The doctoral dissertation in the field of Cultural Studies will be examined at the Philosophical Faculty at Joensuu campus.
What is the topic of your doctoral research? Why is it important to study the topic?
In my dissertation, I examine the impacts of music and soundscapes on Inuit self-represented well-being in Kalaallit Nunaat (Greenland) and in diaspora. In addition to analysing the impacts of music on Inuit well-being, this dissertation centres the lived experiences of Inuit while consulting climate literature and highlights water, ice and silent soundscapes. Its aim is to contribute qualitative research with an emphasis on Indigenous interviewees’ lived experiences to contemporary Greenlandic Inuit well-being literature which, currently, is largely based on non-Indigenous and quantitative methods.
What are the key findings or observations of your doctoral research?
This dissertation highlights the vast potential of music on both musicians’ and listeners’ well-being. Music connects Inuit in Greenland (and in other parts of the Arctic) and in diaspora and can provide a space for Inuit to communicate. These are particularly important in Greenlandic society given that many Inuit are reluctant to share their emotions and suicide is prevalent as well as a taboo topic. In terms of soundscapes, many interviewees in both Greenland and in diaspora found the sounds of water, ice and silence (including ‘Greenlandic silence’ associated with the sounds of water, wind and animals) particularly important contributors to their self-represented well-being. In contrast, many interviewees found that anthrophony (such as the sounds of construction and traffic) reduced their well-being. Ultimately, this dissertation contributes to ongoing efforts of Inuit self-determination, a right outlined in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (2007).
How can the results of your doctoral research be utilised in practice?
This dissertation's exploration of the unfamiliarity and sometimes unpleasantness of hearing vegetation highlights the importance of considering the impacts of climate change on nature environments (direct environmental changes and resulting ecosystem changes) as well as (climate-induced) human movement to other settlements with new soundscapes. Institutions might consider increasing the time their employees spend close to the sea or other sources of water, as well as other culturally meaningful soundscapes. Similarly, city developers may look into ways to minimise the negative impacts of the sounds of construction and traffic on well-being.
What are the key research methods and materials used in your doctoral research?
This study consisted of ethnographic fieldwork in Greenland and Denmark. Research materials include interviews, song lyrics and field notes. This dissertation consulted ethical guidelines outlined by the Inuit Circumpolar Council and Ilisimatusarfik (the University of Greenland).
Further information: Seira Duncan, [email protected]