Abstract The appropriate role of government in the economy is an issue that has been long debated. Several hundred years into the debate, no solid answer exists. Throughout the 20th century alone, several different forms of governance have been attempted, and while some have been more successful than others, the prevailing mixed economy (limited laissez faire) used in most developed countries seems to offer a reasonably decent solution. The key to this form of economy, it seems, is flexibility; with the government more active at some times than others. Good leaders know where the strengths of capitalism lay and what its limitations are. The proper role of government, in this broad sense, is to maximize the benefits of capitalism by staying out of the economy, but exerting some influence in areas where capitalism is deficient.
Abstract The debate over the phenomenon of globalization with respect to culture is comprised of a number of different arguments and perspectives. This paper will examine three of these arguments: (1) globalization of culture as technological imperialism; (2) globalization represents the "Americanization" of local cultures; and (3) globalization is inevitable.
Abstract The first of these two essays examines why Mohandas Gandhi, despite having neither an army nor a formal title, was able to turn a small independence movement into a massive campaign that eventually forced the British to agree to India's Independence. The author discusses Gandhi's personal qualities and presents examples of why Gandhi succeeded. The second essay, discusses why Gandhi's non-violence, non-cooperation campaign was a key to India's ultimate success in gaining Independence from the British without a costly war, and explains why this type of civil disobedience tactic is still effective today.
Abstract The objective of this paper is to further explore the concept of human rights. A particular focus will be placed on the question of whether or not the imposition of western human rights values on non-western traditions constitutes a form of imperialism. At the root of the issue, it seems is the issue of what should weigh more, human rights or state sovereignty. In the end, of course, there is no definitive answer to this question. What it can, and will, do, however, is look at the dynamics of human rights in the international arena and comment on whether western rhetoric on human rights is in the sphere of imperialism, or neo-imperialism.
Abstract This paper examines and analyzes Cuban emigre writer Zoe Valdez's highly acclaimed and somewhat controversial first novel, "Yocandra in the Paradise of Nada", in terms of the deconstruction of the ideal of a revolutionary paradise in Fidel Castro's socialist Cuba.
Abstract This paper provides a content analysis of the major sociological theories in the study of religion, and focuses upon the theories of Karl Marx, Max Weber and Emile Durkheim.
Abstract It focuses mainly on the latter's views, but uses Hobbes as a point of comparison. In his "Two Treatises of Government" (1690), Locke sets forth a view that the state exists to preserve national rights of citizens. This was significant in his views on property, as we will see. Property is inherently the joining of the earth - which is common to all men - and the application of one's body - or his/her labor. The fruit of that union is considered property by Locke, who goes onto argue that property was, therefore, a natural right. Hobbes, on the other hand, argued that property was the effect of the commonwealth, which exists only through civil laws given by the sovereign. This essay will argue that Locke's account of the methods of and limits of property acquisition in the state of nature differ from those of Hobbes. Locke argued that property was a natural right; Hobbes did not.
Abstract This paper examines Toni Morrison's "The Bluest Eye" in the context of how race, class and gender intersect as systems of domination and subjugation. Morrison emphasizes the theme of racial discrimination, which intertwines with the issues of gender and class in the oppression of women under capitalist patriarchy. In many respects, therefore, "The Bluest Eye" complements Marxist feminism, since it adds the dimension of racism to the realities of how classism and sexism marginalize women in society at large.
Abstract This paper discusses the practices of Osama bin Laden, a Saudi terrorist, and the supporter of a large mercenary force. It addresses religious and financial motivations, training situations, and the extent to which bin Laden is prepared to act in his efforts to destroy, or at the very least disrupt, Western civilization.
Abstract Federalism creates two levels of government, the federal or national government and the state government. Each government has its own areas of jurisdiction. Proponents of this system argue that it allows local state governments to handle local issues while the federal government handles national issues. Opponents argue that it creates confusion in the populace and conflicts between the two levels of government.
Abstract This paper shall address the results of nationalism as a means of conveying social order within the European states in the nineteenth century.
Abstract Liberalism is predicated on the belief that the rights of the individual and preservation of the individual's autonomy are the premises upon which public policy must be formulated. This paper outlines the roots and the implications of Liberalism as a political ideology.
Abstract This paper will take a critical look at poverty and anti-poverty policy in the US. Intuitively, it is easy to make the hypothesis that spending more on poverty is better for the greater good. For instance, states with greater percentages of their population below the poverty line should spend more to reduce the incidence of poverty in their jurisdictions. In reality, however, this hypothesis has proven to be invalid. This paper will argue that, rather than improving, poverty is becoming more prevalent.
