Abstract This essay outlines the experience of crossgendered people in both India and the West and discusses liminal aspects of crossgendered experience. The paper begins with a history of the separation of ?gender? and "sex", which occurred in the latter half of the twentieth century. The use of the term ?gender? as a reference for the social aspects of sex identity first occurred in the context of clinical research on intersexuality (hermaphroditism) in the 1950?s. The paper then explores the issues of transgender and cross-gender in today's times, specifically focussing on India as compared to the West. The paper explains that sex and gender are currently being redefined by feminist scholars with challenges to the 'universal' sex/gender binary through cross-cultural analysis.
From the Paper "One of the most dynamic and relevant areas in anthropology today is the field of sex and gender in anthropology, with feminist scholars redefining Western, and anthropological, sex/gender "norms" through cross-cultural analysis. "The possibility of having more than two genders was opened up by divorcing gender from sexual morphology and by associating gender rather, indeed primarily, with social role and labour tasks" (Ramet 1996: 2). While concepts of universal, male:female, sexual binaries are being called into question, cross-cultural evidence and anthropological theories are being employed in entirely new ways."
An evaluation of a recent paper published in the journal ?Women's Studies International Forum,? published by Regina Scheyvens and Helen Leslie entitled ?Gender, Ethics and Empowerment: Dilemmas of Development Fieldwork.?
Abstract This essay is an evaluation of a recent paper published in the journal ?Women's Studies International Forum,? published by Scheyvens and Leslie, in which the authors present facts and discussions related to several important issues for researchers pursuing ethnographic and cultural studies related to women"especially third world women. This essay involves an assessment of the following: Is there, or should there (or not) be a power distinction between the researchers and their subjects" Can the work be regarded as legitimate because of the vast differences in cultural perceptions? Certain ethical questions also crop up: Can the researchers bridge the gender divide and have males research females in third world countries? Is there an imposition of a researcher's sentimentality on the research, and is this exploitative? How valuable is such research"can it be presented objectively, honestly and more importantly in an unbiased manner" And, can such research help empower third world women? This essay addresses these issues within the context of the Scheyvens and Leslie's paper.
From the Paper "The authors? work is also very limited. Consider the countries they talk about: Fiji, El Salvador, the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea. The title of their paper is misleading; it promises sweeping work that would lead to generalized conclusions. The countries used in the research do not allow that. The countries researched are very isolated, quasi-aboriginal and primitive cultures though, this is not an indictment of these countries. Developing countries (third world) like India and China where poverty and sexism exist within a modern infrastructure (and a range of social situations?urban and rural) would provide a better subject for such a study. Religion (or its lack in China) plays an important role in the customs and traditions of these countries. Also, India and China have enjoyed fairly evolved civilizations before becoming the over-populated behemoths they are today. The paper, in its limited scope, should be more aptly titled ?Empowerment of women of the Pacific Islands and El Salvador.? "
Tags: power, gradient, cross-gender, research, United, Nations
Abstract A discussion of the human sexuality of cross-dressing as it relates to psychology. The paper investigates the findings published in several books and journals concerning cross-dressing. The research also focuses on the treatments that are available for individuals that cross-dress and their families. The paper begins by defining cross-dressing and the psychological factors that can lead to the behavior.
From the Paper "Defining Cross Dressing can be a rather arduous task because it is a complex subject. One of the main topics that come to mind when addressing the subject is gender identity. (Bullough) A book entitled, Cross Dressing, Sex and Gender, explains that gender identity ?is the total perception of the individual about his or her own gender. It includes a basic personal identity as a boy or girl, man or woman, as well as personal judgments about the individual's level of conformity to the societal norms of masculinity and femininity.? (Bullough). The author goes on to explain that gender roles or the way that men and women are seen in society, can also contribute to cross dressing behavior."
Abstract This paper comments on the introduction written by Gina Buijs to the book "Migrant Women: Crossing Boundaries and Changing Identities" and specifically on the subject of gender differences among migrants showing that the different experiences of women have been ignored and that this new research means to correct this failure, noting some of the different ways women experience migration.
From the Paper "Gina Buijs in the Introduction to the book Migrant Women: Crossing Boundaries and Changing Identities, makes several comments about how discussions of migration leave women out of the equation or only include them as dependents of the males. This is clearly an overstatement, for much of the discussion of migration simply refers to the number of people migrating and does not make any distinction for gender or even age. Buijs's discussion is actually more focused than this and refers to the women featured in the book that follows, and for that particular population her comments have resonance. When extended to the entire world of migrants, though, many of her comments are questionable."
Abstract This paper discusses the relationship between various cultures, particularly in terms of how people communicate with one anther. In this article the writer describes how humans interact and communicate with each other in a situational frame - and looks at this issue from a Martian's perspective. It is noted that human affection is not just sent and received by one gender to the other.
From the Paper "In a world of cross-cultural societies, expertise in relationship building and acceptance is essential to succeed in a world of swift and profound cultural, political and economic changes. Some experts consider North America, to be a multi-nation and polytechnic continent that has accepted immigrants from countries around the world. It includes a diverse array of cultural traditions. Cultural identity is demonstrated through festivals, symbols, and landscape design. Multiple cultures must coexist, thus cultural conflicts must be resolved. Cross-cultural differences are relative to ethnic, national and religious differences."
Abstract This paper shows the difference that agriculturists, sedentary lifestyles, and social differentiation made in gender relationships.
From the Paper "The first evidence of agriculturists, sedentary lifestyles, and social differentiation that archaeologists and anthropologists have distinguished come from groups termed Horticulturists. Though the past record remains relatively scant in regards, anthropologists have used existing ones as a locus of study and interpretation. More numerous than surviving hunter-gatherer groups, horticultural societies also show an incredible range of gender diversity between groups, more numerous, in fact, than any other extent societal model. The quantity of studies that has come as a result of this are astounding. Those done in the area of New Guinea alone, home to at least two hundred different horticultural societies, provide ample evidence to add weight to the debate of nurture over nature, by sheer examples of the differences in living and understanding gender roles in such a relatively small and homogenous environmental area. "
Abstract This paper considers of the character of Dean Lily in the novel "The Illusionist" by Dinitia Smith and discusses to what extent s/he may be said to subvert or reconfigure traditional gender roles. It also discusses whether all non-hegemonic groups are marginalised and whether gender transgression is dangerous.
From the Paper "Dean Lily became a performer, an entertainer, initially because it gave him some popularity at school. It gave him a form of status, and even though everyone thought he was strange, at least his peers more or less accepted him. As he grew older, Dean continued to play the magician, possibly as it gave him the freedom to hide behind the identity of entertainer. This averted the focus of his body. Tricks made it possible to hide any femininity that was left (the thin wrists [p 17], the long soft toes [p 29], the two faint mounds on his chest [p 30], the small body [p 14]) behind the hocus pocus of cards and magic. He liked to look, and did not like to be looked at."
A look at the clinical diagnosis of gender identity disorder, the cause and prevalence of the disorder, and controversies within the counseling profession related to gender identity disorder.
Abstract This paper reports the diagnostic criteria and typical course of gender identity disorder including the theories of this disorder and the etiology and prevalence of this disorder. Evidence-based treatments found to be most effective are also reported as well as a consensus and controversies of the disorder in this field of study.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Clinical Diagnosis
Cause and Prevalence of GID
Controversies in the Field
Evidence-Based Therapies
Summary and Conclusion
From the Paper "The work of Duncan Osborne entitled: "Voices- Identity Crisis" relates the condition and the controversies very well in a story that tells of a five-year-old boy whom he treated. Later the child was treated as an adult. Osborne relates that generally these children who have been diagnosed with gender identity disorder grow up to be homosexual. Osborne reports a study conducted in the early 1980's by Green who finds that, among 44 such boys with gender identity disorder that: "...75% were either gay or bisexual and one wanted sex reassignment.""
According to Osborne, Psychologist Kenneth J. Zucker, head of Toronto's Child and Adolescent Gender Identity Service at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, is a "leading GID expert who has seen roughly 625 children or adolescents since 1978." (2003) According to Osborne, Zucker states that: "The majority of kids will have resolved their gender dysphoria and identify themselves as gay. We're also going to find that around 15% have a significant gender dysphoria that has persisted into adolescence and young adulthood to the point where they are wanting sex reassignment. If we add on to that a small minority of kids who report being heterosexual, we're seeing a real range of outcomes." (Osborne, 2
Tags: theories, assigned sex, cross-sex roles, mood disorders, surgery
This paper looks closely at "Disappearing Acts", written by Terry McMillan. The writer discusses the novel as a comprehensive narrative exposing rotating points-of-view on cross-gender communication.
Abstract This paper looks at the issue of gender dynamics in modern society as portrayed in "Disappearing Acts". The writer compares this novel to Terry McMillan's first novel, "Mama", noting that they are both energetic and earthy books, taking place wholly within the confines of an intense relationship.
Table of Contents:
Synopsis
Movie Quotes
The Story
The Upshot
Title
From the Paper "To disappear is defined as a verb meaning to vanish from sight and/or to no longer exist; and act denoted as anything done, being done, or to be done, the process of doing. In this sense the title is referring to Franklin's modus operand. Whenever he gets frustrated by his unstable employment and/or family troubles, he takes to the drink and then makes himself scarce, usually by hiding out at his favorite bar, or sometimes absconding for up to days at a time. This is a conditioned response to his problems, ?Despite the fact that ?attributes that ought to be equally valued and discouraged, we persist in using bipolar terms to characterize men as "independent" ??strong,? and unemotional? (A&B, 21). And since men learn from role models in their lives that emotional vulnerability is unacceptable behavior, and therefore are regarded negatively when disclosing personal information, they are prone to keep their feelings undisclosed and find another venue for release. In Franklin's case this routine happens to be physically running away from his problems and drinking to numb all feelings."
Abstract The paper maintains that Stott's book, "The Cross of Christ," is an important book. For those Christians who want to further explore the meaning behind the Cross and behind Christ's death, it is a thought-provoking resource. The paper explains how Stott makes a very good case for the Cross being more than simply important, but rather that it is a vital part of Christianity. Without the Cross, Stott argues that Christianity as we know it would not exist. The paper is of the opinion that after reading this book, it is difficult to argue with this perspective.
From the Paper "John R. W. Stott takes the position that the Cross is essential to Christianity. He makes his convincing argument by dividing the discussion into four parts, discussing the Cross as a symbol, the need for forgiveness, the spiritual benefits that the Cross has provided to believers and finally, on the practical and earthly teachings that the Cross can offer. Stott does not have all the answers on the subject of Christ's Cross. However, the book is a thoughtful and complex study offering suggestions on the subject of the Cross upon which Christ died. The Cross is important, Stott states, because it performs more than the single function of being the method of execution favored by the Romans."
Abstract This paper explains Wal-Mart's proprietary cross-docking system as part of a global supply chain management system. The paper describes advantages of the technique of cross-docking, how this innovation supports the replenishment of Wal-Mart stores.
From the Paper "Cross-docking is a relatively new and extremely effective technique used in global supply chain management. This technique can rapidly consolidate shipments from different sources and reduce the cost of outbound transportation by eliminating the inventory-holding function of a warehouse without hampering its consolidation and shipping functions. An important adjunct to the warehouse management systems now in use in many industries, Hill Fig cross-docking eliminates several intermediate steps in the warehousing process."
Tags:cross-docking, Wal-Mart, warehouse management system, global supply chain management
Abstract This paper discusses the relaxation by the Australian authorities of cross-media and foreign ownership laws. The debate seems to balance out as to the number of the pros and cons and the weight of the arguments of each side. However, sifting through the arguments the paper shows that they meet halfway on the need to protect media against excess concentration of power and foreign influence. On these concerns, the Australian government seems to draw lessons from the media liberalization programs of other developed countries, which are allowing cross-media ownership and foreign participation up to more manageable limits and only in specific media areas where activities are calculated to pose lesser risks. The paper concludes that the problem is that, despite these safeguards, people will always look at media deregulation with suspicion and misgiving because of the sensitive nature of this industry.
From the Paper "After Lord Morley left journalism to join government service in the early stages of the development of media in UK, there is an oft-quoted remark made to him by Kennedy Jones, co-founder of the venerable Daily Mail. "You left journalism a profession. We made it a branch of commerce," Jones told Morley. The equally famous rejoinder was: "The more, the pity." One view in effect exults that media has evolved into a business proposition, where profit takes precedence over its traditionally loftier priorities. The other opinion looks with sadness at such commercialization of journalism, implying that this is inimical to public interest.
That pithy exchange from the past captures the essence of the present-day debate in Australia triggered by the government announcement of plans to deregulate media after 20 years of controls on foreign ownership and cross-media transactions. The Morley-Jones clash of views between the public service and business orientation of media deferred to old UK conditions, but the same hairsplitting still rings true today and continues to reverberate throughout the world as economic opportunities diminish and competition for scarce resources tighten up. Since almost all sectors of national economies have been served up for foreign interests in the universal drive to generate much-needed foreign investment, governments in many parts of the world, both developed and underdeveloped, are fixing their attention on the media industry as the last remaining enticement for foreign investors. As Australian Sen. Ron Walker puts it: "Media has become the last major industry begging for reform to bring it to the 21st century." By inference, the senator is batting for a new scheme that would keep Australian media in step with the times by allowing foreign investment into the arena."
Abstract This paper introduces, discusses, and analyzes the topic of non-profit disaster mitigation organization. Specifically, the paper analyzes the American Red Cross including the mission of the organization, its involvement in recent disasters, and funding issues. The paper also examines the Red Cross's relief and disaster efforts.
From the Paper "The American Red Cross has been in existence since the nineteenth century. Organized by nurse Clara Barton, it has grown to be one of the premier disaster mitigation organizations in the country and the world. It is a non-partisan, humanitarian organization responds to all types of local and national emergencies, from families displaced by home fires to war and terrorism victims. Its mission is to step in during any time of disaster and provide food, clothing, shelter, and assistance to any victims of that disaster."
Abstract This paper reviews Richard Fletcher's book, "The Cross and the Crescent," which presents a history of the relations between Muslims and Christians. The reviewer sees Fletcher's work as coming at an opportune times, since today the West often feels a sense of hysteria regarding anything related to Islam. The reviewer sees the "The Cross and the Crescent" as providing important information about Islamic civilization and culture, presenting the Arab world in a more comprehensive way. The reviewer also describes the Muslim view of the Christian world, and concludes by citing Fletcher's opinion that both cultures influenced each other.
From the Paper "Fletcher's book focuses on the attitude that the Muslims had regarding to the Christians and vice-versa more than to purely historical aspects. For example, he pays not so much attention to the historical events of the crusades, but to the effect they had on the Muslim population. The book provides a valuable insight to Islam and to the relations between Islam and Christianity."
Tags:Cross, and, the, Crescent, Richard, Fletcher, Christianity, Islam, West
Abstract This paper is a critical analysis of cross-cultural politeness using the Brown and Levinson's model as a basis for defining and understanding politeness and applying it to three Asian languages: Chinese; Cantonese and Japanese.
From the Paper "What is politeness? If I propose that 'politeness' be used as pragmatically terminology, the preferable definition is to be found in appropriateness. It can be also said to be universal only in the sense that every society has some sort of norms for the appropriate behavior, although these norms are vary. The primary purpose of this paper is to provide a cross-cultural context by applying a well-known Brown and Levinson's model (1978 and revised in 1987), which has been applied in various settings, from casual services, encounters to EFL classrooms. However, Brown and Levinson's model (1978) has been criticized for being too geared to Western (especially American) notions of "independence" and, hence, for its limited applicability in Asian contexts. I have attempted in the following by first giving a general and brief account for Brown and Levinson's model (1978), and then try to apply and analyze the Brown and Levinson's model (1978) in three Asian languages: Chinese; Cantonese and Japanese. "
