many observers have begun to question whether the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) has a role to play in the post Cold War era. However the emergence of a number of issues on the international agenda, such as United Nations peacekeeping operations, global environmental issues and an increasing unwillingness on the part of the major economic powers to abide by GATT/WTO rules, have increasingly become of concern to non-aligned states. However whilst the United States has recognised that these issues require leadership in dealing with them, it has not been willing to supply that leadership. It shall therefore be argued that the changing nature of hegemony in world politics has set conditions that allow non-aligned middle powers and institutions greater scope for action and influence. The emergence of these issues has provided a scope for non-aligned middle powers, acting in accordance with their interests to play alternate leadership roles within an expanded scope for institutions, such as organisations, regimes and multilateralism, in addressing the interests of non-aligned states. Firstly in looking at an expanded role for organisations, the United States has increasingly been unwilling to play a leadership role within UN peacekeeping operations. The continuing importance of the neutrality of UN peacekeeping operations has provided a scope for nonaligned middle powers to play a burden-sharing role with the great powers in addressing the concerns of non-aligned states with regard to these operations. Secondly in looking at an expanded scope for regimes, the emergence of a regime in the issue of ozone depletion may provide a foundation to analyse how non-aligned middle powers may play a bridge-building role between North and South in the issue of climate change. Middle powers could therefore play this role in the absence of United States leadership within this issue. Thirdly, the role of the Cairns Group within the Uruguay Round in addressing non-aligned states’ interests of maintaining stable agricultural trade, can be seen as a model of small group multilateralism in bridging the divide between the major powers in issue specific areas.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
The economic implications of trade policy reform in South Africa for the automotive industry in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Onyango, Donald Otieno
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , South Africa -- Commercial policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:936 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002669 , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , South Africa -- Commercial policy
- Description: South Africa is no longer a pariah state and has been fully integrated into the global family of nations. With the country’s accession to multilateral agreements like the World Trade Organization (WTO), there has been pressure on the government to abandon its hitherto protectionist trade regime in favour of free and fair trade. Trade liberalisation has had profound implications for the country’s manufacturing sector in general, and the automotive industry in particular, which has seen tariff protection radically slashed and import restrictions greatly eased. Not only has the market share of domestic producers fallen, but increases in exports have to date not matched those of imports. As a result there has been a deterioration in the sector’s balance of trade and a reduction in employment levels, at a time when the country desperately needs to create new jobs. Recent developments, however, suggest that this scenario may be set to change. The thesis applies orthodox neoclassical and heterodox approaches to trade policy to an assessment of the likely economic impact of trade liberalisation on the automotive industry in the Eastern Cape, and by extension nationally. The thesis argues that reliance on orthodox trade theory to inform the direction of trade policy, especially in a developing country context, is unlikely to bring about an adequate increase in the level of exports and employment. This is because liberalisation of the import regime is likely to increase import levels without necessarily stimulating export levels, a scenario which serves to negate the presupposed benefits of liberalisation. The study uses information from surveys conducted on both motor vehicle assemblers and component manufacturing firms to investigate the effect of trade liberalisation on the sector in the Province and finds that, by and large, the motor assemblers have not fared as badly as expected and have in fact positioned themselves to export more vehicles and components. The components sector has had to contend with increased competition from cheaper imports. The thesis, while acknowledging that, as far as possible, free trade is an optimal position, nonetheless argues that governments still have an important role to play in the promotion of industrialisation. The scope of government intervention should, however, be limited to selective interventions which are aimed at counteracting market failure and facilitating innovation and the diffusion of technological know-how. The thesis argues that institution of supply side measures, such as the encouragement of research and development (R&D), skills development and industrial training, is necessary for sustained growth in the manufacturing sector to be realised. The thesis also finds that, contrary to expectations, the liberalisation of the automotive sector has not had the desired effects. Despite an increase in the value of automotive exports and an overall trend towards reduced net foreign exchange usage, employment levels are on the decline. The thesis also finds that without major export initiatives by both motor vehicle assemblers and component manufacturers, the future of the industry will be placed in jeopardy, especially with reduced protection and incentives.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
- Authors: Onyango, Donald Otieno
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , South Africa -- Commercial policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:936 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002669 , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , South Africa -- Commercial policy
- Description: South Africa is no longer a pariah state and has been fully integrated into the global family of nations. With the country’s accession to multilateral agreements like the World Trade Organization (WTO), there has been pressure on the government to abandon its hitherto protectionist trade regime in favour of free and fair trade. Trade liberalisation has had profound implications for the country’s manufacturing sector in general, and the automotive industry in particular, which has seen tariff protection radically slashed and import restrictions greatly eased. Not only has the market share of domestic producers fallen, but increases in exports have to date not matched those of imports. As a result there has been a deterioration in the sector’s balance of trade and a reduction in employment levels, at a time when the country desperately needs to create new jobs. Recent developments, however, suggest that this scenario may be set to change. The thesis applies orthodox neoclassical and heterodox approaches to trade policy to an assessment of the likely economic impact of trade liberalisation on the automotive industry in the Eastern Cape, and by extension nationally. The thesis argues that reliance on orthodox trade theory to inform the direction of trade policy, especially in a developing country context, is unlikely to bring about an adequate increase in the level of exports and employment. This is because liberalisation of the import regime is likely to increase import levels without necessarily stimulating export levels, a scenario which serves to negate the presupposed benefits of liberalisation. The study uses information from surveys conducted on both motor vehicle assemblers and component manufacturing firms to investigate the effect of trade liberalisation on the sector in the Province and finds that, by and large, the motor assemblers have not fared as badly as expected and have in fact positioned themselves to export more vehicles and components. The components sector has had to contend with increased competition from cheaper imports. The thesis, while acknowledging that, as far as possible, free trade is an optimal position, nonetheless argues that governments still have an important role to play in the promotion of industrialisation. The scope of government intervention should, however, be limited to selective interventions which are aimed at counteracting market failure and facilitating innovation and the diffusion of technological know-how. The thesis argues that institution of supply side measures, such as the encouragement of research and development (R&D), skills development and industrial training, is necessary for sustained growth in the manufacturing sector to be realised. The thesis also finds that, contrary to expectations, the liberalisation of the automotive sector has not had the desired effects. Despite an increase in the value of automotive exports and an overall trend towards reduced net foreign exchange usage, employment levels are on the decline. The thesis also finds that without major export initiatives by both motor vehicle assemblers and component manufacturers, the future of the industry will be placed in jeopardy, especially with reduced protection and incentives.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
The representation of "South Africanness" in the locally produced television production, Generations
- Authors: Dentlinger, Lindsay
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Television soap operas -- South Africa , National characteristics, South African, In Literature
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3425 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002878 , Television soap operas -- South Africa , National characteristics, South African, In Literature
- Description: The aim of this study is to analyse selected episodes of the locally produced television programme Generations, in order to identify specific ways in which the programme seeks to forge a South African identity, and in so doing, 'flag' our nationhood as South Africans. These elements of 'South Africanness' are broadly defined as connections to a South African way of life, context, values and experiences. Generations is a programme produced under South African broadcasting local content provisions. These provisions arise out of the need, inter alia, to reflect the identity and multi-cultural nature of South Africa in order to foster 'national identity' and 'national culture'. These elements of 'South Africanness' are extracted through a genre and ideological analysis of selected sample episodes, taking into consideration the theoretical frameworks of the politics of representation and identity. The production context of, and representations made, in Generations, are found to be situated largely within the context of the South African discourses of the ‘rainbow nation', 'African renaissance' and 'black economic empowerment'. The analysis concludes that through the various categories of representations of 'South Africanness' in the selected episodes of Generations, specific instances of identity, that of national culture and national identity are formed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
The representation of "South Africanness" in the locally produced television production, Generations
- Authors: Dentlinger, Lindsay
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Television soap operas -- South Africa , National characteristics, South African, In Literature
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3425 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002878 , Television soap operas -- South Africa , National characteristics, South African, In Literature
- Description: The aim of this study is to analyse selected episodes of the locally produced television programme Generations, in order to identify specific ways in which the programme seeks to forge a South African identity, and in so doing, 'flag' our nationhood as South Africans. These elements of 'South Africanness' are broadly defined as connections to a South African way of life, context, values and experiences. Generations is a programme produced under South African broadcasting local content provisions. These provisions arise out of the need, inter alia, to reflect the identity and multi-cultural nature of South Africa in order to foster 'national identity' and 'national culture'. These elements of 'South Africanness' are extracted through a genre and ideological analysis of selected sample episodes, taking into consideration the theoretical frameworks of the politics of representation and identity. The production context of, and representations made, in Generations, are found to be situated largely within the context of the South African discourses of the ‘rainbow nation', 'African renaissance' and 'black economic empowerment'. The analysis concludes that through the various categories of representations of 'South Africanness' in the selected episodes of Generations, specific instances of identity, that of national culture and national identity are formed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
South Africa's growth, employment and redistribution strategy in the context of structural adjustment programmes in the South
- Authors: Lehloesa, Thembinkosi L
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Growth, Employment And Redistribution Programme (South Africa) , South Africa -- Economic policy , South Africa -- Politics and government -- 1989-1994
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2794 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003004 , Growth, Employment And Redistribution Programme (South Africa) , South Africa -- Economic policy , South Africa -- Politics and government -- 1989-1994
- Description: This study is a contribution to the ongoing debate concerning the future of South Africa’s macro-economic policy known as the Growth, Employment and Redistribution (GEAR) strategy. The study attempts to draw parallels between the GEAR macro-economic policy framework and structural adjustment programmes in the South. By making use of this comparison, the study argues that the outcome of the GEAR will be no different from structural adjustment programmes in that it will fail to reduce poverty and cause government to meet the basic needs of the people. These conclusions are drawn from the fact that the GEAR policy is premised on the faith that the market is capable of redistributing income and wealth, and providing people with their basic needs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
- Authors: Lehloesa, Thembinkosi L
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Growth, Employment And Redistribution Programme (South Africa) , South Africa -- Economic policy , South Africa -- Politics and government -- 1989-1994
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2794 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003004 , Growth, Employment And Redistribution Programme (South Africa) , South Africa -- Economic policy , South Africa -- Politics and government -- 1989-1994
- Description: This study is a contribution to the ongoing debate concerning the future of South Africa’s macro-economic policy known as the Growth, Employment and Redistribution (GEAR) strategy. The study attempts to draw parallels between the GEAR macro-economic policy framework and structural adjustment programmes in the South. By making use of this comparison, the study argues that the outcome of the GEAR will be no different from structural adjustment programmes in that it will fail to reduce poverty and cause government to meet the basic needs of the people. These conclusions are drawn from the fact that the GEAR policy is premised on the faith that the market is capable of redistributing income and wealth, and providing people with their basic needs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
The interpretation of ABET placement tests in the recognition of prior learning
- Authors: Blunt, Sandra Viki
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: English language -- Ability testing , English language -- Study and teaching -- Foreign speakers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:1582 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003464
- Description: This thesis analyses the way in which placement testing is being interpreted in Adult Basic Education and Training (ABET). The thesis examines whether the placement tests used in the case study were valid in terms of whether their contents were relevant and authentic with regard to what English second language speakers could reasonably be expected to know. Adult learners have differing English second language knowledge depending on the different contexts in which they have learned their second language. This thesis investigates the implications of the different contexts and different language needs of adult learners for the testing of English as a second language for placement purposes in ABET programmes. The thesis examined two placement tests to determine how the recognition of prior second language learning was being interpreted and how the interpretation affected the validity of the tests. Learners= perceptions of the assessment process and test content were elicited in order to determine whether a policy of transparency had been followed in the implementation of the assessment. It was also established what the goals of the organisation were in implementing an ABET programme. This research suggests that placement testing should be viewed holistically; in other words, the goals of the organisation and the level of transparency affect the validity of the placement test. The conclusions were that the placement tests were inauthentic since their contents excluded certain vital aspects of real life performance, namely, that related to the work context. The research revealed that if the placement testing process and the ABET programme are integrated into the culture of the organisation and if employees are remunerated when they have passed the different levels in the programme, the programme is likely to achieve a fair measure of success. Recommendations are that literacy should be viewed as based on a variety of contexts and uses and that therefore tests should be tailored to suit each particular organisation and should contain workrelated content. Furthermore, multiple methods of assessment should be considered.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
- Authors: Blunt, Sandra Viki
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: English language -- Ability testing , English language -- Study and teaching -- Foreign speakers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:1582 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003464
- Description: This thesis analyses the way in which placement testing is being interpreted in Adult Basic Education and Training (ABET). The thesis examines whether the placement tests used in the case study were valid in terms of whether their contents were relevant and authentic with regard to what English second language speakers could reasonably be expected to know. Adult learners have differing English second language knowledge depending on the different contexts in which they have learned their second language. This thesis investigates the implications of the different contexts and different language needs of adult learners for the testing of English as a second language for placement purposes in ABET programmes. The thesis examined two placement tests to determine how the recognition of prior second language learning was being interpreted and how the interpretation affected the validity of the tests. Learners= perceptions of the assessment process and test content were elicited in order to determine whether a policy of transparency had been followed in the implementation of the assessment. It was also established what the goals of the organisation were in implementing an ABET programme. This research suggests that placement testing should be viewed holistically; in other words, the goals of the organisation and the level of transparency affect the validity of the placement test. The conclusions were that the placement tests were inauthentic since their contents excluded certain vital aspects of real life performance, namely, that related to the work context. The research revealed that if the placement testing process and the ABET programme are integrated into the culture of the organisation and if employees are remunerated when they have passed the different levels in the programme, the programme is likely to achieve a fair measure of success. Recommendations are that literacy should be viewed as based on a variety of contexts and uses and that therefore tests should be tailored to suit each particular organisation and should contain workrelated content. Furthermore, multiple methods of assessment should be considered.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
Desert
- Authors: Harper, Sean Julian
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Rawls, John, 1921-2002 , Rawls, John, 1921-2002 Theory of justice , Ethics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2710 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002840 , Rawls, John, 1921-2002 , Rawls, John, 1921-2002 Theory of justice , Ethics
- Description: This thesis examines the idea of desert as expounded in the work of John Rawls, and some of the implications of this conception of desert for moral and political philosophy. In this work, I analyse a series of arguments against retaining this particular conception of desert.I argue that none of these arguments sufficiently diminishes the force of Rawls’ argument for desert, while many of them do state, and I argue that they are correct in doing so, that this conception of desert is dangerous for political or moral philosophy to maintain. I argue that the moral, political and legal implications of accepting this account of desert severely undermine various institutions of differential treatment, and indeed, moral assessment. I regard it as obvious that societies must, on occasion, treat members of those societies differently, for moral, as well as practical reasons. The Rawlsian account of desert, and the account of responsibility on which it rests, however, will endanger the legitimacy of such procedures. I argue further that the Rawlsian account of desert requires that differences in wealth, and inheritance of wealth, influence and privilege be diminished, if not abolished, if we are to talk of any form of desert meaningfully. I argue that this is a strength of Rawls’ account, and further that any account of desert that is true to the philosophical tradition of the concept will require similar steps to be taken. The primary aim of this thesis is to show that Rawls’ arguments against desert are serious ones, both in terms of strength and scope, and that they must be addressed. I intend to show that these arguments are founded on strong moral intuitions, and that it is plausible that these intuitions may need revision. Finally,I intend to show that desert is an important moral and political concept, and that the disciplines of moral and political philosophy will be impoverished by the absence this concept. This absence, I will argue, is a natural consequence of the acceptance of the Rawlsian arguments.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
- Authors: Harper, Sean Julian
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Rawls, John, 1921-2002 , Rawls, John, 1921-2002 Theory of justice , Ethics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2710 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002840 , Rawls, John, 1921-2002 , Rawls, John, 1921-2002 Theory of justice , Ethics
- Description: This thesis examines the idea of desert as expounded in the work of John Rawls, and some of the implications of this conception of desert for moral and political philosophy. In this work, I analyse a series of arguments against retaining this particular conception of desert.I argue that none of these arguments sufficiently diminishes the force of Rawls’ argument for desert, while many of them do state, and I argue that they are correct in doing so, that this conception of desert is dangerous for political or moral philosophy to maintain. I argue that the moral, political and legal implications of accepting this account of desert severely undermine various institutions of differential treatment, and indeed, moral assessment. I regard it as obvious that societies must, on occasion, treat members of those societies differently, for moral, as well as practical reasons. The Rawlsian account of desert, and the account of responsibility on which it rests, however, will endanger the legitimacy of such procedures. I argue further that the Rawlsian account of desert requires that differences in wealth, and inheritance of wealth, influence and privilege be diminished, if not abolished, if we are to talk of any form of desert meaningfully. I argue that this is a strength of Rawls’ account, and further that any account of desert that is true to the philosophical tradition of the concept will require similar steps to be taken. The primary aim of this thesis is to show that Rawls’ arguments against desert are serious ones, both in terms of strength and scope, and that they must be addressed. I intend to show that these arguments are founded on strong moral intuitions, and that it is plausible that these intuitions may need revision. Finally,I intend to show that desert is an important moral and political concept, and that the disciplines of moral and political philosophy will be impoverished by the absence this concept. This absence, I will argue, is a natural consequence of the acceptance of the Rawlsian arguments.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
Designing and implementing a virtual reality interaction framework
- Authors: Rorke, Michael
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Virtual reality , Computer simulation , Human-computer interaction , Computer graphics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4623 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006491 , Virtual reality , Computer simulation , Human-computer interaction , Computer graphics
- Description: Virtual Reality offers the possibility for humans to interact in a more natural way with the computer and its applications. Currently, Virtual Reality is used mainly in the field of visualisation where 3D graphics allow users to more easily view complex sets of data or structures. The field of interaction in Virtual Reality has been largely neglected due mainly to problems with input devices and equipment costs. Recent research has aimed to overcome these interaction problems, thereby creating a usable interaction platform for Virtual Reality. This thesis presents a background into the field of interaction in Virtual Reality. It goes on to propose a generic framework for the implementation of common interaction techniques into a homogeneous application development environment. This framework adds a new layer to the standard Virtual Reality toolkit – the interaction abstraction layer, or interactor layer. This separation is in line with current HCI practices. The interactor layer is further divided into specific sections – input component, interaction component, system component, intermediaries, entities and widgets. Each of these performs a specific function, with clearly defined interfaces between the different components to promote easy objectoriented implementation of the framework. The validity of the framework is shown in comparison with accepted taxonomies in the area of Virtual Reality interaction. Thus demonstrating that the framework covers all the relevant factors involved in the field. Furthermore, the thesis describes an implementation of this framework. The implementation was completed using the Rhodes University CoRgi Virtual Reality toolkit. Several postgraduate students in the Rhodes University Computer Science Department utilised the framework implementation to develop a set of case studies. These case studies demonstrate the practical use of the framework to create useful Virtual Reality applications, as well as demonstrating the generic nature of the framework and its extensibility to be able to handle new interaction techniques. Finally, the generic nature of the framework is further demonstrated by moving it from the standard CoRgi Virtual Reality toolkit, to a distributed version of this toolkit. The distributed implementation of the framework utilises the Common Object Request Broker Architecture (CORBA) to implement the distribution of the objects in the system. Using this distributed implementation, we are able to ascertain that CORBA is useful in the field of distributed real-time Virtual Reality, even taking into account the extra overhead introduced by the additional abstraction layer. We conclude from this thesis that it is important to abstract the interaction layer from the other layers of a Virtual Reality toolkit in order to provide a consistent interface to developers. We have shown that our framework is implementable and useful in the field, making it easier for developers to include interaction in their Virtual Reality applications. Our framework is able to handle all the current aspects of interaction in Virtual Reality, as well as being general enough to implement future interaction techniques. The framework is also applicable to different Virtual Reality toolkits and development platforms, making it ideal for developing general, cross-platform interactive Virtual Reality applications.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
- Authors: Rorke, Michael
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Virtual reality , Computer simulation , Human-computer interaction , Computer graphics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4623 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006491 , Virtual reality , Computer simulation , Human-computer interaction , Computer graphics
- Description: Virtual Reality offers the possibility for humans to interact in a more natural way with the computer and its applications. Currently, Virtual Reality is used mainly in the field of visualisation where 3D graphics allow users to more easily view complex sets of data or structures. The field of interaction in Virtual Reality has been largely neglected due mainly to problems with input devices and equipment costs. Recent research has aimed to overcome these interaction problems, thereby creating a usable interaction platform for Virtual Reality. This thesis presents a background into the field of interaction in Virtual Reality. It goes on to propose a generic framework for the implementation of common interaction techniques into a homogeneous application development environment. This framework adds a new layer to the standard Virtual Reality toolkit – the interaction abstraction layer, or interactor layer. This separation is in line with current HCI practices. The interactor layer is further divided into specific sections – input component, interaction component, system component, intermediaries, entities and widgets. Each of these performs a specific function, with clearly defined interfaces between the different components to promote easy objectoriented implementation of the framework. The validity of the framework is shown in comparison with accepted taxonomies in the area of Virtual Reality interaction. Thus demonstrating that the framework covers all the relevant factors involved in the field. Furthermore, the thesis describes an implementation of this framework. The implementation was completed using the Rhodes University CoRgi Virtual Reality toolkit. Several postgraduate students in the Rhodes University Computer Science Department utilised the framework implementation to develop a set of case studies. These case studies demonstrate the practical use of the framework to create useful Virtual Reality applications, as well as demonstrating the generic nature of the framework and its extensibility to be able to handle new interaction techniques. Finally, the generic nature of the framework is further demonstrated by moving it from the standard CoRgi Virtual Reality toolkit, to a distributed version of this toolkit. The distributed implementation of the framework utilises the Common Object Request Broker Architecture (CORBA) to implement the distribution of the objects in the system. Using this distributed implementation, we are able to ascertain that CORBA is useful in the field of distributed real-time Virtual Reality, even taking into account the extra overhead introduced by the additional abstraction layer. We conclude from this thesis that it is important to abstract the interaction layer from the other layers of a Virtual Reality toolkit in order to provide a consistent interface to developers. We have shown that our framework is implementable and useful in the field, making it easier for developers to include interaction in their Virtual Reality applications. Our framework is able to handle all the current aspects of interaction in Virtual Reality, as well as being general enough to implement future interaction techniques. The framework is also applicable to different Virtual Reality toolkits and development platforms, making it ideal for developing general, cross-platform interactive Virtual Reality applications.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
Strike comparison of the compositional variations of the lower group and middle group chromitite seams of the critical zone, Western Bushveld complex
- Authors: Doig, Heather Leslie
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Chromite -- South Africa , Geology -- South Africa , Mineralogy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5005 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005618
- Description: The variations in the composition, specifically the Cr20 S content and the Cr:Fe ratio, and the morphology of the Lower Group (LG) and Middle Group (MG) chromitite seams of the Critical Zone (CZ) across the western Bushveld Complex, including the Ruighoek and Brits sections, is investigated by means of whole-rock chemical data, both major and trace elements analysis, XRD and electron microprobe data. As a result ofthe paucity of exposed or developed LG1 - LG5 chromitite seams in the western Bushveld Complex, this study is confined to the investigation of the compositional variations of the LG6 to MG4 chromitite seams. In only one section, the Ruighoek section, was the entire succession of chromitite seams, from the LG1 - MG4, exposed. The silicate host rocks from the LG6 pyroxenite footwall to the collar of the CC2 drillcore (lower uCZ) in the Rustenburg section were sampled. This study reviews the compositional trends of the silicate host rocks, as the compositional variations of the chromitite seams reflect the chemical evolution of the host cumulate environment and, to a lesser degree, the composition onhe interstitial mineral phases in the chromitite seams. The compositional variations of the LG and MG chromitite seams are attributed to the compositional contrast between the replenishing magma and the resident magma. The chemical trends of the LG and MG chromitite layers and the host cumUlate rOCKS do not support the existence of two compositionalfy dissimilar magmas in the CZ, rather the cyclic layering of the CZ and the chemical variations of the chromitite seams are attributed to the mixing of primitive magma with the resident magma, both of which have essentially similar compositions. The compositional variations of the LG and MG chromitite seams along strike away from the supposed feeder site (Union section) to the distal facies (Brits section) are attributed to the advanced compositional contrast between the resident magma and the replenishing primitive magma pulses. The CZ is characterized by reversals in fractionation trends and this is attributed to the compositional evolution of the parental magma and not to the replenishment of the resident magma by influxes of grossly dissimilar magma compositions. The Cr20 S content and the Cr:Fe ratio of the MG chromitite layers increase from the Ruighoek (near proximal) section to the Brits section (distal facies). This is attributed to the advanced compositional contrasts between the resident magma and the replenishing primitive magma. In contrast, the Cr20 3 content and Cr:Fe ratios ofthe LG6 and LG8a chromitite seams decreases eastwards from the Ruighoek section. The average Cr:Fe ratio for the western Bushveld Complex is between 1.5 and\2.0, nonetheless, a progressively lower Cr:Fe ratio is noted from the LG1 chromitite up through to the MG4 chromitite seam in the Ruighoek section. tn the LG2 - LG4 chromitite interval a deviation to higher.lratios is encountered. A progressive substitution of Cr by AT and Fe in the Cr-spinel crystal lattice characterizes the chromitite succession from the LG1 seam up through the chromitite succession to MG4. The petrogeneSiS of the chromitite seams of the CZ is attributed to magma mixing and fractional crystallization of a single magma type.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
- Authors: Doig, Heather Leslie
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Chromite -- South Africa , Geology -- South Africa , Mineralogy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5005 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005618
- Description: The variations in the composition, specifically the Cr20 S content and the Cr:Fe ratio, and the morphology of the Lower Group (LG) and Middle Group (MG) chromitite seams of the Critical Zone (CZ) across the western Bushveld Complex, including the Ruighoek and Brits sections, is investigated by means of whole-rock chemical data, both major and trace elements analysis, XRD and electron microprobe data. As a result ofthe paucity of exposed or developed LG1 - LG5 chromitite seams in the western Bushveld Complex, this study is confined to the investigation of the compositional variations of the LG6 to MG4 chromitite seams. In only one section, the Ruighoek section, was the entire succession of chromitite seams, from the LG1 - MG4, exposed. The silicate host rocks from the LG6 pyroxenite footwall to the collar of the CC2 drillcore (lower uCZ) in the Rustenburg section were sampled. This study reviews the compositional trends of the silicate host rocks, as the compositional variations of the chromitite seams reflect the chemical evolution of the host cumulate environment and, to a lesser degree, the composition onhe interstitial mineral phases in the chromitite seams. The compositional variations of the LG and MG chromitite seams are attributed to the compositional contrast between the replenishing magma and the resident magma. The chemical trends of the LG and MG chromitite layers and the host cumUlate rOCKS do not support the existence of two compositionalfy dissimilar magmas in the CZ, rather the cyclic layering of the CZ and the chemical variations of the chromitite seams are attributed to the mixing of primitive magma with the resident magma, both of which have essentially similar compositions. The compositional variations of the LG and MG chromitite seams along strike away from the supposed feeder site (Union section) to the distal facies (Brits section) are attributed to the advanced compositional contrast between the resident magma and the replenishing primitive magma pulses. The CZ is characterized by reversals in fractionation trends and this is attributed to the compositional evolution of the parental magma and not to the replenishment of the resident magma by influxes of grossly dissimilar magma compositions. The Cr20 S content and the Cr:Fe ratio of the MG chromitite layers increase from the Ruighoek (near proximal) section to the Brits section (distal facies). This is attributed to the advanced compositional contrasts between the resident magma and the replenishing primitive magma. In contrast, the Cr20 3 content and Cr:Fe ratios ofthe LG6 and LG8a chromitite seams decreases eastwards from the Ruighoek section. The average Cr:Fe ratio for the western Bushveld Complex is between 1.5 and\2.0, nonetheless, a progressively lower Cr:Fe ratio is noted from the LG1 chromitite up through to the MG4 chromitite seam in the Ruighoek section. tn the LG2 - LG4 chromitite interval a deviation to higher.lratios is encountered. A progressive substitution of Cr by AT and Fe in the Cr-spinel crystal lattice characterizes the chromitite succession from the LG1 seam up through the chromitite succession to MG4. The petrogeneSiS of the chromitite seams of the CZ is attributed to magma mixing and fractional crystallization of a single magma type.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
An investigation into short course accreditation through the South African Qualification Authority
- Authors: Mackenzie, Ian
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Adult education -- South Africa Elementary education of adults -- South Africa School management and organization -- South Africa Guguletu Comprehensive School South African Qualifications Authority
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1600 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003482
- Description: This research project offers an analysis of the Adult Basic Education and Training Directorate in the Eastern Cape Province. The Bush Models are described and critiqued and then used as a tool for analysis. Other organisational models are described and used to add depth to the analysis. The choice of analysing the Adult Basic Education and Training Directorate comes both from a professional desire to know and understand this organisation more fully, as well as the importance of stressing that the definition of education organisations does not stop at school, colleges and universities, but includes the government bodies which are a key part of the sector. This assignment therefore explores both the features of a government department as well as the appropriateness of using Bush’s models in this context and draws on other organisational theory--Introduction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
- Authors: Mackenzie, Ian
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Adult education -- South Africa Elementary education of adults -- South Africa School management and organization -- South Africa Guguletu Comprehensive School South African Qualifications Authority
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1600 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003482
- Description: This research project offers an analysis of the Adult Basic Education and Training Directorate in the Eastern Cape Province. The Bush Models are described and critiqued and then used as a tool for analysis. Other organisational models are described and used to add depth to the analysis. The choice of analysing the Adult Basic Education and Training Directorate comes both from a professional desire to know and understand this organisation more fully, as well as the importance of stressing that the definition of education organisations does not stop at school, colleges and universities, but includes the government bodies which are a key part of the sector. This assignment therefore explores both the features of a government department as well as the appropriateness of using Bush’s models in this context and draws on other organisational theory--Introduction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
Exploitation patterns of the multi species/gear hake (Merluccius capensis and paradoxus) fishery on South Africa's southeast coast
- Authors: Sutton, Glen Robert
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Fishing -- South Africa , Hake -- South Africa , Merluccius capensis -- South Africa , Merluccius paradoxus -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5280 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005124 , Fishing -- South Africa , Hake -- South Africa , Merluccius capensis -- South Africa , Merluccius paradoxus -- South Africa
- Description: The motivation for this study was to examine the exploitation patterns of the M. capensis and M. paradoxus hake fisheries on the Southeast Coast, and determine the size and species of hake caught in each of the hand-line, long-line, and trawl methods. The handline hake fishery has increased substantially over the last several years and concerns are beginning to emerge about the impact this will have on the inshore resource collected on the South Coast between August 1998 and July 1999 was used to describe the hand-line method and estimate annual landings. Data on the size and species in longline catches of hake caught during 1997 were already available for this study. Size distributions in trawl catches were determined from commercial category landing data reported by catch weight and depth. The species composition in these catches determined by comparison using RV Afrikana survey data collected in the same depth regions. Location plays a significant role in determining the sizes and species of hake caught by each gear. Hand-lines catch smaller sizes on average than do long-lines, inshore trawls target mainly M. capensis while offshore trawls catch both hake species. A substantial amount of the hand-line hake caught on the South Coast is not reported. Examination of the exploitation patterns reveal that intense trawling pressure is directed at the smaller sized M. paradoxus inhabiting the depth region between 160-400-meters. Inshore trawls discard a large amount of small sized M. capensis within the 100-meter isobath. A preliminary stock assessment on the status of each hake species found that M. paradoxus appears to be over-exploited while M. capensis was in better shape. However, length-based pseudo-cohort analysis, used in this assessment, is critically reliant on having length frequency data from a steady state population in equilibrium. This limits the application of this model for management purposes and this finding is purely theoretical at this stage. Results suggest that each hake species is under a different pattern and level of exploitation and the multi-species nature of hake stocks on the South Coast should be considered in developing optimum management policies. Future work should focus on developing appropriate age/length keys so that an age-based VPA, which is more powerful than the length-based approach, can be applied towards stock assessments on the South Coast. Alternatively, length-data covering a longer period should be compiled and the equilibrium assumption further investigated so that the results from length-based models can be used with more confidence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
- Authors: Sutton, Glen Robert
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Fishing -- South Africa , Hake -- South Africa , Merluccius capensis -- South Africa , Merluccius paradoxus -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5280 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005124 , Fishing -- South Africa , Hake -- South Africa , Merluccius capensis -- South Africa , Merluccius paradoxus -- South Africa
- Description: The motivation for this study was to examine the exploitation patterns of the M. capensis and M. paradoxus hake fisheries on the Southeast Coast, and determine the size and species of hake caught in each of the hand-line, long-line, and trawl methods. The handline hake fishery has increased substantially over the last several years and concerns are beginning to emerge about the impact this will have on the inshore resource collected on the South Coast between August 1998 and July 1999 was used to describe the hand-line method and estimate annual landings. Data on the size and species in longline catches of hake caught during 1997 were already available for this study. Size distributions in trawl catches were determined from commercial category landing data reported by catch weight and depth. The species composition in these catches determined by comparison using RV Afrikana survey data collected in the same depth regions. Location plays a significant role in determining the sizes and species of hake caught by each gear. Hand-lines catch smaller sizes on average than do long-lines, inshore trawls target mainly M. capensis while offshore trawls catch both hake species. A substantial amount of the hand-line hake caught on the South Coast is not reported. Examination of the exploitation patterns reveal that intense trawling pressure is directed at the smaller sized M. paradoxus inhabiting the depth region between 160-400-meters. Inshore trawls discard a large amount of small sized M. capensis within the 100-meter isobath. A preliminary stock assessment on the status of each hake species found that M. paradoxus appears to be over-exploited while M. capensis was in better shape. However, length-based pseudo-cohort analysis, used in this assessment, is critically reliant on having length frequency data from a steady state population in equilibrium. This limits the application of this model for management purposes and this finding is purely theoretical at this stage. Results suggest that each hake species is under a different pattern and level of exploitation and the multi-species nature of hake stocks on the South Coast should be considered in developing optimum management policies. Future work should focus on developing appropriate age/length keys so that an age-based VPA, which is more powerful than the length-based approach, can be applied towards stock assessments on the South Coast. Alternatively, length-data covering a longer period should be compiled and the equilibrium assumption further investigated so that the results from length-based models can be used with more confidence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
Exploring the making of meaning: environmental education and training for industry, business and local government
- Authors: Jenkin, Nicola Pat
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Environmental education Corporations -- environmental aspects Local government -- environmental aspects Managerial economics -- environmental aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1543 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003425
- Description: The aim of this research was to explore how participants made meaning in an environmental education and training course for people from industry, business and local government in South Africa, and to identify and comment on any constraints to this meaning-making. I used a Symbolic Interactionist theoretical framework to explore and comment on the meaning-making process. I started my research by conducting a questionnaire to select participants for interviews. During the course the selected participants were interviewed, as well as the two course co-ordinators. Data was also gathered during the course from participant observation field notes ('captured talk'), photographs, participants' assignments and course evaluations. The data was analysed using an adapted form of discourse analysis and matrices. The research highlights that the opportunities provided on the course were adequate for encouraging meaning-making amongst both the co-ordinators and participants. However, recorded instances of meaning-making were low, which indicated that there were certain constraints during the meaning-making process. This research highlights and comments on identified constraints such as time and workplace support. The research supports similar findings which emerged from research conducted on the Gold Fields environmental education course for teachers and also offers recommendations for further research and practice into meaning-;making within the field of environmental education and industry, business and local government in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
- Authors: Jenkin, Nicola Pat
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Environmental education Corporations -- environmental aspects Local government -- environmental aspects Managerial economics -- environmental aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1543 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003425
- Description: The aim of this research was to explore how participants made meaning in an environmental education and training course for people from industry, business and local government in South Africa, and to identify and comment on any constraints to this meaning-making. I used a Symbolic Interactionist theoretical framework to explore and comment on the meaning-making process. I started my research by conducting a questionnaire to select participants for interviews. During the course the selected participants were interviewed, as well as the two course co-ordinators. Data was also gathered during the course from participant observation field notes ('captured talk'), photographs, participants' assignments and course evaluations. The data was analysed using an adapted form of discourse analysis and matrices. The research highlights that the opportunities provided on the course were adequate for encouraging meaning-making amongst both the co-ordinators and participants. However, recorded instances of meaning-making were low, which indicated that there were certain constraints during the meaning-making process. This research highlights and comments on identified constraints such as time and workplace support. The research supports similar findings which emerged from research conducted on the Gold Fields environmental education course for teachers and also offers recommendations for further research and practice into meaning-;making within the field of environmental education and industry, business and local government in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
The new initiative of the East African Cooperation : opportunities, challenges and prospects
- Authors: Kimemia, Peter Njau
- Date: 2000 , 2013-04-25
- Subjects: International economic relations , Africa, East -- Foreign economic relations , East African Co-operation , Africa, East -- Economic integration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:1041 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004743 , International economic relations , Africa, East -- Foreign economic relations , East African Co-operation , Africa, East -- Economic integration
- Description: The landmark inauguration of the East African Cooperation (EAC) on 14 March 1996 brought to the fore some key issues regarding regional economic integration in East Africa, particularly since it signalled the second attempt by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania to form a regional economic bloc. The EAC's predecessor, the East African Community, had collapsed in 1977 in acrimonious circumstances. Prominent among the issues that led to the collapse of the East African Community was the perception of unequal gains from the integration scheme, with Uganda and Tanzania considering that disproportionate benefits were accruing to Kenya at their expense. With the new initiative, the question emerges as to whether the problems that caused the collapse of the Community will not beset the EAC and subject it to a similar fate. In an attempt to address this question, this study considers some of the theoretical issues relating to regional economic integration among countries at different levels of development, and attempts to provide an analysis of the new initiative of the EAC in the light of this theory and the history of the East African Community. The study also critically examines the objectives of the EAC and the integration strategy adopted by the three countries, and offers suggestions on the way forward. Among the arguments made in this thesis are that, contrary to the suggestions of orthodox static analysis, if the dynamic effects of integration are considered, then there may be important gains which may accrue to integrating states in the developing country context. It is also argued that different levels of development among integrating states need not necessarily be an impediment to economic integration. The study finds that, in spite of the enormous challenges facing the EAC, member states may be better off within the integration scheme than if they acted as individual units in a rapidly globalizing international system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
- Authors: Kimemia, Peter Njau
- Date: 2000 , 2013-04-25
- Subjects: International economic relations , Africa, East -- Foreign economic relations , East African Co-operation , Africa, East -- Economic integration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:1041 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004743 , International economic relations , Africa, East -- Foreign economic relations , East African Co-operation , Africa, East -- Economic integration
- Description: The landmark inauguration of the East African Cooperation (EAC) on 14 March 1996 brought to the fore some key issues regarding regional economic integration in East Africa, particularly since it signalled the second attempt by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania to form a regional economic bloc. The EAC's predecessor, the East African Community, had collapsed in 1977 in acrimonious circumstances. Prominent among the issues that led to the collapse of the East African Community was the perception of unequal gains from the integration scheme, with Uganda and Tanzania considering that disproportionate benefits were accruing to Kenya at their expense. With the new initiative, the question emerges as to whether the problems that caused the collapse of the Community will not beset the EAC and subject it to a similar fate. In an attempt to address this question, this study considers some of the theoretical issues relating to regional economic integration among countries at different levels of development, and attempts to provide an analysis of the new initiative of the EAC in the light of this theory and the history of the East African Community. The study also critically examines the objectives of the EAC and the integration strategy adopted by the three countries, and offers suggestions on the way forward. Among the arguments made in this thesis are that, contrary to the suggestions of orthodox static analysis, if the dynamic effects of integration are considered, then there may be important gains which may accrue to integrating states in the developing country context. It is also argued that different levels of development among integrating states need not necessarily be an impediment to economic integration. The study finds that, in spite of the enormous challenges facing the EAC, member states may be better off within the integration scheme than if they acted as individual units in a rapidly globalizing international system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
Asymmetric α-alkylation reactions
- Authors: Klein, Rosalyn
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Asymmetric synthesis , Alkylation , Chemical reactions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4405 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006710 , Asymmetric synthesis , Alkylation , Chemical reactions
- Description: A novel camphor-derived hydroxy ketal 138 has been developed as a crural auxiliary, and used to prepare a series of six carboxylic esters of increasing steric bulk. The α-benzylation of this series of esters was achieved with diastereoselectivities of 59 - 83% d. e. and in 39 - 48% material yield. These results compared very favourably with those obtained in earlier studies using a regioisomeric analogue as the chiral auxiliary. Computer.modelling studies of the putative enolate intermediate has provided some insight into the possible mode of electrophilic attack at the α-carbon and the roles of the ketal protecting group and the lithium cation in these asymmetric transformations. In a related investigation, based on earlier work, a camphor-derived imino lactone has provided convenient access to α-alkyl α-amino acids, the imino lactone serving as a masked glycine equivalent. Using straight chain primary alkyl iodides [RI; R = Me, Et, Pr, Bu, CH₃(CH₂)₄ and CH₃(CH₄)₅], alkylation of the potassium enolate of the camphor-derived imino lactone was effected with 54 - 89% d.e. and in 54 - 87% material yield. Four novel alkylated derivatives were synthesised using isopropyl iodide, sec-butyl iodide and allyl iodide, the latter reagent resulting in both the monoallylated and diallylated products. While very good diastereoselectivities were achieved (83 - 88% d. e.) in these reactions, the material yields from reaction with the secondary alkyl iodides were low (31- 35%) due, presumably, to their decreased electrophilicity. Computer modelling studies of the enolate were carried out and support the hypothesis of endo attack by the electrophile on the enolate intermediate. These studies also indicate the possibility of coordination of the postassium cation to the endocyclic ester oxygen, thus effectively anchoring the bulky cation away from the reaction site.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
- Authors: Klein, Rosalyn
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Asymmetric synthesis , Alkylation , Chemical reactions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4405 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006710 , Asymmetric synthesis , Alkylation , Chemical reactions
- Description: A novel camphor-derived hydroxy ketal 138 has been developed as a crural auxiliary, and used to prepare a series of six carboxylic esters of increasing steric bulk. The α-benzylation of this series of esters was achieved with diastereoselectivities of 59 - 83% d. e. and in 39 - 48% material yield. These results compared very favourably with those obtained in earlier studies using a regioisomeric analogue as the chiral auxiliary. Computer.modelling studies of the putative enolate intermediate has provided some insight into the possible mode of electrophilic attack at the α-carbon and the roles of the ketal protecting group and the lithium cation in these asymmetric transformations. In a related investigation, based on earlier work, a camphor-derived imino lactone has provided convenient access to α-alkyl α-amino acids, the imino lactone serving as a masked glycine equivalent. Using straight chain primary alkyl iodides [RI; R = Me, Et, Pr, Bu, CH₃(CH₂)₄ and CH₃(CH₄)₅], alkylation of the potassium enolate of the camphor-derived imino lactone was effected with 54 - 89% d.e. and in 54 - 87% material yield. Four novel alkylated derivatives were synthesised using isopropyl iodide, sec-butyl iodide and allyl iodide, the latter reagent resulting in both the monoallylated and diallylated products. While very good diastereoselectivities were achieved (83 - 88% d. e.) in these reactions, the material yields from reaction with the secondary alkyl iodides were low (31- 35%) due, presumably, to their decreased electrophilicity. Computer modelling studies of the enolate were carried out and support the hypothesis of endo attack by the electrophile on the enolate intermediate. These studies also indicate the possibility of coordination of the postassium cation to the endocyclic ester oxygen, thus effectively anchoring the bulky cation away from the reaction site.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
Social change and shifting paradigms: the choice of healer among black South Africans in psychological counselling
- Authors: Johnson, Alexandra Blythe
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Healers -- South Africa , Psychotherapy Cross-cultural studies , Xhosa (African people) -- Psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2998 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002507 , Healers -- South Africa , Psychotherapy Cross-cultural studies , Xhosa (African people) -- Psychology
- Description: Social change in South Africa brings to light the multiplicity of world-views operating in our society, which individuals encountering a variety of social contexts are faced with. This raises questions about the choices black South Africans face in response to influences from Western and traditional African culture. This issue was approached through examining helpseeking choices made between different health care sectors that stem from different world-views. This would indicate whether individuals are drawing on a variety of belief systems. The sources of their beliefs are put into context by looking at the communities of practice that influence their local knowledge. Help-seeking is also influenced by the identities the individual may ascribe to, which are derived from the multiple positions held by them in different social contexts. In this research the use of health-care sectors by four black women attending psychotherapy is examined. Their use of these sectors reflects a potential multiplicity of world views. Semistructured interviews were conducted, focusing on participants' prior experience of different help options, and their current perceptions of traditional African healing and psychology. The texts were analysed using a qualitative hermeneutic method, the reading guide. Data was looked at through three main themes, the individual's relationship to the health care sectors, their knowledge of different world views, and the identities they adopted which may be influential in their choice of a healer. It was found that in two participants there was some movement away from traditional beliefs, with one rejecting the traditional healers who did not help her, once she has discovered therapy, and another identifying herself completely with Western medicine. In contrast, one participant illustrated a rediscovery of traditional healing, whilst still attending psychotherapy. This suggests that shifts in knowledge are not necessarily away from traditional beliefs. It was also found that the two participants who had experienced a broader variety of social contexts and identified with multiple belief systems, tended to use a variety of Western and traditional healing sources and selected the healing option they felt was most appropriate to a particular problem. It is argued therefore that having a variety of knowledge and beliefs places individuals in a more powerful position to determine their choice of action than those with a limited range of knowledge.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
- Authors: Johnson, Alexandra Blythe
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Healers -- South Africa , Psychotherapy Cross-cultural studies , Xhosa (African people) -- Psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2998 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002507 , Healers -- South Africa , Psychotherapy Cross-cultural studies , Xhosa (African people) -- Psychology
- Description: Social change in South Africa brings to light the multiplicity of world-views operating in our society, which individuals encountering a variety of social contexts are faced with. This raises questions about the choices black South Africans face in response to influences from Western and traditional African culture. This issue was approached through examining helpseeking choices made between different health care sectors that stem from different world-views. This would indicate whether individuals are drawing on a variety of belief systems. The sources of their beliefs are put into context by looking at the communities of practice that influence their local knowledge. Help-seeking is also influenced by the identities the individual may ascribe to, which are derived from the multiple positions held by them in different social contexts. In this research the use of health-care sectors by four black women attending psychotherapy is examined. Their use of these sectors reflects a potential multiplicity of world views. Semistructured interviews were conducted, focusing on participants' prior experience of different help options, and their current perceptions of traditional African healing and psychology. The texts were analysed using a qualitative hermeneutic method, the reading guide. Data was looked at through three main themes, the individual's relationship to the health care sectors, their knowledge of different world views, and the identities they adopted which may be influential in their choice of a healer. It was found that in two participants there was some movement away from traditional beliefs, with one rejecting the traditional healers who did not help her, once she has discovered therapy, and another identifying herself completely with Western medicine. In contrast, one participant illustrated a rediscovery of traditional healing, whilst still attending psychotherapy. This suggests that shifts in knowledge are not necessarily away from traditional beliefs. It was also found that the two participants who had experienced a broader variety of social contexts and identified with multiple belief systems, tended to use a variety of Western and traditional healing sources and selected the healing option they felt was most appropriate to a particular problem. It is argued therefore that having a variety of knowledge and beliefs places individuals in a more powerful position to determine their choice of action than those with a limited range of knowledge.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
Southern African Development Community foreign policy behaviour: the case of trade with external actors
- Authors: Tebu, Perminus Waithaka
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Southern African Development Community , International trade , Africa, Southern -- Foreign relations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2834 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003044 , Southern African Development Community , International trade , Africa, Southern -- Foreign relations
- Description: This thesis is structured around two main and interwoven assumptions operating at two levels. On the one level the external dimension of security threat in Southern Africa is assumed to be the most critical factor for regional renewal and stability. It hinges on pertinent regional issues such as negative trade balances, economic dependence, poverty, unemployment, poor economic growth rates and so forth. The corollary of this assumption is that within the operative framework of SADC, Southern African states are assumed capable of effectively integrating their economies through trade and related arrangements with dominant external actors in the highly competitive global economy. The European Union (EU) and the United States (US) are used as the focal points for illumination. A structured interaction between SADC and the EU within a revised North-South framework of interaction is hypothesized and critically examined. On the other hand, SADC-US interactions are assessed within the context of the new US Africa policy. At another level, the assumption is also made that the post-apartheid democratic state possesses both the political will and the wherewithal to provide regiol].al Leadership. This latter assumption is put to test within the framework of South Africa's regional foreign policy. Adopting an explicit regional unit of analysis, the study utilizes international regime theory as the theoretical and conceptual point of departure. The realist conception of the international system and the underlying assumptions usually considered as obstacles to international cooperation are critically examined in the context of the post-Cold War expanded security agenda. Regime theory is used to provide insight on the motivations that lead states to cooperate in situations of mutual dilemma by institutionalizing patterns of interaction at the regional and international systemic levels. Interstate economic relations at these levels are explained as state actions that are influenced by certain norms and that such norm-governed behaviour is wholly consistent with the pursuit of national interest. Application of the theory explains why such foreign policy behaviour of states is particularly relevant in the post-Cold War era. The thesis has argued that SADC states are capable of conducting a coordinated trade foreign policy in which regional positions are elaborated and adopted. It is argued further that a regional capacity to institute trade and economic policies that reflect local circumstances (necessary for effective integration with the world economy) calls for strong regional developmental democracies in the tradition of social market economy. Regional leadership by South Africa is considered indispensable where Sbuth Africa must find a sustainable balance between its national and regional interests.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
- Authors: Tebu, Perminus Waithaka
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Southern African Development Community , International trade , Africa, Southern -- Foreign relations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2834 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003044 , Southern African Development Community , International trade , Africa, Southern -- Foreign relations
- Description: This thesis is structured around two main and interwoven assumptions operating at two levels. On the one level the external dimension of security threat in Southern Africa is assumed to be the most critical factor for regional renewal and stability. It hinges on pertinent regional issues such as negative trade balances, economic dependence, poverty, unemployment, poor economic growth rates and so forth. The corollary of this assumption is that within the operative framework of SADC, Southern African states are assumed capable of effectively integrating their economies through trade and related arrangements with dominant external actors in the highly competitive global economy. The European Union (EU) and the United States (US) are used as the focal points for illumination. A structured interaction between SADC and the EU within a revised North-South framework of interaction is hypothesized and critically examined. On the other hand, SADC-US interactions are assessed within the context of the new US Africa policy. At another level, the assumption is also made that the post-apartheid democratic state possesses both the political will and the wherewithal to provide regiol].al Leadership. This latter assumption is put to test within the framework of South Africa's regional foreign policy. Adopting an explicit regional unit of analysis, the study utilizes international regime theory as the theoretical and conceptual point of departure. The realist conception of the international system and the underlying assumptions usually considered as obstacles to international cooperation are critically examined in the context of the post-Cold War expanded security agenda. Regime theory is used to provide insight on the motivations that lead states to cooperate in situations of mutual dilemma by institutionalizing patterns of interaction at the regional and international systemic levels. Interstate economic relations at these levels are explained as state actions that are influenced by certain norms and that such norm-governed behaviour is wholly consistent with the pursuit of national interest. Application of the theory explains why such foreign policy behaviour of states is particularly relevant in the post-Cold War era. The thesis has argued that SADC states are capable of conducting a coordinated trade foreign policy in which regional positions are elaborated and adopted. It is argued further that a regional capacity to institute trade and economic policies that reflect local circumstances (necessary for effective integration with the world economy) calls for strong regional developmental democracies in the tradition of social market economy. Regional leadership by South Africa is considered indispensable where Sbuth Africa must find a sustainable balance between its national and regional interests.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
Environmental youth clubs in Namibia : what role do, could or should they play in environmental education?
- Authors: Botma, Connie
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Environmental education -- Namibia Environmental education -- Study and teaching -- Namibia Youth -- Societies and clubs Youth -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1519 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003401
- Description: Although the existence of wildlife clubs in Africa dates back to the start of the environmental movement in the 1970s, youth involvement through environmental clubs only commenced in Namibia in 1992. I became involved with the clubs in 1995 when I was employed by the Rossing Foundation Environmental Education Project to encourage, support and coordinate environmental clubs in Namibia. During the last three years the number of Namibian clubs has increased from 20 to ±85, and they are now established in most geographical regions of the country. During my involvement with the clubs I became increasingly interested in the philosophical underpinnings of youth movements like clubs and started questioning what we could expect from the youth and what could be achieved through the clubs. One of my main concerns was whether youth could make a significant improvement to the quality of their lives and their environment through these clubs. The aim of my research was therefore to describe and reflect critically on the role of environmental youth clubs in environmental education in Namibia. My study was guided by a socially critical orientation which emphasises the construction of meaning through social dialogue and critical reflection. I chose an interpretative research strategy and generated data mainly through semi-structured interviews, participant observation, a focus-group discussion and a workshop. Due to the focus of the research I purposefully selected the sample of existing youth clubs to be included in the study. The iterative strategy of gathering and interpreting data in successive cycles allowed for continuous reflection throughout the research process. It also allowed me to identify key patterns and trends in analysing and interpreting the data. The study findings suggest that environmental clubs do playa role in learning about environmental issues; in developing personal and social identity, confidence and a sense of purpose in society; in establishing new and supportive relationships between teachers and learners and with other community resourde people; in creating opportunities and enabling exposure to diverse learning environments, options and alternatives; and ih fostering the orientation and skills needed to effect meaningful d1'inges in the environment. The findings also suggest that environmental clubs could make a significant contribution to environmental education, providing that they incorporate a socially critical orientation, gain greater recognition from significant adults and education officials, collaborate with other projects and organisations, and use guidelines of models such as the action research framework to ensure relevant and effective action projects. The main challenges to environmental clubs in Namibia include changing perceptions that youth do not have much to contribute; improving relationships between clubs, schools and communities; dealing with the tension between the possible disempowering effect of central control and the need for more formalised structures in order to gain official recognition; and developing strategies to ensure the clubs' sustainability in the future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
- Authors: Botma, Connie
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Environmental education -- Namibia Environmental education -- Study and teaching -- Namibia Youth -- Societies and clubs Youth -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1519 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003401
- Description: Although the existence of wildlife clubs in Africa dates back to the start of the environmental movement in the 1970s, youth involvement through environmental clubs only commenced in Namibia in 1992. I became involved with the clubs in 1995 when I was employed by the Rossing Foundation Environmental Education Project to encourage, support and coordinate environmental clubs in Namibia. During the last three years the number of Namibian clubs has increased from 20 to ±85, and they are now established in most geographical regions of the country. During my involvement with the clubs I became increasingly interested in the philosophical underpinnings of youth movements like clubs and started questioning what we could expect from the youth and what could be achieved through the clubs. One of my main concerns was whether youth could make a significant improvement to the quality of their lives and their environment through these clubs. The aim of my research was therefore to describe and reflect critically on the role of environmental youth clubs in environmental education in Namibia. My study was guided by a socially critical orientation which emphasises the construction of meaning through social dialogue and critical reflection. I chose an interpretative research strategy and generated data mainly through semi-structured interviews, participant observation, a focus-group discussion and a workshop. Due to the focus of the research I purposefully selected the sample of existing youth clubs to be included in the study. The iterative strategy of gathering and interpreting data in successive cycles allowed for continuous reflection throughout the research process. It also allowed me to identify key patterns and trends in analysing and interpreting the data. The study findings suggest that environmental clubs do playa role in learning about environmental issues; in developing personal and social identity, confidence and a sense of purpose in society; in establishing new and supportive relationships between teachers and learners and with other community resourde people; in creating opportunities and enabling exposure to diverse learning environments, options and alternatives; and ih fostering the orientation and skills needed to effect meaningful d1'inges in the environment. The findings also suggest that environmental clubs could make a significant contribution to environmental education, providing that they incorporate a socially critical orientation, gain greater recognition from significant adults and education officials, collaborate with other projects and organisations, and use guidelines of models such as the action research framework to ensure relevant and effective action projects. The main challenges to environmental clubs in Namibia include changing perceptions that youth do not have much to contribute; improving relationships between clubs, schools and communities; dealing with the tension between the possible disempowering effect of central control and the need for more formalised structures in order to gain official recognition; and developing strategies to ensure the clubs' sustainability in the future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
The geomorphological impacts of impoundments, with particular reference to tributary bar development on the Keiskamma River, Eastern Cape
- Authors: McGregor, Gillian Kathleen
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Rivers--South Africa--Regulation , Rivers--South Africa--Regulation--Environmental aspects , Rivers--South Africa--Eastern Cape , Geomorphology--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4835 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005510 , Rivers--South Africa--Regulation , Rivers--South Africa--Regulation--Environmental aspects , Rivers--South Africa--Eastern Cape , Geomorphology--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Description: The primary aim of this research was to develop and test a conceptual model of the geomorphological impacts of river regulation, based on a review of relevant international literature. It was motivated by the fact that there is very little local information on the topic, and it was intended that the model might provide a starting point for assessing the impact of impoundments on South African river systems. At present most research in South Africa on the impact of impoundments is undertaken from an ecological perspective. In order to manage our water resources sustainably it is necessary to have a better understanding of our river systems. South Africa is characterised by a variable climatic regime and, in order to supply water to the various user sectors of the nation, dams have to be larger than elsewhere in the world, to trap most of the mean annual runoff and provide a reliable water store (Alexander, 1985). South African dams have been designed to reduce the variability of a naturally variable regime. The impact of flow regulation in dryland rivers has been described as 'ecologically catastrophic at every level.' It is therefore hardly surprising that the impact of these dams on the natural functioning of rivers is substantial. The conceptual model showed that there are many responses to river impoundment, which are varied and complex, both in time and space. Responses or secondary impacts depended on the nature and degree of the primary impact or process alteration, on the sediment and flow regime of the river. High flows were affected in all cases and low flows were affected in most cases. The simplest form of change was Petts' (1979) concept of 'accommodation' of the regulated flow within the existing channel form. More complex responses occUrred where the channel perimeter was unstable, or where tributaries introduced fresh sediment loads. The river could adjust its long profile, cross sectional area and substrate composition by aggradation or degradation. The conceptual model was used in the Building Block Methodology to predict impoundment impacts at Instream Flow Requirement workshops on the Berg, Komati and Bivane rivers. It was also used in assessing the impact of the Sandile Dam on the Keiskamma river. Tributary junctions were identified as likely sites of change, and the morphology of bars at these junctions was investigated. Due to the number of variables affecting the sediment and flow regime in the system, and due to the fact that the primary impacts were not substantial, it was not possible to come to any decisive conclusions. It would seem that the dam is well located in the catchment, and, because the water is not heavily utilised, the secondary impacts are not great. The conceptual model was found to be a useful basic tool which might contribute to a better understanding of our river systems, and ultimately to improved sustainable resource management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
- Authors: McGregor, Gillian Kathleen
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Rivers--South Africa--Regulation , Rivers--South Africa--Regulation--Environmental aspects , Rivers--South Africa--Eastern Cape , Geomorphology--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4835 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005510 , Rivers--South Africa--Regulation , Rivers--South Africa--Regulation--Environmental aspects , Rivers--South Africa--Eastern Cape , Geomorphology--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Description: The primary aim of this research was to develop and test a conceptual model of the geomorphological impacts of river regulation, based on a review of relevant international literature. It was motivated by the fact that there is very little local information on the topic, and it was intended that the model might provide a starting point for assessing the impact of impoundments on South African river systems. At present most research in South Africa on the impact of impoundments is undertaken from an ecological perspective. In order to manage our water resources sustainably it is necessary to have a better understanding of our river systems. South Africa is characterised by a variable climatic regime and, in order to supply water to the various user sectors of the nation, dams have to be larger than elsewhere in the world, to trap most of the mean annual runoff and provide a reliable water store (Alexander, 1985). South African dams have been designed to reduce the variability of a naturally variable regime. The impact of flow regulation in dryland rivers has been described as 'ecologically catastrophic at every level.' It is therefore hardly surprising that the impact of these dams on the natural functioning of rivers is substantial. The conceptual model showed that there are many responses to river impoundment, which are varied and complex, both in time and space. Responses or secondary impacts depended on the nature and degree of the primary impact or process alteration, on the sediment and flow regime of the river. High flows were affected in all cases and low flows were affected in most cases. The simplest form of change was Petts' (1979) concept of 'accommodation' of the regulated flow within the existing channel form. More complex responses occUrred where the channel perimeter was unstable, or where tributaries introduced fresh sediment loads. The river could adjust its long profile, cross sectional area and substrate composition by aggradation or degradation. The conceptual model was used in the Building Block Methodology to predict impoundment impacts at Instream Flow Requirement workshops on the Berg, Komati and Bivane rivers. It was also used in assessing the impact of the Sandile Dam on the Keiskamma river. Tributary junctions were identified as likely sites of change, and the morphology of bars at these junctions was investigated. Due to the number of variables affecting the sediment and flow regime in the system, and due to the fact that the primary impacts were not substantial, it was not possible to come to any decisive conclusions. It would seem that the dam is well located in the catchment, and, because the water is not heavily utilised, the secondary impacts are not great. The conceptual model was found to be a useful basic tool which might contribute to a better understanding of our river systems, and ultimately to improved sustainable resource management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
Environmental art and its contribution to establishing an awareness of the sacred in nature
- Matthews, Elaine Katherine Simone
- Authors: Matthews, Elaine Katherine Simone
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Installations (Art) Art, Modern -- 20th century Nature (Aesthetics)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MFA
- Identifier: vital:2413 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002209
- Description: The introduction establishes the goal of the research, which is to discover that art concerned with re-evaluating the relationship to the environment and spirituality can serve to connect people to one another, and to the environment. The context of the research is the contemporary ecological and spiritual crisis of the postmodern world. The background places the discussion within the contexts of modernism and postmodernism. The historical background focuses on the period from the 1960s to the present day. Land and Environmental artists who work in a manner that is conscious of environmental issues and who suggest a sacred and creative attitude to ecology are discussed. My own creative work which is a response to both ancient and contemporary sites as well as to contemporary theories of art and spirituality is discussed. The four projects, are discussed in chronological order, they are: Quest - A journey into Sacred Space; Gaika's Kop - Sacred Mountain; Labyrinth - Journeys to the Centre; and Transforming the Centre. The conclusion shows that the multi-faceted, intertextual and relativistic philosophy of postmodernism has brought about a significant change in the attitude of humanity towards the environment. Artists who reject the modernist aesthetic and philosophy are making art that emphasises relationship to, rather than separation from the natural world.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
- Authors: Matthews, Elaine Katherine Simone
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Installations (Art) Art, Modern -- 20th century Nature (Aesthetics)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MFA
- Identifier: vital:2413 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002209
- Description: The introduction establishes the goal of the research, which is to discover that art concerned with re-evaluating the relationship to the environment and spirituality can serve to connect people to one another, and to the environment. The context of the research is the contemporary ecological and spiritual crisis of the postmodern world. The background places the discussion within the contexts of modernism and postmodernism. The historical background focuses on the period from the 1960s to the present day. Land and Environmental artists who work in a manner that is conscious of environmental issues and who suggest a sacred and creative attitude to ecology are discussed. My own creative work which is a response to both ancient and contemporary sites as well as to contemporary theories of art and spirituality is discussed. The four projects, are discussed in chronological order, they are: Quest - A journey into Sacred Space; Gaika's Kop - Sacred Mountain; Labyrinth - Journeys to the Centre; and Transforming the Centre. The conclusion shows that the multi-faceted, intertextual and relativistic philosophy of postmodernism has brought about a significant change in the attitude of humanity towards the environment. Artists who reject the modernist aesthetic and philosophy are making art that emphasises relationship to, rather than separation from the natural world.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
Constitutional frameworks and democratization in Africa since independence
- Authors: Neirynck, Karim
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Democracy -- Africa , Constitutions -- Africa , Africa -- Politics and government -- 1960-
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2816 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003026 , Democracy -- Africa , Constitutions -- Africa , Africa -- Politics and government -- 1960-
- Description: The subject of this thesis is international studies, specifically a study of constitutional frameworks in Africa in the second half of the 20th century, focussing on a statistical correlation between constitutional frameworks, party systems, electoral systems and the Index of Democracy. The struggle to consolidate new democracies - especially those in Eastern Europe, Latin America and Asia - has given rise to a wide-ranging debate about the hard choices concerning democratic political institutions and political markets. According to Stepan and Skach " this literature has produced provocative hypotheses about the effects of institutions on democracy" (Stepan and Skach, 1993 : 1). It forms part of the' new institutionalism I literature in comparative politics that'holds as a premise that political democracy depends not only on economic and social conditions but also on the design of political institutions (Koelble, 1995 : 231-243). " One fundamental political-institutional question that has only received serious scholarly attention concerns the impact of different constitutional frameworks on democratic consolidation. Although the topic has been increasingly debated and discussed, little systematic cross-regional evidence [especially for our field of research: Africa] has been brought to bear on it " (Stepan and Skach, 1993 : 1-2). So far, only the book"on regime transitions in Africa written by Bratton and Van De Walle seeks to fill this empirical gap (Bratton and Van De Walle, 1997, preface xiii). In this thesis, we paid particular attention to the dichotomy between (pure) parliamentarism and (pure) presidentialism. Each type has fundamental characteristics, and for the purposes of classification these characteristics are necessary and sufficient. It was not our purpose to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of parliamentarism and presidentialism. Our intention was to report and analyse different sources of data, and we based our case exclusively on statistic correlatiohs between regime type and the record of democratic success and failure. We collected a data set about constitutional frameworks (matrix1), democracy indices (matrix2), party systems (matrix3) and election systems (matrix4). The basis for matrix 1 was the constitutions of the African countries (over time) and relevant literature. The basis for matrix 2 was the annual Freedom House ratings made by Raymond D. Gastil and others. The basis for matrix 3 and 4 was relevant literature. Once these matrices had been composed, we compared them and calculated statistic correlations. This long-dyration model allowed us to estimate whether African constitutional frameworks, party systems and electoral systems exhibit positive or negative correlation with the index of democracy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000
- Authors: Neirynck, Karim
- Date: 2000
- Subjects: Democracy -- Africa , Constitutions -- Africa , Africa -- Politics and government -- 1960-
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2816 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003026 , Democracy -- Africa , Constitutions -- Africa , Africa -- Politics and government -- 1960-
- Description: The subject of this thesis is international studies, specifically a study of constitutional frameworks in Africa in the second half of the 20th century, focussing on a statistical correlation between constitutional frameworks, party systems, electoral systems and the Index of Democracy. The struggle to consolidate new democracies - especially those in Eastern Europe, Latin America and Asia - has given rise to a wide-ranging debate about the hard choices concerning democratic political institutions and political markets. According to Stepan and Skach " this literature has produced provocative hypotheses about the effects of institutions on democracy" (Stepan and Skach, 1993 : 1). It forms part of the' new institutionalism I literature in comparative politics that'holds as a premise that political democracy depends not only on economic and social conditions but also on the design of political institutions (Koelble, 1995 : 231-243). " One fundamental political-institutional question that has only received serious scholarly attention concerns the impact of different constitutional frameworks on democratic consolidation. Although the topic has been increasingly debated and discussed, little systematic cross-regional evidence [especially for our field of research: Africa] has been brought to bear on it " (Stepan and Skach, 1993 : 1-2). So far, only the book"on regime transitions in Africa written by Bratton and Van De Walle seeks to fill this empirical gap (Bratton and Van De Walle, 1997, preface xiii). In this thesis, we paid particular attention to the dichotomy between (pure) parliamentarism and (pure) presidentialism. Each type has fundamental characteristics, and for the purposes of classification these characteristics are necessary and sufficient. It was not our purpose to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of parliamentarism and presidentialism. Our intention was to report and analyse different sources of data, and we based our case exclusively on statistic correlatiohs between regime type and the record of democratic success and failure. We collected a data set about constitutional frameworks (matrix1), democracy indices (matrix2), party systems (matrix3) and election systems (matrix4). The basis for matrix 1 was the constitutions of the African countries (over time) and relevant literature. The basis for matrix 2 was the annual Freedom House ratings made by Raymond D. Gastil and others. The basis for matrix 3 and 4 was relevant literature. Once these matrices had been composed, we compared them and calculated statistic correlations. This long-dyration model allowed us to estimate whether African constitutional frameworks, party systems and electoral systems exhibit positive or negative correlation with the index of democracy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2000