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Plato's Concept of Forms, 2006.
This paper discusses the central arguments that Plato presents in his concept of Forms especially his view of ideal reality.
1,180 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 40.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the true reality or the Forms are the ideals of unity and perfection, which surpass man's meager attempts at description and understanding. The author points out that Plato's theory divides reality into truth and illusion. The paper concludes that the theory of ideals is dangerous because it is open to abuse by those who suggest their own subject views of the ideal forms; however, this theory also can be viewed in terms of seeking higher and more positive ideals in life thus becoming acceptable as a theory of human knowledge and motivation.
From the Paper
"The central belief that Plato had was that there exist ideal Forms of reality and that these are contrasted to and superior to the world of ordinary reality. He referred to the everyday world as the world of particulars. One of the most accessible and enlightening ways in which Plato described this difference between the ideal and the real was through his allegory or metaphor of the cave, through which he explains this theory of knowledge and reality."
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'Howl', 2007.
A comparison between Allen Ginsberg's poem 'Howl', and various other pieces of American literature.
2,237 words (approx. 8.9 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 69.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews and analyzes the epic poem 'Howl' by Allen Ginsberg. The paper then compares it to various other pieces of American literature. According to the paper, 'Howl' is not only a personal statement of society, but also a classic poem full of illusions to mythology and psychology. The paper reports that the poem itself is dedicated to Ginsberg's good friend Carl Solomon, who is addressed by name throughout the poem's verses.
From the Paper
"Campbell's theories of the myth find their foundation in the works of Carl Jung, who studied the use of mythology in various cultural sects such as South American Indians. According to these sects, it is a fundamental belief that things do not have sharp boundaries as do things in rational, or modern day societies. (Jung, p. 45). This alone is in line with Ginsberg's use of the Moloch myth. The poet, as does a primitive society in Jung's studies, is able to express ideas without the boundaries of "rational" society. However, as Howel demonstrates, "rational" society makes this ability more and more difficult, essentially meaning that the culture of myth is being sacrificed to the evils of industrial society."
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'Waves, Streams, States, and Self', 2007.
A review of the article "Waves, Streams, States, and Self--A Summary of My Psychological Model: (Or, Outline of An Integral Psychology)" by Ken Wilber.
1,180 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 40.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews, discusses and analyzes Ken Wilber's article, "Waves, Streams, States, and Self--A Summary of My Psychological Model: (Or, Outline of An Integral Psychology)". According to the paper, Wilber attempts to offer what he believes to be a holistic approach to spirituality, integrating both neurological and more conventional spiritual models, in what he calls a synthesis of both mind and brain, East and West.
From the Paper
"Wilber also speaks of what he calls the "four higher or transpersonal states of consciousness, which I call psychic, subtle, causal, and nondual" (Wilber, 2000, p.2) He links these states to the mystical experiences of Christian saints like St. Teresa of Avila and also to Eastern mysticism: "The gross body/waking state supports the annamayakosha (the sheath made of food, or the physical mind), and the causal body/formless state supports the anandamayakosha (the sheath or consciousness structure made of bliss, or the transcendent mind)" (Wilber, 2000, p.2). Although this may be an attempt to show that he is well-read, this is just another way of stating that the physical body and what we call 'mind' (not merely brain) are connected, and that neurochemistry can produce a mystical state like Teresa's and even the transcendent mind is linked to states of the physical body and brain."
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Morality in Plato's "Republic", 2007.
A discussion of morality as presented in Plato's "Republic."
1,256 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 1 source, APA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes the concept of morality as seen in Plato'o "Republic." The author examines morality drawing on arguments presented in the first chapter of Plato's work. Several other philosophers' outlooks are examined, which include Socrates, Polemarchus and Simonides. Their opinions on morality are compared and contrasted, with the central focus given to Socrates.
From the Paper
" Thus through this first chapter of the book, we come to understand that Socrates' idea of a moral person is based on his own original thinking and conclusion drawn from dialogue. He didn't believe in one exact definition of morality but believed in drawing some attributes of a moral person through discussion and dialogue. For this purpose, he found the loopholes in traditional view of morality and based his definition on long dialogue with those who believed in the former. He believed that morality was good and immorality bas because "immorality makes for mutual conflict, hatred, and antagonism, while moral behavior makes for concord and friendship" (p. 40). Thus Socrates maintained that morality could not be judged through truthfulness or return of borrowed items, it had to be based on character attributes of the person. He felt that a moral person was one whose action led to something good and beneficial while immoral person's action led to exactly the opposite. In other words, it is the actions that make a person. If an action leads to positive results from highest number of people, we can claim that it was a moral action and vice versa. Socrates' main argument was not in favor of his view of morality but rather it was in opposition of the prevailing view. "
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John Locke, 2007.
A discussion of John Locke's philosophy.
951 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 6 sources, APA, $ 33.95
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Abstract
This paper examines John Locke's philosophy and its impact on the Enlightenment. The author describes how some of Locke's outlooks were considered heresy. His essays and presentations did much to usher in an entirely new way of thinking, and this is why he has been called the father of Enlightenment. The paper includes many quotes by Locke and analyzes two of his treatises. The paper concludes with a biographical background of Locke and how his life may have influenced his philosophy.
From the Paper
" A look at Locke's early life shows why his thinking was so well rounded. He first was trained in an area of study that would have led him to become a 'man of the cloth' but instead of choosing that direction he turned to medicine as a field of study. Eventually he was granted the right to practice medicine, and did so, but also began to study in his quest to become a member of the Royal Society. Much of his training had to do with the manner of mankind's attempts to think from both a spiritual aspect and a physical aspect. His assertions included a mixture of many different areas, including; spiritual, medical, physical as well as external and internal influences on mankind's thinking process and the ideas and knowledge gained by those processes."
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Jean Jacques Rousseau, 2007.
This paper examines the social contract theory of Jean Jacques Rousseau.
1,424 words (approx. 5.7 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 47.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses how Jean Jacques Rousseau was essentially against any social order that curtailed personal freedom or natural liberty. The paper explains his beliefs of allowing the public to choose the person who would implement laws while the system would work on the principle of general will. The paper relates that Rousseau's social contract theory shaped modern political thought and is still commonly cited when democracy and rights are discussed.
From the Paper
"Political upheaval in the 19th century France was caused as much by political discourse as by active insurgence. Jean Jacques Rousseau's theory of social contract or rather his rejection of the same occupied an important place in the political discourse of the time. It was not starkly different than previously held beliefs but definitely encompassed some original concepts including the idea of general will and the elusive lawgiver. Rousseau's rejection of social contract was grounded in the premise that by contracting with a man or assembly of men, individuals are forced to part with some of their natural liberty. In other words while he knew that freedom was compromised to an extent with social contracts were entered into, he maintained that the relinquished freedom should be social freedom and not natural freedom."
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Teaching Virtue, 2007.
A discussion of several philosopher's teachings on virtue, including Socrates and Jesus.
1,577 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 51.95
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Abstract
By consulting the works of Socrates and other philosophers, this paper examines whether virtue is something that can be taught. This question is examined, in particular, through a discussion between Socrates and Menon. The paper cites various quotes and paraphrases concepts to further illustrate the concept of virtue. The paper also examines beliefs of other experts who think virtue, and the ability to differentiate between good and evil, can be learned within the structure of a family or school environment. The paper then considers virtue from a Christian perspective, citing the example of Jesus.
From the Paper
"He continues by stating that virtue entails many qualities that enhance lives for good, and can also influence other individual's lives and of those whom we come in contact with. Learned virtue can encompass many thoughts and ideas, including those such as patience, humility, courage, justice, charity, etc. Many experts agree with Socrates that virtue is a quality of both inherited and environmental atmosphere. "
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Plato and Aristotle, 2007.
A comparison of the political views of Plato in "The Republic" and Aristotle in "Politics."
3,509 words (approx. 14.0 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 98.95
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Abstract
This paper compares Plato's "The Republic" with Aristotle's "Politics." It compares and contrasts their works in a political sense, in order to show how similar they are and yet how different in many ways. The paper looks at what Aristotle and Plato write about and how they address some of the things that humanity must deal with on a daily basis. It also compares the personalities of the two philosophers.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Plato
Aristotle
Political Issues
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The similarities and differences between Aristotle and Plato are easy to see once they are brought to light. No exactness can be found when trying to match up the two readings, however, but only hints of what might be related. Aristotle, while still being very much a philosopher, appears to be somewhat more literal-minded than Plato, at least in this respect and in these writings. For example, he talks of the causes for creating an object, and that object is always very literal, such as a statue. He makes no effort to explore the cosmos and what his information might mean to the creation of the universe. He concerned himself, instead, with small things, analyzing them until they made sense and he could grasp their meaning. There is certainly nothing wrong with this, but it is what caused many of the differences between his opinions and Plato's, it seems, because Plato looked at a very large picture. "
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Machiavelli's Virtue, 2007.
This paper studies "Machiavelli's Virtue", making use of the views of scholars.
1,518 words (approx. 6.1 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
In this essay the writer discusses that when hearing the name "Machiavelli," many people automatically think of negative words such as "corrupt," "evil," and "valueless." The writer notes that the controversy about the truth of this continues. In fact, the writer maintains that many historians better recall Machiavelli for his political philosophy and diplomacy during the Renaissance. The writer points out that in the numerous essays contained in the book, "Machiavelli's Virtue", Harvey Mansfield confirms that he strongly recognizes Machiavelli as ranking along with Plato, Aristotle, Descartes, to achieve his goal of "modernity." The writer concludes that Machiavelli's beliefs as well as the book 'Machiavelli's Virtue' provide a great deal to consider when looking at the political situation today across the world.
From the Paper
"Mansfield's following of Strauss is well recognized, so it seemed helpful to first start reading the section about Strauss in the book first. This would provide a foundation on how Mansfield derived his basic direction of thought regarding Machiavelli. It is confusing that the chapters are not in chronological order and this information on Strauss does not come until the middle of the book in chapter nine. In fact, it is easier reading the chapters in a different order and using the index to follow up on certain themes that are used throughout the essays."
"Mansfield admits his strong following for Strauss throughout his essays in Machiavelli's Virtue."
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Disease, Death and Dying, 2007.
This paper examines the subject of disease and death.
2,048 words (approx. 8.2 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 64.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer introduces, discusses and analyzes the topic of disease and death. Specifically, the paper discusses the grieving process in patients and loved ones in addition to the stresses of dealing with dying patients in the clinical setting. The writer notes that even though death is inevitable, it is still one of the most feared and misunderstood aspects of our culture and society. The writer points out that grieving is a natural result of death, but it is also misunderstood and even frowned upon in some cultures. The writer maintains that there are many different aspects of the grieving process, and it is imperative that healthcare professionals understand the stresses, reactions and grief so they can care for and understand terminally ill patients and their families. Further, the writer notes that a healthcare professional that does not understand or empathize with patients and family cannot give the full measure of care needed in such situations.
From the Paper
"The right to die has become a major issue in the discussion of death and dying. Many patients no longer wish to remain alive if they are kept alive through exceptional measures, such as being hooked up to respirators or other machines. The Living Will is one way to ensure this does not happen, as the patient requests to be removed from life-support systems. The Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order is similar, in that it asks healthcare personnel not to resuscitate the victim in the case of illness or accident. Right to die advocates believe that they have the right to die with dignity, and the right to choose when and where they die. Euthanasia is the act of putting that right to die belief into effect. Euthanasia is often called suicide, or physician-assisted suicide, and it is the most controversial of these many ways of dealing with death. Many terminally ill patients believe they have the right to die when they choose, rather than be kept alive when there is no hope for cure or survival. They want to die with at least some of their dignity intact. Today, only Oregon has right-to-die legislation, and it has failed to pass in numerous other states. This practice will continue to be controversial in the future, and it seems to be something each patient must decide for themselves."
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Free Will and Human Agency, 2007.
A discussion of the concepts of free will and human agency.
2,063 words (approx. 8.3 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 65.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses the philosophical arguments about 'free will' and 'human agency,' which both focus on the capacity of human beings to act on their own. The paper looks at Marxism with regards to free will and human agency and describes the concept of alienation. The paper discusses the main classes in capitalism; the bourgeoisie and the proletariat. The paper also compares free market capitalism to Marxism and contrasts their approaches to free will and human agency.
Outline:
Marxism and Free Will/ Human Agency
The Alienated Individual
The Individual and His/Her Social Class
Free Market Capitalism and Free Will/ Human Agency
Comparison of Marxism and Free Market Capitalism and Their Views on Free Will or Human Agency
From the Paper
"A similar concept is 'human agency'. Human agency states that human beings do in fact make decisions on their own and apply them accordingly to their own situations. Whether by free will or due to some other consequences that drive human beings to act is not the question. What is important is the claim that human beings can be agents of change. They are capable of altering their own conditions. Because people are seen as decision-makers, they are now regarded as under the obligation to think and apply value judgments to the consequences of their actions. Human beings are now to be held responsible for whatever decisions they make. It must be noted that 'human agency' does not merely imply the ability of the individual, rather the capacity of a group of individuals or a collective unity (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Human_agency)."
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'The Stranger', 2006.
A review of 'The Stranger' by Albert Camus.
1,002 words (approx. 4.0 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 35.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews and discusses the book 'The Stranger' by Albert Camus. According to the paper, absurdity is an important existential theme that appears in the book, comprising the sense of conflict between desire for rationality and the experience of irrationality. The paper further discusses how the sensibility and atmosphere of the novel is pervasive, creating a sense of unreal/surreal by favoring, up to a certain point, the irrationality and sense of absurd in human life.
From the Paper
"The trial is absurd in that the judge, prosecutors, lawyers and jury try to find meaning where none is to be found. There can be no rational motivation behind irrational actions. This is another great illustration of the absurd in this novel. Absurdity is a philosophical perspective which may appear as a result of a very repetitive existence (in Camus' opinion). However, as an existentialist theme in The Stranger, it is connected with the search for meaning. Meursault is a human who found himself "thrown" (Heidegger) into a world with no clear logical, ontological, or moral structure (A. Irvine 1998). This is the context that favors ultimate questions by the very nature of our lives. Meaning can be constructed by making a choice in such an absurd situation."
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"The Death of Ivan llyitch" and "The Metamorphosis", 2007.
A comparison of the two stories "The Death of Ivan llyitch" by Leo Tolstoy and "The Metamorphosis" by Franz Kafka.
945 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 33.95
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Abstract
This paper compares the protagonists' experiences of transformation as seen in "The Death of Ivan Ilyitch" and "Metamorphosis." Although the paper shows contrasting plot elements of the two works, the main characters' self-growth is similar. The reviewer describes that a key similarity between these two stories is that both characters find their old image of themselves is incorrect. The paper concludes that both characters realign their self-image with the opposite effect on their emotional world.
From the Paper
" One of the key similarities between these two stories is that both characters find that their old image of themselves is incorrect. Ivan finds that the way he saw himself was incorrect. Gregor finds that his self image is accurate. However, his image of how others view him is changed. Gregor thought that he was an important part of the family and that they appreciated his contributions. However, he found that when he became a burden to them and an embarrassment, they abandoned him. Their love for them was not unconditional, but was dependent on what he contributed to the family and gave them. "
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The Nature Of Justice, 2007.
Compares ancient philosopher Marcus Tullus Cicero's philosophy on the nature of justice with that of modern philosophers such as John Rawls and Martha Nussbamu
1,174 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 40.95
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Abstract
This paper compares ancient Roman politician and philosopher Marcus Tullus Cicero's philosophy on the nature of justice with that of modern philosophers, John Rawls and Martha Nussbaum. The paper looks at Rawls' and Nussbaum's theories of justice and expands upon their social contract theory to examine how to better preserve justice in a modern nation, balance the rights of the majority and the minority and create a more economically balanced society.
From the Paper
"Nussbaum's fundamentally distinct nature as a thinker is in her stress on women as a category. Even in traditional societies, they cannot be viewed as fundamentally distinct from men. Individual women can choose to live in a traditional manner but this does not mean that the state can justify limiting gender equality because the majority of women might wish to do so. Thus, again like Rawls, she believes that strict utilitarianism or democracy is not feasible. But Nussbaum does not limit her discussion redistributing the economic resources of the nation like Rawls; she also focuses on the nation's political resources or human rights."
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Dreams, 2006.
A discussion regarding the nature of dreams.
1,159 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 39.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at dreams, an area that has been studied for centuries with little understanding. The paper discusses various ideas and opinions regarding dreams, as well as the physiological explanation for dreaming.
From the Paper
"Though dreaming is broader and in a sense more exciting and wilder than waking thought, it only seems right to bring attention to the fact that it is only somewhat broader. We may at times fly in dreams, but we usually remain ourselves or creatures very much like ourselves. Hardly ever are we a mosquito or a hurricane though Hartmann does report hearing a report of such a dream from a client. Nor are we molecules of water, or mathematical formulas. We are usually ourselves or perhaps someone or something we can identify with easily. We experience a world roughly parallel to our usual visual-spatial one, though as noted, with some broader or wilder elements. "
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