TOWARD A DEFINITION OF FOLKLORE IN CONTEXT
D. Ben-Amos
proliferation. The German Volkskunde, the Swedish folkminne, and the Indian lok sahitya all imply slightly different meanings that the English term "folklore" cannot syncretize completely.' Similarly, anthropologists and students of literature have projected their own bias into their definitions of folklore. In fact, for each of them folklore became the exotic topic, the green grass on the other side of the fence, to which they were attracted but which, alas, was not in their own domain. Thus, while anthropologists regarded folklore as literature, scholars of literature defined it as culture.2 Folklorists themselves resorted to enumerative,3 intuitive,4 and operational definitions; yet, while all these certainly contributed to the clarification of the nature of folklore, at the same time they circumvented the main issue, namely, the isolation of the unifying thread that joins jokes and myths, gestures and legends, costumes and music into a single category of knowledge. The difficulties experienced in defining folklore are genuine and real. They
Folklore in Software Engineering: A Definition and Conceptual Foundations
Eduard Enoiu, Jean Malm, Gregory Gay
We explore the concept of folklore within software engineering, drawing from folklore studies to define and characterize narratives, myths, rituals, humor, and informal knowledge that circulate within software development communities. Using a literature review and thematic analysis, we curated exemplar folklore items (e.g., beliefs about where defects occur, the 10x developer legend, and technical debt). We analyzed their narrative form, symbolic meaning, occupational relevance, and links to knowledge areas in software engineering. To ground these concepts in practice, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 12 industrial practitioners in Sweden to explore how such narratives are recognized or transmitted within their daily work and how they affect it. Synthesizing these results, we propose a working definition of software engineering folklore as informally transmitted, traditional, and emergent narratives and heuristics enacted within occupational folk groups that shape identity, values, and collective knowledge. We argue that making the concept of software engineering folklore explicit provides a foundation for subsequent ethnography and folklore studies and for reflective practice that can preserve context-effective heuristics while challenging unhelpful folklore.
MathlibLemma: Folklore Lemma Generation and Benchmark for Formal Mathematics
Xinyu Liu, Zixuan Xie, Amir Moeini
et al.
While the ecosystem of Lean and Mathlib has enjoyed celebrated success in formal mathematical reasoning with the help of large language models (LLMs), the absence of many folklore lemmas in Mathlib remains a persistent barrier that limits Lean's usability as an everyday tool for mathematicians like LaTeX or Maple. To address this, we introduce MathlibLemma, the first LLM-based multi-agent system to automate the discovery and formalization of mathematical folklore lemmas. This framework constitutes our primary contribution, proactively mining the missing connective tissue of mathematics. Its efficacy is demonstrated by the production of a verified library of folklore lemmas, a subset of which has already been formally merged into the latest build of Mathlib, thereby validating the system's real-world utility and alignment with expert standards. Leveraging this pipeline, we further construct the MathlibLemma benchmark, a suite of 4,028 type-checked Lean statements spanning a broad range of mathematical domains. By transforming the role of LLMs from passive consumers to active contributors, this work establishes a constructive methodology for the self-evolution of formal mathematical libraries.
Folklore in Multi-Objective Optimisation
Oliver Bachtler
In this paper, we present and prove some results in multi-objective optimisation that are considered folklore. For the most part, proofs for these results exist in special cases, but they are used in more general settings since their proofs can be (largely) transferred. We do this transfer explicitly and try to state the results as generally as possible. In particular, we also aim at providing clean and complete proofs for results where the original papers are not rigorous.
The Aharonov-Bohm effect: reality and folklore
Henrique Gomes
The Aharonov-Bohm (A-B) effect has been a major focus of the foundations of physics. And yet, much confusion persists. In particular, the effect purportedly leads to a dilemma: on one horn, we have a non-local action of a gauge-invariant quantity on charged particles; on the other, we get a local action on these particles, but of a non-gauge invariant quantity. This is the folklore, but the folklore is filled with misconceptions. Here, by deploying a recently defended formulation of gauge theory that dispenses with principal bundles, gauge potentials, and explicit gauge symmetries, I argue, with previous authors, that the A-B effect can be understood gauge-independently. But here my argument will go further: I will show that the A-B effect, when expressed in terms of the covariant derivative of a vector bundle, is \emph{entirely} analogous to the holonomy of spacetime vectors, and can be understood completely locally. The only surprising idea illustrated by the A-B effect is that, in some circumstances, there is more to the covariant derivative than can be accounted for by the curvature and underlying topology of a vector bundle.
en
physics.hist-ph, gr-qc
Proofs for Folklore Theorems on the Radon-Nikodym Derivative
Yaiza Bermudez, Gaetan Bisson, Iñaki Esnaola
et al.
In this technical report, rigorous statements and formal proofs are presented for both foundational and advanced folklore theorems on the Radon-Nikodym derivative. The cases of conditional and marginal probability measures are carefully considered, which leads to an identity involving the sum of mutual and lautum information suggesting a new interpretation for such a sum.
Le formule magiche medio inglesi del XV secolo tra convenzionalità e innovazione
Donata Bulotta
The precariousness of the health situation in England from the 14th century onwards led to the use of any curative means, whether scientific, religious or ritual-magical. In this context, healing charms were seen as accessible and practicable methods. They were often added to medical prescriptions and herbal remedies in medical or pseudo-pharmacological compilations, as they were considered an alternative form of therapy equally valid in the treatment of ailments. Many charms created during this period were a mixture of magic, religion and folklore, but some received new cultural stimulus, by incorporating original elements and symbolism from Arabic, Greek and Hebrew magical texts introduced to the island. This work will focus on a selection of 15th century healing charms. The analysis aims to demonstrate that the principles of the new occult and esoteric doctrines, circulating in the intellectual and cultural centers of the island, influenced the magical healing ritual. The study of pseudo-Solomonic texts, although strongly censored by the Church, however contributed to the creation of new textual amulets, which were used in addition to the pre-existing charms so becoming a further alternative medium in the therapeutic procedure.
German literature, Philology. Linguistics
The shadow banning controversy: perceived governance and algorithmic folklore
Laura Savolainen
In this paper, I approach platform governance through algorithmic folklore, consisting of beliefs and narratives about moderation systems that are passed on informally and can exist in tension with official accounts. More specifically, I analyse user discussions on ‘shadow banning’, a controversial, potentially non-existing form of content moderation on popular social media platforms. I argue that discursive mobilisations of the term can act as a methodological entry point to studying the shifting grounds and emerging logics of algorithmic governance, not necessarily in terms of the actual practices themselves, but in terms of its experiential dimension that, in turn, indicates broader modalities and relationalities of control. Based on my analysis of the user discussions, I argue that the constitutive logics of social media platforms increasingly seem to run counter to the values of good governance, such as clarity and stability of norms, and consistency of enforcement. This is reflected in how users struggle, desperately, to form expectations about system operation and police themselves according to perceived rules, yet are left in a state of dependency and frustration, unable to take hold of their digital futures.
Investigating Arabic language teaching materials based on Indonesian folklore: an ethnographic study on the folktale of “Bandung”
Mohamad Zaka Al Farisi, Hikmah Maulani, A. B. Hardoyo
et al.
PurposeThis research explores the potential incorporation of Indonesian folklore, particularly the folklore of the origin of Bandung, into Arabic language teaching materials. Integrating local cultural elements into language instruction can enhance students' language learning experience and promote a deeper understanding of Indonesian culture.Design/methodology/approachThe origin city of Bandung is one of the famous folklore stories in Indonesia that originates from West Java. Through ethnographic studies, various aspects of the folklore of the origin of the city of Bandung will be examined, which can be utilized in Arabic language teaching. This includes analyzing the linguistic structure, vocabulary and cultural references embedded in the story. Additionally, we will explore how teachers can effectively incorporate this folklore into their teaching materials to create engaging and culturally relevant Arabic language lessons.FindingsThis research aims to contribute to developing innovative and culturally responsive language learning by investigating the use of Indonesian folklore in Arabic language instruction. It aims to empower teachers and students by fostering a deeper appreciation of Indonesian culture while improving Arabic language proficiency. This approach enhances language learning outcomes, promotes cultural awareness and cultivates a deeper connection between students and the local culture. By embracing folklore, teachers can create dynamic and meaningful language learning experiences that empower students to become proficient Arabic speakers with a strong appreciation for Indonesian wisdom and culture.Research limitations/implicationsOverall, using folklore as a foreign language teaching material provides significant advantages for students in developing a deeper understanding of language, cultural skills and interest in the language and culture being studied. This approach improves language learning outcomes, promotes cultural awareness and fosters deeper relationships between students and local culture so that foreign language (Arabic) learning is effective. By embracing folklore, teachers can create dynamic and meaningful language learning experiences that empower students to become proficient Arabic speakers with a strong appreciation for local Indonesian wisdom and culture.Practical implicationsPractically, this involves understanding the social, political, economic or cultural context in which the folklore arose, as well as new interpretations that provide a broader understanding of the stories' values, messages or conflicts. In contributing to knowledge, this research has implications for insight into linguistic knowledge and learning a second language in the norms of the first language without shifting the culture of the first language.Social implicationsEmpirically, this study combines an interdisciplinary approach to folklore research that can bring a new understanding of the relationship between folklore and other fields such as linguistics, literature, anthropology or psychology. This approach can produce a more comprehensive insight into folklore and its influence on various aspects of life. Contributing to social impact, introducing culture in learning materials is an educational tourism attraction for students. This also has an impact on public policy that tourism education about folklore is introduced as teaching and used as further field study for students.Originality/valueThis research conceptualizes the diversity of Indonesian culture integrated into the instructional materials of Arabic language learning in Indonesia through folklore. To integrate folktales into the learning process, families, traditions and rituals need to play a role in preserving and educating. Researchers can develop new insights, broaden our understanding of culture and traditions and enrich our knowledge and cultural heritage. These new approaches have the potential to yield discoveries and a deeper understanding of folklore as an important cultural heritage. This research explores the potential incorporation of Indonesian folklore, particularly the folklore of the origin of Bandung, into Arabic language teaching materials. Integrating local cultural elements into Arabic language teaching for Indonesian speakers can enhance students' language learning experience and promote a deeper understanding of Indonesian culture through Arabic language teaching as a foreign language.
ChatTf: A Knowledge Graph-Enhanced Intelligent Q&A System for Mitigating Factuality Hallucinations in Traditional Folklore
Jun Xu, Hao Zhang, Haijing Zhang
et al.
Large language models are rapidly advancing the field of artificial intelligence, with current research focusing primarily on traditional natural language understanding tasks, such as question answering and information extraction. However, in knowledge-intensive domains, such as intangible cultural heritage, hallucination problems due to insufficient domain knowledge persist. To address this, we present ChatTf, a knowledge graph-enhanced intelligent Q&A system, exemplified by Chinese traditional folklore, aimed at reducing factuality hallucinations in this domain. Specifically, we constructed the Traditional Folklore Ontology (TFOnto) and proposed the Zero-shot Traditional Folklore Triplet Extraction (ZFTE) framework. Driven by TFOnto, ZFTE builds a Traditional Folklore Knowledge Graph (TFKG). We then proposed a dual-stage Retrieval-Augmented Generation framework (TFKG-RAG) based on TFKG to provide traditional folklore knowledge to large language models, mitigating factuality hallucinations in folklore Q&A tasks. In the experimental phase, ChatTf achieved an accuracy of 96.7% on a self-built TFCQD test set, outperforming several state-of-the-art baseline methods. This demonstrates the accuracy and reliability of folklore domain question answering.
14 sitasi
en
Computer Science
The Endangered Central Malay Folklore: A Medium for Internalizing Character Values in Indonesian Language and Literature
Fitra Youpika, S. Sumiyadi, Tedi Permadi
et al.
This study raises the unity of the topics of folklore, literature teaching materials, and character education. It aims to explore character education values in endangered Central Malay folklores as a means of internalizing literature teaching. This qualitative study used five informants who not only knew the folklores but also knew the local culture of the Central Malay community in depth. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and note-taking. The data were analyzed using a thematic approach. The research findings show that Central Malay folklore has aesthetic, humanist, ethical, and religious values that can be internalized in literature learning as a form of effort to save Central Malay folklore from extinction through education. This research is not new. However, there is little information about Central Malay folklore in Indonesia. The findings provide benefits and recommendations to researchers, educators, teachers, and policymakers to collaborate and conduct further studies to save Central Malay folklore from extinction and survive in society. In addition, the importance of this research is to increase understanding and foster students' appreciation of local literature while being able to take and practice the character values contained in Central Malay folklore.
Folklore and Cultural Heritage: Reflecting on Change
V. Hafstein
Abstract:The article discusses the concepts of “folklore” and “cultural heritage” and their historical development as responses to social transformations. It compares the field of folklore in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries to the present-day heritage field, highlighting the specific ways in which each field has risen to the challenges of its time and addressing their potential pitfalls. The author emphasizes the power of these concepts to shape and change the world, as they mobilize people, reform discourses, and transform practices.
Culinary Tourism as Public Folklore: Heritage in Negotiating Competitiveness and Sustainability
Lucy M. Long
Abstract:The tourism industry often treats heritage as an objective quality that makes attractions more competitive. This approach would seem to support the sustainability of a culture’s culinary heritage, but it oftentimes ossifies, simplifies, invents, and even threatens it. A folklore-based approach to culinary tourism addresses some of these issues. This essay describes three projects that illustrate applications of folklore theory and practice to culinary tourism projects involving heritage.
On the Folklore set and Dirichlet spectrum for matrices
Mumtaz Hussain, Johannes Schleischitz, Benjamin Ward
We study the Folklore set of Dirichlet improvable matrices in $\mathbb R^{m\times n}$ which are neither singular nor badly approximable. We prove the non-emptiness for all positive integer pairs $m,n$ apart from $\{m,n\}=\{ 1,1\}$ and $\{m,n\}=\{ 2,3\}$ in a constructive manner. For a wide range of integer pairs $(m,n)$ we construct subsets of the Folklore set with an exact prescribed Dirichlet constant (in some right neighbourhood of $0$). This enables us to provide information on the Dirichlet Spectrum of matrices. The key technique of our construction is to build first vectors of a given Diophantine type, and then to show that most `liftings' to matrices will preserve this Diophantine type. This is a variant of a method introduced by Moshchevitin for uniform approximation. Our technique is often also applicable to arbitrary norms. As a corollary, we obtain lower bounds on the Hausdorff dimension of these sets. These statements complement previous results of the middle-named author (Selecta Math. 2023), Beresnevich et. al. (Adv. Math. 2023), and Das et. al. (Adv. Math. 2024).
Revisiting the Folklore Algorithm for Random Access to Grammar-Compressed Strings
Alan M. Cleary, Joseph Winjum, Jordan Dood
et al.
Grammar-based compression is a widely-accepted model of string compression that allows for efficient and direct manipulations on the compressed data. Most, if not all, such manipulations rely on the primitive \emph{random access} queries, a task of quickly returning the character at a specified position of the original uncompressed string without explicit decompression. While there are advanced data structures for random access to grammar-compressed strings that guarantee theoretical query time and space bounds, little has been done for the \emph{practical} perspective of this important problem. In this paper, we revisit a well-known folklore random access algorithm for grammars in the Chomsky normal form, modify it to work directly on general grammars, and show that this modified version is fast and memory efficient in practice.
The Image of the Mental Map in the Communication of Social Media Users From Saint Petersburg
Sergey Troitskiy, Emil Babaev, Elizaveta Belova
et al.
The study, conducted in March 2022, involved the analysis of the content in several social media chats and groups; the participants of those chats live in the same place and therefore have a common experience of the space. The study was based on the hypothesis of a direct connection between the mental map (a system of individual ideas about space), the cultural reputation of topoi, and urban trauma, embodied in the unease infrastructure. The problem of assessing the significance of a place was solved by means of folklore toponymies – the mechanism of renaming, which indicates the degree of awareness about a specific place and defines its location on the mental map as well as ascribes a certain status to it. These statuses demonstrate the degree of significance of a place for a certain subject and form a kind of hierarchy, a system of topographical preferences. Thanks to online communication, people can not only transmit information much faster than the traditional forms of folklore dissemination allow, but also broadcast personal attitudes, conveying them as a bundle of meanings (for example, while inventing new toponyms). Therefore, one of the objectives of the study was to identify established folklore toponyms in online communication: they serve as markers of attitudes, reputation, and significance; we also try to catalogue attempts to “rename” different places. Another task was to find the symptoms of such anxiety in online communication.
The Muruite [Smeared] Shirt as Sign of Occupational Status
Horațiu Silviu Ilea
The article presents the traditional costume of the shepherds from the Eastern Carpathians, from an historical perspective, using narrative, bibliographic, iconographic, folklore, and archival sources. The muruite [smeared] shirts treated with soot become regional and occupational signs in the mountain area of Bistrița, Maramureș, and Bucovina regions.
Ethnology. Social and cultural anthropology
A sociological perspective on making South African tourism monumental through folklore
Mlamli Diko
The principal aim of this article, among other crucial determinants, is to elucidate that folklore systemically can be utilised for the sustainable development of tourism in South Africa and in the global sphere. The sociological perspective, through argumentation, is deployed to debate and demonstrate how and why folklore should be gauged and appreciated as an instrument of promoting South Africa’s socioeconomic and development plan. Through the discussions and findings, it becomes evident, therein, that folklore has not been accorded the opportunity to partake in tourism in most African countries, and in particular, South Africa. Given that, it becomes part of the article’s sociological debates to conclusively demonstrate, by appointing three folklore types, how folklore can address the problematised phenomenon. The concluding remarks challenge folklore and tourism scholars to collaboratively open and continue the discourse to serve the country's just and legitimate course. The significance of the article rests on the veracity that folklore and tourism have not been scholarly positioned as complementing or corroborating components in South Africa and elsewhere in the global sphere.
Literary Phenomenology in Ngaju Dayak Folklore
Petrus Poerwadi, M. Misnawati, Manya Manya
et al.
The objectives of this study are describing the phenomenology of plants in Ngaju Dayak folklore and describing the phenomenology of animals in Ngaju Dayak folklore. This research method uses a qualitative approach. Qualitative research is a way to interpret and present data in descriptive form. The existing data is then interpreted and analyzed. The plant has a close relationship with the Ngaju Dayak community as food and boards, plants that are one of the requirements in the Ngaju Dayak traditional ritual, and the plant is used as a symbol or metaphor. The animal phenomenon that appears in Ngaju Dayak folklore is caused by the animal is around the settlement and becomes a myth for the Ngaju Dayak people, it is useful as a source of nutrition it is used in traditional ceremonies, traditional rituals and is related to traditional ceremonies it has a specific meaning and. The phenomenology of plants that appear in the folklore studied is the use of words or phrases wood 'tree', banana 'banana', kambang 'flower', uwei 'rattan', sangkai puca, sambilu /bamboo', upun pinang 'batang pinang'. The phenomenology of animals that appear in the folklore studied is the use of words or phrases handipe, cow, manuk, burong, side dishes, bawui, haramaung, elephants with palanduk, and calasi.
Psychological Stress and Heart Disease: Fact or Folklore?
Glenn N. Levine
For at least a few centuries, if not millennia, psychological stress has been popularly believed to contribute to heart disease. Does psychological stress really contribute to heart disease? Are anecdotal, patient, and lay press reports that angina, heart attack, and even cardiac death are caused by stress based on fact, or are they just folklore? In this review, the study data supporting associations between stress and cardiovascular risk, as well as potential mechanisms by which psychological stress might contribute to heart disease and precipitate myocardial ischemia and infarction, is critically reviewed and summarized.