Abstract This paper looks at how bias against overweight and obese individuals is perhaps the last form of acceptable discrimination. It shows how overweight people are subject to both subtle and blatant forms of discrimination, from childhood to adulthood and how discrimination occurs in family, social and professional situations as well. It takes an interdisciplinary approach to the issue of obesity and discrimination, drawing on diverse literature from fields including psychology, law, pediatrics and economics. The extent of discrimination is explored through a critical survey and integration of current research on the social and professional effects of obesity.
Outline
Introduction
Definition of Terms
Statistics on the Overweight and Obese
Effects of Weight-based Discrimination
Reasons Behind the Discrimination
Advocacy for the Overweight and Obese
Conclusion
From the Paper "Roehling (1999) believes that most weight-based discrimination stems from the fact that we "tend to blame overweight people for their condition." Discrimination based on weight is seen as more acceptable because, unlike race or gender, people see bodyweight as a choice, not an immutable characteristic (Roehling 2002). This argument stems from the misconception that obesity is a voluntary condition, that overweight people could lose weight simply if they stopped eating and shored up their willpower (Solovay 2000). However, research has since shown that this is not true, and that obesity is caused by a variety of genetic, psychological, physiological and even environmental factors. These could include a deficiency in leptin hormones and the "thrifty gene." In fact, trying to lose weight is often accompanied by significant health risks (Roehling 2002)."
Abstract This paper looks at the issue of rent control in cities in America. The writer looks at the benefits of rent control for tenants and cites that many cities do not have rent control and some tenants' and liberal groups believe it should be instituted. The paper then provides the counter argument, from the landlord's point of view.
From the Paper "Rent control is an idea with great appeal for the beleaguered tenant who feels that rents are too high and that there has been no government effort to correct the problem. Advocates see it as a way of imposing fairness, but in truth it imposes unfairness and disparity between people who have rented for a long time and new renters. It reduces the incentives landlords have to repair their buildings and to make improvements. It takes the profit out of being a landlord, and it effectively eliminates competition in housing in urban regions. In many cases, it has also created a black market in sublets, with those paying little for rent because they have rent-controlled apartments renting them for higher prices to others illegally. An interview with a 50-year old male, referred to as the Landlord, with experience of the rent control situation in santa Monica, illuminates the landlord side of the issue, while it is usually the renter's side that is represented in arguments for rent control."
Abstract This paper attempts to study several aspects of the case within the context of environmental pollution and law, or more specifically toxic tort litigation. It also studies the impact of group or community pressure. The paper concludes by discussing the impact of this case upon the environment, environmental health and the legal system within the context of environmental litigation.
From the Paper "The idea that the environmental pollution, caused by W .R. Grace and Beatrice Foods was the probable cause of leukemia in children in Woburn, first came to the mind of the Anderson family, who had moved to Woburn, a working class Boston suburb, in 1965. Only after few years of the move of the family, their 3-year- old son, Jimmy, was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia as diagnosed by Dr. John Truman, an eminent pediatric oncologist at the Boston Children's Hospital."
Abstract This paper examines Edward J. Larson's "Summer For All the Gods" , a non-fiction account of the famous Scopes monkey trial. The Scopes trial refers to a turn of the century courtroom battle in American history, when a supposed high school teacher named John Scopes was put on trial for violating a Tennessee state law that prohibited the teaching of Darwinian evolutionary theory in the public schools. The paper evaluates how Larson's account presents an historical, unsentimental version of the Scopes trial which is in direct conversation and contrast with how the trial has entered into popular mythology, as a battle between rationality and irrationality, between justice and injustice.
From the Paper "Three central themes drive the Summer for All Gods. First, there is the idea that science is never pure and factual, it is always filtered through politics in the real, lived life of American historical drama. Secondly, Larson must deal with the fact that quite often a historical event, even of recent date can become quickly tainted in the collective American mythological memory as a battle for free speech and justice fought and won, rather than something that continues to be waged in America's present. As a last and third important corollary to the truth versus fiction theme, Larson notes that no courtroom drama ever has one side that is on the side of "truth" purely and simply. It is true that Tennessee's legislature did attempt to prohibit the teaching of evolution in schools. However, this is a practice of ideological management that still takes place today, when states attempt to influence textbook manufactures as to the content of what is included and not included in texts."
Abstract This paper reviews the famous criminal investigation of the murder of a 6 year old girl in America, on Christmas Eve, 1996. The writer uses the book by Steve Thomas called "JonBenet: Inside the Murder Investigation" which provides an in-depth look at the murder and the investigation. The incident became a national obsession, featured day after day on network news, television tabloid programs, talk radio, newspapers and magazines.
Contents:
Introduction
Facts of the Case
Prosecution Evidence
Defense Evidence
Conclusion
From the Paper "The book gives a thorough account of the murder and investigation. Thomas develops the argument from the outset and presents it clearly in the book with examples of the effective techniques of the investigation and how to approach a complex case like JonBenet?s. According to him investigations must be carried out before evidence are mishandled or removed as in the case of JonBenet. A delay in investigation often tends to mislead investigative directions, creates difficulty in gathering evidence and creates a loss in the credibility of the testimonies. For example in the JonBenet case, the lack of cooperation on part of John and Patsy Ramsey, the parents of the murdered child compounded the difficulties. The police began treating the parents as the primary suspects."
Abstract Reviews Durkheim's view that there are essentially two types of law that exist in a society-- repressive law which deals with penal law and restitutive law which consists of restoring relationships, which have been disturbed, back to their normal state.
From the Paper "On the issue of law and how it pertains to crime and society, Durkheim concludes that "crime is necessary" (Durkheim 23). If there were no crime, it would be evident that change was not possible. Crime is both functional and dysfunctional role in society (Durkheim 22). It is functional, or necessary because when crime and deviance are recognized, the community imposes punishment against such behavior. Punishment reminds society about what it should and should not do as well as heightens awareness of the shared moral sensibilities and community identity."
Abstract The paper looks at the new direction in which crime is moving, with the use of cyber-technology to carry out illegal activity and the problems this causes for law enforcement agencies. The paper discusses the international nature of cyber-crime, since the internet does not recognize national boundaries. The paper also examines ways of overcoming these challenges, such as using computer forensics and sophisticated monitoring systems.
From the Paper "During the last century, crime was fought much as it had always been, in reality, banks were robbed in person, embezzlement was usually committed by employees, and mail fraud involved the postal service (Radcliffe pg). Today, however, the criminal is unseen and unknown. Although, computers and the Internet have opened a new world of communication for consumers, it has also opened a playground for criminal activity. Felonies are now committed thousands of miles from the actual crime scene. Criminals are using computers to embezzle corporations and financial institutions, launder money, traffic drugs, and distribute child pornography (Radcliffe pg)."
Tags: identity, theft, software, hackers, communication
Abstract The first part of this paper studies the state-based laws that restricted abortion from the 1960s to the 1970s. The second part then examines how the women’s movement and reproductive rights supporters successfully challenged these state-based laws with the passing of Roe vs. Wade. It also studies how reproductive rights groups have successfully used "Roe vs. Wade" and Constitutional Law to protect abortion and reproductive rights. The third part of the paper focuses on the anti-abortion groups. Particular attention is given to their shift from noisy “shaming” campaigns and protests to legal arguments regarding fetal rights. It evaluates how the anti-abortion crusade has framed their campaign on the personhood and the rights of the fetus. In the conclusion, this paper assesses the future of reproductive rights, in the face of the many legal challenges being mounted by anti-abortion groups.
From the Paper "In 1973, through the landmark case of Roe vs. Wade, the Supreme Court made first trimester abortions legal in the United States. The decision struck down a host of state anti-abortion statutes and was hailed as a landmark of women's reproductive rights. It also gave birth to a vocal umbrella movement of anti-abortion groups that continue to challenge Roe vs. Wade both on moral and legal grounds. Almost three decades later, the issue of abortion remains the greatest moral flashpoint facing America today. More than any other moral issue, the question of abortion has divided communities, determined the outcome of many elections and incited quiet citizens to become activists."
An examination of the case of Lionel Tate, a twelve year old convicted of murdering a little girl, and how his life-sentence gave rise to a debate about the length of conviction for juvenile crimes.
Abstract This paper briefly discusses the crime and sentencing of Lionel Tate, who brutally murdered a six-year old girl. It discusses the arguments for and against Tate being tried like an adult and receiving the life sentence. It cites arguments from Amnesty International, as well as other human rights groups, that support reduced sentences for children. It also looks at the tougher stances being taken by the courts in light or more serious juvenile crimes being committed.
From the Paper "In 1999, a six year old girl weighing only forty-eight pounds was murdered. Her name was Tiffany Eunick. Tiffany's autopsy revealed that she had suffered a crushed skull, broken ribs and more than thirty internal bruises. Her liver had been shredded and pushed through her rib cage. Yet, despite the heinous nature of this crime, the Broward State Attorney's Office in Florida is now being criticized for trying and convicting the killer, Lionel Tate, as an adult because he committed the crime when he was only twelve years old. Now, the whole issue of how to treat children that are violent criminals is under attack without facing realities of the increases in violent crimes by juveniles, the number of repeat offenders, and the need to implement adequate punishment. "
Abstract This paper discusses that crime on college campuses has been evident for many years but historically has been under-reported. This paper analyzes types of college crime, particularly date rape, civil liability, architecture and its role in prevention, and campus security mission and focus to understand campus crime. The author believes that security teams, students, faculty and administrators need to further the collaborative nature of the solution to campus crime.
From the Paper "One particularly heinous aspect of campus crime is associated with the growing phenomena of date rape or acquaintance rape. Though it is clear that stranger assaults do occur frequently upon college campuses, it is also clear that the more common form of rape is acquaintance or date rape. Acquaintance rape is often closely associated with drug and alcohol use, another troubling aspect of campus life. Linking the two together is a string of both experience and statistical evidence. "In the United States, researchers have often demonstrated through self-report and victimization surveys that sexual assaults are endemic on university campuses." Not only are the recreational use of drugs and alcohol associated with the occurrences of rape but also there is an alarming trend associated with the crime that resonates the seemingly un-punishable offender state that has been created by the aforementioned institutional environment."
Abstract This paper presents a detailed examination of the history of the police department in America. The writer explores why the nation determined police departments were necessary and how they began their ascent to various cities.
From the Paper "Before one can understand the current police departments in America it is important for one to understand how the police came to be viewed as something that was needed. Police departments in America origins have been traced back to early English Society. Before the Norman Conquest there were no police forces that were formally administered and implemented. Instead society depended on something called the pledge system which entailed a type of code of honor. This code said that each village member pledged to protect the entire village against crimes such as thieves and murderers. If any member of the village saw something occurring they were honor bound to make such a fuss that the rest of the village would be alerted. They as well as the village members that they had alerted were honor bound to pursue and deal with the criminal in question. While this system was considered successful for many years as villages grew larger it became necessary to design a more organized system. This is when the tithing system came to be. A tithing was ten a ten family group in a village. The ten families banded together and worked with the honor system of before, but the tithing was also overseen by one person that was called a constable. Constables have since been considered the first real police officer in the world(Police History and Organization History of Police
http://www.uaa.alaska.edu/just/just110/police1.html). "
Abstract Thurgood Marshall, America's leading 20th century radical, led a civil rights revolution that forever changed the history of American society. Thurgood Marshall eradicated the legacies of racism and segregation by using the courtroom, which had an even more profound and lasting effect on race relations than the efforts of his contemporaries, Martin Luther King and Malcolm X. This paper looks at Marshall's life in the active black community of Balitmore and how he became the architect of American race relations in the twentieth century. The paper then focuses on Marshall's unique leadership style and examines how he demonstrated his visionary leadership throughout his career.
From the Paper "Because of these injustices, organizations such as the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) were created. The NAACP was probably the most significant of these foundations led by chief legislator Thurgood Marshall. During his years spent with the NAACP, Thurgood developed a strategy to fight racial segregation throughout the United States. Without Thurgood breaking new ground in the courtroom, the Civil Rights Movement would not have existed. The only way for change to occur was by altering the constitution, and Thurgood Marshal was the only Civil Rights leader using the law as means of change."
Abstract The United States is a country founded on the notion of protected civil liberties. After all, the pioneers who came to the country in the 18th century were themselves fleeing from persecution and seeking the freedom to practice their religious beliefs and the right to discuss their diverging views in public. Today, these freedoms are protected by law under the Bill of Rights. They serve to protect individual freedoms from encroachment by the government. It is largely through the Bill of Rights that the Constitution limits the government's powers over the rights of individuals. This paper examines the dual role the government takes in approaching such freedoms. First is the passive role, where the law prescribes that the government limit its role in matters of individual civil liberties. This includes the hands-off policy the government is supposed to take in matters such as freedom of the press and privacy rights. The second part of the paper then examines the government's more active role in enabling people to practice their civil liberties. This includes affirmative action policies that help address the historic inequality in the treatment of minorities and women.
From the Paper "In cases of freedom of speech, for example, many government bodies and private citizens have raised concerns regarding the effects of violent media on viewers, particularly children. Most proponents of media regulations are also interested in protecting free speech and the free circulation of ideas. However, critics like Roger Kimball and his followers maintain that brutal and violent images in media generate violence within their viewers, by corrupting individual morals. Because of this, Kimball maintains that the government "also has an interest in protecting the moral sensibility of its citizens, especially the young" (21)."
Abstract This research paper explains what DNA is and how it is used to solve criminal cases. Additionally, it discusses the implications of DNA fingerprinting in solving cold cases, with a focus on collection methods and applications in the state of California. The research analyzes and discusses the feasibility of DNA testing in solving cold cases and studies the impact that DNA fingerprinting has had on the forensic science community as a whole. The research is driven by studies and collection methods already implemented by the scientific community as well as future methods of collecting and testing DNA evidence as it relates to the investigation of unsolved murders.
From the Paper "Adding to an already heavy burden, most states including California are attempting to take DNA samples from a prison population approaching 2 million. This DNA information is being used in order to create state and national DNA databases. ?All 50 states have passed laws requiring collection of DNA from convicted sex offenders, and 34 states have enacted statutes requiring that DNA be taken from those convicted of other crimes.? (Price) Although most are in support of creating such a database, others feel that it is a violation of the American Constitution. Additionally, many proponents of DNA in criminal murder cases feel that DNA is still an unproven science with many inherent flaws that could convict innocent people and allow some to literally get away with murder."
Abstract Despite increased sensitivity to physical and mental disabilities, many American workers continue to find themselves to be victims of employment discrimination due to their disability. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law which prohibits employers from discriminating on the basis of a "qualified" disability. This paper examines the historic background of the ADA and how it has affected American society and the workplace. A summary of the research is provided in the conclusion.
From the Paper "However, where an employee is unable to perform the essential functions of his or her current job, "reasonable accommodation" may include reassignment of the employee to a vacant position. The United States Supreme Court held that an employer is "not required to find another job for an employee who is not qualified for the job" he is doing. However, an employer cannot deny an employee alternative employment opportunities reasonably available under the employer's existing human resource policies."
