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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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Modern Italy, 2005.
This paper uses Aesop's fable about the town mouse and the city mouse to demonstrate demographic changes in modern Italy.
880 words (approx. 3.5 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 31.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, although modern Italy is changing, today it is still a country not only separated by customs and even regional dialects between South (i.e. South of Rome) and North, (i.e. Piedmont, Tuscany, etc.) but also the life styles in the many small and even remote villages and the large metropolitan areas are very different. The author points out that the country mice from Italy's small towns and villages have become more competitive and yet they still are far from becoming the so-called "sophisticates" of the big cities. The paper relates that the country mouse in today's Italy want to go to towns because, in the last two decades, Italy's economy has shifted sharply to industrial and services, which are located in the towns where more jobs are found.
From the Paper
" Of course, what the Town mouse didn't mention about the advantages of the city was, in case that city was Milan, the mice could be outfitted in the most stylish fashions by some of the world's most respected designers. Milan has overtaken Paris for much of both the high-priced end, Versacci, Armani, Gucci, but in Northern Italy is the world's most successful low- and mid-priced firm, Bennetton. Perhaps both mice could become a sort of "gray" example of the Colors of Bennetton, an advertising campaign that, if not everyone agrees with it, certainly has people talking. And, the country mouse can brag that Bennetton started, and is still located in a small town not too far from Venice."
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An Ethnographic Film: "Trobriand Cricket", 2005.
This paper uses movement analysis to evaluate the ethnographic film "Trobriand Cricket" (1973) by anthropologist Jerry W. Leach and filmmaker Gary Kildea.
2,920 words (approx. 11.7 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 86.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, in the film "Trobriand Cricket: An Ingenious Response to Colonialism", made in 1973 by anthropologist Jerry W. Leach and filmmaker Gary Kildea, the film narrative is devoted primarily to the historical context of the cricket game in the Trobriands, providing an illustration of some of the processes of cultural diffusion. The author points out that movement analysis, which focuses on some of the visible aspects of ethnographic films that are often left unrecognized in the film narrative, results in a more profound ethnological appreciation of its contents and is especially valuable for films that focus intentionally on cultural performance. The paper concludes that (1) "Trobriand Cricket" has severe constraints concerning the anthropological "statement" made by the film and (2) movement analysis may yield valuable insight in the initial stages of understanding performance.
From the Paper
"The cultural interpretation of any performance--no matter how transparently the performance is represented to the observer (as it is so effectively in ethnographic film)-relies on the kind of close observation that organizes several details of performance into a system. It is not simply growing and shrinking that are at issue in the Trobriand design, not simply linear formations that are at stake in the British style. The relationship of those features to other features, the relationship of growing and shrinking to force and speed and clusters of bodies, the relationship of lines to individual bodies and to a stabilizing energy field bring out distinctive patterns. The value of movement analysis lies in its ability to construct an articulate representation of particular and even peculiar performances in terms of the very general features that all movement processes share so that various patterns of association can be traced throughout the action of a given culture and between performances of various cultures. A system like LMA can abstract principles of conduct and can represent them accurately in their full complexity and peculiarity."
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National Identities, 2006.
A comparison between the national identities of Australia and the United States.
2,100 words (approx. 8.4 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 65.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes and then compares and contrasts the Australian and American national identities. The author examines the factors that have shaped those identities, including similar histories as British colonies, democratic systems of government, natural resources and culture. The author concludes that Australia and the United States have forged their national identities based upon similar idealized beliefs tied to the land. Australia, however, appears to be a "little brother" to the United States; always just a few steps behind, yet always following in the footsteps.
From the Paper
"The national identity or image a country presents has an impact on how the citizens of the country perceive themselves and how the rest of the world views them. Several different cultural factors influence and shape this image, and the identity can change with the passage of time. Language, religion, music, and ethnic interactions help to shape the character and perception of a country and its culture. Heritage, beliefs, and traditions all contribute to how a country's people look at themselves and the country they call home. Australia and the United States have journeyed through time along a very similar course. In both of these countries, the perception of land, frontier, and wide-open spaces have combined with the cultural influences to shape this national identity."
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Pueblo Society in New Mexico, 2006.
A review of the sociology text "When Jesus Came, the Corn Mothers Went Away: Marriage, Sexuality, and Power in New Mexico, 1500 - 1846" by Ramon Gutierrez.
3,327 words (approx. 13.3 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 95.95
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Abstract
The paper reviews the text with emphasis on the gender roles in Pueblo Indian society. The writer explains and describes the tension caused by the other major themes of the book such as the belief in one God by the Franciscan missionaries versus the natives' animistic views and the sexual freedom of the Puebloans compared to the sexual self-denial of the monks. The paper shows how Gutierrez brings the reader to the middle of the nineteenth century in New Mexico. In conclusion, the writer feels that Gutierrez resists the temptation to try to make up for the inequities of past accounts written by others, and instead presents a balanced, objective analysis of a complex and intriguing set of cultural phenomena.
From the Paper
"With regard to cultural significance, sexual intercourse was considered a powerful force for women in the Pueblo society as well. With none of the inhibitions or restrictions that members of supposedly more advanced cultures struggle with, Puebloans enjoyed a wide range of sexual activity. The women had total power of partner discernment which, when used well, enabled them to control a great deal of the social and political dynamics for the family. Reciprocal gift-giving was a major organizational and social force within the Pueblo society. A woman was obligated to have intercourse with her husband in exchange for the gifts given at the marriage and because he provided for her mother. But she was free to offer her hospitality by having sex with others as well. By so doing, she essentially accumulated guarantees of assistance, service, and possibly even goods from these sexual partners. Though a difficult conceptualization for this reader, it almost seems as though she was ensuring her family's future resources by giving the gift of her body to someone other than her spouse.
"With this complex cultural backdrop in place, enter the Franciscan missionaries--how shocked they must have been! Prior mission efforts may have prepared them for much of what they saw, but individual records still reported repulsion, especially at the apparent nexus between sexuality and the sacred among the Puebloans. The Franciscans order had especially severe ideals regarding self-discipline and sexual self-denial. Surely any pleasure derived from witnessing the "wicked" scenes among the Puebloans occasioned harsh flagellation among the friars."
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Religion: China vs. Germany, 2006.
This paper details the religious similarities and differences between China and Germany.
1,925 words (approx. 7.7 pages), 93 sources, APA, $ 61.95
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Abstract
The writer of this paper uses detailed historical anthropology of religion in comparing the religions of both China and Germany. This well researched paper lists the extreme contrasts of culture, values and universal laws for both countries.
From the Paper
"The first Chinese philosopher to both evaluate and combine these beliefs into a workable whole was Lao Tsu. He philosophized that the universe is not black and white but a dance between the two. His belief system is called Taoism and is actually part of the underlying cultural psyche of most Chinese people. Taoism was a belief that supported the worldview of the rural farmer rather than the bureaucrat."
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