Annotations

Nr.	Topic	Annotations
1.	Narratives on the Ideal Manhood in the Slovak Digital Environment	This doctoral thesis focuses on the analysis of contemporary forms of masculinity in Slovakia, which are constructed, negotiated, and performed within the digital space. Drawing on Connell’s theory of hegemonic masculinity and the concept of the discursive construction of identity, the research examines how the Slovak digital environment (social media and discussion forums) reflects and simultaneously shapes power relations between various types of masculinities. The primary objective of the research is to identify dominant narratives regarding the "ideal man" and to analyze the mechanisms through which these images are legitimized or challenged. The thesis pays particular attention to the tension between the traditional model of masculinity (built on strength, dominance, and essentialism) and emerging alternative models (progressive, inclusive, or hybrid masculinities). The study identifies key factors influencing this discourse, notably the political polarization of society, the influence of the global digital "manosphere," and the specific cultural-historical context of Slovakia within the process of transformation. Methodologically, the thesis employs Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) and netnography to provide a deeper understanding of symbolic violence, the marginalization of alternative identities, and the dynamics of digital communities. The findings aim to contribute to the theoretical knowledge of transformations of masculinity in a post-socialist context and to critically reflect on the social consequences of the digital reconstruction of male identity.
2.	Protective and risk factors for crime victimization	Sociological analysis of protective and risk factors of crime victimization, anchored in social characteristics and lifestyles of social categories. Theoretical conceptualization and empirical analysis of selected social categories (based on secondary analyses of statistical and research data and own research probe focused on a selected area of crime).
3.	Institutional trust and environmental attitudes in Slovakia	The aim of this dissertation is to examine the relationship between institutional trust and environmental attitudes in Slovakia. Studying this topic necessitates the use of quantitative methods to analyze the impact of trust in state institutions on individuals' views on environmental issues and to identify the factors that shape these attitudes.
4.	Urban–Rural Differences in Political Efficacy in Slovakia	The dissertation examines political efficacy (internal and external) in the context of socio-spatial differentiation in Slovakia. The main objective is to identify whether systematic differences in perceived political influence exist between urban and rural populations, and how these differences have evolved throughout the post-transformation period. The research investigates whether these disparities are converging or deepening over time, while considering contextual factors (urbanization, regional inequalities) and individual-level characteristics (political socialization, political interest, education, media consumption). Methodologically, the dissertation relies primarily on the analysis of quantitative data (e.g., EVS, ISSP), with an emphasis on temporal comparison and the identification of long-term trends.
5.	A study of a public controversy concerning particular legislation	This dissertation will examine public debates and controversies concerning particular legislation chosen by the PhD student. This public and legal dispute will be analysed from the perspective of interpretive sociology, discourse analysis, or symbolic interactionism. Accounts and, where applicable, also the procedures of implementing legal regulations will likely be linked to broader issues of the rule of law, legality, justice, inequality, legitimacy, or unintended and unforeseen consequences. This thesis will draw on various types of data: documents, in-depth interviews, and selected media outputs. The aim is to describe the main frameworks and argumentative strategies which have been employed in competing explanations, as well as in legal or political tactics.
6.	Workplaces as sites of socialization: hierarchy, agency and organizational self	This topic falls within the sociology of organisations, where workplaces are seen as sites of further and ongoing socialisation. The primary source of data will be narratives of specific work-related events with a formative impact on experiencing and interpreting one's own organizational position and subjectivity. The aim is to analyse the depiction of relations and practices that, for example, fostered either participation, inclusion and empowerment, or, on the contrary, differentiation, exclusion and subjugation.
7.	Digital Technologies and intimacy among young adults	Drawing upon ethnography and interviews) the PhD thesis will examine the role of digital technologies in intimate relationships of young adults. The particular theme and research participants depend upon the interest of the PhD student and agreement with the supervisor. The examples: 1. Digital technologies and relationships among young adults 2. Negotiating autonomy in the usage of digital technology among young adults 3. Dating apps and their role in relationships of young adults.
8.	Digital Technologies and Care	Drawing upon ethnography and interviews) the PhD thesis will examine the role of digital technologies in care practices and relationships. Conceptually, the work will be based on digital anthropology and STS. The particular theme and research participants depend upon the interest of the PhD student and agreement with the supervisor. The examples: 1. Edupage as an instrument of both care and control 2. Parental strategies regarding children’s use of digital technologies, 3. Elderly care and digital technologies.
9.	Technology, ideology and power: concepts of today and images of the future in the discourse of AI leaders	The dissertation will focus on the ways and strategies by which technological leaders in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) formulate their political and economic goals and how they shape the image of the (imaginary) future and their place in it. Through a qualitative analysis of public statements by globally relevant figures in AI development (for example, Sam Altman, Mark Zuckerberg and others), it will analyze how these leaders formulate the significance of AI for social development and through what discursive and symbolic means they articulate arguments legitimizing their growing political influence, economic interests and ideological beliefs. What is their idea of ??society and their own role in it? Based on this qualitative analysis, the thesis will subsequently confront these findings with the experiences of actors and employees in the AI ??sector in Slovakia and, through interviews, examine how the ideas formed at the core of AI development (or formulated by key figures) are reflected on the semi-periphery of technological and ideological development. Conceptually, the work draws on cultural sociology, critical theories of technology and society (including feminist political economy), and science and technology studies. The research aims to deepen understanding of the relationship between technology, ideology, and social power/influence in contemporary society and to further develop this understanding in the context of the relationship between center and semi-periphery.