The Art of Living as a Community: Profiguration, Sustainability, and Social Development in Rapa Nui

Abstract

This article analyzes the challenges faced by the inhabitants of the island of Rapa Nui in connection with climate change-related environmental and socio-economic problems, and the survival of the islanders’ cultural identity and their very sustainability. A qualitative research methodology was adopted, using observation and in-depth interviews within a life course approach. An innovative and creative methodology was employed, cross-referencing and comparing data from 2011 and 2020. This methodology has led to the further strengthening of a new concept in sociology and the social sciences in general: profiguration (intergenerational and interdependent socialization). Based on the results of this study, some analytically robust descriptions were made of the socio-cultural and environmental situation in Rapa Nui, and of an increasingly sustainable social development model. It is a model of social development that is on the way to being sustainable, intercultural, intergenerational, and promoted by the community.

Profiguration, Active Ageing, and Creativity: Keys for Quality of Life and Overcoming Ageism

“…In order to provide older adults with positive experiences and learning opportunities, it is imperative to undertake and promote intergenerational actions and creative expressions that appeal to different age groups and enhance their creativity and interest in lifelong learning. Collaborative rather than hierarchical socialisation and active participation based on supportive intergenerational relationships, in which educators combine their roles as researchers and teachers, can further enhance profiguration and provide people with novel learning opportunities, fostering social inclusion and active ageing [10][11][12][13]. However, there is a necessity not only to advance active ageing policies but also to favour intergenerational relationships in a profigurative society through intergenerational dialogue, which would help overcome both young and old ageism and bridge the gap between different cohorts.…”

“…The methodological framework of this study is based on a new concept in sociology and the social sciences-'profiguration'. The concept of profiguration (and 'profigurative socialisation') is a key element in improving coexistence and the relationships between individuals of different generations and age groups [10][11][12][13]. This neologism refers to the promotion and strengthening of intergenerational interdependence, education, social participation, and active ageing for older citizens.…”

Relationship between Self-Perception of Aging and Quality of Life in the Different Stages of Reproductive Aging in Mexican Women

“…In this regard, the commitment of all members of the community, young and old, men and women, is essential for social development. Therefore, “profiguration” can mitigate and/or overcome the existing generation gap, improving coexistence and relationships between individuals of different ages and genders [ 44 , 45 ].…”

Reconstructing the Social Image of Older Women and Ageing: The Transformative Power of the Narrative Set in the Local Context

“…It's like nullifying him/her as a person." (c) Old age versus youth: an antagonistic social construction It is increasingly necessary to promote intergenerational relationships to overcome stereotypes about old age and "learn to be and learn to know" the complex, heterogeneous and diverse process of ageing [11,12]. Such notions are also highlighted in the students' responses.…”

“…Profiguration implies interdependence and socialisation, and respect and support with the aim of enriching intergenerational relationships and social connections. It also helps improve social participation, creative actions, social innovation and active ageing as it is characterized by participatory, collaborative, and comprehensive education that promotes positive change and challenges social marginalisation and ageism [7,11,12]. Working on intergenerationality as based on reading and reflection tasks in university settings is an opportunity that provides students with an important base from which to critically reflect on their beliefs and attitudes in relation to the different ages of life and ageing.…”