This paper looks at how the fighting between the Sunnis and Shiites in Iraq has affected the country, as well as gives background information on the Sunni-Shiite split.
Abstract The current sectarian conflict between the Sunni and Shiite Muslims in Iraq, termed as a full-fledged civil war by some observers, threatens to rip the country apart in an orgy of mindless violence. According to one school of thought, the fighting has the potential of escalating beyond the borders of Iraq and destabilizing the whole region of Middle East, particularly after the American occupation force withdraws from Iraq. Others disagree and believe that the conflict is a direct result of the U.S. occupation and may even have been fanned by the occupation forces as a classic colonial tactic of "divide and rule." In this research paper on Sunni-Shiite fighting in Iraq, the author examines the background of the Sunni-Shiite split and traces the history of Iraqi Shiites, besides discussing how the conflict has affected the country.
Outline:
Background of the Conflict--the Sunni-Shiite Split
Shiites in Iraq
Historical Sunni-Shiite Relations in Iraq
The Sunni-ShiiteConflict in the Post 2003 Scenario
Who is Responsible for the Provocative Attacks?
Conclusion
From the Paper "The Shiite Buyid dynasty, for example, controlled Iraq and Persia for more than a hundred years from 945 to 1060 AD ("Buyid" 2007) and the Iraq region again came under the control of the Shiite/ Persian Safavid Empire during parts of the 16th and 17th century . The Safavid-Ottoman attempts to control Iraq deepened the Shia-Sunni rift as both Empires used Sunni and Shia religions to mobilize domestic support and prosecuted the rival sect during their periods of control. For instance, Iraq's Sunni population suffered immensely during the Safavid reign (1623-38), while Iraqi Shiites were strictly excluded from positions of power during the Ottoman control (1638-1916). During the longer Ottoman period, the Sunnis monopolized administrative and political power and the Shiites were not provided similar opportunities ("The Ottoman Period" 1988)"
Tags:conflictsunnishiiteoccupationhistory, middle east
An analysis of the reasons why Sunnis and Shiites in Iraq have never been able to get along and how their differences have impacted Iraqi state-building.
3,375 words (approx. 13.5 pages), 15 sources, 2005, $ 133.95
Abstract This paper shall examine why it is that the Sunnis and Shiites of Iraq, who desperately need to work together if they are to find lasting peace and if the new Iraq is to be more stable and democratic than the old Iraq, are thus far unable to do so. In particular, the paper looks at the religious, political and institutional factors that have driven a wedge between the two groups. Ultimately, the paper concludes that knowing what went wrong in the past is the crucial first step to avoid the same mistakes in the future.
From the Paper "For those unfamiliar with the ethnic and group hostility that often percolates below the surface of Iraqi society, the often-acrimonious relationship between Iraqi Sunnis and Iraqi Shias (Shiite) occasionally defies easy explanation. As Martin Woollacott (2004) of the UK Guardian notes, "[F]amilies and tribes in Iraq have Sunni and Shia branches, intermarriage has not been uncommon, and both branches of Islam suffered persecution under Saddam," although Shias fared worse at the hands of that particular dictator than did their Sunni counterparts (para.11). Woollacott proceeds to point out that both parties have a vested mutual interest in working together, inasmuch as proof that they can do so is one of the most promising means by which they can expedite the ejection of American military personnel from Iraq (2004, para.11)."
Abstract This paper considers the possibility that the Sunnis, Shiites and Kurds of Iraq could work together under a central government but admits that it is almost too much to hope for. The paper discusses how Iraq's struggle to unify the differing factions to craft a central government could be guided by John Locke's "Two Treatises of Government" whereby its citizens will have the liberty to defer their rights to a central government in exchange for the peace of law and order. The paper emphasizes that the United States must finally leave Iraq in order to give the Iraqis their chance to seek the possibility of John Locke's idealism that establishes a peaceful existence.
From the Paper "As much as the United States would like to refute the existence of the stabilized government under the Saddam Hussein regime, Iraq did function as an authoritarian government. Yes, it is true that atrocities did take place under Saddam Hussein's Sunni-led minority regime, which means that Iraqi citizens were not being protected. In contrast, despite the efforts of the United States to rebuild Iraq's infrastructure and to implement the Coalition Provisional Authority, the Iraqi government has been unable to put together a government that maintains central control and is influenced by a coalition of states. Russell contends that what is currently happening in Iraq is "an uncontrollably escalating war in a country fractured by the internal divisions of religion, ethnicity, and tribe and by the external interference of foreign insurgents, occupiers, and neighbors" (par. 9)."
Tags:Sunnis, Shiites, Kurds, U.S., civil, war, government, law, order
Abstract This paper discusses the social and political conflicts that have plagued modern Iraqi history. The paper argues that the current war in Iraq is the result of unresolved tensions betwen ethnic and religious factions in the country.
From the Paper "Political scientist Michael J Sodaro's writing of the myriad factors impacting upon the process of democratization now underway in post-Saddam Iraq argues that the most critical variable with the potential to disrupt..."
Abstract This paper presents an interesting look into the Arab-Israeli conflict. It covers the conflict from the early 1900s, up to and including the current Intifada that began in 2000. It also discusses such subjects as the historical background of European Zionism, the emergence of Zionist terrorism during the ill-fated British Mandate and the birth of Israel as the result of a UN vote. According to this author, it is the continued Israeli occupation and not, the refusal of many Arab countries, or of the Palestinians, to recognize the right of Israel to exist, that is at the root of the Arab-Israeli conflict.
From the Paper "Since 1967, the Palestinians have become bitterly reconciled to the existence of the state of Israel. They have no choice but to do so: Israel is the only power in the region with nuclear weapons. It also has the US for its major backer. (Each year Israel receives between $4 billion and $5 billion a year, mostly in military aid, from American taxpayers.) What Palestinians have demanded since 1967, and are still demanding, is that
Israel withdraws from the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem, so that the Palestinian state envisaged in the UN resolution of 1947 can be created. In the meantime, they live in a "protracted state of political subjugation and economic dependence" (Morris 568).
The most critical development in recent years is the Israeli policy of settling the occupied territories with Jewish families. Settlement expansion into the occupied territories was first advocated by the Movement for the Whole Land of Israel and has been official policy in Israel since the rise of the Menachem Begin's Likud (Revisionist Zionist) party to power in May 1977. Between 1977 and 1984, one hundred new settlements were built on occupied land (Morris 567). By 2001, as many as 400,000 Israelis had been settled in areas of the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, and Jerusalem and its environs. As a result of the illegal settlements, public opinion in many countries has grown much more sensitive to the Palestinians? plight. During the 1970s and early 1980s, the Palestinian cause was not always highly regarded outside the Muslim world on account of its resort to sensational acts of terrorism. However, by the mid-1980s, the PLO was viewed increasingly as representing the victims of the conflict. Many informed people have since come to the conclusion that the well-armed and financed Israelis are no longer simply defending the right of their tiny little state to exist, but are actively using their powers to oppress the Palestinians and prevent them from founding the state to which they are entitled."
Abstract This paper takes a critical look at the Japanese invasion of Hong Kong in December of 1941. The paper points out that the occupation lasted till the early autumn of 1945, and the brutality of the experience is still a topic of resentment. It asserts that the occupation of World War II is part of Hong Kong's history and local memory for it harshly affected every family then living there. The paper adds that Japan's unknowable agenda caused some people in Hong Kong to rather welcome the 1997 lapse to the PRC, aware that their territory would be defended by the Red Army should their worst fears come to pass. The paper concludes that the fall of Hong Kong and the Japanese occupation were shattering events that have shaped Hong Kong's culture and consciousness.
Outline:
Introduction
Taking Hong Kong
A Fighting People
The 21st Century
A Changed Identity?
Conclusion
From the Paper "One is unsurprised by comments of older people from Hong Kong on a 'Japanese mentality' or condemnation of recent Japanese elections favouring right-wing candidates. Stories still abound of Hong Kong civilians forced to dig hideouts for Japanese boats on Lamma Island, the diggers killed to keep the boats' locations secret. Part of the trouble involves how such horrid events contrasted with a colony of which many Chinese were most proud for Hong Kong had grown from nothing after the 1840s, the work of ordinary immigrants from the Mainland, the British administration working in their favour in years when the Mainland was hopelessly turbulent or just inefficient. In fact, after World War II, people wanted a return to stable government, eschewing decolonization in favour of colonial rule that lasted till 1997. The Japanese occupation had a deep impact, in this sense, as in 1952 proposed liberal reforms were not of interest to the public. Authoritative, stable rule was wanted instead, for the IJA occupation had destroyed Hong Kong's pre-War trading economy based on entrepot shipping and services linking the Chinese treaty ports that were most profitable. Hong Kong was a place of employment, education and hope, different from other European colonies in the region, its atmosphere said to be happier and more harmonious than in British Malaya or Singapore. Its people were often the children or the grandchildren of 19th century migrants, many from Canton, the whole social order differing from that of China, the well to do proud to descend from some ordinary soul to head for Hong Kong to make his fortune, away from the rigid class system of Mainland China, Qing instability and corruption."
Abstract This paper talks about the need for, and the benefits of, effective communication in relationships when emotional conflicts arise, and, in particular, when emotional conflicts present themselves in a business relationship. The paper explains how an individual's lack of an understanding of how communication skills work and how important they are to other individuals will seriously impede that person's ability to resolve conflicts, while individuals who have good strong communication skills are able to deal with emotional conflicts quickly and easily.
From the Paper "It appears that there are many processes and structures that are utilized to teach these things to individuals but they do not always work in the way that they should and many people are left with difficulties in communication when they face some type of emotional conflict with another individual (Dooley & Fryxell, 1999). It is important for these individuals to develop skills in communication and collaboration that are very effective and when they learn how to deal with emotional conflict management they become assets not only for the clients that they deal with but for their employers as well (Dooley & Fryxell, 1999). Traditionally individuals focused on the needs of their clients within any business but there are many more tensions coming into many fields today (Dooley & Fryxell, 1999)."
A discussion on the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, from a Palestinian perspective, focusing on a string of historical events leading up to the current political situation.
Abstract The following paper examines several issues in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, such as the Suez Canal crises, the Balfour Declaration, the Yom Kippur War and the Six Day War. The writer discusses the events that lead to the major unresolved issues that remain today in Israel, namely the status of Jerusalem; the future of Israeli settlements; and the rights of Palestine refugees. This paper is written by a pro-Palestinian supporter.
From the Paper "In 1994, Israel withdrew from the Gaza Strip and Jericho, ending 27 years of occupation. A Palestinian police force replaced them. In 1995, then a Jewish extremist assassinated Israeli Prime Minister, Yitzhak Rabin, who had been involved in the latest peace processes.
In April 1996, Israeli forces bombed Lebanon for 17 days, with Hezbollah retaliating by firing upon populated areas of Northern Israel. Israel also bombed a UN shelter, killing about 100 out of 800 civilians sheltering there. The UN claimed it was intentional. In 1998, the Wye River Memorandum planned Israeli withdrawal from the West Bank but Israel suspended it in 1999 due to internal disagreements on its implementation."
Abstract The modern Chinese history under Mao Zedong is often perceived as a one-dimensional, iron-fisted rule by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) led by Mao. The truth, of course, is not so simple or one-dimensional. It is true that Mao was a larger-than-life figure who was raised to a godlike status through the personality cult built around him. The paper points out that, at the same time, Mao was an incorrigible revolutionary, which in itself ensured that there would never be a dull moment as long as he was in power. Although defying Mao's thoughts in China was a hazardous occupation while he lived, differences of opinion and expression of alternate visions within the CCP about how the country should be governed were not totally absent, even during Mao's lifetime. This paper examines some of the major policy campaigns launched by the CCP during 1949-1980, the difference of opinion or alternate visions expressed by a few, and the consequences they had to face.
From the Paper "In order to understand the dynamics of Communist China, it is worthwhile to briefly examine the background of the Communist movement and see how it came to China. China was a formerly great continental empire ruled by a weakened monarchy in the early part of the 20th century. A republican revolution in 1911 brought an end to the monarchic rule but the country remained beset with internal troubles and foreign interference. Japan, with its imperialist ambitions, sought to make China its protectorate, while local warlords in the country all but made a central government, irrelevant. China entered the World War I on the side of the Allies, hoping to halt the Japanese ambitions on its territory, but was badly let down at the Treaty of Versailles. In such a political environment, a group of Chinese intellectuals?inspired by the October 1917 Communist revolution in Russia, formed the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in 1921. Initially, the Communists joined the Kuomintang nationalists (KMT) who led a fight against the warlords to reunify the country."
This essay describes how occupational justice and occupational therapy can help the elderly reduce their dependency on others and improve their quality of life.
Abstract This paper first discusses occupational justice and defines it as giving equal opportunities and resources to enable people to pursue meaningful occupations. The paper then gives a brief overview of the elderly in nursing homes and gives corresponding statistical data. Next, the paper discusses data conducted on occupational therapy and examines how it benefits and improves the lives of the elderly in nursing homes.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Occupational Justice
Elderly in Nursing Facility
Occupational Therapy
Conclusion
From the Paper "Statistical reports in 1995 revealed that at least 4% of the population aged 65 years and above stayed in nursing facilities (Meiner & Lueckenotte, 2005). However, the quality of life of the elderly in nursing homes varies widely. While accounts of kind, compassionate care are common, there are also reports of inhumane, insensitive treatment of inmates, as well as incidents of physical and mental abuse. Paradoxically, the kind of environment in nursing homes where everything is taken care of for the elderly inmates can be counterproductive. The elderly inmates tend to lose control of their lives and their activity level and psychological well-being decreases (Hess & Markson, 1990.)"
Tags: aging nursing therapy, american occupational therapy association, health elderly
Abstract This paper presents an overview of the occupational health nursing specialty, as practiced in the university hospital setting. The paper defines the role of the occupational nurse and discusses the specialty's orientation to the hospital population. This is followed by a brief discussion of the importance of community assessment in planning occupational heath programs at the hospital. Next the paper provides examples of typical activities for occupational health nurses. The paper concludes with a discussion about how the speciality views the role of the individual within the wider university hospital community.
Tags: EMPLOYEE, HEALTH/OCCUPATIONAL, HEALTH, NURSE, IN, THE, UNIVERSITY, HOSPITAL
Abstract This paper uses several related sources to detail the area of study known as occupational ergonomics. The paper defines the term and its significance. The paper further discusses areas of importance concerning occupational ergonomics. The paper examines safety issues that arise because of occupational ergonomics. The paper concludes with an analysis on how ergonomics benefits businesses.
From the Paper "Ergonomics.org, a non-profit group set upon providing information and resources, defines just exactly what the study of ergonomics is. This group states that "The term 'ergonomics' is derived from two Greek words: 'ergon,' meaning work and 'nomoi,' meaning natural laws. Ergonomists study human capabilities in relationship to work demands" ("Posture, movement, and ergonomics," 2005). Those concerned with occupational ergonomics focus upon the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) from occurring in the workplace. In recent years, with work-related injuries becoming such a costly and common predicament around the world, such groups have come to the forefront of occupational awareness, attempting to find solutions to the problem either as a service or for monetary gain. This paper will look at some of the issues involved with occupational ergonomics, including its importance in today's work environment, safety issues that are involved, and what benefits there are for companies."
Abstract This paper describes the occupational hazards of being a paralegal, which include back pain, headaches, and disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome. The paper defines occupational hazards of computer dependent careers.
From the Paper "The definition of occupational hazard which is a term typically used in determining insurance premiums is any activity associated with a job that increases the likelihood of sickness injury or death. The physical demands of a paralegal's job are typically not life threatening and are likely limited to sitting for long periods of time and excessive computer use. Both of these strains can lead to back problems chronic headaches or conditions such as tendinitis or carpel-tunnel syndrome ..."
Tags: paralegal, occupational hazards, carpal tunnel, back pain, headaches, computers
Abstract The paper examines America's occupation of Japan after World War II, governed at the time by Douglas MacArthur, known as the Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers (SCAP). The paper explains that he helped revive the Japanese economy, the Japanese political system and major reforms in various institutions in Japan. This led to an agreement in San Francisco in 1951 to allow Japan to defend herself and to continue with her economic development.
From the Paper "The end of World War II in the Pacific came in 1945, but the war did not end for Japan for some time even though the fighting was over. After the war, Japan was occupied for some time by the U.S. under the command of General Douglas MacArthur. The Japanese chafed under the restrictions placed on the country by MacArthur and his administration, but in the long term, the people emerged from this era stronger and fully able to take advantage of new economic opportunities, allowing them not only to rebuild their country but to achieve a major increase in economic terms over the next several decades."
