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The Disappearance of the Mayan Civilization, 2006.
This paper examines the numerous cultural attributes of the Mayan civilization while focusing on the reasons for its eventual collapse and disappearance.
740 words (approx. 3.0 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 26.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes the disappearance of the Mayan civilization while focusing on the various theories surrounding its eventual collapse. The writer of this brief yet concise paper details the history of the Mayan culture which emerged in 2000 BC. The Mayan civilization gave birth to numerous cultural progresses such as the establishment of a writing system, an organized political council as well as the introduction of organized religion. This paper examines the theories surrounding the dispersal of the Mayan civilization, when at around 800 AD it was purported to have suddenly collapsed. There have been numerous arguments based on archaeological and anthropological evidence that attempted to explain the collapse of this particular civilization. This paper focuses on several theories which may explain the disappearance of the Mayan people which include climatic changes as well as socio-cultural collapse through the population's expansion.
From the Paper
"The theory that argued that a climatic collapse led to the disappearance of the Mayan civilization was based from scientific findings that were caused by a severe drought. As reported by History Today, "[d]rilling samples from the Cariaco Basin off the Venezuelan Coast show there were intensely dry periods between AD 810 and AD 910..." From this finding, it was found that because there had been scarce supply of the people's basic needs, such as water and food supply, Mayan society disappeared, supposedly due to deaths caused by these series of drought. A more specific version of this theory was presented in Kerr's journal article on the scientific evidence pointing at climate changes as the catalyst towards the disappearance of the civilization."
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Hispanic Pregnancy, 2005.
Examines cultural practices during pregnancy in Hispanic families.
984 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 34.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the cultural practices that occur in Hispanic families during pregnancy. There is a large body of evidence that suggests that women of Hispanic descent are more likely to realize positive peri-natal outcomes despite social and economic disadvantages such as poverty during pregnancy. Preliminary research available indicates that this is largely due to familial and community ties which are rich within the Hispanic community. The researcher examines what specific factors related to Hispanic culture can be linked to positive birth outcomes, so that those practices might be harnessed and used by women of all nationalities and cultural origins.
Paper Outline:
Introduction
Literature Review
Conclusion
References
From the Paper
"Domian (2001) conducted a study which shows that among Hispanic mothers, pregnancy outcomes were more likely to be positive as a result of socialization processes that helped pregnant women and their family members adapt to the changes associated with pregnancy and delivery. Mutual sharing is thought to be a cultural practice that helps reinforce the family structure and encourages positive behaviors during pregnancy."
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Human Nature, 2006.
This paper explores the issue of human nature and focuses on the views and theories of philosophers Thomas Hobbes and David Hume.
2,540 words (approx. 10.2 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 76.95
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Abstract
The writer of this well-researched paper defines human nature as the full scale of human behavior that is believed to remain constant for long periods in time and does not differ in the context of the various cultures that are seen in the world. This paper examines various theories on human nature, in which each possesses a distinctive view on the subject, including that of Plato. According to Plato, there is an intellectual soul that is resident in the brain of an individual. This paper analyzes the topic of human nature by focusing on the opinions and theories of Thomas Hobbes and David Hume. Thomas Hobbes is considered one of the individuals responsible for the transition from the medieval way of thinking to the modern thought process in Great Britain. This paper touches on Hobbes' book "Leviathan" and his views on human nature which are very clear. Hobbes' conception of human nature is a mechanistic one. Hobbes contends that the study of the movements of the physical bodies would prove to be enough in explaining all that goes on in the universe. Hume's approach to human nature differs from that of Hobbes. Hume contends that we, as humans, can only make inferences on what would happen in the future by what we have experienced in the past. The writer contends that Hume progresses from there to say that we would be incorrect to believe that this knowledge and experience of the past is enough to justify what would happen in the future.
Table of Contents:
Hobbes
Limitations in Hobbes' View of Human Nature
Hume
Ethics of Reciprocity
References
From the Paper
"There have been several theories that have been put forward on human nature and each of them possesses a distinctive view on human nature. The earliest views on human nature of substance come from Plato, whose thoughts on life were influenced by Socrates. In the view of Plato there is an intellectual soul that is resident in the brain of an individual and an appetitive beast that is to be found in the belly and genitals of the individual. The role of the former was in keeping the latter in check and over a period of time escape from this uncomfortable cohabitation by welcoming death. This dualist theory of Plato did have immense on the thoughts on human nature and that time and this influence can be seen in Christian theology with the Gospel of John. The extension of these beliefs of Plato on human nature had their influence on Descartes and led him to formulate the theory that man is made up of a soul that thinks and a body that is an extension of it."
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Healthcare in Australia, 2006.
Examines the issues that impact on the health of Australia's culturally and ethnically diverse population and what they mean for healthcare.
1,751 words (approx. 7.0 pages), 6 sources, APA, $ 56.95
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Abstract
This research paper attempts to evaluate how Australia's culturally and ethnically diverse population is affected from a health perspective. More specifically, the paper attempts to define the approach healthcare must take to attend to the needs of its diverse population with regards to the many health related problems specifically related to the cultural diversity and socio-economic and demographic differences inherent within the population.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Health of the Population
Cultural and Ethnic Diversity Related to Health
Health Promotion in Australia
Conclusions
From the Paper
"Overall the health of the population in Australia is considered excellent (Eagar, Garrett & Lin, 2001). However, those that would evaluate the health of wealthy urbanites adopt this sentiment or the citizens densely packed into Australia's major urban centers. There are however discrepancies in the status of health as one looks at other populations that inhabit the country. The indigenous population in Australia for example, is "believed to rank among the worst in the world" (Eagar, Garrett & Lin, 2001:33). Disparities in health status also exist within the country that are related to the following: gender, ethnicity, age, geographic region and socioeconomic status (Eagar, Garrett, & Lin, 2001:33)."
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The Importance of Rice, 2006.
A look at why rice is so important in today's world.
1,605 words (approx. 6.4 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 52.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses and summarizes several books on the importance of rice in today's world. The paper looks at the role rice plays in nutrition, the variety of climates and geological regions in which it can be grown, how rice impacts the ecosystem and its cultural relevance to many societies.
From the Paper
"Rice is adaptable to numerous climates, terrains, and cultures. In fact, rice is cultivated on every continent except Antarctica. Consequently, there are thousands of strains of rice today. In addition, it can be raised with other crops and food sources, encouraging biodiversity. Since wetland rice fields are habitats for a wide variety of terrestrial and aquatic organisms, the potential to diversify food sources within these rice-based ecosystem is optimal. Fish, frogs, snails, insects, and other aquatic organisms that thrive in conjunction with rice are a source of animal protein and essential fatty acids. In addition, various kinds of livestock are supported by rice-based systems. Ducks feed on small fish, other aquatic organisms, and weeds within the paddy fields, while buffaloes, cattle, sheep and goats graze on rice straw as their main food source in rice-producing areas. Rice bran (a by-product of rice milling) and low-quality and surplus rice grains also provide feed supplements for livestock, and livestock waste can be used as organic fertilizer. Rice fields also host many natural enemies or predators, which provide a mechanism to control harmful insects and pests, thus reducing the need for pesticides. Similarly, fish feed on weeds and assist in weed control."
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The Impact of Cultural Variation on Human Rights, 2005.
This paper examines the opinion of writer W. Penn Handwerker on the issue of cultural variations impacting universal human rights.
837 words (approx. 3.3 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 29.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes W. Penn Handwerker's article "Universal Human Rights and the Problem of Unbounded Cultural Meanings." Handwerker contends that cultural variations impact on universal rights and that freedom from violence epitomizes the entire of concept of human rights. This paper details how Handwerker's views and opinions differ greatly from popular beliefs and theories such as that of anthropologist Gene Hammel, who argues that each culture is different because it chooses whichever identity is best for it. When "different" is equated with "best," asserts Hammel, the possibility of universal human rights is defeated. This paper examines the reasons Handwerker rejects the conclusions of various cultural anthropologists who argue that human rights are an unattainable ideal due to cultural differences.
From the Paper
"In the first section of the article, "Violence as Meaning That Arises from Social Interaction," Handwerker argues that though there is sometimes biological expression of violence, "violence can only be expressed as a social act within specific social relationships" (p. 800), and the meaning of violence depends heavily upon the social context in which it takes place. And though violent behavior is oftentimes passed down to the next generation, a change in behavior can break the cycle. Handwerker's observations of people from West Africa to the West Indies to the United States have revealed to him that the subjects of violence (but not the instigators of it) generally use physical pain (as opposed to emotional pain) as the primary criterion of violence. And just as consistent as the definition of violence across the various cultures he studied were the reports of affection."
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Diverging Views of the First European Settlers, 2006.
This in-depth paper examines the existing evidence and research regarding the first arrival of humans into Europe which is continually being revised and debated.
3,372 words (approx. 13.5 pages), 12 sources, MLA, $ 95.95
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Abstract
This well-researched and in-depth paper analyzes the available evidence and research regarding the earliest expansion of humans into Europe which is continually being revised and debated. This paper details the two distinct and widely differing viewpoints relating to the first permanent Europeans. Supporters of a short chronology believe that the first residents of Europe migrated into the area from the near east approximately 500-thousand years ago. Whereas other fossil-rich sites in Europe continue to reveal thousands of other large mammal remains dated to the lower and middle Pleistocene epochs, dating to before 500-thousand years ago. The best evidence supporting a belief in the short chronology comes from a mandible found in Germany in 1907 at Mauer dated to around 500-thousand years ago. This paper delves into the long-running discussions of when Europe was first colonized, which has recently been fueled by new discoveries from the Iberian peninsula, which reports hominid occupation 800-thousand years ago or perhaps even 1.8-million years ago. The writer also discusses the detailed excavation of the Atapuerca sites in Spain which reveals evidence of earlier human expansion into Europe than was previously believed.
From the Paper
"Looking at Middle Pleistocene fossils from Europe, we have a number of human remains, some more reliable than others. For a considerable time, a supposed human molar found at the Czechoslovakia site of Prezletice in the company of what were believed to be human-made stone tools was believed to be one of the oldest human fossils from the Middle Pleistocene, with paleomagnetic studies dating it to about 780-thousand years ago. However, more recent studies have reclassified the tooth as belonging to a member of Ursus. Other contestable evidence from central Europe has been unearthed near Sedlesovice, where what appears to be a quartz artifact was discovered, and from Trzebnica in Poland, where similar artifacts have been unearthed."
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Australian Land: Aborigines vs. Europeans, 2006.
This paper explores the differences in conceptions of land ownership between the Australian Aborigines and the European colonists.
1,998 words (approx. 8.0 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 63.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the Aborigines of Australia who are said to have arrived on the continent over 50,000 years ago, blending into the already existent population and thus creating perhaps the most physically diverse population in the world. This paper details the differences in conceptions of land ownership between the Australian Aborigines and European colonists. The writer of this paper describes how the Aborigines had developed their own society, culture and rules for land ownership which were inexcusably overlooked by the European invaders. When Europe began to encroach upon the territories of the Aborigines, the latter group simply adapted resourcefully and made new claims. This paper explores the various countries and nations that laid claim to Australia, including the Dutch, British and Spain While the Aborigines claimed Australia through ancestral travels, the Dutch and British justified their possession by initial landing rights and the Spanish laid their claim based on religious doctrine. The British extended their claim to the entire continent by 1826 with the stroke of a legislative pen. This writer of this paper describes how the conflict was furthermore exacerbated by the fact that Aborigines and Europeans had differing conceptions of private property.
From the Paper
"Although the Aborigines lived according to such ancient beliefs for thousands of years, their fate would soon be doomed according to a very different system of territorial claims formulated 10000 miles away, in Europe. While the Aborigines justifiably had divided Australian lands into their own territories, the newly 'discovered' continent would soon come into a three-way struggle for possession as Britain, Holland, and Spain each claimed Australia separately, none of these claims based on right of ancestors, but on religious, economic, and political rationales. The Spanish and Portuguese, in search of southern trade routes and the legendary Terra Australis, had touched on the continent of Australia."
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Intra-Status Marriages, 2006.
An analysis of intra-status marriages from sociological, economic and religious perspectives.
3,000 words (approx. 12.0 pages), 16 sources, MLA, $ 88.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the unusual form of the intra-status marriage, also known as status-level endogamy. According to the paper, these are marriages between brothers and sisters or fathers and daughters, which have been described by the aboriginal Hawaiians, the Incas and the ancient Egyptians. In an attempt to evaluate the normative value of these marriages, this paper examines the definition and scope of marriage throughout history and across cultures; discusses marriages of socially approved sexual unions; and investigates marriages of economic unions. The paper concludes that, issues of incest aside, intra-status marriages fulfill all of the requirements for marriage as defined in a general cultural anthropology text. They are, the paper asserts, socially approved sexual unions, which have important economic purposes.
Outline
What is Marriage?
Socially Approved Sexual Unions
Economic Union
Conclusion
From the Paper
"In all three instances, there is an aura of divinity or great power surrounding the ruling family. For the early Hawaiians, an explanation may be couched in terms of the preservation of the intangible power of mana. For the ancient Egyptians and the Inca, on the other hand, there is a more concrete connection to the divine, and to the notion of divine right.Among the early Hawaiians, the small but powerful ruling class of chiefs was called ali'i. According to Hazama, the ali'i had sacred power because of the mana or divine power they possessed (9). There is no direct translation into English of the term mana. Linton characterizes it as the "power for accomplishment" (54). Thus, any object or person that performed beyond the ordinary, such as a fishhook that caught more than the usual number of fish or the chief who was more than usually good at diplomatic maneuvering, showed that it had good mana."
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Alopecia, 2006.
This paper examines the causes and effects of alopecia areata, a systemic hair loss disorder which affects around 4.7 million people in the United States alone.
2,141 words (approx. 8.6 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 67.95
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Abstract
This paper describes alopecia areata, a systematic hair loss disorder, as a disease that is independent of race, gender or age, hence affected people represent a wide and diverse group. The writer details the effects of the disease which can be either permanent or reversible depending on the nature and extent of damage to the hair follicles. It is believed that both genetic and environmental factors have an influence in the onset of the condition. While there is no complete cure as of yet for alopecia, treatment is primarily aimed at slowing down and containing the severity of the symptoms. This paper also discusses the psychological devastation suffered by the affected person which at times can be debilitating. This paper contains a brief yet concise overview of the various types of alopecia as well as the possible treatment options available.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Alopecia (Different Types)
Hair Follicles (Complex Morphognesis)
Androgenic Alopecia
Molecular Pathology of AGA
Immunology of Alopecia Areata
Microcirculation in Scalp Tissues
Cosmetic Surgery
Conclusion
Bibliography
From the Paper
"Research into the pathophysiology of AGA though still inconclusive, has offered enough insight and has identified the important role of androgens in the progressive miniaturization of the hair follicles leading to baldness. Testosterone and its metabolite dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in particular have been directly related as causative factors. The presence of the enzyme 5[Alpha]-reductase is essential for the catalytic reduction of testosterone into the more potent form of DHT. Chromosome 2p has the gene necessary for encoding 5[Alpha]-reductase. Extensive studies conducted on people suffering from AGA have revealed an excess of 5[Alpha]-reductase, and consequently greater amounts of DHT. DHT affects the hair follicles by binding with the dermal papilla cells creating androgen receptor complexes. Androgen receptors act as transcription factors and are directly involved in the synthesis of the protein substances that affect the hair follicles."
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The Amish, 2006.
An overview of the history and customs of this cultural subgroup in the United States and how they have adapted to modern times.
3,450 words (approx. 13.8 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 97.95
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Abstract
Many aspects of the Amish culture remain quite traditional. These aspects include their dress, the use of horses, and the importance of a close-knit family and community. They are also extremely devoted to their faith. The paper shows that despite these traditional aspects, the Amish have integrated modern technologies into their lives. They have been able to maintain their core values while compromising with the changing world. The paper argues that the Amish people's discretionary use of modern technology can be commended.
Paper Outline:
Introduction
Origins of the Old Order Amish
Empirical Technologies In Amish Society
Conclusion
Works Cited
From the Paper
"Community phones also save the Amish farmers from the embarrassment of dragging barn dirt and smells into non-Amish homes. There is always a need to make appointments with doctors, contact veterinarians and feed dealers, and for the businessmen to order supplies (Kraybill 146). Establishing community phones in Amish society suggests the difficulty of trying to remain strictly traditional in this modern world. They have found that as the world becomes more modern, the more they are forced to alter their behavior, attitudes, and lifestyle. Change becomes a mandatory process."
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Japanese Women in the Workforce, 2006.
Addresses historical trends in women's work and wages in Japan and closes with prospects for the future.
1,895 words (approx. 7.6 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 60.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at the changing nature of women's employment in Japan. The paper examines traditional roles of Japanese society, traditional societal attitudes about the role of women in Japan and how Japanese women themselves have largely seen their role in society. The paper also examines how, slowly, these roles and attitudes are changing and looks at the factors that have contributed to these changes. The paper concludes with a look at what Japanese women and society can do to help promote the prospects of women in the future.
From the Paper
"As the female share of the labor force rises, the labor force overall may appear to respond less flexibly to changes in aggregate demand, and Japan may witness an initial slowing of productivity growth, since many of the women who enter the labor force will have less experience and training than their male counterparts. The male-female wage gap has recently begun to widen, partly as a result of the changing composition of the female labor force. However, as more and more women become permanently attached to the workforce, increases will probably occur both in their productivity and in their relative wages."
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Is Human Culture Aryan?, 2006.
An evaluation of the degree of Western influence on the development of human culture.
1,750 words (approx. 7.0 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 56.95
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Abstract
This paper studies the magnitude of Western influence on the shape of human culture. The paper begins with the question of Aryan influence, with the author attempting to define the term Aryan. He rejects the Nazi identification of Aryan, choosing instead to define it broadly as peoples whose languages are derived from the Indo-European linguistic group. Even more broadly, the author equates Aryan with Western. Then the paper studies the influences of the Aryan -- aka the West -- on human culture. While the author finds the impact of Western ideas, philosophy and invention to be obviously great, he says that human culture is too broad to credit it all to the West. He points to writing, toolmaking, organized religion and political organization, urbanization, and monumental architecture, all of which derived from non-Aryan cultures.
From the Paper
"Even if the wide-ranging influence of the Indo-Europeans is recognized, the cultures identified with them are not purely Indo-European, but were themselves influenced by pre-Indo-European cultures. For example, The Indo-Europeans in Persia were greatly influenced by the ancient Semitic cultures of Mesopotamia and Anatolia. Likewise, aspects of the more-ancient culture of Dravidian India were incorporated into the dominant Indo-European culture of the invaders from the north. So it is wrong to think that speakers of Indo-European languages can be credited with creating all of human culture."
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Is Human Culture Aryan?, 2006.
An evaluation of the degree of Western influence on the development of human culture.
1,750 words (approx. 7.0 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 56.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper studies the magnitude of Western influence on the shape of human culture. The paper begins with the question of Aryan influence, with the author attempting to define the term Aryan. He rejects the Nazi identification of Aryan, choosing instead to define it broadly as peoples whose languages are derived from the Indo-European linguistic group. Even more broadly, the author equates Aryan with Western. Then the paper studies the influences of the Aryan -- aka the West -- on human culture. While the author finds the impact of Western ideas, philosophy and invention to be obviously great, he says that human culture is too broad to credit it all to the West. He points to writing, toolmaking, organized religion and political organization, urbanization, and monumental architecture, all of which derived from non-Aryan cultures.
From the Paper
"Even if the wide-ranging influence of the Indo-Europeans is recognized, the cultures identified with them are not purely Indo-European, but were themselves influenced by pre-Indo-European cultures. For example, The Indo-Europeans in Persia were greatly influenced by the ancient Semitic cultures of Mesopotamia and Anatolia. Likewise, aspects of the more-ancient culture of Dravidian India were incorporated into the dominant Indo-European culture of the invaders from the north. So it is wrong to think that speakers of Indo-European languages can be credited with creating all of human culture."
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Urban Studies, 2006.
An assessment of inner cities in the United States.
1,950 words (approx. 7.8 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 62.95
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Abstract
This paper studies the ethnic origin of the social breakup of cities throughout history. It argues that by ethnic groups concentrating together, their adjustment to life in America is made easier. The paper further brings research-based evidence that this arrangement has helped newcomers to maintain their ties with other people in their community. At the same time, the paper explores the role of racism in perpetuating these concentrations, particularly within low-income areas.
From the Paper
"The situation regarding the ethnic origin of people in US cities has been changing. In many cities, the groups have changed substantially. There has been a great liberalization of the immigration laws from the 1960s. A large number of Latin American and Asian people have been permitted to come into the US. In the meantime, the Whites have moved out of the central cities, and the Blacks have moved into the centers of the cities. Thus the central parts of many American cities are today occupied by a large number of non-whites. In the meantime, the movements for civil rights have also been active, and this has led to changes in Federal Laws. The main purpose of these changes was to help the minorities in the country integrate themselves into the mainstream of the country. (Lemann, 12)"
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