Abstract This paper sets out to examine if E.H. Carr was a realist, a Marxist or a critic of Utopianism. After describing his background, the paper examines how much Carr conformed to the standards of a classical realist. The paper also examines why it has been so hard to answer the question about Carr's reputation as a realist and concludes that not only was Carr a realist, but he was also a utopian, a functionalist, and a romantic.
From the Paper "E.H Carr seems to be one of the most enigmatic writers in the field of International Relations. After looking up numerous sources, the position Carr came from still remains a mystery. Questions of whether he was a Realist, a Marxist or just a spiteful critic of Utopianism have still not been completely satisfactorily answered. Still, numerous answers have been out forward, and in this essay I will examine the ones I thought made most sense, and attempt to hopefully put forward my own opinion of exactly how much of a Realist Carr was. I will begin in relatively orthodox fashion, by looking at how much Carr conformed to the standards of a classical Realist, and juxtaposing that with how much he didn't conform to those same standards. I will then move on to an examination of exactly why it has been so hard to answer the question above, and then conclude by seeing how much of the question has been answered to date. First though, we need to put Carr's arguments into some sort of context by looking briefly at his history. Carr matured in a world where world security and peace was not really analyzed or commented upon. What changed this peaceful state was the First World War, and more importantly for Carr, the Bolshevik Revolution. This event proved to be a catalyst of sorts for Carr, and changed his vision of the world and to some extent his personality, dramatically. The world he inhabited became the one he commented the most upon, and most writers on his arguments have cautioned that this needs to be kept in mind in any examination of Carr. Thus, background duly noted, we can now move into answering the question itself.
To what extent was Carr a classical Realist? This question answered in different ways by different writers, but because space is limited, I will take here the two who seemed to answer the question best. The first answer I will put forward was originally thought up by Charles Jones, who said that Carr was a Realist who conformed to the standards of Realism he himself defined. The best example of this is the opening few chapters of The Twenty Years Crisis', in which Carr defines Realism as having two main tenants; Firstly, that sovereign states were the prime actors in an international system that was irremediably conflictual because of the flawed character of mankind and its own anarchic structure. Secondly, that statesmen were permitted to exercise amoral behaviour in the sphere of international politics because of these distinguishing characteristics which marked it off from the sphere of international politics . Thus according to Jones, Carr was a realist on his own terms, and not according to classically ascribed ones. Peter Wilson's argument for Carr being a Realist also runs along these lines. Wilson puts the version of Carr most commonly seen in IR forward first. According to this classical version of Carr, morality came about as a product of power, not vice versa; The diplomat was entitled to 'cloak the interests of his country in the language of universal justice '; The clash of interests between states was real and inevitable; Utopians were delusional dupes who only worked for their the fulfilment of their own vision; and that public interest was as wrong-headed as was it impotent . These two slightly views of Carr, though not completely identical do go some way towards showing why Carr was, prior to the in depth research done afterwards, seen as a hard-line classical Realist. Most basic realist assumptions and arguments are evident in the various points listed above, and as all of the points come from Carr's works themselves, it isn't hard to infer that he was in fact a hard-line Realist. But, Carr's arguments weren't confined to only the principles outlined above. In fact, they had much more depth to them than that, and this depth is what led to the 'Carr question ' being asked in the first place. How much then, does Carr not conform to the standards of a classical Realist?"
Abstract The paper discusses how E.H. Carr's reputation as an authentic realist is questioned, as many of his arguments are Marxist, functionalist or even idealist in nature. The paper examines the realist tradition and explains the Marxist, functionalist and Utopian aspects of Carr's thought. The paper shows how Carr does fit the fealist profile and deserved his reputation as a realist, although he was also a utopian with a hint of Marxist thought.
From the Paper "Classical realism is positivist in its methodology. It stresses the antagonism between states which arises out of a flawed human nature and conflicting national interests. There are five basic assumptions that are the core of the Realist tradition of thought. Firstly, the international system is anarchical, meaning that there is no central authority that supersedes states. Secondly, these sovereign states are the principal actors in the international system and additionally they are rational unitary actors, meaning that they serve their own interests. Fourthly, the overriding national interest is the pursuit of security and finally, relations between states are determined by their comparative levels of power. These five assumptions constitute the basis of realist thinking, therefore any authors that appears to agree with them is generally classified as a realist without any distinctions made. As C. Jones explains, "attempts at generalisation are inimical to scholarship to the extent that they suppress significant distinctions." In this sense, it can be understood that if Carr seems to rest his argument on the same assumptions as listed above, he would be classified as a realist, albeit the fact that his writings also touch upon various other, non-realist assumptions."
Tags: Marxism, functionalism, Utopianism, Machiavelli, power
Abstract The paper raises questions about Carr's thesis that it is intrinsic in the business world to stretch the truth and sometimes mislead buyers. Carr argues that there is an agreement among people in business that bluffing is accepted as part of the price of doing business and so cannot be considered lying. The writer explores this topic of how business ethics in advertising can remain profitable but also ethical.
From the Paper "Carr presents his thesis in the form of an indirect argument, with his businessman friend serving to raise objections to which Carr provides answers. Carr says that the ethics of business are game ethics rather than religious ones, and his friend is not convinced, noting that he and his fellow business people pride themselves on their ethics, are loyal to customers and fair to suppliers, and otherwise completely ethical in their dealings. Carr assumes, however, that this man is inadvertently agreeing with him by saying he only lives up to the ethical standards of the business game, and he says this based on the fact that this same man "was allowing one of his products to be advertised in a way that made it sound a great deal better than it actually was" (Carr 244). Another product produced by his company had a "built-in obsolescence" so customers would have to repurchase sooner than they might like."
Abstract This paper analyzes the characters and plots in John Le Carre's novels, "The Honourable Schoolboy" and "The Little Drummer Girl" to shed some light on the author's view of international affairs. The paper explains that, from Le Carre's point of view, international affairs are dehumanizing from all sides concerned and offer no justice.
From the Paper "John Le Carre's perception of international affairs is one of intense disillusionment. Through the novels, The Honourable Schoolboy and The Little Drummer Girl, Le Carre shows the reader that the world is devoid of a political ideology. In these novels, international affairs arise from the encounters between Smiley and Charlie and the raging forces of international affairs. These encounters resonate a sadness and empathy for the human condition. A few critics have labeled Le Carre's view of international politics as "baroque." With his character George Smiley, Le Carre holds a clean mirror to the face of the secret intelligence agency, illuminating a turmoil. George Smiley tries to uphold a degree of principles as does Charlie, but they are no match for the rising flood that pushes them toward losing their principles. Both Smiley and Charlie are the outsiders, who continually attempt to do the right thing. Since there have been many times duty to country or group beliefs have caused many atrocities, Le Carre makes clear that it is more important to have individual principles than any duty to anyone or anything. Through Smiley and Charlie, Le Carre shows how international affairs are demoralized and perilous."
Abstract This paper looks at the life and art of Emily Carr. The development of her craft through different phases, her thought processes, spirituality and influences are all studied to gain an understanding of her art and artistic stance. While she dabbled in pottery and worked as a cartoonist, the main focus of this research is on her paintings and writings.
Abstract This paper outlines the E. H. Carr's theory in his book, "The Historian and His Facts", which argues that that a historical fact can never be a hard fact that can be taken at face value because it is really just a reflection of the historian's thought process. The paper summarizes Carr's arguments, which support his theory, and cites the examples used by Carr, which add credibility to his views. The paper also reviews Carr's belief that hard historical facts can not exist independently and objectively of the historian because the view of the past is always colored by the present. Finally, the paper looks at how Durkheim's definition of social facts can both relate to and refute Carr's theory.
From the Paper "Carr presents several logical and highly persuasive arguments in support of his argument. For instance, he submits that our picture of Greece in the fifth century B.C. is largely based by the documentation and picture left behind by a select group of people in Athens and to that extent is not truly representative since very little was recorded of the history of the Spartan or Corinthian civilizations. Similarly, he questions the current day picture of the medieval man as deeply concerned with religion since the facts of medieval history have almost all been selected by people who were professionally occupied in the theory and practice of religion and who, therefore, may have focused on recording all facts relating to it."
Abstract This paper discusses the 1996 article, "Heroism and Tragedy: the Rise of the Redneck in Glasgow's Fiction", in which Duane Carr speaks of Ellen Glasgow as a transitional author entrapped by ideals of the traditional and the modern. Carr's stated thesis is associated with Glasgow's character as a person as well as an author. The paper shows Carr's criticism for Glasgow's characters in her novel, "Barren Ground". It shows also his praise for one character, Dorinda, who, according to Carr, represents a completeness in Glasgow's work.
From the Paper "Though Carr contends that there is no real solution offered for the dichotomy of old versus new or traditional versus modern, the real interpretation lies in the idea that each step toward anything is gradual. Dorinda realizes that she has a lack of control over just how much change can occur and, though this may be sad because she seems to lose so much of her vision through this realization, she also acknowledges the vision in what is right in from of her, the land, her family and a simple life. Dorinda learns that it is alright to be just who she is and not ruin her own life by constantly trying to manipulate and alter her situation."
Abstract Albert Carr's article, "Is Business Bluffing Ethical?" argues that people do not have to be completely ethical when dealing in business, mainly because sometimes being unethical allows individuals to become successful in business. This paper analyzes Carr's thesis and looks at several of his points, such as being ethical is counterproductive to business. The author of the paper shows that Carr's article is objectionable, although admits that he makes a strong argument for doing business in an unethical manner.
From the Paper "Carr likens the ethics of business to the ethics that are part of poker. In poker, it is acceptable to be deceiving and cunning. The most successful poker players are able to outwit their opponents through deceit and cunning. Carr makes the point that the ethics that are a part of poker play a similar role to that of business. Carr even goes as far as saying that deception is an integral part of any businessmen's life. Whether it is negotiating with labor unions or customers, businesspeople are pressured to use deception and cunning on a daily basis. Those who do not subscribe to this ethical system, fail, according to Carr."
Abstract This paper reviews the work "What is History", by Edmund Hallet Carr. It looks at how the work redefines the way historical facts are understood and the importance of context in the interpretation of historical facts. It looks at the importance of a historian having an awareness of the time-frame a historical work was written in, the objectives of the writer at that time and his/her own society-based biases. The paper then brings in Cronon's "A place for stories: nature, history, and narrative" and Linda Alcoff's "The problem of speaking for others", as examples of how Carr's ideas have been used by other historians writing on the meaning of history.
From the Paper "Edmund Hallet Carr's book, What is History?, was first published in 1961 and had a major impact on the understanding of history. Reading this book over 40 years later, it still has the same impact, creating a change in the way history is viewed and understood. The lasting impact of Carr's concepts can also be seen by the way they are still applicable to modern ideas on the meaning and purpose of history."
An argument against John Carr's suggestion in "It's Time to Tackle Cyberporn" that censoring the Internet is the most effective way to prevent children from accessing pornography.
Abstract This paper discusses the article by John Carr entitled "It's Time to Tackle Cyberporn." The paper argues that Carr's solution to Internet pornography is too radical and that it fails to lay the responsibility for keeping children out of trouble, with the parents, where it belongs. The paper goes on to suggest that his solution steps on the Bill of Rights, which guarantees freedom of speech.
Table of Contents:
Introduction: Why is Internet Porn an Issue? What's Wrong?
Criteria For My Argument
Ethical Argument: Principles
Ethical Argument: Consequences
From the Paper "Two, Carr suggests a "ratings system" where, like music and movies, parents would be able to see whether it's "family-friendly" or not. This is an absurd notion, since there are virtually thousands of new Web sites going online every day, and the trickery that can be used in presenting the substance of their material will fool any ratings software. And in order to promote his point about strict ratings system Carr uses emotional arguments rather than principle-based arguments. He refers to those like the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) - who resist any form of censorship on the Web - as having "anxieties...[that are] at best misplaced and at worst paranoid, reckless or self-serving." So, his principle arguments are one, outdated, and two, based on speculation about possible "ratings systems" - which are not bad, but have limited application to the real problem, which is parents who do not supervise their children with intelligent, firm strategies."
Examines the theme of motherhood in three Canadian short stories - "Sophie", by Emily Carr, "The Gadabouts" by Gabrielle Roy and "The Summer My Grandmother Was Supposed to Die" by Mordecai Richler.
775 words (approx. 3.1 pages), 3 sources, 2002, $ 30.95
Abstract In the stories "Sophie", by Emily Carr, "The Gadabouts" by Gabrielle Roy and "The Summer My Grandmother Was Supposed to Die" by Mordecai Richler, the theme of motherhood predominates. However, as this paper will argue, it is a form of motherhood whereby the women's lives are radically restricted by the social definitions of motherhood in their respective social contexts. To different degrees, the women are all victims of social pressures and conventions, which force these women into lives of domestic suffering and overwork.
Abstract This paper summarizes and reviews Carr's story about a young shell-shocked war veteran who arrives in Yorkshire village of Oxgodby to restore a medieval mural in the local church. The paper explains that the 14th century mural was hidden beneath layers of paint and is used to symbolize the hidden real self of the protagonist. Everything is told from the viewpoint of the narrator, Tom Birkin, who comes to this small countryside after he has been through horrible experiences, i.e. war and a broken marriage. It tells how his soul is severely scarred ,and there appears to be no way out of the horrible psychological condition that he has developed after the war. Coming to the countryside is part of the healing process that the narrator undergoes, and he finally finds peace with himself and the reality of his situation.
From the Paper "The story itself is simple but the way it is told makes all the difference. While on the surface it might sound like another story concerning a war veteran and his nightmares, but underneath the mediocrity of the plot, likes brilliant narrative and a writing style that reminds us of Romantic poets. In fact the author himself concurs that his initial intention was to write something on the lines of English Romantic poetry. However what he ends up creating is both a great romantic tale and a powerful story about soul searching and healing."
Abstract Jazz is the dynamic tension between the expected and the improvised. Miles Davis was brought up torn between his well-to-do white-emulating upbringing and his black heritage. Davis not only bridged this gap but helped create entire new musical vocabularies throughout his long and varied career as a jazz trumpeter. This report shows his evolution and his continuing influence on other musicians, as described in his biography, "Miles Davis: A Biography," written by Ian Carr.
Paper Outline:
Abstract
Introduction
Childhood
Further Development
Evolution, Addiction, & Resurrection
His Influence on Music Today
Concluding Remarks
References
From the Paper "He worked with and was a catalyst for Tony Williams, Jack DeJohnette, Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, Wayne Shorter, Ron Carter, and countless others(p234). Many times in his career it had been declared that he already "peaked" and was a remnant of the 50's, of bebop, of cool jazz, of fusion jazz. But he never let himself grow complacent and become an icon of the past. By not producing unless he had something new to say, he was able to continually stay relevant, and re-invent himself every few years (p183). "
A comparative book review of John Reed's 'Ten Days That Shook the World', Edward Carr's 'The Bolshevik Revolution, 1917-1923,' and Robert Service's 'Lenin: A Biography'.
Abstract This comparative book review compares and contrasts three books about the Russian Revolution of 1917: John Reed's 'Ten Days That Shook the World', Edward Carr's 'The Bolshevik Revolution, 1917-1923,' and Robert Service's 'Lenin: A Biography'. The writer notes that these books have been selected for comparative review because they provide a broad range of perspectives on the revolution. The writer points out that all three authors agree that successful revolutions require leaders of charisma who can personify the ideology, revolutionary sentiments, and political aspirations of the citizenry. They agree as well that in the critical autumn of 1917, Lenin possessed these qualities in abundance. The writer concludes that despite their different perspectives, all three authors agree that through his leadership, Lenin forced his political enemies and rivals to react to what he was doing instead of vice versa, and in turbulent and unpredictable revolutions, that is a decisive advantage.
From the Paper "But because Lenin recognized that political, economic, and social conditions in Russia had not developed enough to attempt a proletarian revolution, he focused his efforts on developing a class consciousness in the Russian proletariat. Lenin and Russian Marxists understood that once this proletarian consciousness was developed, the proletariat would understand the need to destroy bourgeois culture elements such as religion, private ownership of property, the corrupt legal system, and the capitalist economic system. Consequently, they knew that many political, economic, and social changes would need to be made in the aftermath of a successful proletarian revolution, and that this would require ruthless determination because strong resistance would be inevitable."
Examines 1962 case on state reapportionment in Tennessee, subsequent related cases & Political Question Doctrine as turning points in Supreme Court's evolution.
1,800 words (approx. 7.2 pages), 3 sources, 1999, $ 63.95
From the Paper "The United States Supreme Court, which had long toiled largely in the background, finally assumed its constitutionally mandated position as one of the three equal branches of government during the tenure (1953-1969) of Chief Justice Earl Warren. The decisions of the Warren Court reshaped the role of the judiciary, and in many instances, transformed American society. For most Americans, this assertion of power is reflected by well-known cases such as Brown v. Board of Education (1954), New York Times Co. v. Sullivan (1964), and Miranda v. Arizona (1966). But several lesser-known cases, dealing with more arcane issues, have been equally important. One such case is Baker v. Carr (1962), which greatly expanded the Court's jurisdiction and thus its reach. This paper will examine Baker v. Carr and its continuing impact on American law."
