Bachelor of Arts (BA), Ohio University, 2024, Sociology

This thesis searches to find what the most influential factors on the development of political morals and motivations are for Generation Z students at Ohio University. In 2024, there are over forty states that have legislation in the process of becoming law, or already signed into law, that aim to restrict Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives or limit academic freedoms in some way. America is sorely lacking the research and literature on what is shaping the political mindsets of today's youths; literature that is essential in protecting academic freedom. This research study utilizes a survey and quantitative analysis to discover if students at Ohio University believe that going to college is making this generation more liberal or if outside factors such as climate change and social media are more influential than traditional education. The findings of this study indicate that study participants do not believe that traditional education is the most influential factor in the development of their political ideology. They instead look to current events, social media, and friends to shape their ideals. Further, this study proves that students at Ohio University value diversity in thought and the opportunity to have complex meaningful discussions within the classroom and therefore they are not supportive of academically limiting legislation such as Ohio's Senate Bill 83.

Committee: Dr. Paula Miller (Advisor) Subjects: Political Science; Sociology

MFA, Kent State University, 2021, College of Communication and Information / School of Visual Communication Design

The data gathered through this study yields some insight into the psychographic and demographic of consumers who are likely to engage with visual messaging that leans toward a specific ideological view. Using perceptions of economy, religion, and culture, a series of promotions were created with distinct objectives in mind. Reviewing the use of political propaganda during World War I and memetic warfare in social media showed the impact short-form displays can have on persuading the masses. Ethnographic research gathered during a 2019 Trump event in Los Angeles, California and a pro-choice event in Columbus, Ohio provided many examples of how visual symbols correlate to public political expression. Case studies on the tonality and appeal of the branding for MyPillow and Purple demonstrated the consistency of corporate communication to conservative or liberal audiences. This research informed the way symbols were utilized in creating a series of visuals that promoted postage stamps and peanut butter from a political context. Two studies conducted via Facebook and Qualtrics measured manners of engagement with the branded content. Public engagement with promotional messages in areas of extreme political polarity was observed through Facebook's advertising manager. A survey completed by 135 students at Kent State University yielded a nuanced understanding of consumer choice through a brand comparison study. By investigating the relationship between political frameworks and visual identities, we began to understand how it informs consumer choice and brand loyalty.

Committee: Ken Visocky O'Grady (Advisor); Stephanie Smith (Committee Member); Jessica Barness (Committee Member) Subjects: Communication; Cultural Anthropology; Demographics; Design; Mass Media; Social Structure

EdD, University of Cincinnati, 2005, Education : Educational Foundations

Globalization, the advent of transnational corporations, and neo-liberal educational ideologies all adversely affect the world we inhabit. It is, therefore, my contention and the goal of this research to illustrate how these current ideological and political trends affect an urban city in the Midwest. One must understand the historical significance of how these economic policies have transformed themselves into their current forms. Therefore, the study begins with an historical overview of how our current mode of economic development was cultivated. An historical look from feudalism to the current form of capitalism—imperialism is discussed. Using a Marxist perspective and much of the work of Nkrumah, the historical epochs of economic development are discussed. This study attempts to answer several research questions: first, how has the process of globalization been created and what is its impact on the economic and social world of an American city? Second, how have demographic populations changed in urban settings and how are these populations affected by changes in the United States economic structure? Third, how have globalization and new federal legislation (No Child Left Behind Act) affected the public school system in an urban area? How do civic and educational leaders perceive these changes in Hamilton, Ohio, and what is their vision for the future? And, last, how does Marxist ideology explain current trends in the restructuring and politics of an urban school district in the Midwest? The study utilized the oral histories of several civic and educational leaders and historical data in order to gain a perspective of how current trends in globalization, corporate influence, and the dominance of neo-liberal educational and political ideologies affect an urban city and its school system. Finally, the study gives suggestions for how cities and school districts can maintain their integrity in a world which appears to be guided by the “anything for money” ideology o (open full item for complete abstract)

Committee: Dr. Marvin Berlowitz (Advisor) Subjects: Education, General