An-Najah University Researchers Publish Study on Perceptions of Western Values Amidst the 2023 War on Gaza
A team of researchers from An-Najah National University, led by Dr. Oqab Jabali, Dr. Heba Sleem, Dr. Abed Alkarim Ayyoub, Mr. Munther Saeedi, and other esteemed colleagues, has recently published a research study exploring the impact of the 2023 Gaza conflict on perceptions of Western values related to democracy and human rights in Palestine.
Titled "Exploring Perceived Challenges, Adoption, and Assessment of Western Values of Democracy and Human Rights in Palestine in light of 2023 War on Gaza," the research investigates university students’ attitudes toward Western democratic ideals during the tumultuous period of the Israeli-American war on Gaza.
Published in the scientific journal Scientific Reports, renowned for its impactful contributions to academia with an impressive impact factor of 4.6, the study represents a significant milestone for An-Najah University, reinforcing its reputation as a leading center for scholarly research.
In their study, the researchers employed a rigorous mix of quantitative and qualitative methodologies to delve into university students’ perspectives on asserted Western values, particularly concerning Israel, a prominent ally of the West. The study aimed to deepen understanding of student attitudes towards these values amid political and military conflicts, thereby enriching academic discourse on the crisis-induced shifts in perceptions of universal values.
Key findings highlighted a notable decline in the acceptance of Western value systems among students during the wartime period, despite widespread prior adoption. The study also underscored the prevalence of double standards in Western governments’ evaluations of sensitive issues affecting the Arab and Islamic world, revealing divergent approaches influenced by global political, economic, and cultural dynamics, as evidenced by recent events such as the Russian crisis in Ukraine.
Moreover, the research indicated that direct exposure to violence and armed conflicts could precipitate significant changes in individuals’ outlooks on the principles and values they previously endorsed, underscoring the profound impact of geopolitical events on societal perceptions.
Following the agreement for publication, rigorous review by the Deputy Editor-in-Chief and Editor-in-Chief ensured the study’s suitability for inclusion in one of the world’s top five most cited journals.
Study link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-60147-x
