Digital Commons Network^™

Arguments Against Amalgamation: The Citizen’S Council Battles Integration By Controlling The Narrative, Evelyn S. Kerns

Honors Theses

In 1954, the Supreme Court decision Brown vs. Board of Education eradicated the “separate, but equal” mentality that confined African Americans to the menial state of oppression and exploitation that had plagued their people since they arrived in America. However, this decision did little to neutralize the proclivity to segregation nor did it quell the surmounting racial tensions between black people and the upper echelon of Southern society. Conversely, the federal mandate to integrate public schools roused white supremacists to interpose desegregation through resistance, violence, and fear-mongering propaganda. The most flagrant organization of white supremacists was known as the White …

The Selfie Of Dorian Gray: Adapting Literature For Modern Media, Darby L. Campbell

Honors Theses

Picture Perfect Dori Gray is a modern adaptation of The Picture of Dorian Gray set in modern America and starring a female Dorian Gray. The work is set up as a web series that takes place on YouTube in the form of a vlog run by Dori herself. The transmedia world consists of both YouTube content and Twitter content that all contribute to one over-arching story world. Modernizing the narrative, setting, media, and characters highlights which literary themes and motifs of the original novel are still relevant today and which symbols have changed since publication. The greatest effect on the …

Pain Catastrophizing In College Athletes' At Eastern Kentucky University, Jacob Waldecker

Honors Theses

It is a known fact that athletes become susceptible to injuries with more athletic injury exposures, and that pain is the most common symptom paired with injury. Pain catastrophizing is a phenomenon that is caused by negative thinking that has been shown to reduce treatment outcomes in patient populations. Pain catastrophizing has been studied in different populations, usually with specific body part injuries, showing it is a relevant factor in the outcome of rehabilitation. Nobody has researched the prevalence of pain catastrophizing in highly athletic populations. In Division I athletes at Eastern Kentucky University, 291 athletes were surveyed using the …

Beyond No Fracking: An Anthropological Study Of Individuals Pursuing Sustainable Lifestyles In Eastern Kentucky, Meg Carter

Honors Theses

This study combines research and oral histories that were conducted with eight individuals in Kentucky who are pursuing sustainable lifestyles through practicing methods such as homesteading, living off-the-grid, permaculture, and natural farming techniques. The paper provides a brief history of homesteading and details how the homesteading of today differs from off-the-grid living. It also provides some of the history of Eastern Kentucky and gives insights into the history of homesteading and sustenance farming in the area. The unrehearsed oral history interviews share information that includes, but is not limited to, interviewees’ reasons for why and how they began their transition …

The Effects Of Equine Assisted Learning On Emotional Intelligence Competencies And Leadership Skills, Jade E. Rauen

Honors Theses

The Effects of Equine Assisted Learning on

Emotional Intelligence Competencies and Leadership Skills

Jade Rauen

Dr. Kelly L. Leigers, PhD, OTR/L, Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy

Since the development and understanding of the term emotional intelligence (EI), researchers and businessmen alike have strived to find a way to improve EI competencies. Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) is a branch of Equine Therapy that uses the horse to facilitate change in humans. In recent years, EAL has been applied to the field of leadership development. Can a horse intrinsically instill competencies that effect leadership skills in humans? There is limited literature …

Finding Meaning In The Lack Thereof: An Analysis Of Nietzsche's And Sartre's Responses To The Problem Of Existential Nihilism, Daniel J. Hassall

Honors Theses

There have been countless philosophers who have attempted to create ways that humanity can overcome the threat of existential nihilism and the loss of objective meaning. Two of the most influential philosophers who have attempted to do this are Friedrich Nietzsche and Jean-Paul Sartre. This paper analyzes both of their philosophical solutions to the problem of nihilism, comparing and contrasting. While similar in many respects, Nietzsche and Sartre differ on several key aspects: they approach nihilism slightly differently, they have different views about ethics and subjectivity, and Nietzsche is a determinist while Sartre advocates a radical free will. When comparing …

Japanese Business Culture: A Study On Foreigner Integration And Social Inclusion, Sarah Franklin

Honors Theses

With the lack of research and awareness about foreigner integration in the Japanese business working environment, this thesis delves into the underlying factors that influence the perceptions of foreigner integration and social inclusion. Key topics include the history of Japanese business culture, the major differences between American and Japanese business culture, the psychological implications of culture shock on integration, the possibility of ‘below surface’ foreigner integration in the working environment, and the recommended actions by foreigners for better social acceptance and adaptation to the culture. Through observations and interviews, it was discovered that ‘below surface’ integration is possible. However, it …

Jouhikko: An Instrumental Evolution, Rachel E. Bracker

Honors Theses

Jouhikko: An Instrumental Evolution

Author: Rachel Bracker

Mentor: Dr. Timothy Smit, Department of History

The Jouhikko is a unique instrument from Finland that has been in use since around the twelfth century. The Jouhikko is a member of the bowed lyre instrumental family, and its origin is surrounded in mystery and uncertainty. However, references to the Jouhikko, and instruments which could be potentially related to it, can be found in the Finnish epic the Kalevala and in archaeological sites throughout the Scandinavian region. The first portion of this project investigates the evolution of the Jouhikko over time. This is done …

Chemical Simulations Of Cyanomethanimine In Interstellar Medium, Matthew T. Webb

Honors Theses

Cyanomethanimine was recently detected in Sagittarius B2, an interstellar cloud known for its rich chemistry. Cyanomethanimine is a proposed intermediate in the interstellar synthesis of adenine. Adenine is crucial in the formation and maintenance of living systems due to its role as a major component in DNA/RNA. Unfortunately, it is not currently possible to obtain tangible chemical samples from Sagittarius B2, the interstellar cloud where cyanomethanimine resides, because it is too distant from the Earth. Furthermore, the best method for studying interstellar molecules for now is computer modelling. The objective of the project is to determine the abundance of cyanomethanimine …

Through Their Eyes: Exploring Severe Mental Illness Through Short Stories, Emily N. Adkins

Honors Theses

This process statement describes my Honors thesis, which consists of three short stories with characters who each deal with severe mental illness, along with this process statement. Mental illness affects one in every five people in the United States at any given time (NAMI, n.d.). While mental illness is extremely prevalent, there is stigma against it, which has dramatic implications on quality of life for those with mental illness. Research has shown, however, that media can serve as an active intervention in decreasing that stigma. The purpose of this project is that my short stories may lead to decreased stigma …

Shakespeare And Psychology: Emotional Intelligence And Machiavellianism In King Lear And Othello, Justice M. Cundiff

Honors Theses

The current study evaluated the role of emotional intelligence and Machiavellianism in two of William Shakespeare’s tragedies: Othello and King Lear. The general organization of Shakespeare’s tragedies and character development were of particular interest, as the author hypothesized that the presence of emotional intelligence and Machiavellianism in antagonists and protagonists may have a significant effect on the plots of the relevant plays. The current study concluded that the antagonists may be deemed more successful in these Shakespearean tragedies due to the cooperation of two key factors: Machiavellian personalities and higher levels of emotional intelligence than their protagonist counterparts. Potential implications …

The Possible Effect Of Cypsela Morphology On Endemism In Solidago Shortii, Evan P. Singleton

Honors Theses

This project centers around the differences between the Solidago altissima and the S. shortii, or Common and Short’s Goldenrods, respectively, and endeavors to provide an explanation for the narrow endemism of shortii, relative to that of altissima. The Common Goldenrod has a range spanning from Southern Canada to Northern Mexico, while the Short’s is found only in two isolated locations in Kentucky and Indiana. They are rather similar to the untrained eye but further observation reveals drastic morphological differences between the seeds of the two species, with those of the Short’s being far larger than those of …

Kentucky Streams And Wetlands, 2009-2017: A Comparative Study, Dennis M. Smith

Honors Theses

The bulk of Eastern Kentucky University’s 22 county service region provides an ideal landscape within which to observe, study and promote awareness on key, critical issues facing the commonwealth today regarding environmental conservation and restoration, as well as the impacts made upon communities. These issues are not new to Kentuckians and have been studied and concerned citizens state-wide for many years. Owing to her years of work and data collections in the area of stream and wetlands conservation in Kentucky (particularly Eastern Kentucky), Sociologist Dr. Stephanie Mcspirit has provided ideal conditions to explore this issue at the undergraduate level. Through …

Coal-Based Power Plants And The Health Of The Ohio River, Shelby L. Hesler

Honors Theses

This study was conducted to determine if there is a relationship between the health of the Ohio River and coal based power plants. This was determined using several probes to test for conductivity (µs/cm), pH, salinity (ppt), water temperature (°C), and dissolved oxygen (mg/l and percentage). Testing took place a 30.4 mile stretch of the Ohio River. The four testing locations included Manchester, OH; Dayton Power and Light Stuart generating station; Maysville, KY; and Augusta, KY.

The Ohio River was chosen as the focus of this study due to the high pollution rate of the river. An article from USA …

A Musician's Lament: A Creative Piece Resulting From The Interaction Between Grief And Music, Sarah K. Noelker

Honors Theses

This thesis resulted in the creation of a musical work that reflects on my period of bereavement after the loss of my best friend. My research centered around the interaction between the human brain and grief, music and the interaction between the two as they happen simultaneously. In addition, I studied the works of the great composers to serve as a model as I set out to write my own work. Written here is a rationale on the creative piece as well as my research presented prior to the writing of the piece.

Deaf Education: Bicultural Bilingual Education And Total Communication In General Education, Stacey L. Johnson

Honors Theses

This paper will examine scholarly work in the field of deaf and hard of hearing (d/hh) education in relation to two different approaches used by teachers in this field. The researcher is searching to find which approach, bicultural bilingual in a residential setting or total communication in general education best serves students who are deaf and hard of hearing in the United States. Upon beginning research, it was quickly noted that you cannot look at only setting, communication, or approach; they are tightly bound and must be looked at together.

Putting The Athletic Back In The Trainer, Shelby L. Davis

Honors Theses

Athletic Training Students are taught about the benefits of physical activity and how to create specific exercise programs to maintain overall wellness. Although athletic training students have knowledge about the positive effects of physical activity, they continually score lower on activity level scales when compared with the average college student. A rigorous course schedule and long clinical hours seem to be a common factor that play into the poor health habits of the athletic training student. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine the variables that negatively affect the exercise habits of undergraduate athletic training students.

Students from …

From The Soviet Bloc To The Ballot Box: Democratization In Eastern Europe, Tyler Swafford

Honors Theses

This undergraduate honors thesis examines the common causes of democratic transitions in Poland, Latvia, and Ukraine. One purpose of this honors project is to discern why certain countries like Poland and Latvia have successfully transitioned to and consolidated stable democratic institutions, while others like Ukraine have not. One central question examines the degree of influence that foreign actors exerted in promoting democracy movements in Eastern Europe. A theoretical framework will be established by combining parts of the models of Samuel Huntington, Juan Linz, and Alfred Stepan. The research project will place special scrutiny on Huntington’s theory of foreign actors affecting …

Occupational Injustice: Women's Education In Afghanistan, Victoria Mings

Honors Theses

The country of Afghanistan has had a turbulent political, economic, and social climate throughout the recent past. Instability throughout the country has had dramatic impacts on all aspects of its citizens’ lives. One especially prevalent factor that has been affected is the education of women. Receiving an education is an example of an occupation, which is any task or experience an individual finds meaningful. The inhibition of an individual’s ability to participate in valued occupations is called occupational injustice. Through an in-depth literature review, an online review of charitable organizations that promote education for women and girls in Afghanistan, and …

Counter Terrorist Financing: French Case Study, Adrienne Holtzworth

Honors Theses

In this undergraduate capstone honors thesis research project I will discuss the most basic defunding terror framework. I will suggest several responsibilities every financial institution should assume to aid efforts in counter terrorism financing. Lastly, in a case study of France three contributing factors to the heightened terror attacks are analyzed, these include: geographical location, the “outsider” effect, and their complicated past with the Muslim world. Next, each contributing factor is given a few suggested resolutions, resolutions range from tighter border control to radically revising the Code du Travail, from repealing discriminatory laws like those banning the burqa to fostering …

Cultivating Character With Curriculum: A Service Project, Amanda K. Bowman

Honors Theses

Often misbranded as an imposition of morality or a form of “conversion therapy,” character education is intentionally designing instructional practices to foster the growth of specific character traits. This service project explored how explicit character education can be implemented in the modern classroom at three out of class academic preparatory sessions for low-income high school students who will be the first in their families to achieve a college degree. These sessions were conducted during the Eastern Kentucky University Upward Bound Programs monthly Saturday Academies. During each session, students received direct instruction and participated in experiential learning activities regarding a specific …

Assessing Electronic Voice Phenomena Through Speech Science, Cassie C. Axtell

Honors Theses

Electronic Voice Phenomena (EVP) are unexplained voices captured on audio recording, allegedly paranormal in nature (Buckner & Buckner, 2012). Little research exists on listener’s perception of EVPs to date. The field of speech science involves the study of the production, transmission, and perception of human speech. Many concrete elements from the study of speech science have the potential to be applied to the interpretation of EVP content. Several works of literature were reviewed to assess current EVP analysis practices Interviews were conducted with various paranormal investigation societies across the nation to gather information on the general practices involved in EVP …

The Kentucky Way Of Death: A History Of The Development Of Mortuary Law In Kentucky, J. Conner Niceley

Honors Theses

Mortuary law has been a field of law in the Commonwealth of Kentucky that has been vague, inadequate, and non-reflective of changes within the industry since its outset. The primary focus of this paper is on the specific Kentucky Revised Statutes governing the requirements and qualifications for licensure as an embalmer or funeral director, the potential sanctions for violations of the statutes, and eligible penalties that may be issued; and how these elements have developed over time. Kentucky mortuary law has consistently been outdated since the first laws were written. This research aims to make the complex topic of mortuary …

Fish Populations In A Changing World, Christine Booker

Honors Theses

Freshwater ecosystems in North America face many threats including habitat degradation, fragmentation, and hydrological changes to the river system. This is especially obvious in Southern Appalachia region, which is a hotspot for freshwater biodiversity. Large inputs of sediment from coal mining and nutrients from agriculture degrade water quality. Dams and other stream modifications have led to changes in the habitat and hinder migration. Numerous native and endemic species have small isolated populations that are threatened by extinction. Recovery rates of species depend on numerous factors, including abiotic and biotic ecosystem factors and the natural history of the species. Species like …

Science And Literature: An Exploration Through A Shared Language, Maura D. Stovall

Honors Theses

Science and fiction are often deemed opposing forces, incompatible “languages” and “cultures.” Science is the realm of fact and reality while fiction is mere fantasy, useless to the rational mind. Yet, the works of Jules Verne, Mary Shelley, Aldous Huxley, H.G. Wells, and numerous others continue to stand the test of time even as scientific knowledge and understanding broaden. Science and fiction, science and literature, are so often thought of as separate, irreconcilable entities and yet science fiction enraptures and intrigues. Science fiction is the playground of science. Where science has not yet or cannot dare to go, science fiction …

Eleanor Of Aquitaine: A Musical Examination, Rachel E. Lachut

Honors Theses

Eleanor of Aquitaine lived from c.1124 to 1204. In that time, she was the wife of two kings, a mother to three kings, a patron of the arts, and the heir to, and perhaps primary ruling force of, an area that is the equivalent to nearly half of modern France. Her life, full of both personal and political intrigue, has been the subject of several artistic works, ranging from poetry to film. While the proliferation of media has been beneficial in maintaining her memory in the intervening centuries, it has also contributed to a wealth of misinformation about her life. …

A Comparative Study Of Perspectives In Musical Structural Features And Emotional Stimuli, Cibele Maia Burke

Honors Theses

Music psychology has become increasingly popular in music research given the ability of music to evoke strong emotions. However, there are not many studies that have investigated the mechanisms that induce these emotions. One of the characteristics of recognized composers in Western Art Music is their ability to manipulate musical devices in a way that will evoke an emotional state within the listener. This study looks into theories and perspectives regarding the influence of music upon emotions (such as the Doctrine of ethos) while analyzing certain musical structural features and their impact on emotional expression. By comparing musical works and …

Economic & Human Rights Development In India: A Look At The Effectiveness Of Affirmative Action For Scheduled Castes, Jamie H. Witherall

Honors Theses

The primary question in this thesis being investigated is how effective has affirmative action (AA) been for improving the human rights and economic situation of scheduled castes (SCs) in India? This thesis analyzes the disciplines of human rights and economics by identifying differences, similarities, and possible areas of convergence. Then through a converged human rights and economic lens, the effectiveness of affirmative action (AA) for scheduled castes (SCs) in India is examined and seen as necessary but not enough in improving their economic and human rights situation. Although Affirmative Action is one avenue at improving both the human rights and …

Evaluating The Feasibility Of School-Based Interventions In The Prevention Of Childhood Obesity In Harlan County Public Schools, Jenna Eby

Honors Theses

In recent years, childhood obesity has become a public health crisis within the United States. With children living in rural communities considered at risk for developing this condition, there is a critical need for multi-level programs to prevent this condition by establishing proper health behaviors in children at a young age. This project focused on identifying evidence-based interventions to prevent the development of childhood obesity in a rural school system in Harlan county, Kentucky by promoting healthy nutrition and adequate levels of physical activity. Harlan County Public Schools’ current policies were evaluated in regards to how well they met current …

Game Theory: The Modern-Day Airline Dogfight, Nathaniel Schattner

Honors Theses

This study examines the narrowing differentiation between legacy airlines and low-cost carriers in the United States by exploring the competitive strategies each group borrows from one another. Specifically, this work examines the implementation of a new type of economy fare by Delta Air Lines, called basic economy, and evaluates how the fare has impacted a key metric of airline performance: domestic operating revenues.

In the first part of this thesis, an explanation of the history behind airline marketing efforts as well as what constitutes a low-cost carrier and a legacy carrier is provided. A brief description of game theory is …