From the Paper "This paper will be concerned with the ways in which the Gypsies form a unique sociological group. It has been estimated that there are 4 to 5 million Gypsies in Europe; 1 million in Asia; 400,000 in America; and 50,000 in North Africa ("Gypsies" 1990, p. 775). The Gypsies originated in India and they apparently began migrating westward during the early Middle Ages (Gmelch & Gmelch, 1988, p. 52). The Gypsies received their name because the Europeans who first encountered them believed they were from Egypt. The Gypsies themselves did little to correct this misconception. In fact, as noted by sociologist Thomas Acton, it probably benefitted the Gypsies to pretend that they were Christians from the MidEast because "at the time the stereotypic image of Christians fleeing Islamic religious persecution was very favorable" (Gmelch & Gmelch, 1988, p. 52)."
Abstract This paper introduces and analyzes the novel "Nervous Conditions" by writer Tsitsi Danarembga which tells of Tambu and her struggle with her true identity after she is pressured to take on the values of the English who colonized her country. This paper discusses the major theme of the book - that being true to ones own culture is the only possibility for all people, with anything else resulting in failure. The paper explores the issue of "being English" in relation to the events of the novel.
From the Paper "As well as telling her own story, Tambu also tells the story of her sister Nyasha. Nyasha's story is equally important at showing the problems that occur in attempting to become English. Nyasha can be seen as the opposite of Tambu. Tambu deals with the situation by not letting go of her African culture. In contrast, Nyasha seems to willingly accept the English culture and reject her own African culture. The danger of this is shown by the fact that Nyasha develops anorexia. This becomes an important symbol in the novel, illustrating the major theme. Firstly, Nyasha becoming anorexic can be seen as a symbol of the dangers of ignoring our real identity. It is not only that Nyasha has the disease that shows the dangers, it is also relevant what the disease represents.
Anorexia is a disease associated with body image where the individual attempts to improve their looks on the surface. The reality is though, that this disease has a negative impact on the human body, actually worsening the individual's appearance. This is similar to Nyasha's rejection of her identity. On the surface she chooses to act according to the English culture, but underneath she remains African, simply denying the reality of her culture. Just as anorexia does harm, so does this rejection by Nyasha."
Abstract This paper applies the identity theory to the case of immigration in the United States. It asks if the United States should continue to allow Immigrants to enter the U.S. seeking refuge and citizenship, when the nations states are already overly populated? It questions whether immigrants should be allowed to enter the U.S. and work when there are hundreds of citizens and native-born Americans already unemployed and desperately searching for work. It uses these questions as example of the conflicting messages immigrants and their children face in modern day society, and explains how they add to the increasingly complex problem of finding identity in a torn nation.
From the Paper "The United States is world known for its ethnic diversity, due in part to the immigration allowed over several years. Many people however, fail to find a means to foster inter-racial and ethnic identities, thus causing much conflict and a lack of a uniform sense of identity. The social issue relates to finding a common identity in a nation of multi-ethnicities. Children of immigrants are now coming of age, and from a social psychological stand will make the most lasting impression on society. The character of society will be shaped by their experiences."
Tags: ethnic, diversity, america, racial, employment, population
Abstract This is a report on Wu Cheng En's "Monkey: Folk Novel" of China and how it portrays Chinese religious traditions. Specifically, the report describes how Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism are reflected in the novel and Chinese life at the time the book was written (between 1350 and 1425 AD). The paper concludes that all three of these religions have contributed to China's religious and cultural life.
Abstract This paper examines the influence and importance of the Ramayana of Valmiki in Indian society. Initially, its origins and content are outlined. The emphasis is on its continuing influence, particularly as it relates to current events and Hindu/Muslim tensions in India.
Abstract Discusses the nature of gangs. Examines why children and teenagers join gangs. Considers children at-risk and gang involvement. Reviews and critiques five studies on gangs and violence, and discusses the methods of the studies.
From the Paper "Over the last 20 years in the city of Los Angeles at least 10,000 African American and Latino young men have died due to gang activity and gang warfare (Vigil, 2002). As large as that figure is it is still only a portion of the deaths..."
Abstract This paper claims that the international community failed to act or even uphold international law as a genocide was occurring because Rwanda is a poor African nation, which has very little significance within international relations. The paper examines the issue of hypocrisy within international relations when it comes to upholding and applying international law. The paper claims that international law is applied, or not, depending on the status of a country. It attempts to prove this through an examination of the reaction of the international community to the events that occurred in Rwanda, starting in April of 1994. The paper analyzes the issue of the Rwandan genocide to illustrate that, within international relations, a country receives the protection of the international community, like Kuwait did, not because of any utopian ideals, but because of realistic calculations regarding the importance and significance of this country.
From the Paper "In the second place, and as Philip Gorevitch writes, the Tutsi sent several appeals to the international community to save them and sent detailed reports of what was happening to governments, media and to representatives of Western governments (98-99). In the third place, foreign governments found the reports of the genocide believable enough to order the evacuation of all their citizens from the country. The French government sent its military to evacuate French nationals and witnessed the genocide for themselves (142-144). Consequently, the explanation for lack of action as being lack of knowledge of the genocide is not acceptable by any standards."
Abstract This paper discusses arranged marriages versus love marriages, the pros and cons of each and the circumstances under which each take place.
From the Paper "There is an ongoing debate about which is better - arranged marriages or "love marriages". One can argue that arranged marriages are based on practical reasons and thrive on mutual respect and responsibility. On the other side are those who argue that love is what holds a marriage together and that love equals happiness. The truth is everyone has his or her own reason for getting married and the debate is likely to go on. Arranged marriage has evolved from an ancient tradition to a valid life choice for young men and women today."
A look at how, since the late 1960s, militant Basque nationalists have used terrorism in an attempt to gain independence and how Spain has responded with police crack-downs and repression.
2,280 words (approx. 9.1 pages), 7 sources, 2000, $ 70.95
From the Paper "Basque issue it inherited from Franco's dictatorship. The conflict has two basic issues. Historically, the Basques are not linked with the Spaniards. The Basques have a separate identity, demonstrated by a different culture and an entirely different language. The other issue is violence. Since the late 1960s, militant Basque nationalists have used terrorism in an attempt to gain independence. Spain has responded with police crack-downs and repression. However, the problem goes further. Issues of civil rights and the ability of the state to use force against its citizens have all been affected by the Basque conflict. These issues affect all Spanish citizens, but they have arisen from the regional conflict in the Basque country."
Tags: basque, batasuna, eta, herri, nationalism, pnv, separatism, spain
From the Paper "In this book of many parts and subparts, Gutierrez deals with the impact of European colonization on the indigenous peoples of the American Southwest. He documents the ways in which the Spanish culture affected and ultimately altered the Pueblo culture and their very fabric of life. His book spans the three century period from 1500-1846 and focuses on marriage, sexuality, and power during this colonial period before the arrival of the Anglo culture, upon annexation of the Southwest into the United States. An annexation that also added new situations and ideas to the already existing mix of culture and religion. "
A look at how the Amish have adopted alternatives in order to keep their traditional lifestyle with respect to power, agriculture, transportation, and communications.
2,280 words (approx. 9.1 pages), 3 sources, 1999, $ 70.95
From the Paper "The Amish of Pennsylvania have riddled American society since the dawn of the modern era. While rapid new technological changes have greatly altered the shape of modern society, the Amish still cling to their antiquated ways and strong traditions. However, as the Amish continue to remain outside the technological loop that dominates modern earth, they risk the chance of eventually becoming obsolete. As a way to keep their faith, the Amish have slowly began to negotiate the use of electricity, the telephone, automobiles, and farming equipment. In their quest to keep their traditional lifestyle, the Amish have adopted alternatives with respect to power, agriculture, transportation, and communications."
Abstract This paper takes a look at the practice of affirmative action, with reference to America's history of discrimination and the Civil Rights movement, from America's beginnings to the present day.
From the Paper "Affirmative action is not a cure at all. It will not eliminate racial discrimination, nor will it eliminate competition the good jobs. Affirmative action programs can only ensure that everyone has a fair chance at what is available. I believe, the larger question to ask is: why are there not enough decent paying, challenging, and safe jobs for everyone? Why are there not enough seats in the universities for everyone who wants an education?"
A persuasive paper about the existence of the Holocaust and an interpretation of it. This paper will take you through documented accounts of Holocaust victims' families.
1,770 words (approx. 7.1 pages), 0 sources, 2001, $ 57.95
Abstract A narrative piece about the Holocaust and whether it existed. The author attacks those who deny the occurrence of the Holocaust and provides various documented accounts of those who survived it. The paper includes an interpretation of the effects of the Holocaust on both the living and the dead and the importance of Holocaust education for the future.
From the Paper "There is no question in my mind that there were mass killings of the Jews during World War II and like every great tragedy, there are people who feel it never happened. I wholeheartedly disagree with these people, whether they are against the Holocaust "theory" or are just plain prejudiced towards Jews. There were murders by the millions, and the Jewish victims of the Holocaust were affected by it, both directly and indirectly, as were their family members and friends who may have been thousands of miles away. Even today, people in the world are still affected by the extermination of millions of lives in Eastern Europe in the same respect there are still many people, even entire institutions, who seek to discredit the veracity of the Holocaust, going as far to claim that none of the horrific events ever occurred. (See Adelaide). I will prove that the Holocaust affected many lives, both in living and in death, and that it did indeed happen, through relating factual and opinionated accounts of victims and witnesses, and explaining why what happened to the Jewish population of the Holocaust."
Tags: holocaust, war, world, victims, Jews, death, mass, killing, torture
Abstract The Noh Theater of Japan is an extremely ritualized tradition, and traces of the Noh Theater are found in Western theater. This paper explores many of the distinctive elements of the Noh Theater, such as the use of masks, the themes presented within plays, and the evolution from the old Noh Theater to a more modern presentation of Noh techniques. While the focus of this paper is on the Noh Theater, comparisons are drawn between the Noh Theater and traditional Western theater. There is also a discussion of the more dialogue-driven kyogen style of Japanese theater in respect to the more ritualized Noh Theater.
From the Paper "The impact on the Noh Theater on the Western theater can be seen to have occurred in a very diverse way. It appears that the Western theaters managed to assimilate various components from the Noh Theater, such as the use of the hitamen in performances to convey a blank countenance. However, the greatest aspect of the Noh Theater on the West is found within the development of more exacting performance techniques, where rather than a single production being subject to incongruities and shoddy acting, the standards of acting were promoted to a higher level overall."
Abstract This is the life story of Che Guevara, a legendary guerrilla fighter and revolutionary leader who represented third world countries. He served under Fidel Castro's government in Mexico, and planned to form a major guerilla army to revolutionize Bolivia. This essay marks his impact on the world as a fighter against higher power.
From the Paper "Che Guevara was a Latin American Guerrilla leader and revolutionary theorist who became a hero to the new left radicals. He was convinced that the violent overthrow of the government was the only remedy for the backwardness of third world countries. He joined the revolutionists under Fidel Castro in Mexico and when Fidel came to power he served as prime minister. He then went to revolt in Bolivia. There he was captured and shot near Vallegrand."
