| Papers [316-330] of 4357 :: [Page 22 of 291] | | Go to page : <— 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 —> | |
|
|
Ortega y Gasset, 2007.
This paper discusses the philosophies of Spanish thinker Jose Ortega y Gasset.
1,638 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 53.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
In this article, the writer points out that philosopher Jose Ortega y Gasset built up an original philosophical system, based on a few central concepts, like those of perspectivism and ratio-vitalism. The writer maintains that his ideas on religion and Christianity, seen in the larger context constituted by his ideas on life in general, are very interesting. Further, the writer notes that it can be said that the axis of Ortega y Gasset's system of thought is the concept of vitalism, or the idea that life in itself is the actual purpose for man's existence in the world, and not thinking as the idealists proposed. The writer concludes that Ortega y Gasset's main attempt is to create a philosophy that reveals life-reality, above anything else, and for this, man should find his new belief in history, since it is history that best discloses the patterns of human life.
From the Paper
'However, according to Ortega y Gasset, it is not intellectualism as such that is wrong, but the separation of reason from vitality. This tendency is very common within the scientific domain and more particularly in modern science after Galileo, but also in Christian doctrine. Both science and religion are focused on something which is beyond the actual existence as such. As he proposes, science is only an ideal, something that cannot actually fulfill its purpose, and which does not give us the truth. The means by which science operates is that of the pure reason, which maintains itself in the realm of pure thought and idealism, and moreover manifests disdain for life as such. To this pure reason, Ortega y Gasset opposes the notion of vital reason, which is able to understand the value of life itself."
| |
|
Science and Religion, 2005.
A discussion regarding the relationship between science and religion.
883 words (approx. 3.5 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 31.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper takes a look at the issues between science and religion. According to the paper, for centuries people have believed that the division between the two, is impossible to remedy. The paper goes on to say, that recently, steps have been taken to bridge the gap between science and religion.
From the Paper
"The most obvious factor of this research is that there are dramatically differing views of the topic. Some researchers state that to incorporate spirituality into hard science, especially medicine, and psychology, is to dilute both disciplines and to blur boundaries that should remain clear in order for the disciplines to operate properly (Sloan & VenderCreek; Conway & Gold). Others state that the integration of science and religion is a positive process that is helping individuals understand themselves better and to achieve a more whole sense of self (Field, Harvey, & Sharp; Bassett; Ontario Consultants; Pollack). Of course, some of the individuals used in this research indicated that they didn't feel that there has ever really been a clear division between the two (Long)."
| |
|
Fascism, 2007.
This paper discusses fascism, concentrating on the Italian fascism theory, put into practice by Mussolini.
782 words (approx. 3.1 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 27.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
In this article, the writer points out that the start point in analyzing and understanding any social phenomena requires unambiguous definitions, empirical generalizations, general explanatory theories and a method of moral evolution. The writer maintains that regarding fascism, one cannot make a clear definition of what it means because there is no agreement between theories in any of these areas. The writer discusses that fascism can best be presented by the ideology of Mussolini's fascism in Italy. The writer concludes that this ideology, put into practice by Mussolini, is the most comprehensive and well-argued theory that pictures fascist beliefs, in comparison to any other theory, that was not as firmly formulated.
From the Paper
"Analyzing the theories from this list, Gregor makes a critique of all theories, presenting their strong arguments, as well as their flaws. In his view, all of these theories, although they seem well organized, have a shortcoming that makes them unusable."
"Taking into account the categorization of fascist theories into six categories, one can identify that a comprehensive theory of fascism would embody elements from all six categories. The only theory that Gregor identifies as being a solid fascist ideology is the ideology of Italian fascism, which uses some parts of all ideologies. As stated before, Gregor believes that there are many flaws in the theories developed so far, but there are also many elements that can be linked to what he believes to be the best representation of fascist ideas - Italian fascism under Mussolini."
| |
|
Marx and Engels Today, 2007.
This paper questions whether Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels would have been influenced by Albert Hirschman and Robert Putnam.
1,936 words (approx. 7.7 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 61.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper questions whether Marx and Engel's theories of economic and social equality would be as readily accepted today as they were in the authors' day. The writer analyzes Marx and Engel's theories, with particular emphasis on "The Communist Manifesto." This is compared and contrasted to Robert Putnam's social capital perspective. The author feels that if Marx and Engels had read Putnam's ideas they might have been inspired by some of the benefits of capitalism, possibly altering their manifesto to include certain elements of democracy. The paper also examines the ideas expressed in Albert Hirschman's "Exit, Voice, and Loyalty." The author also believes Hirschman's philosophy would have impacted Marx and Engels as well. The author concludes that if Marx and Engels had lived to see recent history, their vision of a new, just society based on economic plenty shared by all would have certainly changed.
Outline:
About the Communist Manifesto
Putnam's Notion of Social Capital
Exit, Voice, and Loyalty
Conclusion
Bibliography
From the Paper
"It makes sense that if Marx and Engels were alive in today's society, they would have much different trains of thought. Given their philosophical natures, they would likely be influenced by many of today's contemporary thought leaders, such as Albert Hirschman, author of "Exit Voice and Loyalty", and Robert Putnam, author of "Democracies in Flux". This paper aims to provide a background on the ideas of "The Communist Manifesto" and offer some insight on what Marx and Engels may have changed based on reading these two contemporary works. "
| |
|
Suicide Theory, 2007.
A critical analysis of Emile Durkheim's suicide theory.
1,433 words (approx. 5.7 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 47.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper discusses how Emile Durkheim's suicide theory is considered a groundbreaking concept in the field of sociology. Published in 1897, Durkheim's book, "Suicide", addressed the connections between individuals and society, focusing on how these connections impacted suicide rates. This paper attempts to address the accuracies and inaccuracies of Durkheim's theory and determine if the theory still holds ground in modern society. It contends that the theory is strong and accurate in many ways; however, it appears that it is also flawed and in need of revision to accurately apply it to suicide as we know it today.
Outline:
Introduction
Statement of the Problem
Hypothesis
Methodology
Conclusion
From the Paper
"One of the main focuses of Durkheim's theory is how religion impacts suicide (Durkheim, 1897). For example, when Durkheim studied the differences in suicide rates between Protestants and Catholics, he found that stronger social control among Catholics results in lower suicide rates. According to Durkheim, people feel a level of attachment to their groups, which he which he calls social integration. If this level is too high or too low, increased suicide rates may be seen. A low level can result in a disorganized society, causing people to turn to suicide because they feel lost. A high level causes people to commit suicide because they do not want to become burdens on society. "
| |
|
Why Would You Doubt Your Senses?, 2006.
A discussion regarding senses, perception and reality.
1,114 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 38.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper takes a look at a person's senses, perception and how it relates to reality. According to the paper, different people have different perceptions of the same thing, as our senses sense differently. The smell or taste that is enjoyed by one person, may be abhorred by another. The paper goes on to discuss the concept of hallucination and how it relates to reality.
From the Paper
"It was a nice warm spring afternoon and while I was taking a nap at our backyard, I had a dream - or a nightmare perhaps! In my dream, it was night and I was lying on my bed trying to sleep. But sleep was hard to achieve because I was wrapped in Saran wrap and I was having difficulties breathing. Deep, labored breathing...my chest was going up, down, up down and the more I try to breath deep, the more labored my breathing got. Somewhere in the subconscious or unconscious realm of my mind, I knew I was having a nightmare and I needed to fight it off. As my dream/nightmare continued, I felt myself getting out of bed - still wrapped in Saran wrap - and went out of my room, walked down the stairs and went to the kitchen. I opened the refrigerator, grabbed the first bottle of water and tried drinking, but to no avail. It was then I took the deepest breath I could muster and let out the loudest shout I could - then I woke up sweating and hyperventilating."
| |
|
Virtue Ethics, 2007.
This paper discusses the background of the theory of virtue ethics.
855 words (approx. 3.4 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 30.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
The paper explains that virtue ethics refers to the theory or a system of philosophical belief that focuses on the entire personality or disposition of a person instead of actions alone. The paper discusses how virtue ethics were developed by ancient thinkers Plato and Aristotle but it was in the 1950s that interest in virtue ethics was renewed by Anscombe's famous paper ""Modern Moral Philosophy."
From the Paper
"Prior to the 1960s, the field of normative ethics was largely dominated by deontology, which was based on the values and beliefs of eighteenth-century philosopher Immanuel Kant, and utilitarianism, which was based on the views of eighteenth- and nineteenth-century philosophers Jeremy Bentham and J. S. Mill. In most of the books published up until thirty years ago, virtue was discussed in terms of deontology or utilitarianism. Gradually a change was witnessed as people began searching for something beyond deontology and utilitarianism as it was found that these two theories did not encompass many important issues or had no answers for some modern problems. This gave rise to virtue ethics, which was not exactly seen as the third approach at first but attained a distinguished status of its own as it began to grow in stature and importance."
| |
|
Enron, 2007.
Discussion of the Enron Corporation's corruption, including who was responsible.
1,496 words (approx. 6.0 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 49.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper presents a background of Enron's corruption, tracing the corporation's history and looking at who is to blame for its ultimate lack of ethics. The paper describes how Enron went from a corporate culture that promoted ethical behavior to one that emphasized cleverness and skill. The author further discusses how this outlook eventually lead to the company's downfall. The writer believes Enron's leaders dictated the company's outcome through their own actions of unethical behavior. The author concludes with a personal approach of how one could react as an Enron employee.
Outline:
Background
Who are the Stakeholders?
Who is Responsible?
Penalties
References Cited
From the Paper
"The stock shareholders are the main stakeholders. That does not mean, however, that the books should be illegally manipulated. Shareholders "hold" faith in the company executives that they will do their best, ethically and legally, to produce the best results. Yet shareholders also know that stocks can and do go down; there is risk involved. The other main stakeholders are the employees, who were hit twice by losing their stock and their jobs. "
| |
|
Taoism, 2007.
A look at how the Taoism of Zhuang and Laozi influenced the polity of the Song Dynasty.
1,704 words (approx. 6.8 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 55.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper discusses how, instead of dictating right from wrong, Taoism emphasizes the ideal of so-called pure talk, stressing that people should only talk about the good side of everything, to create a sense of positive energy and harmony between the spirit and the universe. The paper looks at how the epoch of Taoism came in the form of the Song Dynasty, which many historians consider the first modern era of Chinese history. The paper further explains that during this Dynasty the leadership and the emerging commercial classes embraced, for the first time, the spirit of the Tao to an imperial level, because of the economic and social changes gripping China at the time.
From the Paper
"For most of early Chinese history, Taoism was often "the philosophy and consolation of the gentleman in retirement, of the political failure." (DeBarry, Chan & Bloom, p.50) It was a religious philosophy distanced from the political administration of China, rather than embraced by the rulers of the empire, unlike Confucianism or even Buddhism. Taoism was a religion of "seclusion and cultivation," that seemed alien to the demands of the workaday world, much less the ways of rulers. (DeBarry, Chan & Bloom, p.50) Taoism stood in marked contrast to Confucianism's advocacy of n rigidly hierarchical to life that seemed to ideally suit the ways of an emperor operating under a mandate of heaven. However, the epoch of Taoism would come in the form of the Song Dynasty, which many historians consider the first modern era of Chinese history. "
| |
|
The Ages of Reason and of the Enlightenment, 2007.
This paper discusses the Age of Reason and the Age of Enlightenment and its most prominent philosophers: Voltaire, Jean Jacques Rousseau and Immanuel Kant.
2,680 words (approx. 10.7 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 80.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper explains that, while the Age of Reason is generally considered a separate movement in 17th and early 18th century Europe that evolves into the Age of Enlightenment, both eras are considered to have overlapping boundaries and to be one extended period of intellectual, scientific and philosophical advancement. The author points out that, while Voltaire's most memorable and influential work is "Candide" and Kant is famous for his philosophy of "Universal Law", Rousseau's most meaningful works are his "Second Discourse" and his "Social Contract". The paper concludes that the philosophical writings and intellectual discoveries of the philosophers of the Ages of Reason and of Enlightenment helped to start the American and French Revolutions.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Voltaire
Jean Jacques Rousseau
Immanuel Kant
Conclusion: The "Enlightenment" led to the American and French Revolutions
From the Paper
"Rousseau's logic was that disobedience, then, would be "legitimate" as soon as "sufficient power was acquired." Part of what Rousseau was accomplishing in this writing was a rebuttal to Hobbes, who had asserted in chapters 5 and 6 of "De Cive" and ..., that right and force should always go hand-in-hand. Hobbes' reasoning was that mere words (laws), without the "sword" to back them up, were not sufficient to stay the course. You can't just issue degrees without having the use of force lurking in the background to make sure those degrees have some "teeth" so to speak. But Rousseau rejected that idea."
| |
|
Confucian Values and Jen, 2007.
Description of the value known as "Jen" and its role in Confucian thought.
1,079 words (approx. 4.3 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 37.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper explores the evolution and importance of the Confucian value known as "jen." First, the author defines this term, and how its meaning has changed over the centuries. Then concrete examples from diverse historic events are used to illustrate this concept. The author concludes with an example of how one behaves using the character trait of "jen" in today's society.
From the Paper
"And moreover, Ssu-ma Niu inquired about Goodness; and the Master explained that the jen (the Good) man is "chary of speech" (chary also embraces the concept of jen), but Ssu-ma Niu wasn't doing well at understanding that reference. So the Master, and all readers of Confucian thought now know what the Master means, right? Not completely. The Master is somewhat mysterious about the meaning, and he is not trying to be rude by his evasiveness, and yet he uses humor. "Seeing that the doing of it is so difficult, how can one be otherwise than chary of talking about it." He is making a pun by saying the Good man is chary of speech and secondly, he is simply implying that his mysterious response is due to the fact that Ssu-ma Niu is not yet qualified to learn the true meaning; it will not be revealed at this time."
| |
|
Evil, 2007.
This paper discusses and analyzes the concept of evil.
1,819 words (approx. 7.3 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 58.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
In this article, the writer takes a look at the origins of evil and discusses its purpose in society. The writer examines the different interpretations of evil and the way in which evil is viewed in different aspects of society. This essay also looks at the conflicting views on the existence of God and evil. The writer concludes that evil is something which has no definite meaning, as there will always be someone who has a different interpretation. Further, the writer maintains that evil will remain in this world in order to test people's temptations and morals. The writer claims that those who fall to evil ways shall repent it forever.
Outline:
Executive Summary
Introduction
What is Evil?
Definition of Good and Evil
Existence of Evil in the World
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Evil can be classified as an act which causes pain purposely and not accidentally. A person committing an act of evil knows that he/she is doing something which is morally wrong but then still proceeds to do it. Evil is an ugly thing but then one needs to have evil so that there is good in the world. There has to be something out there which will allow us to classify something as an act of good so that it can be distinguished from evil. Evil has to be there so it can balance goodwill in the world so that life can go on. This is known as the theory of duality where it states that life is a struggle between good or evil. It is believed that evil and good are different parts of the pole and cancel each other out."
| |
|
Balancing Life - Work and Leisure, 2006.
A look at ways of creating a balance between work and personal time.
1,585 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 51.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper discusses the modern day issue of time management. According to the paper, most people struggle to create a balance between work time, other commitments and personal time. The paper then reviews the "Seven Habits of Highly Effective People" by well-known business-consultant guru Stephen Covey. The paper concludes with a look at telecommuting via the Internet.
From the Paper
"The hypotheses, tested by researchers Jeffrey Hill, Alan Hawkins, Maria Ferris and Michelle Weitzman, were: "Given the same workload, those with perceived job flexibility will have less difficulty with work-life conflicts, and will be able to work longer hours before having problems with work-family balance." Both hypotheses were found true. Of those working 40 to 50 hours per week, the 46 percent who were not allowed to either change their starting or ending times, work a compressed workweek or work from home had difficulty balancing work and personal life. This compared to only 28 percent of those working the same hours with flexibility."
| |
|
Music: A Connection to the Divine, 2007.
This paper discusses music as a connection to the Divine, by looking at "Paradise" by Aligheri Dante and "The River Sutra" by Gita Mehta.
2,120 words (approx. 8.5 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 66.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
In this article, the writer maintains that one could say that the written and spoken word describe the foreseen and that music describes the unforeseen. This relationship between music and spirituality is explored using two famous works. The first, Dante's "Paradise", is from Western culture and the other, "The River Sutra" by Gita Mehta, is from Eastern culture. The writer explains that both of these works describe a spiritual journey into the unknown. The writer notes that music is used to reference that which cannot be truly described using words alone. The essay supports the thesis that music is used as a means to connect the reader to the spiritual world in these two works. The writer concludes that one can learn much about the spiritual worlds of the East and West by examining the use of music in their works.
Outline:
Dante and Signaling the Eternal
The Boy Singer and the Path to Enlightenment
The Musician's Story
Transcendence
Works Cited
From the Paper
"Dante uses music to announce a holy event of great importance. The appearance of the divine is often signaled by music. One might notice that it is never Dante himself who is singing or making music, although in the opening Canto he does refer to his work as his song. Song and music are used to signal the appearance of the divine. Dante uses the imagery of music sparingly. Only a few of the heavenly beings that he encounters are heralded by song."
"Structurally, the appearance of music is carefully placed in such a way to give it an even greater meaning of importance. Paradise, like hell, is comprised of layers. Just as the layers in Hell become increasingly more evil, the three layers of heaven become more divine. One might notice that music is hardly mentioned in the first two Cantos, except when referring to his work as his song. When we examine the use of music in the remainder of the piece, this two may have been purposeful and an attempt to attach importance to the work itself."
| |
|
Sikhism, 2007.
This paper discusses Sikhism and looks at its effect on Indian culture.
1,454 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
In this essay, the writer notes that Sikhism, although not a new religion, has recently received recognition as a world religion. The writer explains that its followers, called Sikhs believe that there is only on God, and his or her creation is real and not illusory, and everything works according to God's will. The writer points out that these core beliefs of Sikhism have affected Indian culture in several ways, as followers strive to live by these rules and their society reflects these beliefs. This paper analyzes Sikhism and the effect that it has on Indian culture and society. The writer concludes that the effects of Sikhism on Indian culture and society are profound, as the majority of this population strives to live their entire life under the rules laid out by Sikhism.
From the Paper
"The underlying belief of Sikhism is that one's goal is the attainment of salvation, which is prevented by social conflicts and worldly pursuits. As a result, followers of Sikhism strongly believe in karma, or an endless cycle of birth. The quality of each particular life depends in the manner in which you conducted yourself in your last life. This aspect of karma is governed by the principle that Sikhs should balance work, worship, and charity, and should defend the rights of all creatures and fellow human beings. These concepts are illustrated as having an effect on Indian culture and society, in the peaceful manner in which Indian culture is notable for. Additionally, Sikhs also believe strongly in the concept of sharing, through the distribution of free food at rituals, giving charitable donations, and working toward the betterment of society."
|
|
|
