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Intimations of Immortality, 2008.
An analysis of transcendentalism and its role in Henry David Thoreau's writings.
707 words (approx. 2.8 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 25.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how transcendentalism is evident in Thoreau's writings through his desire to recapture childhood delight in nature, his goal to find truth and grounding in nature, and his understanding of transcendentalism and its outgrowth in his life.
From the Paper
"In Thoreau's writings we see the theory of Transcendentalism made practical. His writings reflect not only the theoretical aspects of Transcendentalism, but also the true outgrowth of what those theories mean. When he went to the woods to find the glory and delight of nature, he found out more of who he was as well. No longer was he an exploiter of nature or one of those whose life was "but a sleep and a forgetting", but rather a man who had found balance and a deep understanding of his role and place. Transcendentalism in Thoreau is not a castle in the air, but a rough, grounded cabin next to a pond. "
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Materialism, 2007.
This paper discuses the concept of materialism, which has long roots in the Western philosophical tradition.
1,545 words (approx. 6.2 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that materialism is based on the concept that matter is the essence of reality and that it is matter that creates the mind. The author differentiates between cultural materialism, which relates to understanding human societies through its material conditions such as geography, and dialectical materialism, which explains human processes such as art. The paper argues that materialists demonstrate that all aspects of the world have material causes; but these causes do not change the fact that decisions are made and responsibilities can be taken. The author concludes that the traditional concept of free will is a holdover from pre-Enlightenment desires for a spiritual component to the world that is uninfluenced by the material world.
Table of Contents:
Varieties of Materialism
Materialism and Free Will
From the Paper
"There may be, though, a way to reconcile materialism with the concept of free will. Free will requires that human actions are dictated by choices made individually by human beings, that responsibility for any action can be traced back to the individual. But this may be an incorrect epistemological approach, one that prevents free will enthusiasts from recognizing that free will does not have to be at odds with materialism. Superficially, there doesn't seem to be anyway around the matter of being able to find a fundamental material cause for every human decision, once attributed solely to free will. If prime mover status cannot reside with the human mind, then how can free will exist? This is the quandary faced by those who would reconcile these concepts."
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Walter Benjamin's "Theses on the Philosophy of History", 2008.
A discussion of various interpretations of history, with a focus on historian Walter Benjamin's 1940 book "Theses on the Philosophy of History".
2,820 words (approx. 11.3 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 83.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, in his 1940 book "Theses on the Philosophy of History", Walter Benjamin, using the analogy of an Angel of History, warns that false interpretations of history can be as deadly as the historical tragedies themselves. The author points out that a means of avoiding this is not to emphasis and understand history as a rigid sequence of absolutely true events, which must be accepted as the definitive truth. The paper stresses that it must be remembered that history is written by the triumphant winners. The author discuses examples of history from the ancient Greeks to modern times to emphasize that human nature has changed very little over thousands of years: Intolerance still causes ignorance, which causes wars and kills people.
From the Paper
"The exploitation and abuse of women throughout human history is another refutation of the triumphalist conception of history. As Mohanty notes, even in modern times, women are still struggling for equality, for social movements such as women's liberation tend to trigger resistance because many people prefer the status quo and feel threatened by social change. For example, in recent years some feminist organizations have drawn increasing criticism from mainstream America due to strategies and tactics which seem too aggressive and divisive."
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Plato's Theory of Justice, 2008.
An analysis of Plato's theory's of justice in "The Republic" according to the thesis of Johann Gottfried Stallbaum.
2,058 words (approx. 8.2 pages), 0 sources, MLA, $ 64.95
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Abstract
This paper presents a critique of Johann Gottfried Stallbaum's (1793-1861) vague and generally accepted thesis that the true argument of "The Republic" is "the representation of human life in a State perfected by justice and governed according to the idea of good" . The paper contrasts a discussion of what justice refers to in Plato's thought and how justice is related to the Good, as defined by Plato, to the subtly deceptive and incomplete idea of Gottfried's exegesis.
From the Paper
"In "The Republic" separate functions are the foundation for justice. Justice is the professed aim of the constitution of the kallipolis. It becomes visible in individuals because justice is the order of the state, which in turn is its visible embodiment. The one is the soul and the other is the body in the Greek ideal of a fair mind in a fair body. In Hegel's language, the state becomes the reality of which Justice is the ideal. Political justice is the harmony in a constituted body based on specialization. This is a direct refutation of Stallbaum's description because his generalization makes no mention of the roles the people have in the development of justice in the State. Plato regards the ideal form of the perfect city as the ideal form of the good person. Plato is not interested in "the representation of human life in a State perfected by justice" because he is arguing that a kallipolis requires a specialized constituted community in order to exist under the guidance of the Guardians."
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Reality and the External World, 2008.
A comparison of the views of Rene Descartes and George Berkeley on the notion of the external world and how people interact with it.
1,058 words (approx. 4.2 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 37.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the notion that there is an external world and that people generally interact with it in similar manners. It describes and analyzes the philosophies of Rene Descartes and George Berkeley who both attempted to formally justify these notions. Furthermore, the paper compares and contrasts the views of the two philosophers in their explanations of the external world and reality.
From the Paper
"It seems that there is an almost undeniable disconnect between our mental constructions of how the world operates around us--largely through language--and the way in which this world may actually work in an objective sense. Since, according to Berkeley and many others, there may be little logical backing to the notion that an objective, physical reality can ever be reasonably approximated by any of us--because we are so completely committed to our own individual points of view--it has been historically difficult for correspondence theorists to generate a formula by which objective truth can be determined. After all, the linguistic mechanisms that we all make use of every day involve, extensively, relational propositions, universals, predicates, and other functions that fail to unambiguously possess any meaning in the physical world."
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Plato and American Democracy, 2008.
An application of Plato's "Republic" to the failure of American democracy.
804 words (approx. 3.2 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 28.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes Plato's "well ordered soul" in relation to the corruption that resides within failed American democratic institutions. It discusses how Plato's "Republic" defines the notion of the greater good in society and how the practical applications of these ideas are prone to corruption and the dissolution of justice within the United States.
From the Paper
"Socrates also realizes that governmental 'order' in reality is only as stable as time. Therefore, since time is always moving and changing, there are no reasonable ways to create a government that can mimic the greater good of the soul. In this manner, the term democracy is a transient form of government that can never be realized, since power is often consolidated and fluctuates between the three branches. However, Plato reinforces the construct and need for the well-ordered soul, since chaos would surely ensue without the doctrine of the greater good to be imposed throughout the various sections of the Republic. "
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William James' Psychosocial Development, 2008.
An analysis of William James' life according to Erik Erikson's psychosocial development theory.
1,682 words (approx. 6.7 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 54.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the life of pioneering American psychologist and philosopher, William James. It analyzes his life according to Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development. The paper looks at five stages of James' life, describes events in his life at those points, and then analyzes their meaning according to Erikson's theories on psychosocial development.
Table of Contents:
Infancy / Early Childhood (0-6 Yrs)
Middle Childhood (6-12 Yrs)
Adolescence (12-20 Yrs) And Young Adulthood (20-40 Yrs)
Late Adulthood To Death (60 Yrs +)
Conclusion
From the Paper
"William James' central conflict, as one biographer saw it, was between his "Promethean" and "mystical" selves: one manifested itself in the philosopher's pragmatism and democratic ideals; the other manifested itself via his long fascination with metaphysics, psychical research, higher consciousness studies, and the like (Raposa 2001). This dichotomy may be overly reductive, but it does show something of James' divided (yet highly functional) self. Observers agreed in describing William James as "tolerant, manly, liberal, romantic, impetuous, mystical, generous, anti-traditionalistic, sensitive, brilliant, kind, eloquent." They saw him, despite his self-confessed depressive states, as optimistic, anti-fatalistic and very sociable. Like all great men, William James possessed a complex, even contradictory nature, which he utilized to his advantage to create and push himself to higher levels of accomplishment, even in the face of depression and self-doubt."
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Confucianism Across Chinese History, 2008.
An analysis of the changing nature of Confucianism from the time of the Warring States to the Ming Dynasty.
2,005 words (approx. 8.0 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 63.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the evolution of Confucianism and how it was adapted to serve the changing needs of the Chinese state with which it came to be so identified. It looks at the changes in Confucianism from the time of the Warring States to the Ming Dynasty. The paper also describes the importance of Confucianism in Chinese history and the fundamental disagreements about Confucianism that extend throughout Chinese history.
From the Paper
"This passage is interesting for its emphasis on how the Confucian focus on ritual can be oriented towards the individual and the individuals local relationships, with the broader implications for the state clearly being secondary. Clearly, this represents a profound shift from the heavy emphasis of Confucianism since the Han upon how Confucianism is useful to the state and government. Now, with Neo-Confucianism, Zhu Xi seems to suggest that the Chinese people have different needs that must be met in new ways through an adaptation of traditional Confucian thinking. In this adaptation, it may be argued, Zhu Xi is continuing int he practice of continual revision of Confucianism(s) that have defined the evolution of this philosophy in theory and practice throughout Chinese imperial history."
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"Marilyn", 2008.
An analysis of Andy Warhol's work, "Marilyn," in the context of the theories of Karl Marx.
2,454 words (approx. 9.8 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 74.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses Andy Warhol's image of Marilyn Monroe, which he created using silkscreen. The paper suggests that the work was a reflection of the time period and a comment on the capitalistic society that was impacting the lives of all people throughout the world. It then goes on to analyze the work, "Marilyn," in the context of the theories of Karl Max.
From the Paper
"The research indicates that there is significant evidence in the literature to conclude that within Warhol's work Marilyn the artist included Marxist ideology as a foundation for his creation. In many areas Warhol's philosophy of the world mirrored the beliefs of Marx, especially in relation to how Marx contended that society was controlled by capitalistic gain and through the alienation of man from his world. It is not apparent whether or not Warhol personally adopted the theories of Karl Marx in relation to his life or his work. However, there is strong evidence that criticism of the artist's image of Marilyn indicates that there was a shared ideology between Marx and Warhol, which transcends the silkscreen print of the actress."
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Behaviorism: A Work in Progress, 2008.
An examination of individuals and theories of Ivan Pavlov, John Locke, John Watson and Burrhus Frederic Skinner and their impact on the theory of behaviorism.
3,121 words (approx. 12.5 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 90.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses and defines the theory of behaviorism and how it relates to present day therapy. The paper examines many historical scientists' theories and ideas which provided the needed information so that behaviorism could be born. It also explains how John Watson is considered the founder of behaviorism even though the theory has been documented back to the times of Aristotle. The historical roots of behaviorism and present day uses are also examined in this paper.
Outline:
Abstract
Behaviorism
History of Behaviorism
John Watson: Behaviorism
Ivan Pavlov: Classical Conditioning
John Locke: Tabula Rasa
B.F. Skinner: Operant Conditioning
Aristotle
Current Use
From the Paper
"Throughout history, many scholars have theorized that environment plays an important role in defining the outcome of an individual. Aristotle first hypothesized that the mind of or psyche of a person existed because of external factors. Other theorist expounded on this premise until John Watson made it a focus of his studies of behavior. Behaviorism projects that individuals are products of their experiences and have become who they are because of conditioning. John Watson, who is credited with Behaviorism made the comment that he could take twelve healthy infants and take any one of them and mold them into any given occupation regardless of genetics, race, talents and/or abilities. Watson believed that all "healthy" individuals are the same at birth but are only differentiated by the specific stimuli in their own experiences throughout their lives."
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Western Liberalism and the Confucian Challenge, 2008.
A literary analysis of the ideology of Western liberalism from the perspective of Chinese Confucianism.
2,070 words (approx. 8.3 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 65.95
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Abstract
Henry Rosemont, in "Whose Democracy? Which Rights?," presents a challenge to the "regnant ideology" of Western liberalism from the perspective of Chinese Confucianism. This paper critically examines Rosemont's arguments with particular reference to the arguments of David Wong with regard to relativism.
From the Paper
"Wong contends that Confucianism bears striking similarities to a number of ethical systems found in Africa, China, India and Japan in which the concept of individual rights is largely absent, and the prime emphasis is upon communal networks of relationships. Moreover, the fact that these systems were developed, and met the needs of the societies in which they were created for millennia, suggests that they at least must be given equal consideration to the Western liberal tradition with an emphasis upon individual liberties (Wong 39-40)."
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Realism and Modern Drama, 2008.
This paper discusses Gertrude Stein's and Bertolt Brecht's criticism of realism in drama.
1,081 words (approx. 4.3 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 37.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer looks at the issue of realism in drama, according to Gertrude Stein and Bertolt Brecht, in relation to Stein's play "Dr. Faustus Lights the Light" and August Strindberg's "The Ghost Sonata". The writer focuses on their views regarding realism and concludes that perhaps both Stein and Brecht are advocating alienation as a way of bridging the initial gap between the stage and the spectator in order to bring realism into sharper focus. The writer maintains that Brecht did it epically, while Stein did it psychologically.
From the Paper
"Since there is an unavoidable gap between what one experiences in real life and what one anticipates on the stage, the actual present can never be really done on stage. Therefore realism isn't really real, only a fiction of reality. What one sees in the realism of "The Ghost Sonata" is a staid, set environment rather than an acting platform. The plot is very well set out, it leads us on without giving anything away, there are expected and logical reversals (and vice versa), the characters conform to the dress and modes of the period, the characters evoke our empathy or revulsion, and there is usually a social or moral message implicit in the play. We recognize those emotions and values to which we can relate or have experienced."
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Alternative Possibilities in Frankfurt, 2008.
A review of the arguments within Henry Frankfurt's essay, "Alternative Possibilities and Moral Responsibility".
1,072 words (approx. 4.3 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 37.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses Henry Frankfurt's essay, "Alternative Possibilities and Moral Responsibility". It describes his argument regarding free will and moral responsibility and discusses the premise that his argument rests upon. The paper then presents the primary criticism of Frankfurt's essay, as well as the writer's personal view on his essay's arguments.
From the Paper
"Yet, Frankfurt quickly refutes the concept that states the lack of choice absolves the committing individual from moral responsibility by pointing out that regardless of consequences, such a threat in itself relies on the presence of a choice. The fact, when one party threatens another with retribution unless a certain act is committed, the targeted party or individual is given a choice, however difficult, that must be made. The only moral equivalency is in the degree of morality of the individual in question. That is, a person who is absolutely moral would not condign to commit an immoral act regardless of the consequences. Therefore, since every one is considered to have differing degree of moral tolerance, some individuals simply would not compromise their morals and thus their values while others would, according to the degree of their pain aversion, commit the immoral act. But regardless of the circumstance, each individual must make a clear decision in which they are offered the choice to either commit the immoral act or not commit the act."
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Mill's Utilitarianism, 2007.
This paper examines John Stuart Mill's beliefs of utilitarianism.
795 words (approx. 3.2 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 28.95
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Abstract
The paper relates that Plato, Immanuel Kant and John Stuart Mill each advocated ethical systems based upon their interpretations of society and human nature. The paper is of the opinion that Mill's utilitarianism can be applied more effectively in the modern world than Plato's or Kant's ethical systems. The paper discusses Mill's views and concludes that despite justified criticism of some aspects of utilitarianism, it is the best of the three systems.
From the Paper
"John Stuart Mill believed that there are two basic characteristics of human nature: an instinct to please God and our fellow human beings, and a fear of displeasing God and our fellow human beings. Infused in these characteristics is an internal motivation based upon a sense of duty, which consists of religious feelings, childhood experiences, sympathy, and self-worth. This sense of duty is founded on the evidence that most human beings experience remorse when they attempt to reject these elements of their sense of duty by not promoting or contributing to general happiness. That sense of duty is subjective and emerges with experience. (Mill)"
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White Slavery, 2008.
This paper discusses the issue of human trafficking and looks at the moral dilemma of white slavery.
1,800 words (approx. 7.2 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 57.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses that when speaking of slavery in twentieth century terms, this often refers to persons of European decent or "whites" being sold into involuntary servitude or slavery. The writer explains that white slavery encompasses a variety of methods and means, many of which are as equally inhumane or perhaps more so than traditional slavery. The writer notes that human trafficking is a lucrative business around the world and provides tremendous revenue for those performing the illegal acts. The writer then points out that the greatest argument by proponents for this type of illegal activity is the monetary gain of the activity, but these individuals fail or refuse to see the negative and potentially irreversible effects. The writer maintains that human slavery is not only mentally and physically detrimental but also signifies a breakdown in the morality of society. The writer concludes that although slavery was legally abolished in the nineteenth century, it is still around in the twentieth century and one must continue to work towards a society that is free from the misuse and mistreatment of others.
Outline:
Sexual Trafficking
Immigrants & Bonded Labor
Arranged Marriages
Illegal Adoption
Regulation
From the Paper
"Human trafficking and slavery takes place and a variety of economically advantageous areas. Every year people are sold into slavery or bondage for such despicable acts such as sexual trafficking, bonded labor, forced marriages and illegal adoptions. These issues are just the tip of the iceberg but are the most proliferate and common activities. At first glance many of these issues and activities seem to be legal, with individuals capable of making sound, logical decisions, but when one examines the true facts it appears that many of these situations have been accomplished through manipulation of the victims."
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