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Ottoman Iraq, 2007.
This paper discusses the Ottoman Empire's rule over Iraq.
2,319 words (approx. 9.3 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 71.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer takes a detailed look at the Ottoman rule in Iraq that began in 1535 and lasted until World War I. The writer notes that during this time Iraq became a central player in Ottoman religious, economic, and political developments, as it was important to Ottoman interests in protecting its lands from the Eastern threats, primarily those of modern day Iran. The writer points out that the end of Ottoman rule over Iraq left a territory that could only be ruled through dictatorships and thus political hardships. Further, the writer maintains that the progression of Ottoman influence in Iraq meant that Iraq was not able to develop as its own political entity, resulting in years of political and religious frustrations that are still manifesting themselves today.
From the Paper
"Iraq came under Ottoman rule in the 16th Century as the Ottoman's brought all the holiest cities of Islam under their domain from the Persians. The conflict over Iraq to the Ottomans was that the Ottoman Empire feared the Persians from East and thus sought to create a Sunni buffer state in opposition to the Shiite Persians of the East. The Ottomans had important territories in what would become modern day Turkey and Syria and Persia posed a direct threat to them. This means that Iraq had a political purpose for the Ottoman Empire and encouraged the Ottomans to take control of the area. Creating a buffer state would not only help with international stability and security, but the political conquest of Iraq would help to cement Ottoman control over Sunni territory and heighten Ottoman influence in the Eastern portion of their Empire while securing their borders from their main Eastern threat. "
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Scientology, 2007.
A review of the background and major religious and philosophical tenets of Scientology.
935 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 33.95
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Abstract
This paper addresses the Church of Scientology as a social organization. It examines its critics and their claims. The paper begins with a brief introductory section with background information on the Church and its founder L. Ron Hubbard. It examines how the Church of Scientology evolved into the institution it is today. The paper then presents and analyzes the main religious and philosophical tenets of the religion.
From the Paper
"The tenets of Scientology are more practical than theological, and in many ways the ideology resembles a New Age self help program. Although the Church of Scientology claims that faith is unnecessary, practitioners are nevertheless expected to believe that Scientology teachings offer the only solutions to their worldly problems. The Church of Scientology disavows the benefits of psychological therapy or counseling outside of the Church because its views on the nature of human life differ significantly from that of the scientific establishment. The "auditing" process in Scientology resembles psychological counseling but is done so within the parameters of the religion. Auditing involves an established set of questions and auditors use an "electropsychometer," or E-meter to assess the practitioner's responses."
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Philosophical Understanding, 2007.
This paper looks at philosophical beliefs, particularly as they relate to science and religion.
981 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 34.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer explains that there is a very basic problem associated with each individual's innately subjective understanding of the world: it makes generalizing feelings or experiences to all of humanity unavoidably inaccurate. In other words, no matter how deeply we might feel about one thing or another, we cannot reasonably assert that anyone else feels the same way. The writer points out that obviously, this presents a problem for religion, because religion is concerned with providing some form of meaning for our existence. Yet, precisely how that meaning is conveyed must fall somewhere in between pure individualism and interconnectedness. The writer concludes that religion could be interpreted as more natural than science: science must operate on the same form of knowledge - faith - that gives any of our lives meaning.
From the Paper
"Throughout the history of mankind there have been two major ways by which human beings have claimed to attain knowledge: through direct observation and through revelation. One of these modes of gaining knowledge has led us down the most practical avenues of our development. It most likely, for example, that the earliest people who discovered how to harness fire did so by observing it in action, and employing trial and error to eventually arrive at a workable technique. It is far less likely that these individuals were simply inspired to rub two sticks together in a particular manner independent of any empirical knowledge achieved over the course of their lives. In other words, few people would accept the idea that God told the first person who made fire how to go about it."
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"The Trial of Jesus Christ"--An Article Review, 2007.
A discussion of Russell Aiuto's article "The Trial of Jesus Christ."
1,017 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 1 source, APA, $ 35.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews Russell Aiuto's article, "The Trial of Jesus Christ", about the trial, conviction and execution of Jesus. The reviewer points out that Aiuto's intention was to present his information in the historic context of ancient Judea, ultimately determining who was guilty in causing the death of Jesus. The paper is written from a religious Christian perspective and gives an in-depth examination of the role of the Jews and the Romans in Jesus' death.
From the Paper
"For many people, especially those evangelical Christians who know little about the historical and political conditions in ancient Judea, it seems clear that the Jews killed Jesus. While it is certainly true that some Jews played an important role in bringing about the trial and execution of Jesus, it is a gross oversimplification to suggest that there was a vast Jewish conspiracy to kill Jesus. On the contrary, there were three main groups of Jews competing for power during Jesus' time: the Sanhedrin, the Pharisees, and the Sadducees. Aiuto describes these three groups of Jews as "interchangeable," which is not entirely historically accurate. (Aiuto). In fact, at times these groups competed viciously with one another for control of Jewish civil and religious law. However, they did share a religious and social background that separated them from the Roman population that occupied ancient Judea. Furthermore, all three groups believed that the Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah would be fulfilled. (Aiuto). In fact, Jesus was not the first person to be proclaimed the Messiah. Understanding that there was a tremendous amount of strife and competition in the Jewish community is important, because it makes it clear that while some Jews were responsible for the death of Jesus, it can hardly be suggested that all Jews were responsible for Jesus' death. Instead, Jewish involvement in Jesus' death seems explainable by one of the truisms of murder investigation: murders are generally committed by same-sex members of the victims' racial group. Because Jesus was a Jewish male, it should come as no surprise that some Jewish males played a central role in his trial and execution. However, that statement should not be viewed as either anti-Semitic or as an excuse for anti-Semitism. While some Jews played a central role in Jesus' death, his apostles were also widely Jewish, Jesus self-identified as a Jew and had no interest in preaching to Gentiles, and the founders of the Church were Jews who initially preached to a strictly Jewish audience."
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Civic Athenian Festivals, 2007.
An analysis of the practices of some of the main Athenian civic festivals.
2,412 words (approx. 9.6 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 73.95
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Abstract
This paper describes the ways that the Athenians practiced a polytheistic religion which expressed itself through civic festivals and cults. The paper attempts to create an overview of the most important Athenian civic festivals. It describes the way in which each festival provided a basis in Athenian worship, gave Athenian's a sense and a meaning in life and provided them with a sense of identity as human beings.
Table of Contents:
The Panathenaia
The Anthesteria
The Dionysia
The City Dionysia
From the Paper
"The Dipolieia was a very strange Athenian festival that took place two days after another important festival, the Skira (Parke 162). It comprised of a ceremony called the Butaphonia in the honor of Zeus (Parke 162). They celebrated a special aspect of Zeus by this festival, i.e. Zeus as the God of the city and the festivities took place at his altar from the Acropolis (Parke 162). The ceremony implied the sacrifice of an ox and a mock of its restoration to life. The ritual had become antiquated and so did the festival (Parke 166).
In conclusion, the calendar of the ancient Greeks was full with both the specific Athenian festivals and the ones referring to the entire Attica. However, they did not serve only the scope of entertainment, but they supported the development of the sciences and the art while encouraging people to travel and try new things."
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The Black Church, 2007.
This paper discusses the emerging independence of the black church.
2,407 words (approx. 9.6 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 73.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that throughout American history, the black church has played an important role in the African-American community. The writer provides a summary description of the contemporary issues impacting the sociology of religion. Further,the writer offers brief explanations from a sociological perspective of the arguments presented from both sides of the issue. The writer also looks at the sociological history of the issue and the impact this matter has had upon both society and religion. In addition, the writer presents a personal evaluation of the issue, including possible solutions. A summary of the research and salient findings are provided in the conclusion.
Outline:
Introduction
Review and Analysis.
Background and Overview
Summary Description of the Contemporary Issues Impacting the Sociology of Religion
Sociological Perspectives, History and Impact
Conclusions, Personal Evaluation of the Issues and Possible Solutions
From the Paper
"Because of the centrality of the position in black communities, the black church has assumed an important part in administering to the worldly needs of their congregations and neighborhoods, a feature that has also contributed to their emerging independence. For instance, a study of black churches was conducted by Billingsley and his colleagues to identify the role of the black church in youth development programs. Of the 176 churches reporting youth programs, the greatest interest was shown for teen support programs which are provided by 39 percent of the churches. These programs consisted of various Christian fellowships, ministry, counseling, group discussions, rap sessions, seminars, and workshops, and the second most prevalent services provided were sports activities; 31 percent of the churches provided athletic camps, teams, and/or martial arts classes. Among the least common programs were youth AIDS support programs (3 percent) and youth health-related services (2 percent). The former was comprised of classes/seminars, counseling, and financial support to persons with AIDS and the latter included health clinics, seminars, and screening for specific health problems; however, the authors emphasize that substance abuse programs (drug/alcohol counseling, seminars for drug abuse prevention, and workshops) were also offered by 15 percent of the churches."
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American Religious History, 2007.
A review of Laurence Moore's book "Touchdown Jesus. The Mixing of Sacred and Secular in American History" and the collection of texts in the book entitled "Major Problems in American Religious History: Documents and Essays," edited by Patrick Allitt.
1,499 words (approx. 6.0 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 49.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at both Laurence Moore's book "Touchdown Jesus. The Mixing of Sacred and Secular in American History" and the collection of texts in the book entitled "Major Problems in American Religious History: Documents and Essays," edited by Patrick Allitt. It discusses the religious problems that the multicultural mix-up in the United States creates.
From the Paper
"In yet another essay on this subject, Rick Fields makes a very interesting comparison between what he calls the immigrant Buddhists and the "white" or American Buddhists. He draws a similar conclusion as the other authors, pointing to the way in which the Western reconstruction of an Oriental religion can be very different. He argues that White Buddhism is no longer a religion, but something more like a fashionable lifestyle. He also observes the poignant problem of racism that arises here, which is also his reason for calling the new cult "white" Buddhism: in spite of the fact that the White Buddhists may adopt all the traditional Asian customs- from their name to the food they eat or to the rituals as such, they will still be part of the "mainstream of the white culture." (Allitt 1999, 459). That is to say, the racial differences, still linger no matter what, and are emphasized by the American racism, which is the dark side of American culture."
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Contraception and Christianity, 2007.
An analysis of the implications of Pope Paul VI's ruling against the use of contraception.
2,040 words (approx. 8.2 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 64.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses Pope Paul VI's 1968 encyclical, entitled "Humanae Vitae," (or "On Human Life), which condemned the use of all artificial means of contraception as a sin and called on all Roman Catholics to reject the contraceptive mentality. It discusses the controversy surrounding his ruling and the practical implications of it for Christians.
From the Paper
" AIDS campaigners put the blame on the condoms ban as contributing to the spread of the disease (Bruce 2006). Reports said that the majority of the 40 million infected people came from developing countries in Africa and urged the Church to take appropriate action. The Catholic Church has dogmatically taught that each sexual act within marriage must always be open to procreation. The Vatican, however, stands pat on its teaching on condoms. It continues to teach that the only way to avoid AIDS is through fidelity and chastity. It neither confirmed nor denied the report on the evaluation of a possible relaxation of the condoms ban. Some predicted a change in the Church's teaching while others felt it would be a disastrous gamble to make over the one of the Vatican's major doctrines. It could compound controversies among Catholics and an erosion of faith even among the clergy in the highest levels in the Vatican (Bruce)."
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The Buddha, 2007.
An analysis of the life story of Siddhartha Gautama, otherwise know as the Buddha.
906 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 32.95
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Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to introduce, discuss, and analyze the life story of Buddha. Specifically it discusses Buddha's life and how he attained the ultimate enlightenment. It looks at how Siddhartha Gautama is considered to be the Supreme Buddha (often called simply "the Buddha," or Buddha Shakyamuni) who created the Buddhist religion and how his life story is an interesting blend of wealth and privilege combined with great compassion and religious awareness. It discusses how he threw away all the rich trappings of his life to attain enlightenment and serve others and how his life shows the power of belief and spiritualism.
From the Paper
"Buddha was born a prince to parents who were king and queen of Lumbini, which is located today in Nepal. One biographer notes, "The Buddha was born the son of a king, and so grew up with wealth, pleasure, and the prospect of power, all goods commonly desired by human beings" (Carrithers 2). It seemed the Buddha had everything he could possibly desire, but he still was not content. Even after his parents arranged a marriage for him, he felt as if there was something missing from his life. He married and even had a son, but still he wanted to do more than rule his kingdom and raise a family. Because he saw suffering in his father's kingdom and wanted to do something about it, he decided to leave his home and seek enlightenment and understanding so he could help end the suffering of the people of the world. "
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Globalization and Domestic Extremists, 2007.
This paper looks at domestic extremists and Islamist groups and explores their connection to globalization.
1,379 words (approx. 5.5 pages), 10 sources, APA, $ 46.95
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Abstract
The subject that is explored in this paper is the link in ideology, intentions and other aspects between domestic revolutionary and supremacist groups and Islamic extremists. Another related aspect that is discussed is the wider connections with transnational extremist and terrorist entities and groups. The central thesis that is posited is that one of the ways that connections between these often disparate groups has been established is through an alignment in terms of overarching ideological objectives. It is asserted that while real and active connections between the groups are difficult to establish and more problematic, connections in terms of ideological similarities are more evident. This paper therefore shows that there is a real possibility of an alignment between domestic extremists and Islamic extremists and also between these and transnational groups in terms of shared ideologies such as anti-Semitism.
From the Paper
"This has also led to the realization that terrorist groups, whether representing different nationalistic and ideological persuasions, can also be linked by shared concerns, objectives and perceptions. The increase in the ease of communications and the Internet has also accelerated the possibly of these connections. This has highlighted the threat of domestic extremists and the possible connections between extremist groupings. There has also been a more directed contemporary focus on the underlying causative facets that motivate and precipitate terrorist actions, resulting in a growing realization that these underlying causative elements in extremist groups can be more important and possibly override national and regional differences. Coupled with this is the understanding of how domestic terrorism and extremist groups have played a role in the threat to the security of the country."
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Sacramental Theology, 2007.
This paper discusses the Catholic sacrament and looks at the practice of baptism.
1,766 words (approx. 7.1 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 56.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that one cannot expect to understand baptism without first understanding the sacraments and beliefs of Christianity in general. The writer also notes that it is important to have an understanding of Christianity itself in order to be aware of what the Book of Psalms really means for Christians. Further, the writer points out that it is sad that the teachings of Jesus stay mostly in the church, where everybody already knows what they are, instead of making their way out onto the street where not nearly enough people know them or try to make them work. The writer concludes that it is easy to be holy in church, but far harder to be holy out on the street where all of the aggravations and temptations take away from the truth of the sacraments and the beliefs of Christianity, and cause difficulties for many people.
From the Paper
"One cannot expect to understand Baptism, however, without first understanding the sacraments and beliefs of Christianity in general. The Book of Psalms has often been said to be the "book of evidences" to discuss and strengthen the Christian faith and the reasoning behind it. It still applies to Christianity today and can easily be used by a counselor or other individual in order to help those that are struggling with their faith because of the significance of much of what the Book of Psalms has to say regarding Jesus Christ and what He did for humanity (Lawler, 1996). This has much to do with why the sacraments are used in the ways that they are. It is important to have an understanding of Christianity itself in order to be aware of what the Book of Psalms really means for Christians. Christianity has many similarities to Judaism (Burr, 1961). In fact, the term 'Christian' was first used in Syria to find a name for an emerging religious movement that was made up of both Jews and Gentiles. These individuals worshipped the messiah, which was the title given to a Jewish teacher named Jesus of Nazareth. The Romans had executed Jesus as a political criminal in Judea."
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New Year in Japan and China, 2007.
This paper compares and contrasts the New Year holiday in Japan and China.
972 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 34.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses that Japan and China are similar in a sense because they share some traditions, beliefs and cultures; yet they are dissimilar for the same reasons. The writer notes that if one looks at the present day celebration of the New Year in China and Japan, one may think that it is overly commercialized like the western traditions of Christmas and Easter. The writer maintains that if one examines it deeply, one sees that the religious facade is still there and most Japanese and Chinese will relate to a lot of religious traditions embedded in these festivities. The writer concludes that after all, most celebrations celebrated worldwide whether Christmas, Easter or the New Year would not have been in existence today without any real religious roots or traditions that signify their deep and true meanings.
From the Paper
"The New Year's festivities for one are one of the most important celebrations of the country embedded in deep traditions and rich culture. China follows both the Western New Year and the Lunar New Year but the latter is more important. Japan considers the Western New Year more important and holds big celebrations. Although religion is not a big part of the two countries New Year celebrations, some of the activities and beliefs have its roots on religious flavors."
"The earliest known history about the Chinese New Year had something to do with the legendary Nia."
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Hispanic Women and Religion, 2007.
This paper looks at the different ways in which religion plays a part in Hispanic society, particularly among the women.
943 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 33.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer introduces, discusses and analyzes the topic of Hispanic society and religion. Specifically, it discusses the various ways religion plays an active role in Hispanic society and the molding of women within the society. The writer notes that religion, specifically the Catholic religion, is a vital part for many in Hispanic society, and it has been for centuries. Further, the writer points out that religion plays an active role in Hispanic society by offering not only hope and faith for its members, but social opportunities for interaction, support, and comfort during times of need. The writer maintains that the Church plays a significant role in the fabric of Hispanic life, and without it, Hispanic society would crumble - they rely too much on the spiritual authority and guidance of the Church to help them through their daily lives. The writer concludes that they might take on another religion, but in their souls, most Hispanics will always hold the Catholic philosophy as their own to guide their way of life and their faith.
From the Paper
"First, it has been the religion of Latin America for centuries, since the Spanish Conquistadors first conquered Mexico in the late 1400s. Second, because the Church is organized on a parish system, the Church has locations throughout the Hispanic community neighborhoods, making it more accessible to the people in different Latino neighborhoods throughout larger communities. Puerto Rico is home to the oldest Catholic diocese in the New World, and today, there are nearly 3.5 million practicing Catholics in the country. Most homes contain a crucifix and other religious items, and religious festivals and observances are the backbone of culture and society in the country."
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Christianity vs. Roman Catholicism, 2007.
A comparison between Christianity and Roman Catholicism.
2,427 words (approx. 9.7 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 74.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the origins of biblical Christianity as well as that of the Roman Catholic religion. The paper further compares and contrasts these ideologies to reveal the primary differences between them.
From the Paper
"Perhaps one of the most vast differences between biblical Christianity and Roman Catholicism is the belief in Hell. Thessalonians 1:8-9 of the Bible states that "those who do not know God...will pay the penalty of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his Power." Thus, Christianity does not mention Hell, but simply the absence of God's love, power, and presence. On the other hand, Roman Catholicism notes "immediately after death the souls of those who die in a state of mortal sin descend into hell, where they suffer eternal fire (Gendron, 1996, p. 1035). In this passage, Roman Catholicism notes a punishment of fire in a physical location. This vastly differs from the Christian view of punishment through the absence of God. This difference is substantial, in that Christian belief stems from the idea that the absence of God is the ultimate form of punishment. The Roman Catholic Church Doctrines clearly see this punishment as not enough, and translate the Word to include physical punishment as opposed to only spiritual punishment."
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Bacchic Rituals and Modern Manifestations, 2007.
A review of the legend of Dionysus and the Bacchic ritual.
4,615 words (approx. 18.5 pages), 14 sources, MLA, $ 119.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses and demonstrates the transitional phase in human development by discussing the history of the mythical legend of Dionysus, and the Bacchic ritual and its rich traditions. The paper then discusses modern manifestations of this ritual as the expression of the spiritual that modern people seek in ways that are not religiously motivated but still boast many of religion's facets.
Outline:
Introduction
Dionysus in the Ancient and Modern Expression
Bacchic Ritual Today
From the Paper
"The whole expression of the initial rejection of the Rock-n-Roll culture, music and lifestyle, not to mention its messages of rejection of the broader conservative culture is an example of the manner in which youth demonstrates revolutionary control over subsequent generations. The initial desire of the broader more conservative culture to suppress the movement, and all its expressions was met by heated rejection of conservatism. Many who look back on the beginnings of the movement express that all their fears were realized, through the very public expression of conflict and rage that became synonymous with Rock-n-Roll music and all of its accompanying events, which clearly reached it peak of possibility both good and bad during the Woodstock era. (Altschuler, 2003, p. 3) Yet, it is also clear that the music and the mentality it brought with it changed the face of society, and all that the older more conservative generations could do about it was warn the culture of its potential threats, just as those who drove the Bacchic ritual into the attic in earlier times did."
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