Abstract The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is the most promising onshore area for oil exploration and one of the wildest areas remaining in the United States. Therefore, the conflict between the need to develop energy resources and the desire to preserve wild areas has led to the prolonged debate over the merits of programs to lease the region for oil exploration and development. According to the paper, drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge would cause environmental costs that include some elements that are essentially certain, as well as elements that are uncertain, such as the unpredictable effects on the number and health of certain important species. The paper concludes that development is environmentally damaging no matter the cautions, because it alters the wild state of the region forever.
From the Paper "When Alaska entered the Union in 1958, Congress transferred an exceptionally large amount of land to the new state, and at the same time, the Department of the Interior used its authority to administratively reserve land for federal use, resulting to decades of controversy and disputes (Grover). Since 1957, the United States Department of the Interior has exercised primary administrative authority over most of the land comprising modern-day ANWR Grover). This fact has meant that a great deal to people who care about the Refuge (Grover). Federal management has produced a land that is valued as much for its unique wilderness character as it is prized for its suspected mineral wealth, and in particular, it has precluded significant petroleum exploration and development of the Refuge (Grover)."
Abstract This paper discusses one of the most contentious issues in contemporary American life, birth control.
This paper examines birth control in America and argues that birth control is something which should be readily available to all citizens just as long as certain protocols are followed. In so doing, however, this paper also points out the arguments of those who are unconvinced that wide spread birth control is desirable. In the end, this paper's central contention is that having a child is an enormously challenging development in the lives of young people (or old people, for that matter) and it should only be undertaken if the parents (or parent) possess the maturity, the desire and the resources necessary to do the job well.
Abstract This paper examines and compares two articles on how birth order affects a person's behavior. The two articles, "Born for Each Other" by Pamela Withers and "How Your Birth Order Influences Your Life Adjustment" by Lucille K. Forer, both express a general agreement that birth order does shape our attitudes and behavior.
From the Paper "The two articles to be compared in this report each focus on questions related to birth order. Pamela Withers, in "Born for Each Other", provides a list of common birth order characteristics and also discusses some aspects of what it means to be an only child. Lucille K. Forer in, "How Your Birth Order Influences Your Life Adjustment", considers the effect of birth order on relationships with parents siblings and self development. This essay will compare and contrast these two related articles each..."
Abstract This paper looks at studies which discuss whether the order of child's birth (first born, second born, etc) influences their personality and future. It compares how different children function according to their birth order and whether there are similarities in these. Psychological examinations are also performed and examined.
From the Paper "In previous years there have been quite a bit of research conducted on the subject of birth order and personality. However research on this matter has declined in at least the last 10 to 20 years. In all regards, it is the common perception that people who are first-born have the strongest disposition and have leadership tendencies. Research also tends to point out that children who are first-born usually have greater achievements in their professional careers. By the same token, these students are also more likely to have more mental disturbances than their younger siblings ( Nyman). There are conflicting results as to the popularity factor concerning the first born. Some researchers content that the first-born are generally more popular, thus more out-going. While others contend that the first-born are less popular?and perhaps more stand-offish (Nyman)."
Tags: sibling, rival, pressure, leader, follower, birth, order
Abstract This work delves into the process of locating the adolescent's birth mother; the effect on the adoptee, adoptive family and birth family; the adjustments required during the search and discovery phases; and the support system from the adopted family required to realize a successful search. This paper makes the assumption that the adopted parents are living and able to make reasonable contributions to the process.
From the Paper "The 2004 State Statute Reports issued by the National Adoption Information Clearinghouse that nearly all states continue to require sealed record adoptions with only 'non-identifying' birthparent information publicly available. Some states are relaxing these rigid rules (e.g., Illinois and Wisconsin) but the pervasive and often overriding legal concern for the individual's privacy continues to protect birthparents who have opted for adoption."
Abstract This paper examines some of the advantages and disadvantages associated with giving birth vaginally after having previously delivered by a Cesarean (VBAC). The paper looks at why doctors try to avoid them, but also gives support from the literature for their safety and success. The paper further discusses contraindications and the major problem which is uterine rupture following prior C-section. It points out that uterine rupture is usually due to Pitocin use, and that VBACs have a 98 percent success rate.
From the Paper "Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) is becoming increasingly popular and the medical profession has tried somewhat to discourage it because of the risk of uterine rupture. While postpartum fever seemed to correlate with uterine rupture at VBAC in a recent study there was no relationship between single or double..."
Tags: Vaginal Birth After Caesarean (VBAC), VBA2C, VBA2+C, VBA3+C
Abstract This paper discusses the prophecy about the birth of Jesus found in Isaiah. The paper explains that this prophecy, which tells the story of Jesus' birth to the virgin Mary, is probably the most famous of all the prophecies about Jesus and chronicles the interactions between the prophet Isaiah and King Ahaz.
From the Paper "There are a number of messianic prophecies about Jesus' birth -- prophecies about the location, manner and time of his birth, about his genealogy and about events that were to occur at the time of his birth. Probably the most famous of these prophecies is the prophecy that Jesus would be born to a virgin found in Isaiah. Isaiah chronicles the interactions between the prophet Isaiah and King Ahaz. In Isaiah we read: "Then said the LORD unto Isaiah Go forth now to meet Ahaz..."
Tags: Bible, old and new testament, Isaiah, prophet, god, jesus, immanual, prince of peace, virgin birth
Abstract This paper discusses the idea that many people believe that birth order has some kind of an impact on personality formation. This paper analyses the evidence, as documented in academic and scientific literature, in an attempt to answer the question if these ideas are valid, or are they like the claims of astrology - too vague, and too subject to myriad other influences, to be substantiated in any way? This paper shows there is in fact clear empirical evidence that birth order can have a significant impact on at least some important aspects of human personality.
Abstract This paper examines the medical ethics of whether a low weight birth infant should receive life sustaining efforts from the ethical and legal perspective of the medical staff and the family members involved. The author points out the percentages of survival and legal statutes. The paper relates why these issues are crucial and how physicians are expected to assess the infants.
From the Paper "When we discuss the birth of a child, what comes to mind immediately is the beginning of life. No one thinks of imminent death or ailments that may indeed cause death. However, it is a cruel fact of life, for whatever reason that infants will die and that death does not discriminate. Sometimes, this fate involves those born prematurely or suffering from an extremely low body weight. These conditions will push a medical team into overdrive as they attempt to assess the viability of the child. This is not to determine if the child will die but to determine if the child will live. In addition to this, doctors must assess what type of quality of survival will occur, or will there be severe defects and will the child always be dependent on machines to exist."
A research study looking at the impact nationalism has had on Europe and, in particular, the way in which nationalism as an ideological concept is perceived and understood.
Abstract This paper explores the assumption that the views and theories about nationalism are to a great extent determined by the dominant theories, philosophies and perceptions of the age. In this sense it is a contention of this paper that modern nationalism needs to be understood within the context of the broader issues of modern and postmodern speculative thought. This paper also attempts to ascertain the way that theorists and thinkers over the years have understood and influenced the concept and ideology of nationalism. The study therefore provides an overview of the salient most cogent theories and perspectives on the changing views of nationalism. Additionally, the paper attempts to refer these theories and counter theories to actual contemporary situations.
Table of Contents
Introduction
What is Nationalism?
Nationalism and Ideology
Cultural Nationalism Romanticism and Nationalism Nationalism as a Social Construction
Hobsbawm and Geller
Summations and Reflections
From the Paper "It is something of a truism to say that ethnic and nationalist movements have become a dominant force in the world in the past century. It is also relatively easy to forecast that the future of Europe will be shaped to a great extent by nationalistic imperatives and philosophies. One only has to look at the recent history of Eastern Europe and the Balkans for general and tentative conformation of these assumptions. The collapse of the Soviet Union and the fragmentation of the region have allowed nationalisms and ethnic groups to emerge in many areas. And, according to modern theorists of nationalism, we are also seeing the invention of new "nationalisms" that are being constructed by political and ideological forces - sometimes with devastating consequences."
Abstract The writer of this paper contends that the reason the internet is such a big part of globalization is due to the fact that for the first time in history, any individual in any part of the world can communicate in a completely uncensored way over the entire planet. This paper focuses on the combination of nationalism and isolationism within the realm of the internet. This paper examines the advantages of nationalism that began to flourish, thanks in large part to internet technology, as the first world nations and the rest of the industrialized world separated itself from the less capable or developed nations. This paper analyzes the numerous aspects of the internet which are far different from other mediums as it provides a way to present information in a variety of approaches, each uniquely different and targeted to a specific audience. The paper also discusses the downside to the internet and advanced technology, in that it has become a source of isolationism in many third world countries. The writer claims that internet access on a global scale has a definite negative stigma which has been termed the 'digital divide.' This paper examines how the movement of globalization and strong nationalism has isolated third world nations. The writer contends that while nationalism flourishes, attention must be given to the those third world countries that have become more and more isolated due to their inability to bring technology to their citizens.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Internet
Nationalism & Globalization
Isolationism
Conclusion
Works Cited
From the Paper "The internet is basically a way for organizations, parties and movements to present them selves in the same way as we would look at a magazine, newspaper, radio shows or television presentations. The unique aspects of the Internet that is different from these other mediums because it provides a way to present information in a plethora of ways, each way uniquely different for however the target audiences may be. In the same respect, the Internet can personalize 'homepages,' or web sites to also present a very individual message for different audiences. The Internet, therefore, is a much more public and at the same time personal provider of information. This also entails that a majority of the Internet is completely dominated by individual users such as newsgroups, chats, BBS while other parts are completely commercial business related."
Abstract This paper attempts to provide a more critical examination of what is meant by nationalism by looking to two works of fiction ? the 1919 Mr Standfast by John Bucan and the 1933 mystery novel Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie. Both of these novels develops ideas of nationalism that are rooted in the historical concerns of these moments in time. Both in many ways now seem to us rather quaintly nostalgic. However, it is important to understand how very much the ideas ? and ideals ? of nationalism that are expressed in these two books are still with us today.
From the paper:
"We are currently surrounded with reminders of how the fabric of nationalism is woven: This has, of course, been especially true since the attacks on American on the 11th of September. It has become increasingly difficult to go anywhere now without seeing flags or other forms of patriotism and nationalism. And yet, while the heart may indeed swell at such demonstrations, the current uprising of nationalist sentiment provides a moment not only for us to join together in mutually felt pride in our nation but also to examine precisely what it is that nationalism means."
Abstract This paper explains that Umut Ozkirimli stated in ?Theories of Nationalism? that nationalism has been around for more than two hundred years, but serious scholarly examinations of the origins and spread of nationalism did not begin to pick up momentum until after WWII. The author points out that this book is best when arguing Ozkirimli's perspective and bringing others? views to light. The paper relates that Anthony Smith's book seeks to separate ?nationalism? from ?national identity?.
From the Paper "Smith points out that Gellner (whose ideas and work appear on 44 pages of Ozkirimli's book, but in only 3 pages of Smith's book), the ?modernist,? says nationalism (page 71) ?is not the awakening of nations to self-consciousness; it invents nations where they do not exist,? albeit it does need some "pre-existing differentiating marks to work on"? That statement is disputable, given the nationalism that has run its course in the 20th Century. Did Hitler awaken Germany to self-consciousness in the late 1930s, adroitly exploiting the German common man's resentment for the outcome of WWI? The answer has to be yes."
Abstract This paper argues that ,while environmental treaties are justified in their interference with issues traditionally related to state sovereignty, such interference allows nations to challenge environmental treaties. It explains that this was very clear in the case of the Convention on Climate Change when several nations, such as the United States and China, refused to abide by the treaty, and even more, did not follow its terms even after agreeing to them. The writer points out that one of the most noticeable factors here is that it is mainly the industrialized or developed nations that have the power and strength to openly defy these treaties, while the Third World countries cannot for the simply reason that financial aid is, to some degree, partly dependant upon their national environmental laws. In this sense, an imbalance develops whereby the developed world has the choice to either reject or accept those treaties, and the Third World largely does not. From an analysis of this imbalance, and after proving it with reference to a number of global environmental treaties, this paper argues that the only solution lies in the creation of an international body for global environmental governance in which nations, regardless of their economic and political status, are equally represented. The aim of such a body would be to ensure respect for environmental treaties, eliminate imbalance,s and respond to one basic truth: the environment is a shared space, and one nation's abuse of it affects the lives of all people across the world. Thus, state sovereignty is an irrelevant issue here, as no nation has sovereignty over the environment.
From the Paper "The concept of national sovereignty has, since the emergence of nation-states, been regarded as sacred. At least, citizens and national governments have regarded their nation's sovereignty as sacred. That attitude was eventually transferred into law. Thereby, international law and treaties currently acknowledge and protect the principle of national sovereignty, conceding to a nation's rights to self determination and to resistance of external interventions in internal or national policies and decision making processes. However, while sovereignty is a popularly acknowledged and jealously protected political principle, sovereignty is not absolute and has its limitations. These limitations are defined by the interests of other nations and the collective welfare of all people and countries. Hence, no nation is absolutely sovereign and no government has the authority to act as it wishes within its national borders, arguing that it is protected by the principle of sovereignty. The simple fact of the matter is that in various international issues, most especially those relating to environmental policies, no country should have absolute sovereignty since, as emphasized by Robert Goodland and Herman Daly, the environment is not national but international or "universal" (1002-1003). Consequently, as relates to the environment, the concept of national sovereignty is a contentious issue."
Abstract In this article, the writer compares and contrasts the League of Nations and the United Nations as international organizations formed to maintain peace and international cooperation. The writer discusses the League's role in reducing international tensions and its limited effectiveness. Further, the writer discusses the complexity of the United Nations as an organization.
From the Paper Inis L. Claude stated that 'One World' is in some respects an idea land an aspiration born of modern interpretations of ancient moral thoughts and of rational estimates of the requirements for human survival. Both the League of Nations and its successor the United Nations were created as international organizations with a vested interest in maintaining the peace, preventing war, creating a mechanism or set of mechanisms for international cooperation and diplomacy and otherwise serving as trustees of ... "
