Abstract This paper explains that the moral legitimacy of marriage between same-sex partners hinges on marriage being perceived as a religious foundation or as a social, economic coupling. The author points out that, in countries that exclusively have monogamous marriages, some opponents argue that allowing same-sex marriage will promote the legalization of polyamorous marriage or other types of marriage they find objectionable. The paper relates that proponents of equal marriage rights for same-sex couples state that over 1,000 federal rights and benefits are denied same-sex couples by excluding them from legal marriage, which goes against the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which provides for equal protection under the law.
From the Paper "Same-sex marriage is marriage between partners of the same gender. This type of marriage is currently legal in only a few countries around the world. In the United States, the degree of legality of same-sex marriage varies between different states. In the U.S., the debate over whether or not to make same sex marriages legally binding remains one of the most controversial political debates of this century."
Abstract This paper examines the U.S. Patriot Act, which was passed in the wake of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The paper discusses exactly what the implications are in the implementation of this act should another terrorist event such as 9/11 occur. The paper contends that, while the onset of the act was to protect America from terrorist attacks, among other safeguards, the aftermath of the enactment has presented a myriad of controversies. These controversies are outlined in the paper.
From the Paper "Restrictive laws have been passed at crucial times in the history of the United States before the passing of the USA Patriot Act. Although the laws within this Act are intrusive upon the privacy of United States Citizens, there are those who do not mind the restrictiveness of the Act in exchange for safety. This is understandable to a certain extent however one must keep in mind that the Constitutional rights vested in each individual in the United States has been tread upon to a great extent by the USA Patriot Act."
Abstract This paper discusses the complex moral and ethical issues surrounding the topic of stem cell research and examines arguments that both favor and oppose the research. The paper also points out that there is little likelihood that the debate over stem cell research will be resolved soon; perhaps the debate will eventually move toward the question of how the research will be conducted, as opposed to if it should be conducted, since stem cell research seems to be continuing, in spite of all of the controversy it generates.
From the Paper "Today one of the most hotly debated issues is unquestionably stem cell research. Specifically, it involves harvesting and using a specific type of cell known as a "stem cell" and using it to attempt to develop or reproduce virtually any cell in the body. Of course this has tremendous potential for therapeutic benefit-some speculate from curing cancer, paralysis, Parkinson's disease, and a host of other maladies yet to be imagined. In lay terms, stem cells can serve as kind of "repair system for the body," which can divide infinitely-replenishing other cells. What is so powerful about the stem cell, however, is its ability to become another kind of specialized cell, say a brain, blood, bone marrow or muscle cell (NIH, 2004)."
Abstract This paper discusses immigration problems and their psychological causes through a review of the book, "The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down," written by the editor of the "American Scholar", Anne Fadiman. The paper contends that problems encountered by immigrants have their roots in psychological resistance to change, explaining that this resistance often leads to internal and external conflicts and cross-cultural miscommunication.
From the Paper "'The Spirit Catches you and you fall down' is an extraordinary piece of writing in which various issues have been woven together in the style of investigative journalism by the editor of the 'American Scholar', Anne Fadiman. The story revolves around issues of cross-cultural medical practices and miscommunication that often leads to tragic circumstances. This book may not be very unique as far as story is concerned but the way clash of cultural values has been highlighted is not something that we get to see very often in investigative accounts of tragic events. The author has carefully illustrated the story of a family torn between immigration problems, communication barriers and epilepsy."
Abstract This paper not only evaluates and critiques the article, "The Stem Cell Challenge" by Nadia Rosenthal and Robert Lanza about stem cell research, but also evaluates whether the article's format was research-correct, data-supportive, and topically appropriate and sustainable. The author points out that, once the research goal is identified, the investigator must abandon all forms of bias and look at the research situation as a controlled, rational process of reflective inquiry. The paper relates that this article presents the reader with an excellent opportunity to understand clearly the benefits of stem cell research with respect to diseases that currently lack a cure, namely, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, diabetes, spinal cord injuries, and cancer.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Investigative Research Requirements
Article Overview Evaluation and Problem Statement
Research Data Reporting
Study Limitations
From the Paper "In the article, Rosenthal and Lanza go on to explain to the reader that in the stem cell process, stem cells are generally extracted from surplus frozen embryos that are left over from in-vitro fertilization procedures. Once extracted the cells can be grown in a laboratory and subjected to medical application. In addition to the frozen embryo procedure, stem cells also can be extracted from adult tissue without any harm being inflicted upon the patient."
Abstract This paper provides a summary of the term "therapeutic cloning," which is the use of cloning in terms of rehabilitation and organ transplants. It then compares this technique to the controversial reproductive cloning, which is the cloning of an entire human being. The paper also looks at the ethical problems of reproductive cloning.
Paper Outline
Information Summary
Techniques Used in Therapeutic Cloning
Techniques Used in Reproductive Cloning
Regulation of Procedures
Opinion
Congressional Testimony
Recommended Regulations
Bibliography
From the Paper "Proponents of human reproductive cloning, on the other hand, argue that infertile couples deserve the chance to have children in another way, and that the critics who are urging caution and predicting societal shifts because of human reproductive cloning are basically expressing the same arguments that were put forth decades ago against IVF, to
no substantial avail in the present because, as mentioned, this technique has been proven safe and is endorsed by Supreme Court decisions."
Abstract This paper argues that the death penalty is a barbaric practice that all too often results in the execution of the innocent. The paper uses arguments based on the U.S. Constitution, recent legal rulings, and examples of other countries to make its point that capital punishment should be banished.
From the Paper "Haag, as others believe that due to the finality of the death penalty, it is more feared than imprisonment, and thus deters some prospective murderers who would not be deterred by the thought of imprisonment (Haag pp). Therefore, if the death penalty practice deters even a few murders and spares the life of even one victim, then it is justified and a value to society (Haag pp).
According to Haag, punishment, regardless of motivation, "is not intended to revenge, offset or compensate for the victim's suffering, or to be measured by it, but is to vindicate the law and the social order undermined by the crime" (Haag pp). This, says Haag, is why a kidnapper's imprisonment is not limited to the period for which he imprisoned his victim, nor is a burglar's confinement meant to offset the suffering and harm he caused his victim nor offset the advantage he gained."
Abstract This paper provides an overview and discussion of Sayyed Qutb, Islamic leader. A review of the controversy that surrounds him helps to show that there is, in reality, a very strong relationship between Qutb and extremist terrorist groups who claim to follow the Quranic teachings and laws.
From the Paper "Considering that many who wrote on Sayyed Qutb and his religious and political philosophy, such as Sheikh Muhammad Nasir ad-Din al-Albaanee, Ted Thornton, Nazih N.M. Ayubi, and Ibrahim M. Abu-Rabi, all scholars of Islamic studies and history, have emphasized that the life of Sayyed Qutb and his circumstances played a major role in shaping his ideas, it is necessary to briefly identify Qutb himself. Although as Professor of Government at South Carolina University, Shahrough Akhavi writes, not much is known about the life of Sayyed Qutb, what is known is a useful source of understanding the influences upon his philosophy and political ideas (386-387)."
Tags: bin, laden, al, quaida, terror, islamic, groups
Abstract This paper explains that the famous actor, Christopher Reeve, who was paralyzed from a fall from a horse and became one of the biggest supporters of embryonic stem cell research, alleged that the United States was about five years behind our medical abilities because of the politics surrounding stem cell research. The author stresses that the battle over embryonic stem cell research continues and will continue unless we can put aside ideology and, instead, put first the interests of those individuals and their families who are suffering. The paper urges that the responsibility of citizens in a free country is to take a stand on issues like approving embryonic stem cell research.
From the Paper "Now that we have a basic awareness of what they are and how they can help, I would like to introduce all of you to the current debate and controversy over embryonic stem cell research. One of the concerns among those in opposition to the research is the way in which these cells are to be obtained. Many people are against it because they oppose abortion, and believe that this type of research would start an industry to provide a source of embryos."
Abstract This paper discusses how the Internet has made child pornography easily accessible to pedophiles. The paper explains how this easy access has created an escalation in crimes against children. It assesses what is being done by the law to remedy the problem and explores what role the parents can play in protecting their children from online predators. The paper examines what the warning signs are that a child is being manipulated by someone older in an inappropriate manner online.
From the Paper "The Internet is no doubt a great resource for education, communication, research, business, and entertainment that has grown at a breakneck pace ever since the debut of the first commercial web browser in 1994. According to one study conducted in December 2004, about 60% of Americans are now connected to the Internet with the average user spending close to 3 hours per day online. (Nie, et al, 2004) The children too have widespread access to the Internet at school and at home. Unfortunately, easy accessibility to the Internet has its downside. It makes the children vulnerable to exploitation by predatory pedophiles lurking in what the US Attorney General, John Ashcroft described as "the dark corners of cyberspace." (Quoted by Magid, 2002) Before the mass advent of the Internet, most child predators stalked their victims in public places such as schoolyards, playgrounds, and shopping malls."
Abstract Gay and lesbian marriage has become a controversial debate in contemporary society. There are heated arguments for and against the legalization of marriage between couples of the same sex. This paper explains that the underlying assumption for those in favor of gay marriages is that the central aspects of love, relationship, and understanding should override all other issues. However, this paper argues that the situation is not quite that simple. There are numerous factors that militate against the acceptance of gay marriage as an institution in modern society. The paper points out that gay marriages have the potential to create serious problems with regard to a range of very important social and cultural issues that make marriages of this nature untenable in modern society.
From the Paper "The argument that I wish to propose is not based on any of these perceptions or views. The central argument against the institution of gay and lesbian marriage has nothing to do with assumptions and judgments about homosexuality, and neither do I wish to deprive people of their intrinsic and inalienable democratic rights. Rather the objection to same-sex marriage is simply based on the fact that it contributes to the downfall of society; more particularly the institution of the family - the foundation of society - and subsequently will impact negatively on the development of children within the society. Therefore, the argument against gay marriage that I propose is based purely on practical and societal considerations."
Abstract This paper discusses the airline industry, the hardest hit by the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The paper presents the status of the industry and examines the marketing challenges facing commercial carriers. The paper briefly explores various marketing strategies and focuses on the high/low strategy as the most successful for this industry. Examples of this strategy are provided in the paper.
Contents
1) Status of the Industry
2) Marketing Problems Facing Carriers
3) Different Strategies
4) Description of High/Low Marketing Strategy
5) Why High/Low Strategy Is the Best Marketing Strategy
6) Examples of High/Low Marketing Strategy
7) Conclusion
8) Bibliography
From the Paper "These industry ailments have forced several new marketing problems and exacerbated the old ones. The critical problem facing the industry, though, is the new revelation - in the post 9/11 era - that price is the overwhelming determining factor in airline choice. If two airlines offer even remotely similar routes, the choice that a business or pleasure traveler will make is rarely based on the number of stops or even on the airport - travelers are more than willing to smaller to a smaller, more distant airport today to save money - and definitely not on the reputation or size of the airline; and certainly not on the frills or amenities offered on board the flight."
A look at how technological advances in criminal identification procedures have improved the ability of law enforcement agencies to identify offenders and capture suspects.
Abstract This paper describes the many technological advances that have become available in the last few decades and explains how they can help law enforcement agencies improve their overall ability to locate and capture suspects. The paper looks at such technologies as iris-recognition technology, electronic surveillance technology, citizen smart cards technology and facial recognition technology.
From the Paper "The world today is filled with cameras that can film an individual wherever he goes, his cell phone signal can pinpoint his location, and even one glance can reveal his true identity (Shenk 2003). Iris-recognition technology, soon to be common in places such as airports, offices, and banks, will simply scan an individual's eyes to reveal his idenity (Shenk 2003). Many feel that in this post-9/11 landscape, there is a serious need for these high-tech tools to help detect money laundering, encrypted e-mails, bio-weapons, and suitcase nukes (Shenk 2003)."
Abstract This paper explains that affirmative action is a moral and political question which seems to divide Americans more than it unites them, because some people regard it as a program designed to rectify racism and reverse the effects of both past and present discrimination but others simply see it as another form of discrimination. The author feels that affirmative action is a program of opportunity, not a program of discrimination; affirmative action's mission has never been about hiring less qualified workers, but about opening up equal opportunity and ensuring that equal opportunity with equal results. The paper stresses that diversity in education and the workforce not only includes African-American men and women but also includes other ethnicity groups, such as Asians, Latinos and Indians, who have been able to gain both an invaluable education and work experience through affirmative action programs.
Table of Contents
Educational Aspects of Affirmative Action
Affirmative Action in the Workforce
The Counter-Argument against Affirmative Action
Conclusion
From the Paper "These policies have been when minorities are actively sought or preferred, the reason given is usually that this is necessary to compensate for advantages to groups such as males or those of European descent from racism, sexism, results of historical circumstances, and institutional racism. In the U.S., the most prominent form of affirmative action centers on access to education, particularly admission to universities and other forms of tertiary instruction. Race, ethnicity, native language, social class, geographical origin, parental attendance of the university in question (legacy admissions), and/or gender are often taken into account when assessing the meaning of an applicant's grades and test scores."
Abstract This report looks at the problem of global warming as a theme for research into the attitudes of the public at large about global warming as a scientific and media based issue of concern. The research is important because it can show connections or disconnections that the general public have about global warming theories and measure attitudes and beliefs toward this complicated issue. The objective of the current report or study is to give randomly sampled members of the general population a questionnaire about global warming and then compare results with extant reportage on global warming, to measure public attitudes. The experimental outline was formed using the qualitative survey methodology. Important or relatively interesting results include an apparent disconnect in public perceptions of the connection between ozone layer depletion and global warming. The current report introduces the problem or issue, explains the issue and finishes with a discussion and concluding remarks, including areas for future research.
Outline
Introduction
Materials and Methods
Results and Discussion
Conclusion
From the Paper "Working globally in concerned international communities is seen to be key to solving the problem and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. But steps must be taken to reduce the threat of global climate change at the individual, local, state, and national, as well as the international, level. Steps could be as complicated as urban design and waste management research, or as simple as planting a tree. Many cities have voluntarily taken the initiative to improve the environment by implementing greenhouse gas reduction strategies. These strategies can help communities save money as they lower the risks to human health caused by global warming. People must be willing to work together from the individual to the international level to find beneficial answers and solutions to the problem."
