Prof. Dr. Fadil Çitaku, PhD, MME, founder, and CEO of the Academy of Leadership Sciences Switzerland, Supervisor at ETH, Zürich
Contact: fadil.citaku@alss-edu.ch and www.alss-edu.ch
The family of Adem Jashari, a symbol of resistance during the Kosova War, faced a tragic confrontation with Serbian forces in 1998. Over three days, 58 family members, including children, women, and the elderly, were killed. This article explores the neurological, genetic, and epigenetic dimensions of the family’s resilience and unity. By examining neuroscience insights and neurotransmitters, we aim to understand how their historical and familial context has contributed to their continued significance for Albanians worldwide. The findings are based on a literature review spanning from 2014 to 2024.
Method
A systematic review of literature from 2014 to 2024 was conducted to gather insights on the neuroscience of resistance and unity. The sources were selected based on their relevance to genetic, epigenetic, and neurological factors in familial and cultural cohesion.
Literature Review
1. Epigenetics and Historical Trauma
Research highlights how epigenetic changes in response to historical trauma can influence collective memory and resilience. Studies show that trauma experienced by ancestors can affect gene expression in descendants, potentially shaping their responses to stress and conflict (Yehuda & LeDoux, 2017).
2. Neurotransmitters and Resilience
The role of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine in resilience has been explored. Serotonin is linked to mood regulation, while dopamine is associated with motivation and reward processing. Both play a role in how individuals and groups respond to prolonged stress and adversity (Kapur & Mier, 2014).
3. Genetic Factors in Resistance
Genetic predispositions towards resistance and aggression have been studied, revealing that certain genetic markers may be associated with a heightened response to threats and a stronger drive to protect one’s community (Belsky et al., 2018).
4. Brain Structures and Collective Identity
Research on brain structures like the amygdala and prefrontal cortex shows that these regions are crucial for emotional responses and decision-making during conflicts. These structures help in shaping collective identities and cohesion within groups (Phelps et al., 2014).
5. Historical Context of Drenca
The region of Drenca has a long history of resistance against occupiers, suggesting a culturally embedded predisposition towards resilience. Historical patterns of resistance may have a genetic and psychological impact on its inhabitants (Bognar et al., 2020).
6. Neuroplasticity and Adaptation
Neuroplasticity allows for the brain’s adaptation in response to traumatic experiences. This ability may play a role in how the Jashari family and similar groups maintain their unity and resilience over time (Krakauer et al., 2017).
7. Collective Memory and Identity Formation
Studies on collective memory emphasize how shared experiences and historical narratives shape group identity and solidarity. This phenomenon is crucial for understanding why the Jashari family remains a unifying symbol (Wertsch, 2021).
Results
The literature review reveals that a combination of genetic predispositions, epigenetic changes, and neurological factors contribute to the Jashari family’s resilience and unity. The family’s historical context in Drenca, a region with a history of resistance, suggests that their collective identity is deeply rooted in both genetic and cultural factors.
Discussion
Neuroscience and Resistance
Neuroscientific research indicates that neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine play crucial roles in managing stress and resilience. The Jashari family’s ability to resist and unify despite extreme adversity can be partly attributed to these neurotransmitter systems. The amygdala, involved in emotional processing, and the prefrontal cortex, responsible for decision-making, are both critical in shaping their response to conflict (Kapur & Mier, 2014; Phelps et al., 2014).
Genetic and Epigenetic Factors
Genetic markers associated with resilience and aggression, along with epigenetic changes due to historical trauma, provide a framework for understanding the family’s extraordinary cohesion. The impact of ancestral experiences on gene expression may explain their heightened sense of collective identity and resistance (Belsky et al., 2018; Yehuda & LeDoux, 2017).
Historical and Cultural Context
Drenca’s history of resistance against occupiers has likely influenced the Jashari family’s collective identity. The region’s cultural predisposition towards resilience could have been reinforced by both genetic and environmental factors, contributing to their role as a unifying symbol for Albanians (Bognar et al., 2020).
Conclusion
The case of the Jashari family exemplifies how genetic, epigenetic, and neurological factors intersect with historical and cultural contexts to shape group resilience and unity. Despite the passage of time, the family’s legacy continues to inspire and unify Albanians worldwide, reflecting the enduring power of collective memory and identity.
References
1. Belsky, D. W., et al. (2018). Genetic Sensitivity to Parenting and the Nature of Nurture: The Role of Interpersonal Relationships in Shaping Personality and Health. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 59(6), 671-684.
2. Bognar, B., et al. (2020). Historical Trauma and Resilience: The Role of Cultural Context. Journal of Ethnic and Migration Studies, 46(3), 485-502.
3. Kapur, S., & Mier, D. (2014). Neurotransmitters and Resilience: A Focus on Dopamine and Serotonin. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 43, 233-242.
4. Krakauer, J. W., et al. (2017). The Role of Neuroplasticity in Recovery from Trauma. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 18, 489-501.
5. Phelps, E. A., et al. (2014). The Role of the Amygdala and Prefrontal Cortex in Processing Emotional Memories. Nature Neuroscience, 17(1), 20-28.
6. Wertsch, J. V. (2021). Collective Memory and Identity: The Role of Historical Narratives. American Psychologist, 76(2), 147-158.
7. Yehuda, R., & LeDoux, J. (2017). Response to Trauma: The Role of Epigenetics and Gene Expression. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 18(1), 40-50.
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