Philosophy Commons^™

Exploring Holistic Interventions: An Approach To Addressing Problematic Substance Use Among Adverse Childhood Experience And Early Life Stress Survivors Through The Lens Of Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Model, Barbara De Oliveira

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

Adverse childhood experiences (ACE), and early life stress (ELS) impact neurodevelopment and heighten susceptibility to mental health disorders, including substance use disorder (SUD). This study explored how religiosity and/or spirituality (R/S), framed through Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Model, supports holistic recovery options for ACE and ELS survivors. Neurobiological changes, such as hippocampal atrophy, can be common among trauma survivors and have been found to contribute to maladaptive behaviors. Emotional maltreatment, beyond physical or sexual trauma, has been found to have a strong link to addiction. Despite existing literature, standard treatments have been known to overlook the unique needs of trauma-impacted individuals, …

Motivating Remote Working Employees, Sandesh Bilgi

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological study was to explore how remote employees who have previously worked in-person describe their lived and perceived experience with motivation in remote working environments. Participants completed the Work Extrinsic and Intrinsic Motivation Scale (WEIMS), which measures degrees of work-related motivation among employees focusing on traits that signify each worker’s intrinsically or extrinsically motivated nature. Through in-depth interviews with 30 participants, this research examined how remote workers are motivated in remote work settings, which factors increase or decrease motivation, and how leaders can influence the motivation levels of their employees. The interviews were conducted online, …

The Grand Narratives: The Rise And Fall Of Universal Philosophical Systems, Gavin S. Litchford

Senior Honors Theses

This thesis reviews the development of narrative and systematic methods of argumentative legitimation in the Western tradition of philosophy from its conception until the present day. Utilizing both primary sources from central figures in key movements within this development process and supplementary secondary sources, this analysis notes which systems were used as appeals to higher authority and the trends in the adoption and transformation of new models. It is demonstrated that the Enlightenment era punctuated a progression begun in the premodern era from simple, cultural narratives to individualized, subjective, and self-perpetuating Grand Narrative systems, and that it generated the preconditions …

The Effects Of Reading Comprehension Intervention For Dyslexia, Amber L. Coggin

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

A quantitative study was performed to determine if Lindamood-Bell Reading Intervention had an effect on the self-concept, anxiety levels, and depression levels of individuals diagnosed with dyslexia. This quantitative study was also conducted to determine if a person’s age had an effect on the ability to learn coping mechanisms for dyslexia. Thirty-three participants, ranging in age from 7 to17 years-old were selected to participate in the study. All participants had a formal diagnosis of dyslexia and had not obtained the Lindamood-Bell Reading Intervention prior to participating in the study. The participants were divided into three age groups. Each participant completed …

The Lived Experiences Of Residents Of Casablanca, Morocco, And Their Exposure To Jihad In The Belgium Consulate Bombing : A Phenomenological Study, Idriss Bensassi

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

This study examined if Casablancans believed violent Jihad had influenced terrorist activities inside Morocco by looking at the term Jihad from both cultural and religious in a historical context and the effect of both concepts on the residents of Casablanca. The study described the transformation of Jihad from its true spiritual meaning to its attraction to terror. Three research questions guided this study: (1) What are residents’ lived experiences of the Belgium Consulate terrorist attack in Casablanca in shaping their understanding of Islam and Jihads? (2) How do the experiences and exposure of residents of the Belgium Consulate terrorist attack …

Exploring The Lived Experiences Of Individuals With A History Of Dismissive Avoidant Attachment Who Have Earned Attachment Security In Romantic Relationships., Ibukunoluwa Oluwafunmilade Aromolaran

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

This phenomenological study, guided by John Bowlby’s attachment theory, explored the lived experiences of individuals with a history of dismissive avoidant attachment who have earned attachment security in romantic relationships. Using a qualitative design, the study employed snowball and convenience sampling to enroll eight participants. Semi-structured interviews were analyzed, and thematic coding identified key patterns related to dismissive avoidant attachment and the pathways to earning attachment security. Themes emerged regarding early caregiving experiences, including emotionally distant caregiver, physically absent caregiver, and neglect. In romantic relationships before earning attachment security, participants described themes of avoidance of emotional intimacy, self-sabotage, fear of …

Intellectual Virtues For Research - Integrating Faith And Scholarship, William Coberly

Faculty Publications and Presentations

No abstract provided.

A Philosophical, Theological, And Biblical Defense Of The Hebrew Concept Of Resurrection, Daniel M. Danciu

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

This project challenges the consensus view on the origins, hermeneutics, and validity of resurrection hope in Hebrew thought. It provides a scientific, philosophical, theological, and historical defense against minimalist and moderate perspectives. The case against the minimalists offers empirical evidence for an afterlife. It demonstrates that the Hebrew Bible discloses the afterlife and that early passages express the Hebrew concept of resurrection. New scientific data for near-death experiences, as well as the existence of the soul, which contradict specific neuroscience perspectives, support this argument. The practices such as necromancy and the resurrection of Jesus provide additional evidence for an afterlife, …

Bytes, Banter, And The Bible: An Interdisciplinary Account Of Objective Meaning, Cameron Bonin

Senior Honors Theses

The claim that the Bible has objective meaning is contested in a postmodern world. This claim can be more persuasively defended when it is addressed by insights from multiple disciplines. In particular, the field of computer science is apt to illuminate the concept of meaning through its reflection on the nature of languages and its concern with the accurate transmission of information. By synthesizing insights from the field of computer science, such as that of Claude Shannon, with Nicholas Wolterstorff’s use of speech-act theory, the concept of meaning can be understood more clearly. Consequently, this synthesis assists in answering questions …

Luke-Acts Divine Transitions: The Holy Spirit’S Role In Shaping Gentile Inclusion, Celeste Santiago

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

This dissertation investigates the writings of Luke, specifically the book of Acts. In analyzing Luke’s writings, he transitions smoothly from one pertinent figure to another and from one significant event to another. One objective of this dissertation is to demonstrate Luke’s narrative of Peter and Paul as chosen leaders or ἐκλέγομαι found in Acts 1:2. “Until the day in which He was taken up, after He through the Holy Spirit had given commandments to the apostles whom He had chosen” (Acts 1:2). The research shows that Luke presents these early key figures, mainly Peter and Paul, in their unique way …

The National Defense Authorization Act V. The Bill Of Rights, David W. Bolton

Liberty University Journal of Statesmanship & Public Policy

The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) is an annual renewal of authorization for the Pentagon to spend money separately appropriated in an appropriations bill. Authorizations contained within this controversial document have grown from permission to spend funding on military munitions to allowing the use of indefinite detention and certain ‘advanced interrogation’ techniques by the members of the armed forces against those actively or perceived to be seeking to dismantle the integrity of the American governmental structure. In 2011, it was signed into law in the middle of the night on New Year's Eve by President Barack Obama. For the purposes …

The Cost Of Happiness: The Implications Of Utilitarianism On Economics, Adam Opp

Liberty University Journal of Statesmanship & Public Policy

Bentham and Mill proposed the utilitarian theory, which has moral and economic applications. Bentham and Mill differed slightly in their ideologies, as Mill critiqued Bentham and argued that man is in a separate category from beasts. To assess this, one must study human nature and if man really is different from the beasts. To this end, utilitarianism will be discussed, but also Aristotle’s discussion on virtue, the magnanimous man, and generosity. The next critical area to discuss is what differentiates humans from beasts, and if humans are distinct. Several characteristics that differentiate men from beasts include mental, psychological, moral, and …

Limitation For Liberty: A Commentary On Federalism And The Tenth Amendment, Riley Banker

Senior Honors Theses

The concept of Federalism is essential to the very survival of the United States. However, recent decisions by the Supreme Court have illustrated attempts by the federal government to expand its authority and undermine the balance of power created by Federalism. This thesis will explore the concept of Federalism to demonstrate how it can best be protected. First, this thesis will address the origins of Federalism. Second, it will show how the principles of Federalism are manifested within the founding documents of the United States. Finally, this thesis will analyze current events including Supreme Court cases to demonstrate a concerning …

An Investigation Of Law Enforcement Officer Background And Personality: A Study Of The Effects Of Education And Time In Service On Personality Characteristics, Courtney A. Claiborne

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

Within the last ten years, the actions of law enforcement officers have received increased attention, particularly in events involving disproportionate use of force. However, researchers and individuals should not generalize all law enforcement officers based on these incidents. In other words, the actions of law enforcement officers in these incidents should not be used as a basis to predetermine the actions of all law enforcement officers. Therefore, examining law enforcement officers' personalities and backgrounds is one way to understand individual police officers better. Through an exploratory research study, the researcher was able to examine the effect education and time in …

Review Of On The Resurrection: Evidences Volume 1, Brian G. Chilton

Liberty Theological Review

Dr. Brian Chilton reviews the first volume of Dr. Gary Habermas's magnum opus On the Resurrection: Evidences. Chilton summarizes Habermas's work, offering key themes found throughout the book. Then, he analyzes the methodology of the book and confronts the possible objections offered by popular naysayers of the minimal facts approach. Chilton ultimately deduces that the naysayers objections are overblown and that Habermas's approach stands on its own.

Echoes Of Eden In Proverbs: Towards A Biblical Theological Ethic, Armen Oganessian

Liberty Theological Review

Abstract:

This study argues for a biblical-theological approach to the ethics of Proverbs. It proposes that the ethical foundation for Proverbs lies in the principles established in Genesis 1-4 The argument unfolds as follows: Tracing the Abrahamic and Davidic covenants, one sees Solomon, the author of Proverbs, as a partial fulfillment of the promised seed in Genesis 3:15. Furthermore, other biblical writers depict Solomon as an Adamic king ruling in an Eden-like context. Consequently, understanding Proverbs' position within redemptive history encourages readers to interpret it through an Edenic framework. In other words, a biblical-theological approach compels readers to interpret Proverbs …

C. S. Lewis: An Inclusive Apologist, Braden Daniels

NEXUS: The Liberty Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies

No abstract provided.

J. R. R. Tolkien And Escapism, Caleb Webb

NEXUS: The Liberty Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies

No abstract provided.

Exploring The Genetics Of Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1 And Its Ethical Implications, Caleb Smith

NEXUS: The Liberty Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies

No abstract provided.

Pronomian Paradigm: A Pro-Torah, Christocentric Method Of Theology And Apologetics, Gregory Scott Mckenzie

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

This dissertation sets out to demonstrate the continued validity of the Torah for all believers today. As such, this dissertation attempts to show that discontinuity of the Mosaic Covenant is scripturally, theologically, and philosophically untenable. The thesis of this dissertation is that Pronomianism is the paradigm that most cohesively melds theology and apologetics, through its interpretation of Paul’s words and deeds at the second Jerusalem council, which unveils the Torah’s centrality in New Testament theology, and that Pronomian moral apologetics reveal the Law of God as the only foundation for objective, biblical morality, and the guide to righteous living. This …

Applying Stewardship Leadership That Impacts Employee Work Attitudes To Reduce Voluntary Turnover, H. Dea Dietrick Wood

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

At a time when leadership corruption threatens a hazard to sustainable organization development, a new brand of leadership governance is in demand. Therefore, the importance of this quantitative study was to examine a unique, newly proposed theory—stewardship leadership (SSL). SSL theory, based on a biblical worldview, was hypothesized to influence subordinates perceived organizational support (POS), subordinate affective commitment (AC), and subordinate organizational identification (OI) that, in turn, reinforces job embeddedness (JE) and reduces voluntary turnover intentions (TI) in comparison to servant (SL), transformational (TL), and leader-member exchange (LMX) leadership styles on work attitudes. SSL also appeared to be a composite …

A Narrative Study: Professional Development Of A Piano Teacher Through Various Music Education Philosophies And Psychologies In Different Sociocultural Contexts, Shuenda Wong

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

Philosophers have analyzed music education philosophies since Ancient times. For example, Plato and Aristotle in Greece mused over such matters, as did Confucius and Mozi in China. Today, music educators must examine both philosophies and psychologies of music education to understand the value of teaching music. They need music education philosophies to critique their actions and delve into their pedagogical methods to gain meaning from their teaching efforts. Previous research focused on music education philosophies in one or two countries without a thorough comparative analysis between countries or continents. This narrative study on music education philosophies traced the unique journey …

Efficacy Post-Event: Mass Killing Integrated Response Training, Danny Scott Jarrell

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

Regarding the killing or attempted killing of people in confined and populated areas, whether defined as an active threat, active shooter, or active killer, the results for public safety professionals responding to these incidents are the same. The Federal Bureau of Investigation statistics indicate that many mass killing events involve the use of firearms(s) with no pattern or method to the killer's selection of victims. The increasing frequency of these events, coinciding with the high number of casualties, is forcing first responders to adopt improved operational responses. Developing procedures through the collaborative efforts between first responders (e.g., fire, emergency medical …

Charge The Cockpit Or Die: An Anatomy Of Fear-Driven Political Rhetoric In American Conservatism, Daniel Hostetter

Senior Honors Theses

Subthreshold negative emotions have superseded conscious reason as the initial and strongest motivators of political behavior. Political neuroscience uses the concepts of negativity bias and terror management theory to explore why fear-driven rhetoric plays such an outsized role in determining human political actions. These mechanisms of human anthropology are explored by competing explanations from biblical and evolutionary scholars who attempt to understand their contribution to human vulnerabilities to fear. When these mechanisms are observed in fear-driven political rhetoric, three common characteristics emerge: exaggerated threat, tribal combat, and religious apocalypse, which provide a new framework for explaining how modern populist leaders …

Police Brutality: The Nexus Between Historical Injustices, Police Culture And The African American Experience, Claude M. Rhone

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

This study focused on the harassment, maltreatment, and brutality of African Americans by police officers. The recent widespread condemnation and social justice protests in response to incidents of police brutality point to historical injustices inherent to the culture of policing. Slavery provides the overarching backdrop; however, Jim Crow laws cultivated the structural adaptations necessary to fulfill segregation between African Americans and Whites. The American policing model, which evolved from slave patrols to public entities, continued as an apparatus in the marginalization and disenfranchisement of African Americans. The narrative of “defunding the police” suggests that the past’s cultural proximity renders the …

Biblical Duty And Government, Katherine Musgrove

Helm's School of Government Conference - 2021-2024

Christian duty toward government and what it entails has been debated many times. There are arguments that say the church’s main focus should be on influencing and being involved in governmental affairs, and there are arguments that Christians should just stay out of politics. However, from a Biblical perspective, what does the relationship truly look like between a Christian and the government? Is there a Biblical obligation to be involved in government? Looking at the Bible as well as other primary and scholarly sources, most evidence leads to a more balanced opinion that it is wise for people to be …

God’S Narrative Of Redemption: Creation, Imago Dei, And Water Imagery, Dawn Lewis Sutherland

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

This research demonstrates that the reclamation of imago Dei identity is the ultimate and terminal end-state of God’s plan for humanity’s redemption; this plan is universally expressed to humanity through water imagery in the Old Testament (OT) and in Ancient Near East (ANE) context. The Creator unveils supernatural intent through natural processes and contends that the restoration of imago Dei identity represents the conclusive fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan for humanity. In pursuit of this argument, the research critically explores creational identity, the contrasting biblical notion of idolatry, and the cross-cultural significance of water imagery within the contexts of the …

Artificial General Intelligence And The Mind-Body Problem: Exploring The Computability Of Simulated Human Intelligence In Light Of The Immaterial Mind, Caleb Parks

Senior Honors Theses

In this thesis I explore whether achieving artificial general intelligence (AGI) through simulating the human brain is theoretically possible. Because of the scientific community’s predominantly physicalist outlook on the mind-body problem, AGI research may be limited by erroneous foundational presuppositions. Arguments from linguistics and mathematics demonstrate that the human intellect is partially immaterial, opening the door for novel analysis of the mind’s simulability. I categorize mind-body problem philosophies in a manner relevant to computer science based upon state transitions, and determine their ramifications on mind-simulation. Finally, I demonstrate how classical architectures cannot resolve so-called Gödel statements, discuss why this inability …

The Shared Values Society: On The Inability To Validate Beliefs And Its Effect On Pluralistic Governance, Tanner L. Smith

Masters Theses

The nature of truth affects beliefs in such a way that all worldviews are left on a level playing field, each with no more of an objective claim to truth than any other. As a result, no one worldview has an intrinsic right to dominate the government or, through it, other worldviews. Furthermore, philosophical secularism’s noble notion of protecting individual freedoms by limiting the influence of moral values in the government has led to a loss of intergroup bonding and a value vacuum in public life. At the same time, because beliefs constitute some of the most profound aspects of …

Of Towers And Philosophy: How Interdisciplinarity Nurtures And Expands Capacity, Mario Calabretta

NEXUS: The Liberty Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies

No abstract provided.