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Genre Applications in Education, 2008.
This paper argues for the balance of normative and adaptive applications of genre for teacher/scholar educational standards.
1,116 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 38.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer analyzes the basis for genre standardizations that would include both a normative approach and adaptive approach in educational research and application. The writer notes that by realizing the importance of normative genres in language studies, students can better understand how to categorize various issues in writing. However, the writer maintains that these normative standards cannot be so heavily relied upon that they deny new genres of significant importance. In essence, the writer argues that a balanced approach to normative and adaptive genre applications must be adhered to in an effective writing criterion for modern educational perspectives.
From the Paper
"Critics of normative genre approaches in writing provide important arguments that explain why genre studies norms must be provide a form of standardization that must be adhered to. The premise of normative standards is only providing an outline for the growingly diverse set of genre studies that have arisen in the new globalized community. Many more cultural norms and values are being expressed, which reestablish the normative ways in which people think and write. However, the premise of normative genre values is essential for various cultures to establish their cultural identity, which provides the foundation in which to understand other cultures and genre-based evaluations. This perspective is helping teachers to understand the complexities of genre studies. Devitt defines this critical stance in educational standards that is important to realizing why genre categorizations can be dangerous to effective critical thinking, yet they are needed to establish a basis for localized identity issues for the educational scholar.."
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The New Politics of Consumption, 2008.
An analysis of the arguments presented in "The New Politics of Consumption. Why Americans Want So Much More Than They Need" by Juliet Schor.
1,077 words (approx. 4.3 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 37.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the high level of consumption in the United States. It argues that over-consumption has now risen to a level where it is having a negative impact in many ways and the paper discusses these effects. The paper focuses on the article by Juliet Schor, "The New Politics of Consumption. Why Americans Want So Much More Than They Need."
From the Paper
"To remedy this unfortunate situation, Schor suggests that we engage with a new politics of consumption. This new politics should embrace seven new principles. These are a right to a decent standard of living; quality of life rather than quantity of stuff; ecologically sustainable consumption; democratize consumption practices; a politics of retailing and the "cultural environment;" expose commodity "fetishism;" and a consumer movement and governmental policy. The last-mentioned would include a strong consumer movement that would influence governments to implement the preceding six principles."
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Cultural Relativism and Feminism, 2008.
This paper discusses human rights versus the right to cultural self-determination and group rights.
2,428 words (approx. 9.7 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 74.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that one of the key tensions in contemporary feminist theory is the tension between cultural rights on the one hand, and gender equality rights, that is, women's human rights, on the other hand. It is argued that cultural relativism cannot be allowed to supersede universal rights, and therefore that radical cultural relativism must be rejected. The writer maintains that at most, a partial cultural relativism may be accepted - but what is really needed is an ongoing debate to try and arrive at universal human rights that can be agreed on globally. Whatever these rights turn out to be, the key point that is argued is that claims of cultural relativism function to preserve male privilege, just as in the West, rhetoric about traditional family values has tried to hold the fort against the introduction of basic human rights, such as votes for women and marriage for same-sex couples. The appeal to culture or tradition does not automatically confer legitimacy on unjust customs.
From the Paper
"One solution is to try to reform these cultures from within. The problem is that within a paradigm of collective rights, this is often neither practical nor possible. It is argued that Nagengast (1997) has a better solution, when she proposes that what is really needed is continuing debate, with a view to arriving at a consensus as to what would constitute universal rights - and that while we are doing this, radical cultural relativity must be rejected.
"Coomaraswamy notes that Asian scholars have also suggested a way of reframing this debate, by couching it in terms of Asian values as specifically non-Western values. In this reframing, the key point that is argued is that Western values privilege individual rights over communal values .."
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Teen-aged Pregnancy, 2008.
This paper is a proposal to study the relationship of culture and attitudes to teen-aged pregnancies.
3,095 words (approx. 12.4 pages), 13 sources, APA, $ 90.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, for at least a century in North America, the phenomenon of teen-aged pregnancy has been examined as social malady with its pathology in questions of low morality or education, sexual abuse, low self-esteem or other defects of the affected girl. The author points out that there is relatively little research on how a pregnancy may directly harm the teen-aged girl. The paper proposes a project of straightforward functionalism to gain possibly new insights into how this phenomenon originates and how it continues when North American girls mainly are well informed as to reproduction, birth control and the non-desirability of teen-aged pregnancy. The author underscores that some cultures regard teen-aged pregnancy as less negative than a much abhorred termination of pregnancy.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Reflection on a Timeless Issue
Review of Literature
Theoretical Considerations
Methodology
Analysis
Ethical Considerations
Dissemination of Findings
Conclusion
From the Paper
"All persons to express interest in becoming participants in the project, or those merely wishing to ask about its nature and aims, will be assured verbally of the confidentiality of what they, or someone they know, may choose to contribute. When a person is contacted with a brief questionnaire a formal written guarantee of confidentiality will be provided that explains clearly the purposes of the research and its potential uses. The imperatives of confidentiality and explaining a sound agenda of research in terms of wanting to clarify why teenaged pregnancy occurs and attitudes towards it are obvious."
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Bruce Springsteen and the Rebel Youth Culture, 2008.
This paper looks at Bruce Springsteen and discusses individuality, class hierarchy and the "rebel" youth culture of America.
1,193 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 40.95
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Abstract
This anthropological study analyzes how Bruce Springsteen has become more than a rock 'n' roll musician in his cultural influence on American youth culture. The writer notes that not only has Springsteen been a major musical influence in the rock 'n' roll genre, he reflects the social dreams and desires of American youth culture through a variety of class distinctions and lifestyles. In essence, the writer notes that Bruce Springsteen sings of different class backgrounds. Further, the writer maintains that Springsteen defines a rebellious and individualistic identity in youth culture through his lyrics and musical understanding of American social norms.
From the Paper
"The type of feeling that calls for redemption of the poor people in the world can also be seen in his music on a domestic note. This forms the main corpus of lyrics and music that respond to the deeper troubles that youth sought within the often depressing and economically down turned post-Nixon era of American culture. Bruce Springsteen, although not above singing songs of the more carefree traditional songs of Little Richard, is more apt to be singing about the quest for freedom from authority for young people. After all, Bruce Springsteen had come from a middle class background, and he had known the suffering of being without money or of having a place to live. For instance, in "Born to Run", Springsteen uses a lyrical example of the desperation of youth culture, as the confines of social norms drives the young people to reach beyond barriers through escaping cultural isolationism."
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A Bottle of Coke, 2008.
This paper focuses on the Coke bottle to highlight the important role of material artifacts in our lives.
2,651 words (approx. 10.6 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 79.95
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Abstract
The paper examines the Coke bottle, with specific reference to its status as a global meta-commodity or meta-symbol. The paper explores how material artifacts provide valuable insights into what is important to a culture. The paper analyzes the film "The Gods Must be Crazy", which illustrates how even the most powerful meta-symbol is powerful only because of its connotations and associations. The paper concludes by emphasizing how material artifacts affect our lives.
From the Paper
"The Coke bottle is one of the most recognizable material artefacts in the world. Its shape and distinctive label is recognized globally. For some it evokes warm, fuzzy feelings, and for others it invokes a paroxysm of anti-capitalist or anti-American feelings. It may evoke arguments about art vs. commodities, or about West vs. Islam. In the USA, your attitude to the bottle may depend on which side of the colour divide you fall on. Love it or hate it, it is unquestionably an important aspect of contemporary material culture."
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The Ethics of Advertising to Children, 2008.
A discussion of the ethics of advertising to children.
2,630 words (approx. 10.5 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 79.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at that question of whether advertising directed at children is ethical. It points out that the amount of advertising targeting children continues to grow. Children view an estimated 360,0000 advertisements on television before graduating from high school. The paper also claims that, not until the early 1970s, was advertising directed at children seen as a problem in the United States. The paper argues that, although studies show that children under the age of seven cannot distinguish the difference between an advertisement and fact, there is little if any regulation of advertising directed at children within the United States. The paper compares the US to other countries, which have adopted the philosophy that advertising directed at children is immoral and have stepped in with varying levels of regulation. The paper concludes that, regarding television, it is unlikely there will be any restrictions placed on advertisers; however, with the proliferation of sites such as MySpace, YouTube, blogging, and other future technological advances to the Internet, there may eventually be a public outcry for more stringent regulations.
Outline:
Introduction
History of Advertising & Advertising to Children
Advertising and Its Impact on Children
Why So Much Emphasis on Advertising to Children?
Notable Examples of Advertising to Children
The Regulation of Advertising
Regulations in Other Countries
How Likely Change Is in the Future & Conclusion
From the Paper
"In the US, there are currently few policies or standards for food advertising and marketing aimed at children. The advertising industry maintains self-regulatory policies established by the Children's Advertising Review Unit (CARU) of the National Council of Better Business Bureaus. CARU's guidelines apply to all forms of children's advertising, but it has no legal authority over advertisers and can only seek voluntary compliance. CARU has a group of about 20 advisors and 35 supporters, many of whom are from the food industry, such as Burger King, Frito-Lay, McDonald's, General Mills, Nabisco and Hershey. The CARU voluntary guidelines list seven basic principles, which address areas such as product presentation and claims, endorsement and promotion by program characters, sales pressures, disclosures and disclaimers and safety concerns."
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Foreign Aid, 2008.
This paper discusses economic development and foreign direct investment.
1,663 words (approx. 6.7 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 54.95
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Abstract
In this document the writer discusses globalization and looks at its impact on poverty and economic development across emerging markets. The role of the World Trade Organization (WTO) within this dynamic is also examined as well as how the WTO and the global economy interact to encourage or develop greater levels of foreign direct investment (FDI) in order to spur economic development.
Outline:
Abstract
Overview
The World Trade Organization's Role in FDI
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Thus, it can be seen that the discussion of poverty and its alleviation, especially reference to Mexico, or indeed any other emerging market, is really a discussion of how these economic structures are re-characterized in respect to the global economy. The intent is to assist these markets with their internal economic structures, without compromising national integrity, so as to result in a more universal elevation of quality of life standards across the spectrum of their societies.
"While many authors tend to immediately jump to the issue of poverty when discussing globalization and its impact, others are quick to note that globalization can be effective at alleviating poverty. Fenstra and Hanson pointed out that the outsourcing explosion brought about by NAFTA between the U.S., Mexico and Canada, resulted in positive economic growth in Mexico's border areas where foreign factories invested in factories to handle their inputs in the production of goods almost completely destined for export."
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Helping the Mentally Ill Homeless, 2008.
An examination of possible solutions that could help the metnally ill homeless.
1,423 words (approx. 5.7 pages), 10 sources, APA, $ 47.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the problem of homelessness in the United States, particularly with regard to the mentally ill. The paper focuses on how the mentally ill homeless can be helped. It discusses the solution according tothe government, which is to de-institutionalize those who have mental illness and then looks at the problems associated with that solution.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
History of Mental Illness
The Problems of Homelessness
De-institutionalizing the Mentally Ill
A Study of Homelessness, Mental Illness, and Citizenship
From the Paper
"The solution according to the government is to deinstitutionalize those who have mental illness, but in reality many of these patients are released from the institutions and become homeless. The process of deinstitutionalization sounds easy and most professionals believe the mentally ill can adjust to the community (Zissi, 2006). Few people understand the problems of the mentally ill when it comes to social environment factors and living in the community. A major problem with the mentally ill adjusting to the community is the stigma of the labels they receive once they are diagnosed. "The stigma of mental illness remains a serious social problem and critical impediment to treatment seeking among diagnosed individuals" (Teachman, Wilson, and Komarovskaya, 2006, p. 75). People who have mental health problems have trouble adjusting to the community because it is not easy for them to make friends and even for family members to develop close relationships with them. Many homeless people who have mental health issues would rather return to the environment of being homeless because they have friends who are also homeless and they are not treated as abnormal."
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Serial Killers and Possible Solutions, 2008.
An examination of the sociological and psychological theories behind serial murder and suggestions for possible solutions to the problem.
2,190 words (approx. 8.8 pages), 13 sources, APA, $ 68.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the phenomenon of the serial murderer, considering the definition and the many sociological and psychological theories that have been offered for the fact that such persons kill repeatedly, often in sadistic ways. The paper finds that there are certain common features among serial killers, that is most are male, age 25-35, and have a background that includes trauma and abuse. The paper also finds that there are many exceptions to this rule. In conclusion, the paper recommends continuing coordinated studies to try to track down such persons.
Outline:
Upbringing
Psychological Contributions
Serial Murder and the Social Control Theory
The Neutralization Theory and the Desire to Kill
The Labeling Theory: A Social Cause
From the Paper
"The neutralization theory examines the ways in which people such as serial murderers rationalize their behavior. In order for murderers to rationalize their violent actions, they apply various techniques to mitigate their own guilt. These include denial, denying both the injury and the legitimacy of the victim, condemnation of those who condemn them, and an appeal to higher loyalties. This amounts to dehumanization, common among serial offenders. This theory has been essentially beyond verification because it would require a showing that the murderer neutralized a set of moral beliefs before killing. However, the available data suggest that serial offenders who rationalize their behavior generally do this after the fact, after they have already killed their victims. (Hickey 1991)"
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Urban Homelessness in Canada, 2008.
This paper discusses the problem of homelessness in urban areas of Canada.
1,572 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 51.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer briefly reviews the homelessness crisis afflicting many urban centers in Canada. Specifically, the paper looks at the causes of the problem, the attitudes of politicians and what they have done to combat the scourge. In addition, the writer discusses what can be done to rescue the situation. The writer maintains that social housing and rent supplements will save lives and will also allow Canadian cities to save money by sparing them the burden of having to care for ill and at-risk individuals who lack a roof over their heads.
From the Paper
"When one takes the time to probe into the matter, it is fairly clear - and lamentably so - that politicians have done a poor job of creating an official mandate for bureaucrats that makes them accountable, responsive and congenial to the needs of the most vulnerable members of Canadian society. For instance, homeless women contacted by the Toronto Star in a survey conducted within the last year report that government welfare offices who should be offering assistance to the homeless often view them with borderline disdain. Not to be overlooked, women in Toronto who have used that city's shelters in the past detail the troubling absence of security for women leaving the shelters after using their services. Indeed, a woman named Kathy Kunsman reports that sexual predators would literally line up in close proximity to the shelters so that they could accost women as they left."
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A Critical Examination of the Food Stamp Program, 2008.
A discussion of the food stamp program and an analysis of cash versus in-kind transfers.
2,185 words (approx. 8.7 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 68.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at the food stamp program, one of the largest welfare programs in many developed (and increasingly developing countries). The paper points out that it is a rather expansive program, which has many proposed economic benefits for the society. Using the tools of consumer theory, the food stamp program is examined in relation to a cash incentive program. The paper then examines whether cash transfers, as opposed to food stamps, lead to consumers being on a higher or similar utility curve or preference set . The paper relates that this analysis is not only applicable to the food stamp program in the United States but can be applied to the plethora of real world programs adopting in-kind transfers. In conclusion, the paper maintains that cash transfers can provide an outcome that is clearly superior to in-kind transfers.
Outline:
Introduction
Modeling the Superiority of Cash Payments to In-Kind Transfers
Consumer Theory
Why are Governments Engaging In a Less Efficient Outcome: Should the Government Be Issuing Cash?
Understanding the Dominance of In-Kind Transfers: A Case Study of Fiscal Year 2008 United States Federal Budget
Appendix (includes graphs)
From the Paper
"Transfers like the food stamp shift the budget set upward, however, the food stamps place a kink in the budget set, since there is a threshold over which consumers cannot go. This is because food stamps can only buy certain classes of goods, and all other goods will not necessarily increase. On the other hand, cash transfers, will lead to a complete shift of the budget set, rather than, a kinked upward shift; so the budget constraint goes beyond I/PA in Figure 1. Clearly, with cash transfers, the consumer will always be on an indifferent curve that is higher or the same level as the in-kind transfers which is food stamps in this example; which implies that cash transfers are preferred to in-kind transfer when compared to the food stamp program."
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Japanese Religious Ethic, 2008.
An analysis of the religious character of the Japanese in everyday society.
2,487 words (approx. 9.9 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 75.95
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Abstract
This paper examines Japanese religious characteristics within the context of the rapidly evolving Asia-Pacific Rim in terms of culture and society. It discusses how Japanese society can be thought of as very religious to the degree that its religions are intertwined with its cultural roots, making them influential even if not consciously practiced. The paper also discusses how, politically, Japan has a tendency to restate history in terms that bring various elements of its society and culture into line with the official conception of homogeneity that is essentially a worldview based on Shinto heritage.
From the Paper
"Japanese cultural resistance to outside influence is all the more surprising given that it itself, though most Japanese would never acknowledge this, was formed through the amalgamation of various cultures and societies in the region. Japan is an archipelago or island nation which is a geography that is conducive to developing a variety of localized cultures and languages: "It cannot be denied, however, that, from past to present, Japan has come into being as a multicultural society through the complex interaction of various cultures...". The researcher intent on illuminating the religious character of the Japanese will understand this rational dichotomy between self-conception and actuality and use it to commercial or interpersonal advantage. "
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The Canadian State as a Racist Political Culture, 2008.
This paper discusses the development of the Canadian state as a racist political culture.
1,318 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 44.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses that in Canada in the early 21st century there is the widespread belief that racism is largely a concern of other countries given such state policies as multiculturalism. This being said, this essay argues, through the critical examination of scholarly texts on the subject, that, in fact, the development of Canada as a racist political culture defines the fundamental institutions of the Canadian state to the present day. The writer maintains that when Canada is considered in terms of its historical development, in terms of its policy making - as in the case of multiculturalism - or in terms of its political culture manifested in the mass media and the economy, there exists overwhelmingly evidence in support of the contention that Canada is a fundamentally racist political culture.
From the Paper
"Consider, for example, the unrest that has often erupted in Canada between Aboriginals and the government/land developers who are seeking to build on sacred Aboriginal lands. Even if we set aside the issue that all of the North American continent itself originally belonged to the ancestors of these Aboriginals, the fact that it has been so difficult for these First Nations to enforce their treaty rights through the courts that they must resort to peaceful civil disobedience is evidence of the radical inequality in the Canadian social, political and economic systems. Indeed, as the conflicts years ago at Akwasasne and Oka, dissent and civil disruption appear to be the only way that marginalized populations can make their case in the public arena given that they are effectively dispossessed."
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Social Exclusion, 2008.
This paper discusses the problem of social exclusion as part of urban sociology.
1,090 words (approx. 4.4 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 38.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that social exclusion is one of the ways in which social inequalities are expressed within urban areas. The author points out that residents are grouped together according to a number of factors including socio-economic status, race, gender and even age. The paper relates that those individuals with few economic resources, limited social capital or belonging to the wrong gender or race end up being excluded from the social process that ultimately shapes urban areas. The author underscores that urban sociology fits into this field of study because these activities determine the shape of the city, which in turn affects the behavior of individuals. The paper states that the simplest form of social exclusion is that there is no space for the groups that are being excluded, such as the homeless.
From the Paper
"Public spaces are enclosed because they have economic value. However, the economic interests of corporations and other members of society are entwined with political and social interests. As certain economic, social and political interests come to dominate public spaces, certain social elements must be excluded. This is a perfect example of how the social processes involved in the city ultimately change the physical nature of the city. These changes in physical structure ultimately result in further social change. This clearly demonstrates the relationship between social exclusion and urban sociology."
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