Abstract
This paper offers a thorough, logical analysis of both sides of the argument for and against the existence of miracles. The paper opens by explaining that throughout history, numerous people have witnessed or experienced rare events that they believe to be inexplicable by the laws of nature. Many of these individuals are so appalled and dumbfounded by these events that they assume that a "greater" or "higher" power is involved. The paper cites "On Miracles" by David Hume, "Miracles" by C.S. Lewis, and the film "Religulous" by Bill Maher. The author arrives at the conclusion that miracles do not exist and are a false claim set by religion in order to account for the unexplained events that occur, thus giving people comfort from the shadows of the unknown. The paper finishes by stating that the true definition of a miracle is an event that occurred with a favorable chance outcome - nothing more and nothing less.

From the Paper
"The mathematical process known as probability explains the chances of something happening, and why some things are more probable than others. You will most likely live to see tomorrow, but possibly you won't? Indeed. You probably won't win a million dollars, again this is possible. Another fine thing we have is cause and effect, which can work hand and hand with probability. Now here's a scenario: Joe reaches into his pocket and $20 falls out without him noticing; the chances of this happening are slim I doubt Joe loses $20 every time he reaches into his pocket. Now the chances of someone walking to the place Joe had been (not very unlikely) and finding Joe's lost money, a miracle? No - the cause (Joe in his pocket) led to someone else (effect) having $20. These two elements, if you will, lead into a coincidence. Miracles are false accusations; no force other than gravity caused you to get the money. When a coincidence happens, people tend to link that to a greater being rather than just pure chance: The truth of the situation is when cause and effect and probability join in to create the coincidence. Thus, pure chance allowed Joe to find $20, not God nor a miracle."

Tags:philosophy, miraculous, Religulous, Maher, agnostic, atheism

Abstract
The paper shows how the opening sentence of "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen and confirms the importance of marriage and family in the early Victorian era. "It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife". Jane Austen states this and creates an immediate sense of urgency as the book opens.The paper discusses how this statement reveals nearly the entire plot in a single thought, emphasizing how central marriage, family, and financial security are to the common woman.The paper further shows that Austen's writing pushed the boundaries of typical behavior of men and women in the Victorian age by creating a strong female character in contrast with the period, and telling stories of untraditional marriages during a very traditional time.

From the Paper
"Elizabeth Bingley is the protagonist character of Pride and Prejudice. She is the second daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet. Elizabeth, while not the prettiest of the five, is respected as the most intelligent and sensible, however throughout the novel it becomes apparent that she is too clever for her own good. She is an independent woman, with a bold personality, which is quite opposite the traditional 19th century view of how women should behave. Far from proper and pious, Austen has created a feminist character that the reader will grow to love, regardless of her behavior s and judgmental attitudes. This is in opposition to the "perfect woman", who marries into wealth, reproduces, and is seen and not heard."

Tags:rejection, conversation, dumbfounded