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Socrates, 2007.
An analysis of the religious beliefs of Socrates, comparing his works with those of Jesus Christ.
1,211 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 41.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the debate regarding the religious beliefs of Socrates. The paper argues, by providing evidence, that Socrates was a monotheist. The writer uses examples from the life and works of Socrates and compares them to the life and works of Jesus Christ to provide evidence, that despite other suggestions, Socrates believed in one God.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
His Life
Comparing to Jesus
The Confusion
Conclusion
From the Paper
"While there is much evidence that Socrates was a monotheist there are people who point to the fact that he sometimes referenced plural Gods in his teachings to claim he was in fact a polytheist. At first glance there appears to be some weight behind such an argument. However, when one takes a closer look one can see that the two are not intertwined. Socrates used the plural referral to Gods in his teaching attempts. When speaking to those who believed in many Gods he would respectfully respond in the discussion with their preferred deity name within was the plural version or "Gods". He was also known to use the plural version of the word in metaphorical discussion. The fact remains however, that whenever he spoke of his own ambitions and the decisions that he made regarding his life he spoke of ONE divine voice providing him with the guidance and the calling of his mission."
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"Darwin on Trial", 2007.
A review of the works of Phillip E. Johnson, particularly his book "Darwin on Trial."
1,870 words (approx. 7.5 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 59.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the views of Phillip E. Johnson, who is considered one of the important leaders in the "Intelligent Design" movement, which is an offshoot of "creationism" and has been used by those who oppose evolution. The paper describes his book, "Darwin on Trial" as a good one to read for those who want a balanced look at both sides of the current debate between the ideas of evolution and the ideas of creationism.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Brief Summary
Critical Interaction
Conclusion
Works Cited
From the Paper
"Phillip E. Johnson is considered one of the important leaders in the "Intelligent Design" movement, which is an offshoot of "creationism" and has been used by those who oppose evolution, or are in the belief that "evolutionists" are ignoring the role God played in the construction of Earth and the universe. Johnson's books have become an important tool in the hands of fundamentalist Christians, evangelicals and other conservative Christians. Johnson is not a scientist, he is a law professor, with a specialty, he writes on page 13, of "...analyzing the logic of arguments and identifying the assumptions that lie behind those arguments." The fact that he is a lawyer who employs "logic" and critically analyzes "assumptions" gives him the license he needs to painstakingly critique the "relevant scientific information" relating to evolution. His book is a good one to read for those who want a balanced look at both sides of the current debate between the ideas of evolution, and the ideas of creationism (or "intelligent design")."
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Eastern and Middle Eastern Religions, 2007.
This paper discusses the Eastern and Middle Eastern religions of Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam and Sikhism
1,890 words (approx. 7.6 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 60.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Buddhism is a somewhat unique religion in that it does not personify the concept of god but rather the Buddha, who is a normal human having come to enlightenment and salvation through suffering; however, Hinduism is far more focused on divinity and messages from a spiritual realm beyond the understanding of humanity. The author points out that Islam, which is considered one of the three Abrahamic, monotheistic faiths, the other two being Judaism and Christianity, uses Allah (God), who is eternal, transcended and part of humanity in his compassion and mercy. The paper relates that Sikhism, which shares with Islam the paradigm of a single god, operates on the principle that all human beings are equal and should not be distinguished by parameters such as social class and royalty.
Table of Contents:
Buddhism
Hinduism
Islam
Sikhism
From the Paper
"In terms of salvation, Sikhism is close to Hinduism in its belief of the cycle of birth, life, death and rebirth. According to Sikhism, there is a progressive journey of the soul from the lowest orders of life, such as plants and animals, to the highest order of physical existence, being human. While several rebirths at this level of existence is possible, having reached human life means that the journey is close to completion. The soul reaches God at the point of physical death, where it is judged in order to determine whether more rebirth is required."
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School Prayer, 2007.
An examination of the debate concerning prayer in US public schools.
951 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 33.95
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Abstract
This paper presents a detailed examination of the controversy surrounding school prayers in public schools in the United States. The paper examines wording in the Constitution to determine whether school prayers should be allowed. The writer presents the argument that school prayer is the right of the individual student and it should not be banned from schools.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
The Opposition
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The opposing side of the issue point to the clause in the constitution that refers to the separation of church and state. They believe this is a forefather mandate not to allow anything religious to enter a public school setting. This is incorrect. The mandate is to not have the public school system turn to a religious body for its rules, regulations and decisions. This has nothing to do with the fact that the constitution allows freedom of speech."
"In addition, those who oppose allowing school prayers point to the fact that there are many different faiths within public school systems. They believe that the minority of students who are not Christian by faith will feel left out or singled out when they choose not to take part in prayer. This can be easily regulated by treating the school prayer rights the same as any other freedom of speech rights."
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Evolution, 2007.
This paper looks at evolution and discusses some of the controversies and other theories of how life evolved.
2,865 words (approx. 11.5 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 85.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses that by looking at fossil records over the history of life on earth, it is possible to see a progression from the earliest microscopic fossils three and a half billion years ago, which were similar to blue-green algae and bacteria, to homo sapiens that live today and came into being at least 50,000 years ago. The writer maintains that most scientists believe that this progression is what Charles Darwin hypothesized as an evolution of life that continued or died out due to natural selection, which consisted of many small gradual changes as the organisms adjusted to their environment. The writer notes that it is human nature, however, to continually see how new scientific research or even personal values equate with a theory. The writer concludes that in the future, one could actually say that the study of evolution will evolve as new information is found through advances in science such as genetics and brain imaging, as well as ongoing archaeological and geological finds.
Outline:
Argument One: Saltation
Argument Two: Punctuated Equilibria
Argument Three: Creationism
References Cited
From the Paper
"Darwin's Theory of Evolution states that life evolved through natural selection gradually over millions of years. Small changes eventually led to new species. According to natural selection, animals, organisms and plants adapt to their environment. This is called artificial selection, because it is nature not humans that chooses the animals that multiply. Random chance determines the traits that are passed on from one generation to another."
"For example, in England prior to the Industrial Revolution, peppered moths were light colored with tiny dark patches that were the same color as the lichen on which they landed. Because they were this color, they could blend in with the lichen and not be noticed by birds and eaten. Darker moths that were more easily seen by their prey were eaten before they could reproduce. However, when the lichen started to become darker because of the soot in the air from the increasing industry, the light-colored moths began to stand out. Now they were vulnerable, instead of the darker moths. The dark moths became more abundant, and the white moths became a rarity."
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Desiderius Erasmus, 2006.
A review of the book 'Erasmus and the Age of Reformation' by Johan Huizinga.
1,245 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews Johan Huizinga's book, 'Erasmus and the Age of Reformation'. The paper discusses how Huizinga depicts the life and thought of Dutch humanist and theologist, Desiderius Erasmus.
From the Paper
"The tone of the book was also either enhanced or repudiated by the language used by Huizinga, depending on if the reader knew Latin (or at least Latin terms) and German (or German terms) and even a little Dutch. If the reader was ignorant of such languages then the reader more than likely a tiny bit lost as the reader traversed the book's pages. What was interesting about the fact that Huizinga used phrases from other languages (primarily Latin) liberally throughout the book, was the way that he also extolled Erasmus' virtue and complete comprehension of the Latin and Greek languages, and how that same comprehension of those languages somehow made Erasmus a 'better' man. It was ironic to say the least, that by stating such a belief, and then using such language, Huizinga was by inference showing that he believed he was also a 'better' man for being able to copy Erasmus' elucidation in regards to linguistics."
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Women in Iran, 2007.
This paper examines the work status of Iranian women before and after the Islamic Revolution.
2,724 words (approx. 10.9 pages), 9 sources, APA, $ 81.95
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Abstract
This paper, which favorably describes the current Islamic regime in Iran, explores the roles of women in both the religious and work worlds. The author begins by describing the role of women according to the teachings of the Koran. The paper further examines the role of women in Iranian society both before and after the Islamic Revolution. The author concludes by stating Iranian women are progressively getting higher educations and achieving more status in the work place. Ultimately, the author believes women will achieve an influential position in Islamic Iranian society.
Outline:
Introduction and Cultural Background
The Iranian Revolution and the Situation of Women
Women and Employment
Figure 1. Women aged 10 and Above, Employed in Cities and Villages
Figure 2. Literacy Rate of Females Aged 6 and Above (in percentage)
Conclusion
From the Paper
"There is a general perception in the West that the ethical treatment of women in Islamic countries amounts to gender discrimination, oppression and a transgression of basic human rights. This view does not conform to the foundational Islamic teaching. This can be seen from the very outset in the way that the Koran describes the creation of women. In the Holy Scriptures there is no implicit difference made in terms of status or intrinsic value between male and female. In ethical terms, while there are obvious differences between men and women, these gender differences do not impact or affect ethical values and treatment of women. Men and women are seen to be essentially the same in terms of relative value and status. "Despite the distinctions between the treatment of men and the treatment of women when the Qur'an discusses creation of humankind ...there is no essential difference in the value attributed to women and men. There are no indications, therefore, that women have more or fewer limitations than men." (Wadud 15) "
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African-American Religion, 2007.
This paper describes the role of African-American churches in organizing the black community during the Civil Rights Movement.
2,351 words (approx. 9.4 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 72.95
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Abstract
This paper argues that African-American churches served as the foundation for the African-American struggle for civil rights during the 20th century. The author traces the history of the churches, focusing on their importance socially as well as spiritually to the community. The author is somewhat critical of mainstream Christianity and its exclusion of Blacks. The paper concludes by citing major Black religious figures in America and acknowledging that religion has impacted African-American history from a highly diverse set of directions.
From the Paper
"Still, the notion that the Christian Church has been a leading force in the movement towards social change for the African American has not gone unchallenged. Some have contended that the Christian Church as acted as an opiate for generations to the African American people. One critic stated, "Instead of cursing the white man, [blacks] shout at the Lord. Instead of kicking whitey, [blacks] kick over the pew." Those who believe that the African American Church acts as an opiate to the black sub-culture contend that it induces many individuals to appeal to God for social change, when, more realistically, they should be acting to bring about social change themselves; in other words, they believe that the church provides an outlet for black people's frustrations, so they can be directed away from actions that might elementally undermine the current radicalized American social system. Eventually, a scientific study conducted by Gary Marx in the 1960's attempted to find any correlation between the level of religious fervor of black Americans and their associated beliefs regarding the Civil Rights movement: "Specifically, Marx established that in his sample, the greater the subjective importance of religion to black respondents, and the more often they went to church, the less militant they were in support of the civil rights issues." Even more recent theorists have agreed with the assessment of the role of the African American Church in social activism; arguing that it is centrally a device for passivity and control."
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Roots of Religion, 2007.
An analysis of the four myths that form the basis of all religions.
3,448 words (approx. 13.8 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 97.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the common roots of the world's major religions, in terms of myths surrounding them. The paper discusses the four functions of myths - to inspire awe, to explain the world, to provide people with rituals and ethics, which help teach the young and to provide people with guidance through the various stages of life, from birth to death. The paper discusses how all religions are based on these myths and compares some of the their practices to illustrate its points.
From the Paper
"Furthermore, the fact that modern American society has abandoned so many of its religious aspects, has also led to a widespread abandonment of traditional maturity rituals in the United States. However, there is something about the maturity ritual that keeps it from being suppressed and different groups, primarily of adolescent aged males, from street gangs to Ivy League fraternities, have developed their own initiations. From fraternity hazing to gang initiation rituals, these groups ask their members to engage in symbolic activities that demonstrate the transformation from adult to full-fledged group member. In addition, many of the groups that have developed in the wake of scientific knowledge, while lacking some of the other elements of religious groups, do contain certain elements of ritual that help bond and define a group."
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Rejection of Christianity, 2007.
A comparison of Malcolm X and Friedrich Nietzsche's rejection of Christianity and a discussion of the common threads of their belief systems.
1,212 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 41.95
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Abstract
This paper examines Malcolm X and Friedrich Nietzsche's rejection of Christianity and their paths toward an alternate ideal, as well as the reasons behind the rejection of Christianity for each individual. The paper explores the history of each man's choice and then compares and contrasts them, especially with regard to the criticisms that Malcolm X had of Nietzsche and the commonalities between the two men's belief systems.
From the Paper
"Malcolm also directly criticized Nietzsche as spending excessive amounts of time arguing about irrelevancies; although Malcolm never states whether or not he agrees with Nietzsche's basis for rejecting the Christian religion, he does assert the importance of immediate issues facing the oppressed black race. While Malcolm did not agree with the amount of time that Nietzsche spent contemplating issues which he believed were unimportant to the immediate quality of life, it is possible that Nietzsche would have respected the reasons behind Malcolm's rejection of Christianity and his focus on the "will to power" found in Malcolm's political activism and his sense of social justice rooted in the dignity of the individual."
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"Freedom from Addiction", 2007.
A review of the detox model presented in "Freedom from Addiction: Breaking the Bondage of Addiction and Finding Freedom in Christ", by Dr. Neil T. Anderson and Mike and Julia Quarles.
880 words (approx. 3.5 pages), 0 sources, $ 31.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews the book "Freedom from Addiction: Breaking the Bondage of Addiction and Finding Freedom in Christ", by authors Dr. Neil T. Anderson and Mike and Julia Quarles. It discusses the author's observations of how many Christians remain locked in their addictions, especially to alcohol and drug abuse. It then discusses the model that the book provides to help abusers solve their addictions through acceptance of Jesus Christ as the Higher Power.
From the Paper
"As participants in traditional 12-Step Programs have sponsors, the counselor could also be a spiritual Seven Step sponsor. Together, the former addict and the counselor can review the Seven Steps together, ensuring that the addict remains bondage-free. The counselor can also assist in removing items of "false worship" from the former addict's home. These could include false idols and tools of the occult, such as innocent-looking tarot cards. The counselor could also be on the lookout for items which may trigger addictions, such as magazines showing glossy liquor ads or even hidden drug paraphernalia."
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Albert H. Baylis' "From Creation to the Cross", 2006.
An analysis of Albert H. Baylis' book "From Creation to the Cross" using chapters 10-17 (pages 207-377) as the source material.
1,965 words (approx. 7.9 pages), 1 source, APA, $ 62.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the part of Albert H. Baylis' "From Creation to the Cross", starting with a chapter entitled "Nation Heading for Judgment", which details the downfall of Israel during the reign of Solomon. The paper continues with writings on prudent living and prophecy and concludes with a discussion of the New Testament in relation to the future of the world. It points out that this book creates for the reader a better understanding of the structure, context, content and intent of the pages of the Bible. It also discusses how this outstanding volume provides a look into the hearts, minds and souls of the people and prophets of Biblical times and allows the average reader, regardless of his or her religious experience, to gain value from the Bible and its teachings.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Chapter 10- Nation Heading for Judgment
Chapter 11-Praise and Petition
Chapter 12- Prudent Living (Proverbs, Job, Song of Songs, Wisdom for Life)
Chapter 13- "The Prophets of the Divided Kingdom"
Chapter 14- The Prophets of Judah and Exile
Chapter 15- A Peg in the Holy Place
Chapter 16- The Second Temple
Chapter 17- Themes for the Future: New Testament Update
Analysis of the Book
From the Paper
"As this chapter begins, Baylis discusses how Scripture predicts the downfall of Israel because of her sinful ways, with a degree of sinfulness that goes beyond superficial violations of sabbatical requirements and the like; to use a direct quote from Baylis, in reference to the Scriptural passages that predict Israel's destruction, this says it all " as the author-prophet looks at Israel's kings, he announces his diagnosis with boring regularity." King Solomon figures prominently in this chapter, because of his role on Israel during this time, not to mention his sinful ways that played a key role in bringing on the downfall of Israel, as does the prophet Elijah."
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"Dune" and "The Matrix", 2007.
A comparison of the religious themes in "Dune" by Frank Herbert and "The Matrix," directed by Andy Wachowski and Larry Wachowski.
1,585 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 51.95
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Abstract
This paper compares and contrasts some of the themes in the novel "Dune" by Frank Herbert and the film, "The Matrix," directed by Andy Wachowski and Larry Wachowski. It specifically focuses on the several religious themes and parallels that can be seen in both works, such as the ideal and work of the messiah figure. It then looks at lesser thematic ideas such as the advances of scientific manipulation and predestination.
Table of Contents:
Religion
The Messiah and the Prophesy
From the Paper
"The most prominent parallel in the two works, apart from the generally religious themes, is the specific messianic reference as it relates to Paul Artreides and Neo. Like Neo, Paul is a reluctant savior, but he accepts his role for the good of all. Unlike Neo, however, Paul Artreides is aware of his status as savior from the beginning of the novel. This knowledge comes to him through his gift of precognition, passed on as a Bene Gesserit gift from his mother. While he attempts to resist his destiny in order to prevent the resultant suffering and war that he can foresee, his destiny nonetheless finds him."
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Nathaniel Hawthorne, 2007.
An analysis of the references to Puritanism in Nathaniel Hawthorne's stories and novels.
1,608 words (approx. 6.4 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 52.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the author of the Romantic period, Nathaniel Hawthorne. It particularly discusses his views on Puritanism, as one of the main themes of his work was the concept of unpardonable sin, which all Puritans held very close to their hearts. The paper gives examples from Hawthorne's books of this concept and uses some of some of these examples to discuss whether Hawthorne condoned puritanical beliefs or condemned them.
From the Paper
"Humanity means morality and faith here and represents everything good and wholesome. Hawthorne felt that when man starts to use his intellect to seek scientific knowledge to support or reject his beliefs, he is basically committing a crime and thus losing touch with humanity. The main reason Hawthorne equated knowledge with evil was because he felt evil was always a lurking possibility and as long as man doesn't engage himself in unnecessary questioning, he could keep that evil force silent. As he once noted: "There is a fund of evil in every human heart, which may remain latent, perhaps through the whole of life; but circumstances may arouse it to activity" (Coale, 1).
Even though Hawthorne was born in the Puritan society, he appears to have disliked the strict laws and regulations of the time. This is because while he endorses the view the faith must not be questioned, he also found that this view was not practiced by the people in its true spirit."
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Christian Understanding of "Last Things", 2007.
An analysis of the Christian understanding of death, judgement, heaven and hell and whether Christian eschatology has applications to those other than Christians.
1,621 words (approx. 6.5 pages), 6 sources, APA, $ 52.95
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Abstract
This paper provides a Christian perspective of "last things," including death, judgment, heaven and hell. The paper details the basis of Christian eschatology or the extent to which the life and death of Jesus may be considered eschatological. Further the researcher explores whether Christian eschatology has application to those other than Christians and what the difference and relationship between individual and general eschatology are. Finally, the paper explores whether humanity and reality have an ultimate purpose or goal.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Christian Eschatology
Applications of Eschatology
Do Humanity and Reality Have an Ultimate Purpose or Goal?
Conclusions
From the Paper
"Salvation for some may be considered differently than for another. Here is where it is important to differentiate between individual eschatology and general eschatology. While generally eschatology refers to matters of life and death including the notion that one may rise to heaven or hell, individuals may interpret "last things" in differing ways. One's heaven may be another's hell even within the scope of the Christian faith and ideals. Even among Christian entities there is much controversy and disagreement about what occurs after death. For example, as mentioned previous there is some belief among Roman Catholics that all mankind is subject to an in-between state or purgatory. Traditionalists would argue that this is a foundation for Christian Eschatology, however members of Orthodox sects may argue otherwise."
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