Lakhomi Journal Scientific Journal of Culture

The Role of Culture in the Transformation of International Relations: Case Studies of the Iranian and U.S. Governments

2025-07-29T04:51:23+00:00

Culture, as a vital element in the field of international relations—particularly in shaping interactions among states with divergent ideologies and historical experiences—is gaining increasing significance. This article explores the role of cultural factors in foreign policymaking and intergovernmental relations, with a particular focus on the bilateral relationship between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran. Drawing on the constructivist theory of international relations and the framework of cultural diplomacy, the study analyzes the historical evolution of cultural perceptions and misperceptions, ideological narratives, and the enduring impact of symbolic discourse on diplomatic practice. From the 1953 coup to the 1979 Islamic Revolution and the 2015 Iran Nuclear Deal (JCPOA), cultural narratives have either intensified hostility or provided cautious grounds for cooperation. The article concludes that a nuanced understanding of cultural identities, historical grievances, and ideological systems is essential for sustainable conflict resolution and the promotion of international cooperation.

Cultural Differences, Economic Partnership and Its Implication for Diplomatic Effectiveness: A Study of Nigeria and China (2011-2024)

2025-09-02T03:40:19+00:00

This study explores how cultural differences between Nigeria and China have influenced diplomatic effectiveness from 2011-2024. Both countries have different cultural values that is shaped by religion or social structures and this affects diplomacy, communication and negotiation. This study also focuses on the key cultural dimensions and how they shape diplomatic relations and trade. This study also highlights the challenges such as: misunderstandings or misinterpretation due to the difference in culture or negotiation styles and this brings about trade imbalance. This study examines strategies like cultural exchange programs and training skills that helped bridge cultural gaps. this study adopts the Complex interdependence theory that was propounded by Robert Keohane and Joseph Nye in 1977. Also, data was collected using qualitative method 7 interviewees were Interviewed while data was also collected from secondary sources. The result of this study reviews that cultural difference has a great impact on economic partnership and it has an implication for diplomatic effectiveness and this difference hinders cooperation due to the difference in communication style. This study concludes by emphasizing that policy makers, diplomats and business leaders should develop a more effective strategies to strengthen bilateral ties and promote a sustainable development between Nigeria and China. This study recommends trade imbalance should be addressed and both countries should invest in cultural exchange programs and creating a clear and transparent agreement that protects the interest of both countries.

From Sacrifice to Sacrament: A Christocentric Theology of the Cross Justifying the Sacramental Status of Protestant Marriage

2025-09-29T02:30:22+00:00

Marriage largely remains excluded from the acknowledged list of sacraments within Reformed Protestantism. This historical posture stems from sixteenth-century doctrinal controversies where Reformers, notably Luther and Calvin, redefined the concept of sacrament, limiting it to the two rites explicitly instituted by Christ : Baptism and the Lord’s Supper. Nevertheless, contemporary theologians have increasingly challenged this exclusion, arguing that marriage, as a divinely willed and blessed union, merits reintegration into a revitalized understanding of sacramentality. Protestant scholars have proposed sophisticated models for inclusion, often relying on a Trinitarian and Christocentric interpretation of the conjugal mystery. This study adopts a distinct approach, centering reflection on the Cross of Christ and His earthly ministry as the supreme revelation of Divine Love. Employing the hermeneutical insights of Paul Ricœur and the dogmatic structure of Karl Barth, the investigation explores how Christ's sacrificial love profoundly grounds a theology where marriage functions as a visible sign of Grace and a genuine locus of Divine Presence. The argument hinges specifically on the theological density of John 3:16 and the Christological mandate of Ephesians 5:25. It has been demonstrated that, through a theology of the Cross centered on the incarnational ministry of Jesus, Christian marriage is legitimately recommended as a sacrament within the Reformed context. Matrimony embodies a dynamic of self-giving, redemption, and Trinitarian communion, perfectly mirroring the covenantal union between Christ and the Church. The doctrines of Solus Christus and Christus in medio serve to underscore the implicit sacramental character of marriage: it is an act rooted in biblical Revelation and the Divine Will. Ultimately, the sacramental revaluation of marriage affirms its triple dimension : it manifests the image of God, His presence, and the fulfillment of His salvific will in the daily experience of the faithful. Through a new Theology of the Cross focused on the broken Body of Jesus Christ, this thesis advocates for the sacramentality of Protestant marriage—a position faithful to the spirit of the Reformation yet enriched by a profound, contemporary reading of Revelation. Marriage is thereby established as an essential channel of grace, a primary space for sanctification, and a living testimony of Christian faith.