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Freedom in Berger and Kant, 2008.
This paper focuses on the issue of freedom in the works of Peter Berger and Immanuel Kant.
2,427 words (approx. 9.7 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 74.95
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Abstract
The paper studies passages from Peter Berger's "Invitation to Sociology" and Immanuel Kant's "Grounding for the Metaphysics of Morals". The paper argues that there is a common theme of the importance of freedom in both passages. The paper shows how for both thinkers, freedom is an inalienable quality that is central to our identities as rational human beings.
From the Paper
"The passage from Berger's text revolves around the concept of "bad faith". Berger defines this concept as the pretence that "something is necessary that in fact is voluntary" (Berger 143). However, while this concept is central to the passage and is repeated and defined in several different ways, in actuality its primary role is to serve as a opening through which Berger can explore the core idea of his text: human freedom."
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American Mass Media, 2008.
This paper analyzes the conflict of mass media versus the individual ethics of journalism in relation to the War in Iraq.
1,722 words (approx. 6.9 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 55.95
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Abstract
The paper examines the conflict between mass media organizations and the individual ethics of journalism through the sociological and philosophical views of Max Weber and Aristotle. The paper discusses the capitalistic tendency for mass media to control an "authoritarian" point of view favorable to the American interest in Iraq. The paper focuses on the issue of ethics regarding the lack of an individual's capacity to attain objective news coverage.
From the Paper
"The relative situation in Iraq one now see holds a great lack of overall research into individual perceptions of the War in Iraq, and why journalists tend to look at larger, more sweeping views on the conflict between Americans and Iraqis. In this manner, many mass media journalists seem to focus on the numbers of soldiers involved, the American governments reaction to the war, and other larger macrocosmic focuses that reflect an interest in an American perception, rather than the suffering of the native peoples who have to live through this war. During the coverage of the war, there are often American points of views that define the combat through American perspectives. For instance, journalist George Packer shows an Iraqi woman's point of view and why she wants to side with the Americans."
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Bernard Williams and External Reasons, 2008.
An examination of Bernard Williams' arguments regarding external reasons and their ethical compatibility.
1,546 words (approx. 6.2 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses Bernard Williams' view and arguments that external reasons have no impact upon moral decision-making. In doing so, the paper presents and explains both Williams' position and that of the Kantian school he opposes. Ultimately, it argues that Williams' stance is compromised and is incompatible with the basic nature of ethics.
From the Paper
" To close, the last several pages have looked at Bernard Williams' argument that internal realities and not a priori, objective "externalities" shape (rational) moral decision-making in human beings. While Williams' work certainly has some logical force, it is compromised in the sense that it appears to oppose the entire intent of ethical/moral philosophy - which is to arrive at a set of principles capable of guiding human conduct. In the final analysis, Bernard Williams has created a provocative thesis on the motivations informing human action - but it is one that refutes the necessity for even having moral philosophy around in the first place."
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Plato and Media Bias, 2008.
This philosophical study analyzes Plato's "Cave Allegory" in relation to the conservative modern media.
1,567 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 51.95
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Abstract
The paper explains how Plato's cave allegory in "The Republic" provides a symbolic view of the way media distorts the truth. The paper discusses how the neo-conservative religious values of American journalism are often far from the truth. The paper shows how this reveals a politically subjective media elite system that generates information benefiting fundamentalist American elites.
From the Paper
"In the Republic, Plato's Cave Allegory is a lesson in the fundamental principles of perception and knowledge that Plato imparts on the reader. In the first stage, the prisoners in the story have been chained to a cave since birth, and have no idea as to what is real and what is not. Behind the prisoners there are fires that project shadows on the wall of the cave, which represent a mere replica of reality. In the second stage, the prisoner was to escape and see the fire, he or she would be blinded. Furthermore, if the prisoner was taken up to the sunlight, they would also be blinded by the "truth" that would be invariably too bright for them to survive. The third stage has the prisoner returning to the cave simply because he or she cannot possibly comprehend the absolute "truth" because it is incomprehensible to the human mind and its faculties."
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Marxist, Feminist and Liberal Approaches, 2008.
This paper provides a comparison of Marxist, feminist and liberal approaches to social policy in Canada from the First Nations period to the present
1,465 words (approx. 5.9 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that Marxist, liberal, and feminist approaches share a pivotal characteristic in common in that all three are concerned with the needs of the oppressed. However, the writer discusses that although these approaches are similar in certain respects, they are basically quite distinct in their identification of which social and economic needs are to be given priority, their proposed solutions to social problems, and in implementation of solutions. The writer points out that the liberal approach is especially distinct from the other two approaches since the term 'oppressed' does not so adequately fit. This paper focuses on the socioeconomic context and salient issues in New France in order to apply and illustrate those three approaches.
From the Paper
"The Marxist approach would also maintain that the state operates as a means for social control and that it serves he purposes of emerging commercial capitalism. In addition, creating a program of social services may be somewhat empowering but it also oppresses people. Another Marxist criticism of the liberal approach would be that the liberal goals of social security would impose a severe burden on habitants who were already paying a tithe to the Church. As far as the Marxist approach is concerned, the work by religious orders and especially by nuns served to promote and reinforce the class system. Nuns' origins ranged from the nobility to wealthy backgrounds, and class differences were also observed in school programs which conformed to a social hierarchy."
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Cigarette Advertising, 2008.
This paper explores the issue of cigarette advertising from a normative ethical perspective.
1,443 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 47.95
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Abstract
The paper explores the complex ethical questions involved in the debate over limiting the power of cigarette manufacturers to advertise. The paper explains that while limiting advertising can be justified from a utilitarian perspective, from a Kantian perspective of rights, such a limitation presents grave implications for the future of our society. The paper argues that a normative approach to this issue would be to recognize the importance of "rule utilitarianism" as opposed to pure utilitarianism as the key determinant of government action.
From the Paper
"The current situation would suggest that there is a clear and present for governments to take action given the need to protect the public interest, together with the need to counteract the resources available to the tobacco industry to sell their product. Indeed, the history of cigarette advertising is such that it would seem this argument is almost unquestionable. For example, this industry has a long history of using advertising to appeal to young people and the public at large by covertly covering up the effects of tobacco. Following following the end of World War II, the RJ Reynolds Tobacco Co. boasted that "More Doctors Smoke Camels Than Any Other Cigarette" (Waxman). This advertising claim carried the clear implication that the medical community as a whole endorses "Camels" cigarettes. While no tobacco company would dare to make such a statement today, that does not stop the industry from trying to make smoking appear cool to teenagers."
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Einstein as an Icon, 2008.
This paper discusses why Einstein became a cultural icon in the 20th century.
3,500 words (approx. 14.0 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 98.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that in the late 17th Century, Sir Isaac Newton, one of the greatest geniuses of all time, ushered in the age of enlightenment with his scientific work and methods. As the years went on after that, humanity's hopes were dashed, as it became apparent that human intellect could not compensate for, or prevent, man's inhumanity to man. By the early 20th century, people were witnessing the first great world war, and many must have despaired. However, the writer points out that Albert Einstein, a man whose stature rivaled that of Newton, bought renewed hope in that troubled century. Indeed, Einstein personified the human intelligence and achievement that transformed the earth in the 20th century. In this century, humans went from foot or horse-drawn transportation to cars, trains, airplanes and space flight. People became supermen and superwomen, thanks to the ability of the human brain to make massive technological advances. The writer maintains that of all people in that century - and the competition was certainly strong - Einstein most of all personified human genius.
From the Paper
"Einstein was thus perfectly placed to become the icon of human achievement in the 20th century. On a more negative note, this was also the century when the atomic bomb was invented and deployed - and this meant that humanity discovered it not only had the capacity to perfect the planet, but it also had the capacity to destroy the planet. The atomic bomb was made possible by the Einstein scientific discoveries in the fields of what has come to be known as Newtonian physics. Yet despite Einstein's key role in developing this horrific weapon, and the fact that he has been dead for more than 50 years, he is still remembered by many with reverence and love as a cultural icon, such that his face is almost as familiar as Ronald McDonald's. How can we account for this?"
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What is my Philosophy?, 2007.
A discussion of one individual's desire to find his own life philosophy.
2,572 words (approx. 10.3 pages), 13 sources, APA, $ 77.95
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Abstract
This paper attempts to answer the writer's question, "what is my philosophy?" The paper explains that as individuals our thought process and quest for truth is determined by our history and trying to summarize one's philosophy is a feat, but the path and journey to seeking this knowledge shapes the philosophical development of any individual. The writer believes that a theoretical examination of the history of philosophy and the major thinkers and theories is insufficient, and in order to truly define one's philosophy one has to demand to know the manner in which actions/history is to be studied.
Outline:
Introduction
The Being of Me: What Do I Believe In?
What If God Was One of Us? Does God Exist?
Into the New Age: Who or What Shapes my Formal Philosophical Thinking?
The Implications of Science: Is Science a Source of Destruction?
Practicing Philosophy
From the Paper
"In such a diverse world, with the many angles that exist, it is very hard to pick a side and to stay on that side. Most often than not, individuals prefer to find forces that can explain their actions. Is it logical to think that as humans, we are alone by ourselves, and life exists without meaning [existential atheists] or a meaning that we cannot understand [existential theists]? I personally refuse to believe this and reject the notion that the individual defines everything and the search for logic and rationality is not futile. If I subjected myself to the existentialist viewpoint, I would not have a reason to explore the world, to seek answers to acquire knowledge, or to pursue happiness."
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Swift, Blake and Social Hegemony, 2008.
This paper discusses challenges to social hegemony in the works "A Modest Proposal" by Jonathan Swift and "London" by William Blake.
1,381 words (approx. 5.5 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 46.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer maintains that the argument that the "purpose of good literature" is not - as Sir Philip Sidney argued - "to teach, to delight" and "move to virtuous action" but to challenge social hegemony by destabilizing its core values is a controversial one. This essay argues the thesis, with reference to Jonathan Swift's "A Modest Proposal" and William Blake's "London", that while literary works are not simply political statement or social criticism, good literary works nonetheless engage with their cultural context in a critical and complex way. As is seen, while both Swift's and Blake's works have clear political and social dimensions, it is their literary qualities that give them their potency as powerful social critiques.
From the Paper
"This being said, it may be argued that this view of literature is simplistic and limited in many respects. Literary works are not created in a vacuum but instead, capture their audiences by their engagement with the social contexts in which they are created. However, unlike political tracts or social critiques which are rarely remembered beyond the immediate circumstances in which they were created, good literature resonates beyond its immediate context - even when it has a clear political or social purpose - due to the power of its writing. This power allows these works to transcend the particulars of the social order they criticize or destabilize, and reflect something of the universal in humanity's social constructions."
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James Madison and Rousseau, 2007.
This paper discusses that, in "Federalist 10", James Madison was responding to Jean Jacques Rousseau's republican model of democracy as presented in "On the Social Contract".
955 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 33.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, in "Federalist 10", James Madison sought to ensure that the problems identified by Rousseau would be addressed through constitutional checks and balances and a federal system of government. The author points out that, in response to the political model of Thomas Hobbes, Rousseau argued that power is invested in the will of a united people. The paper relates that Rousseau also believed, when the social bond is shattered and special interests aggressively pursue their own agendas while insisting they are acting in the public good, the general will becomes silenced and covert motives guide citizens and groups. The author continues that Madison contended that the republican form of government embodied in the proposed Constitution was conducive to free debate and allowed the various factions certain to emerge to contend with one another and influence the government.
From the Paper
"Madison arguments were based upon his conviction that political ambition would be checked by rival political ambition, for power would be divided among three separate but equal branches of the federal government, and would be further divided between the federal government and state governments. These arguments reflected Madison's belief that, "there are two methods of curing the mischiefs of faction: the one, by removing its causes; the other, by controlling its effects.""
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Plato and Courage, 2008.
This paper analyzes courage in the works of Plato (Socrates).
1,317 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 44.95
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Abstract
The paper focuses on courage and personal choice in "Protagoras" and in Book IX of "The Republic" by Plato. The paper looks at the curious actions of the diver and attempts to find an explanation for this in the final lines of the dialogue between Socrates and Protagoras. The paper then turns to Book IX of "The Republic" which succeeds in offering a better explanation for the diver's behavior by stressing the actions of the man who is overcome by a desire for glory.
From the Paper
"Towards the end of the Protagoras, Socrates finally gets Protagoras to acknowledge that a man (or woman) cannot be courageous without being wise. Specifically, he asserts that cowardice is essentially an inability on the part of an individual to distinguish between what is to be feared and what is not to be feared. Proceeding a little further, Socrates maintains that this ability to ascertain what is genuinely deserving of one's fear and what is not deserving of one's fear is best described as wisdom - a quality, again, that is associated with the brave (Plato, 360c5-361d6). Given the exchange between Socrates and Protagoras at the end of the dialogue, it is clear that the subject in our hypothetical situation has experienced a sudden loss of courage."
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Theology Sermon, 2008.
This paper presents a sermon on theology.
1,255 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
In this speech or sermon, it is explained that the writer is a student of divinity. The writer explains that a number of people have asked whether the writer is studying theology. Therefore, the pastor suggested that the writer presents a sermon on the subject of "theology" and its importance to the Church and religious community. The writer firstly explains the concept of theology, defining it as a discussion on or about God. The writer expresses the belief that the words of Jesus are very important in allowing an understanding of what exactly is the purpose of theology. The writer concludes that theology is, in its essence, an effort to understand in a systematic way the message of Christianity as embodied in scriptural text and, with the assistance of the Spirit, to apply this message in everyday life.
From the Paper
"I believe that these words of Jesus are very important in allowing us to understand what exactly is the purpose of theology. In the early days of Christianity there were some in the Church who felt that "theology" represented a movement away from the roots of Christianity in the Scripture and in Jewish traditions, and towards Greek and Roman ideas of logic and debate. Yet this is not an accurate view of the value of theology in the long history of the Church. In fact, theologians emphasize the importance of Faith and the operation of the Holy Spirit in allowing us to understand the deeper meaning of Christ's words."
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The Hellenistic Era, 2008.
An analysis of philosophical and religious syncretism in the Hellenistic Era.
1,334 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 44.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the syncretistic or homogeneous tenets of Hellenistic religion and philosophy. It looks at how the military expansionism of Alexander the Great's Macedonian armies helped to bring about a greater knowledge of differing belief systems, which allowed greater syncretism between philosophy and religion. It also discusses how, due to the elitist and often exclusionary principles of extremist religious (Pharisees) and philosophical tenets (Aristotle and Plato), the creation of Stoicism and Epicureanism helped unify the divide between these two factions.
From the Paper
"The greater part of the Hellenistic era is derivative from the invasions of Alexander the Great (356-323 BCE) form his native Macedonia. From about 336 BCE, Alexander the Great had conquered much of the Mediterranean and had a massive influence over the way that people thought about religion and about philosophy. Although Alexander was essentially a Macedonian he was far different from the mainland Greeks in his tolerance for other religious ideals. In many ways, he was able to integrate both aspects of religion and philosophy into a more unified system. "
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Liberalism, Marxism and Feminism in Canada, 2008.
A comparison of Marxist, feminist and liberal approaches to social policy in Canada from the first nations period to the present.
1,453 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
The paper examines the Marxist, liberal and feminist approaches that are all concerned with the needs of the oppressed. The paper looks at the liberal perspective that is especially focused on the individual's human rights and highlights its similarities and differences to the Marxist approach of the capitalist and class system. The paper discusses the feminist perspective that is primarily concerned with patriarchy and women's oppression and notes the similarities and central differences to the other perspectives.
From the Paper
"The Marxist, liberal, and feminist approaches share a pivotal characteristic in common in that all three are concerned with the needs of the oppressed. The liberal perspective is especially focused on the individual's human rights. Overall, "the Liberal Party was ultimately successful in identifying public needs, designing solutions to national social problems, and finally implementing programs". When the Liberals developed their system of social security, they did so as one aspect of a comprehensive national policy designed for social improvement. In sharp contrast to the Marxist approach, the liberal perspective is accepting of the capitalist system as not only necessary but as beneficial for the disadvantaged classes. The Liberal Party worked in stages to achieve the welfare state, the first phase being made up of National Health Grants, along with the later expansions in 1951 of the old-age pension program, and the emergence of hospital insurance in 1957."
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Machiavelli's "The Prince", 2008.
This paper discusses how Niccolo di Bernardo Machiavelli's political thinking was profoundly shaped by lessons of history.
850 words (approx. 3.4 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 30.95
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Abstract
The paper looks at Machiavelli's "The Prince" and his controversial political teachings that a wise prince should not feel himself bound by morals but should consider the needs of the state. The paper discusses how Machiavelli draws lessons from classical and recent history that are always filtered through his real-world experience. The paper maintains that it is this grounding in real-world historical examples that distinguishes Machiavelli's political guides from that of earlier theorists and supports the continuing validity of his work even in the present day.
From the Paper
"In contrast to earlier political philosophers such as Plato or Aristotle, whose political theories are primarily based upon logical argument with "real-world" political illustrations and applications being secondary, Machiavelli's political thinking was profoundly shaped by the lessons of history as filtered through the contemporary political events of his own time. For example, the political battles and intrigues of the Medici family, who dominated Florence through much of Machiavelli's youth, gave him insights into both successful and flawed political strategic thinking. In Machiavelli's The Prince and The Discourses he explores how past and present political events can be viewed as examples that illustrate general political rules or maxims which can guide a leader or prince in political action (Bondanella and Musa 1979). As modern scholars note, this characteristic of Machiavelli's work distinguishes him from earlier philosophers, and grounds his political theory in real-world experience."
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