SEARCH ARTICLE

40 Pages : 306-317

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2019(IV-III).40      10.31703/gssr.2019(IV-III).40      Published : Sep 2019

Usage Patterns of Western Televised Contents in Pakistan: A Use and Gratification Approach

    The main objective of the research was to find out the preference wise list of western televised programming among the viewers in Islamabad. By applying the stratified sampling technique, 292 respondents were finalized for analysis. It was found that entertainment programming was mostly consumed western televised contents and then, educational and political. The usage of western televised contents was assessed due to dissatisfaction about their own programming, educational and political systems. They preferred the western programming and systems comparatively a better choice.

    dissatisfaction, exposure, educational, entertainment, political, usage.
    (1) Farrukh Nazir
    Student,Center for Media and Communication Studies,University of Gujrat, Punjab, Pakistan.
    (2) Arshad Ali
    Assistant Professor,Center for Media and Communication Studies, University of Gujrat, Punjab, Pakistan.
    (3) Muhammad Farooq
    Student,Center for Media and Communication Studies, University of Gujrat, Punjab, Pakistan.

30 Pages : 231-237

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2019(IV-II).30      10.31703/gssr.2019(IV-II).30      Published : Jun 2019

Analysis of Political Discourse in Pakistani Party Manifestos

    Political discourse is inarguably deemed an essential tool, impercetably influencing people’s perception within a socio-political zone. The present research revolve around the critical discourse analysis of manifestos of Pakistani political parties, pertaining to the general election of 2013. The theoretical framework for the study triangulates VanDijks (1998) Socio-Cognitive Model, along with the support of Turner and Tajfels (1979) Social identity approach and Budge and Farlies Salience theory (1983). The research revealed that all the political parties under study used the discursive strategies in their party manifestos in order to enhance the positive self-image of party to in-group people, by focusing the negative aspects of the out-group, thereby (re)constructing peoples political identities and ideologies and achieving the desired hegemony for itself.

    Political manifesto, Political Discourse, Identity and Ideology
    (1) Mehwish Malghani
    Assistant Professor,Department of English, Sardar Bahadur Khan Women University Quetta, Balochistan, Pakistan.
    (2) Shabana Akhtar
    Assistant Professor, Department of Pakistan Studies, Sardar Bahadur Khan Women University, Quetta, Balochistan, Pakistan.
    (3) Farhat Farooqi
    Lecturer, Department of English,The Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering, and Management Sciences, Quetta

51 Pages : 391-402

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2019(IV-II).51      10.31703/gssr.2019(IV-II).51      Published : Jun 2019

Analyzing the Role of Social Media in Strengthening Democracy in Pakistan

    Modern innovation in communication has changed patterns of socializing. Advance forms of communication are paving ways for people to convey their ideologies to others. This study attempts to analyze the role of social media in strengthening democracy in Pakistan and highlights the importance of media in democratic states by an extensive review of the literature. The core concern of the study was to observe how mass media contributes to the socialization of democracy. Quantitative research methodology opted, and research findings concluded that social media advocates the public on general political issues that increase the political efficacy and resulting in more political participation in Pakistan. Web 2.0 platforms such as Twitter and Facebook provide new opportunities to create a political environment in Pakistan. In the presence of these platforms, a bridge is developed between the citizens for strengthening a strong democratic setup.

    Social Media, Democratization, Political Awareness, Political Efficacy, Political Participation
    (1) Sumera Batool
    Assistant Professor, Department of Mass Communication, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
    (2) Saba Sultana
    Lecturer, Department of Mass Communication and Media, University of Narowal, Narowal, Punjab, Pakistan.
    (3) Farrah -ul- Momineen
    PhD Scholar, Department of Mass Communication, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.

27 Pages : 205-210

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2019(IV-I).27      10.31703/gssr.2019(IV-I).27      Published : Mar 2019

Ideology, (Mis)perceptions and (Re)construction of Political Identities: A Critical Discourse Analysis of Imran Khan's Political Speeches

    This study examines the persuasive strategies of Imran Khan's political discourse. It also highlights the covert ideological practices as they are embedded in his political speeches. The analysis is based on the theoretical perspective of Fairclough and Van Dijk. This study analyses the linguistic elements and contextual facets to find hidden ideologies. The findings suggest Khan use of multiple strategies to get the political power, and promote his ideology by urging the urban youth and less-privileged part of society to play a role. Moreover linguistic analysis prove Khan's claim to be (un)conventional as he frequently addresses and acknowledges women support for political activism.

    Ideology, (Mis) Perception, Political Identities, CDA
    (1) Aisha Rauf
    PhD. Scholar, NUML, Islamabad, Pakistan.
    (2) Farhat Sajjad
    Lecturer,Department of English,NUML, Islamabad, Pakistan.
    (3) Mehwish Malghani
    Assistant Professor,Department of English, Sardar Bahadur Khan Women University, Quetta, Baluchistan, Pakistan

24 Pages : 367-379

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2018(III-IV).24      10.31703/gssr.2018(III-IV).24      Published : Dec 2018

Political Factors and Sectarian Identities in Tribal Areas of Pakistan

    The study titled “political factors and sectarian identities in tribal areas of Pakistan” was carried out in tribal district Kurram under positivistic tools of the data collection. A sample size of 300 respondents was randomly selected with equal proportion of Shia and Sunni from the study universe and questionnaire was used as a tool of data collection. The data was portrayed at uni-variate level with the help of frequency and percentage distribution. The association between dependent (sectarianism) and independent (political factors) variables was ascertained through Chi-Square test statistics at bivaraite level of analysis. The study concluded that alongside the local people, state agencies are either involved in sectarianism or they are unable to handle the situations. Soviet-US proxy war and United States invasion in Afghanistan accelerate the occurrences of sectarian violence in the area that became most horrible after Pakistan entrance into US coalition in war against terrorism. The local militants are enjoying external patronage for carrying anti-state operations in the area. Previously, political activities were banned in tribal areas that not only affect the conventional politics but also restrict the intervention of nationalist political forces in the region. Further, mainstream political parties are taking less interest to resolve the issue, while some political parties also ideologically supporting sect-based politics. Strict ban on militant groups, formation of strict laws for preventing militancy, and keeping open eyes on external transitions in the area were forwarded some of the recommendations.

    Sectarianism, State Writ, External Patronage, Militants, Nationalist Political Forces.
    (1) Arshad Khan Bangash
    Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology and Gender Studies, Bacha Khan University, Charsadda, KP, Pakistan.
    (2) Muhammad Farid
    M.Phil Sociology, Department of Sociology and Gender Studies, Bacha Khan University, Charsadda, KP, Pakistan.
    (3) Fariha Bibi
    PhD Scholar, Department of Rural Sociology, Agriculture University, Peshawar, KP, Pakistan.

04 Pages : 38-53

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2018(III-III).04      10.31703/gssr.2018(III-III).04      Published : Sep 2018

Transition in Pakistani Political Norms of Society and Corruption

    The Messenger of ALLAH Almighty, the Holy Prophet MUHAMMAD (peace be upon him) has said "Ar-Rashi Wal Murtashi Kila huma Finnar" that mean "the giver and taker of bribes (corrupt) will both go to the fire of hell". This research analyzes corruption's effect on existing social values in Peshawar region of Islamic Republic of Pakistan. A total of 150 respondents were selected as sample using stratified random sampling technique for study using Likert scale as measurement tool in interview schedule. The bi-variate and uni-variate analyses were made for reaching results. The existence of the effect of "corruption perception" as independent variable's effects were assessed on the "social values in political institutions" as dependent variable by applying Chi-square test. Furthermore, Gamma (y) statistics' application was made for finding the bond and relationship's direction. It was concluded that a significant association prevails regarding corruption perception with organized corruption alliance between government servants and politicians (P=0.002), politicians who are corrupt do safeguard corrupt interests (P=0.000) and favoured political environment (P=0.000). Moreover, posting candid politicians on significant government posts (P=0.000), removing political influence form bureaucracy (P=0.000), making politicians accountable to agencies related to stopping corruption (P=0.000), recompensing politicians of honesty (P=0.033), sensitizing politicians to be aware of corruption (P=0.000) and applying court's judgements regarding reducing corruption (P=0.000) were found significantly associated with improving state of corruption.

    Corruption, Social, Values, Political and Politicians
    (1) Asad Ullah
    Assistant Professor, Department of Rural Sociology, The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, KP, Pakistan.
    (2) Mamoon Khan Khattak
    Associate Professor of Social Work & Chairman, Department of Social Work & Sociology, KUST, Kohat, KP, Pakistan.
    (3) Mussawar Shah
    Professor, Department of Rural Sociology, The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, KP, Pakistan.

24 Pages : 411-433

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2018(III-I).24      10.31703/gssr.2018(III-I).24      Published : Mar 2018

Development of Indo-Afghan Relations in Political Economic and Social Aspects Post 9/11 Scenario; Implication for Pakistan

    Indo-Afghan relations are developing with accelerated pace post 9/11. Indian increasing involvement in Afghanistan is a matter of grave concern for Pakistan. Indian investment in Afghanistan aims; to minimize Pakistan’s influence in Afghanistan, to create a soft image of India in Afghanistan and to access Central Asian Republic’s markets through Afghanistan. India is so far being successful in all of its objectives. India is investing in political, economic and social sectors in Afghanistan and successful in creating a soft image of Indians in Afghans heart. Keeping in view this scenario, study of this situation was a good case. India, Pakistan and Afghanistan all three have many observations regarding each other and none of them accept it. Due to the physical presence of United States in Afghanistan for more than a decade, peace in the area is still a dream come true. Therefore, it was an interesting study to understand the dynamics of Indo-Afghan relations and its implications for Pakistan. Neo realism theory is applied in this study.

    Afghanistan, Economic, India, Investment, Pakistan, Political, Social
    (1) Sarwat Sultana Sami
    PhD Research Scholar, IR & Politics Department, International Islamic University, Islamabad, Pakistan.
    (2) Noor Fatima
    Acting Chairperson, IR & Politics Department, International Islamic University, Islamabad, Pakistan.
    (3) Syed Ali Shah
    Assistant Professor, Department of Pakistan Studies, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan, KP, Pakistan.

05 Pages : 59-73

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2016(I-II).05      10.31703/gssr.2016(I-II).05      Published : Dec 2016

Encouraging Trends in women Politics in Khyber Pukhtoonkhwah

    Modern democratic age is based on the philosophy of |ONE-MAN ONEVOTE". Women constitute more than 50% of the world population. Pakistan's Constitution of 1973 has guaranteed women's political rights, equally with men. The general elections of 2002 and 2008 witnessed greater women political participations compared to the elections of 20th Century. The 9/11 incident and un-natural death of Benazir Bhutto left society plagued with extremism, fundamentalism and terrorism. In many instances, the war on terror crossed 'Durand-Line' and affected Pakistan, especially Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and FATA, where every second family faced causality. Vested interests and international media focused on the region and sketched it from darkness to table of discussion. The reports of FAFEN, IDEA, PILDAT, European Union Observation Mission and Election Commission of Pakistan also acknowledged the truth that political participation of women has accelerated in Pakistan tremendously by means of casting votes, launching elections campaigns and contesting elections on general seats.

    Democracy, Women's Political Participation, Women as Voters, Elections Campaigners, and Elections Contestants on General Seats
    (1) Saeed Ahmad
    PhD Scholar, Political Science, University of Peshawar & Lecturer at HED, KP, Pakistan.
    (2) Bakhtiar Khan
    PhD Scholar, Political Science, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, Pakistan.
    (3) Ijaz Khalid
    PhD Scholar & Demonstrator, Department of Political Science, AWKUM, Mardan, Pakistan.

01 Pages : 1-17

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2016(I-II).01      10.31703/gssr.2016(I-II).01      Published : Dec 2016

Pakistan Internal Security Dilemma: Strategic Dimension

    The paper reflects on Pakistan's complex security situation and the causes of current challenges that Pakistan is facing due to vacillating foreign policies. It also reviews the role of factors that contributed towards the instability of the country. After Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, Pakistan involved in a proxy war and trained Mujahideen to liberate Afghanistan. In 1980's sectarianism floored the state, and since it has rooted in Pakistani society. The country brokered several Post-Soviet peace agreements between different militaristic groups in Afghanistan but in vain. Finally, it recognized Taliban for the cause of peace (though temporary) on its Western border. After 9/11 the country had to reluctantly take a "U" turn on its Afghan policy under immense US pressure. This swing of policy opened a Pandora-box for the country i.e. terrorism, Jihadist, ethnicity, sectarianism, economic and political instability in Pakistan. In this state of affairs corruption, deteriorating law and order situation, political instability and economic fragility, variables of internal security, act as key factors in a peaceful solution of conflicts.

    Terrorism, Jihadists, Sectarianism, Ethnicity, Militancy, Political Parties, Militant Wings, Economic Instability, Taliban, Dictatorship, Civilian Rule, Democracy
    (1) Sohail Ahmed
    Assistant Professor, Department of Humanities, COMSATS, Islamabad, Pakistan.
    (2) Mahwish Bakht
    Research Scholar, MSIR, COMSATS, Islamabad, Pakistan.
    (3) Sumbal Hussan
    Junior Research Fellow at HRC, Islamabad, Pakistan.

06 Pages : 77-84

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2016(I-I).06      10.31703/gssr.2016(I-I).06      Published : Jun 2016

The Purpose of the State: Ancient, Liberal, Marxist and Feminist Standpoints

    Every political ideology has a distinct conception of various aspects of human life such as reason, purpose of life, free-will, liberty, freedom, autonomy, democracy, sovereignty and moral rights and obligations of the citizen. But the fundamental purpose of a political ideology is to define the purpose of the state and its role in providing a political system to its citizen in which individuals can live their social and political life according to the moral values and ethical principles of that political ideology. This paper only elucidates the purpose of the state according to ancient, Liberal, Marxist and Feminist standpoints. To understand the viewpoint of each political ideology, it is necessary to understand the political thought of its founders. It is pertinent to mention that all political thinkers have one ultimate aim in describing the purpose of the state which is the "ultimate good" of the citizen though they may differ with each other. The viewpoint of one ideology about the purpose of the state may be at odds with another ideology. For example, liberals demand freedom and equality while accepting the capitalist state but Marxist reject the capitalist state in totality, however they also demand freedom and equality of man. Hence, all these political ideologies of these great political thinkers have developed into political movements and later into the formation of political parties which resulted in the modern day civic political system.

    State, Plato, Modern State, Freedom, Political Ideology, Feminist
    (1) Waseem Khan
    Demonstrator (Research Associate), University of Swabi, Swabi, Pakistan.
    (2) Sana Hussan
    Research Coordinator at HDS, Mardan, Pakistan.
    (3) Bushra Qureshi
    Independent Researcher at NUML, Islamabad, Pakistan.