Year: 2026
Type: dissertation
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: This dissertation examines how (un)familiarity influences cross-border perception and interactions along two geopolitically significant borders: the Finnish-Russian and US-Mexican borders, with an emphasis on the former.While border studies have traditionally stressed physical barriers and institutional frameworks, this research focuses on the perceptual and sensuous dimensions of border crossing.Both case studies represent borders that separate not only nations but broader systems-East-West and North-South divides-yet have experienced divergent trajectories.Until Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, the Finnish-Russian border was progressively opening, while the US-Mexican border has undergone increasing militarization since the 1990s.Thus, it is both borders that are in flux and under scrutiny.These contrasting developments provide valuable comparative insight into how (un)familiarity shapes cross-border relations across different geopolitical contexts.The research employs a multi-method approach across three article-based studies, two concerning the Finnish-Russian border, and one concerning the US-Mexican border.Article one utilizes quantitative questionnaires distributed to international students before and after visiting Russia, measuring changes in perception through both closed and open-ended questions.Article two adopts while (un)familiarity influences cross-border perception and interaction, its effects depend on whether information sources remain open to revision or operate within closed ideological systems.
Author: Nielsen, Henrik
Language: English
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
Award: G1661848631
OpenAlex ID: W7215162511