Abstract The most fundamental beliefs of Buddhism can be understood by what are referred to as the Four Noble Truths. This paper will identify these Four Noble Truths and show how they have influenced Japanese society, cultural attitudes, and way of life.
Abstract The paper analyzes how both religions teach to relinquish desires, attachments and wishful expectations. These traditions also emphasize the principle of compassion. The paper argues that these dual emphases are compatible, since there must be a harmony between action and inner beliefs.
Abstract The political concept of "Orientalism" is discussed in this essay, and is examined in connection to historical contexts of 19th century Europe. This essay considers how "Orientalism" enables white Europeans to perceive themselves racially and culturally superior, and to render Asian and Middle-Eastern cultures as exotic, and as a commodity that can be consumed. The ideal of exotic Asians persists today in the form of the Asian sex-trades, and in this essay the role of sex, sexuality, and difference is critically analysed in relation to theory-work by Edward Said, and other cultural critics.
Abstract The spread of Buddhism to East Asia and it's division into discrete sects (ten principle schools, separated into: Being and Non-being), which had its origin in the tendency to concentrate on studying one particular scripture or group of scriptures as holding the most essential truths. The sects were essentially different systems of thought rather than contending denominations of religious practice.
Abstract The statement that "Fukuzawa Yukichi was Eurocentric" may seem self-evident to some readers of his works, given his strong emphasis in favor of Japan acquiring aspects of Western civilization and rejecting many aspects of Asian civilization. In fact, as will be demonstrated in the second half of this paper, depending upon the definition of Eurocentrism that one uses, a strong case can be made for interpreting Fukuzawa Yukichi's work being Eurocentric.
Abstract This paper argues that one strong theme is the formation of identity and the influence that gender, culture and generation difference make in this maturation process. The author believes that it is only after an individual is matures that there is a rejection of the need to 'fit in' and the differences may be embraced.
Abstract This paper reviews the aspects of the country of Afghanistan, including ethnicity, background, history, people, climate, population growth, religion, government, political parties, economics, and the military.
Abstract This paper discusses the events that led to the spread of Confucianism throughout China in 770 BC. The author states that Confucianism is not a religion but rather its values incorporates into the society a way of life.
Abstract This paper discusses China-Taiwan relations. The relations between the two have been a source of major concern for both the countries. The Taiwanese demand for an independent land has triggered many problems including the fear of a military uprising.
Abstract This paper examines and analyzes the issue of human rights in China, and explores whether human rights has negatively effected Chinese-American relations over the last forty years.
Abstract It argues that the economic transformation during this period did not lead to political liberalization. Nonetheless, because of the connection between economic and political freedom, the transformation to capitalism will eventually lead to political democratization.
Abstract This essay will explore the design of a typical Shinto shrine. We will approach the shrine like a visitor would, moving from general first impressions, then moving along the entrance to the shrine, and finally concluding at the religious center of the shrine.
Abstract This paper discusses the negotiation styles and behavior in some of the most important and strongest countries of Asia-Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia. The variety of cultures and their characteristics most often shape the way business people of different nations negotiate. The influence of cultural characteristics is analyzed to provide a broad picture of how negotiations work in these countries.
Abstract This paper has Hong Kong has its focus, and is concerned with the political history and political culture of Hong Kong. It shows how history books and cinema use different approaches, but both are needed to understand a place like Hong Kong.
Abstract This paper discusses how China's one-child policy has been a failure. The main arguments are that the population was falling before the policy,and that the policy never made any difference in the growth rate.
