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Dissertation Information for Karen Cerulo

NAME:
- Karen Cerulo
- (Alias) Karen A. Cerulo

DEGREE:
- Ph.D.

DISCIPLINE:
- Sociology

SCHOOL:
- Princeton University (USA) (1985)

ADVISORS:
- None

COMMITTEE MEMBERS:
- None

MPACT Status: Incomplete - Inspected

Title: SOCIAL SOLIDARITY AND ITS EFFECTS ON MUSICAL COMMUNICATION: AN EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS OF NATIONAL ANTHEMS

Abstract: "Music is a form of symbolic communication. It is a language--an organized symbolic system composed of distinct and measurable elements. Since the structure of music is mathematically based, it is possible to capture its properties with quantitative measures. This research develops a full set of such indicators, allowing for the classification of musical dimensions along several continua ranging from simple to embellished design. Using them, the structure of any Western tonal composition can be measured in a way that is precise and easily replicateable.

This study focuses on the musical structure of national anthems and various aspects of social solidarity that affect such communication. It is argued that periods of high social solidarity are predictive of simple musical design. Under such circumstances there is a strong set of shared expectations and common assumptions. Individuals are jointed in a unitary focus. Therefore, music will communicate using the basic units and patterns that are a part of the shared symbolic system. Musical messages will be effective only if they are sufficiently simple and familiar to be apprehended and understood by the population at large. During periods of low solidarity, musical codes will become increasingly embellished. In this case, there is a dissipation in group cohesiveness. Common assumptions and shared symbols can no longer be assumed. This presents an opportunity for unique expression. Composers can interject variation into their work and act according to individualistic guidelines of expression, making their music personal, unique, and elaborate in structure.

The hypothesis is tested and confirmed with reference to macrolevel conditions of solidarity as well as other aspects reflecting social sharedness such as position in the world-system, level of modernization, and type of ruling regime. The findings are presented in detail, and limitations of the study, as well as extensions and future directions for such research are discussed."

MPACT Scores for Karen Cerulo

A = 0
C = 2
A+C = 2
T = 0
G = 0
W = 0
TD = 0
TA = 0
calculated 2008-01-31 06:10:40

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