| Papers [1-15] of 100 :: [Page 1 of 7] | | Go to page : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 —> | Search results on "BANALITY EVIL": |
|
|
"The Banality of Evil", 2006.
An analysis of Hannah Arendt's work "The Banality of Evil." Several possibilities are discussed which explain evil and its results.
1,263 words (approx. 5.1 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 42.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper explores Hannah Arendt's theory which she called "the banality of evil." Arendt's hypothesis is critiqued and studied through the example of Adolf Eichmann, a figure responsible for orchestrating the Nazi Holocaust. A disturbing facet of Arendt's argument is based on the belief that Adolf Eichmann lacked intrinsically evil psychological makeup. It is debated in this paper whether a human being could willingly devise a scheme that was the most sadistic and systematic killing in world history. A brief portion of the paper examines common instances where the 'banality of evil' could excuse wrongdoing.
From the Paper
"The term 'banality of evil' can be explained in a variety of ways. Literally, the word 'banality' translates as "dullness". The word evil can be defined as "something that brings sorrow, distress, or calamity" . On the surface, a basic analysis of the phrase implies that sadistic behavior does not always have a starting point. Arendt's use of this phrase offers an alternative explanation to our traditional perceptions of evil. She refutes the notion that an ulterior motive must exist to commit sinister acts such as the Holocaust. In Eichmann's example, this would imply that he was not motivated by Anti-Semitism or inner-resentment towards any race. Instead, Arendt proposes that some individuals' capacity for evil derives from their superficial character. Their superficiality dulls their ability to make informed and moral decisions."
| |
|
The Banality of Evil, 2002.
Discussion of the Holocaust centering on Hannah Arendt's "Eichmann in Jerusalem" examining both age old anti-Semitism in Germany and the banality or ordinariness of Hitler's bureaucratized system of annihilation.
1,535 words (approx. 6.1 pages), 3 sources, $ 50.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper is based on Hannah Arendt?s "Eichmann in Jerusalem". It discusses two views of the Holocaust: one that the perpetrators were Germans nurtured on a centuries old anti-Semitism tradition; and another that the perpetrators were ordinary people, caught up in a bureaucratized system of annihilation that encouraged unthinking complicity that made this evil seem banal or ordinary because everyone was going along with it. That these two views are easily reconciled is the thesis of the paper. Elie Wiesel?s "Night" and Michael Dobkowski?s "Genocide and The Modern Age" are used to supplement discussion of Arendt?s treatment of the trial of Adolf Eichmann.
From the Paper
"It is true that the Holocaust was perpetrated by Germans with a long history of pervasive inhumane anti-Semitic views. It is also valid to say that the Holocaust was facilitated by banal acceptance of a bureaucratized system of annihilation. With centuries of hatred, and barbarous treatment of Jews as precedent, it was easy for the Germans to move on to state sanctioned systematized slaughter. Those whose upbringing had taught them to hate Jews, might move quickly into positions of power in the Third Reich. Others who weren?t capable of thinking for themselves, saw everyone else, including those they respected and admired supporting Hitler?s answers to the Jewish question. A long tradition of anti-Semitism joined with unthinking complicity to escalate the banality of evil. As evil progressed through stages of classification, ghettoization, deportation, and concentration to eradication, it was just another step in the progression of dehumanization for those who had forgotten the unity of the human community."
| |
|
Karl Adolf Eichmann: The Banality of Evil, 2006.
An examination of the impact the actions and the trial of Adolf Eichmann has had on history and society.
3,489 words (approx. 14.0 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 98.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper discusses aspects of the Holocaust with particular focus on Karl Adolf Eichmann (1906-62), a Nazi official responsible for the execution of millions of Jews during World War II. The paper looks at how his decisions about which Jews would be allowed to emigrate (and later, which Jews would be sent to their deaths) affected society and how his eventual capture influenced the way in which the world thought about horrible war crimes and the people who committed them. The paper explains that Eichmann forever changed the course of history for millions during the war, and his trial changed the way sociologists, psychologists, and historians would think about Hitler's executioners.
From the Paper
"Eichmann could not have impacted history on his own: that is one of the facts that caused such an impact. It had been commonly thought that only powerful men and women, either by great or by infamous deeds, could influence their communities and the world. Eichmann disproved this theory. He was a mild man who followed orders to the best of his ability and loyally attempted to serve his country well in a time of war. In effect, he acted according to accepted values and standards. When he was finally captured in 1960 and tried in Jerusalem, the world awaited the trial of a madman whose inherent evil nature would be revealed by the court. His years of hiding were over, and his mild nature was expected to drop from him like a curtain, exposing the moral corruption that allowed him to send millions to their deaths. Sociologists awaited a monumental event; survivors awaited answers, admissions of guilt before the law, and justice. None of these were forthcoming from the trial."
| |
|
Evil is as Evil Does, 2002.
A look at David Hume's philosophy on evil.
650 words (approx. 2.6 pages), 3 sources, $ 26.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper presents a detailed look at David Hume's ideas on evil. The writer of this paper takes the reader on an exploratory journey through the philosophy of Hume focusing on his beliefs when it came to the concept of evilness.
| |
|
Hear No Evil, See No Evil, 2004.
A look at the controversial issue of children using the Internet.
1,447 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper discusses the question of censorship in relation to the use of Internet by children. The writer explains that the responsibility lies both on the parents and the government in implementing some sort of control, but also argues that inappropriate behavior stems not only from this source. The writer concludes that education is the key factor in achieving a balanced use of the Internet.
From the Paper
"A teenaged gunman opens fire in a Colorado school. A twelve-year-old boy rapes and kills a six-year-old. Yet another boy kills a toddler just for the ?fun? of it. These are but a few of the recent headlines that paint a shocking picture of modern day society. We are a culture in turmoil; a culture beset by depravity and violence. It is hard enough to raise a child today without reading stories such as these, but harder still when, in the name of entertainment; our children and we are bombarded with such images on a daily basis. For who can turn on a television or go to a movie without witnessing some violent and offensive scene? Those who should be setting good examples only encourage the trend toward greater disregard for ethical standards. Authority figures behave inappropriately, heroes tote guns, rock stars sing of shootings and gang violence ? and media moguls cry freedom of speech when confronted with the consequences. Luckily, today?s children can turn to the computer for alternate sources of entertainment and inspiration."
| |
|
St. Augustine's Problem of Evil, 2002.
A discussion of St. Augustine's theory of evil and why evil exists if God does.
1,848 words (approx. 7.4 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 59.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper examines St. Augustine's doctrine on evil. St. Augustine believed that God made a perfect world, but that God?s creatures turned away from God of their own free will, through different types of falls, and that is how evil originated in the world. It shows how Augustine?s approach to a solution to the problem of evil has three main parts: The author explains how Augustine assumes that evil is a privation and cannot be properly said to exist at all, he argues that the apparent imperfection of any part of creation disappears in light of the perfection of the whole and he argues that moral evil, together with that suffering which is created as punishment for sin, originates in the free nature of the will of all creatures. According to Augustine, God has allowed evil to exist in the world because it does not conflict with His goodness. He did not create evil but is also not a victim of it. He simply allows it to exist.
From the Paper
"In Augustine?s study of the problem of evil, he argues that there are a variety of things that are good. Without this variety, he says, there can be a greater good ness of things as a whole than there would be if this variety did not exist. Augustine also argues that evil is not completely real in itself. Instead, it is dependent on something more real, like disease, which is a form of evil. He points out that disease can only exist in a body, which is a form of good. Therefore, Augustine says, God, who is the source of everything that exists, is not in contest with a positive being or a counterpart that is evil."
| |
|
Evil, 2007.
This paper discusses and analyzes the concept of evil.
1,819 words (approx. 7.3 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 58.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
In this article, the writer takes a look at the origins of evil and discusses its purpose in society. The writer examines the different interpretations of evil and the way in which evil is viewed in different aspects of society. This essay also looks at the conflicting views on the existence of God and evil. The writer concludes that evil is something which has no definite meaning, as there will always be someone who has a different interpretation. Further, the writer maintains that evil will remain in this world in order to test people's temptations and morals. The writer claims that those who fall to evil ways shall repent it forever.
Outline:
Executive Summary
Introduction
What is Evil?
Definition of Good and Evil
Existence of Evil in the World
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Evil can be classified as an act which causes pain purposely and not accidentally. A person committing an act of evil knows that he/she is doing something which is morally wrong but then still proceeds to do it. Evil is an ugly thing but then one needs to have evil so that there is good in the world. There has to be something out there which will allow us to classify something as an act of good so that it can be distinguished from evil. Evil has to be there so it can balance goodwill in the world so that life can go on. This is known as the theory of duality where it states that life is a struggle between good or evil. It is believed that evil and good are different parts of the pole and cancel each other out."
| |
|
Judaism and the Problem of Evil, 2005.
This paper discusses that, despite being the victim of much evil through-out history, Judaism has maintained a basically hopeful attitude towards the problem of suffering and of evil.
1,165 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 40.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper explains that Judaism addresses the problem of evil without doubting the full existence either of evil or of God and without blaming the problem of evil on supernatural forces such as evil spirits or the divine workings of Karma. The author points out that the Jewish faith suggests that the existence of evil was necessary because it allowed God to create the universe and the concept of free will. The paper relates that, like that of many transcendental Eastern religions, Judaism's relationship to suffering addresses the value and benefit of evil in the world because evil works to clean the soul.
From the Paper
"This idea that humanity's free will forces evil into the world is a common theme in most religions and even among atheists. Many people have an instinct that suggests some outside force works on humans, however, encouraging them to do evil when they would not have a tendency to do it by themselves. For example, in Christian culture the idea of a "devil" who can "make" people do bad things is very common. Christians believe that one of God's angels rebelled and fell from heaven, and now leads an army of demons on earth who wreck havoc on humans, both tempting them to do evil and striking at them with external evil like cancer or natural disasters. Judaism, however, does not believe in anything of the sort, nor do the Hebrew scriptures support this view. On the contrary, according to Jewish understandings, Satan is not a rebel but an obedient angel who is "His Majesty's loyal opposition"."
| |
|
The Problem of Evil, 2004.
This paper discusses that evil is everywhere, and that, while good is also in abundant supply, evil will never totally be removed from society.
1,990 words (approx. 8.0 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 63.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper argues that good and evil create a yin and yang sort of effect that many believe is necessary to understand life and its balance. The author points out that it is difficult to prove what is evil and what is good; there are many different opinions, depending on the circumstances. The paper reflects that, to remove totally the problem of evil, everyone on earth would have to be destroyed, which would be pointless.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Argument for Evil Remaining in the World
The Argument against Evil Remaining in the World
Is There a Solution to Evil?
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The opposing opinion, of course, is that evil need not remain with humanity. The arguments here will respond to those listed above. As to the first argument, many believe that evil and good are not actually opposing forces. They are not forces at all. Instead, they are simply words that are put on actions and ideas, depending on what the majority of that society agrees upon. There are many places that do not have the same rules and regulations as other areas, but that does not make one of these places evil and the other place good. It only makes these places different from one another. It is the same with good and evil. They are side by side, not opposed to one another, and the only difference between the two is based in the perceptions and opinions of those around them."
| |
|
?Unmasking Administrative Evil?, 2004.
A review of the book, ?Unmasking Administrative Evil,? by Guy B. Adams and Danny L. Balfour.
1,229 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 41.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper examines how, in "Understanding Administrative Evil", authors Guy B. Adams and Danny L. Balfour explore the idea and evolution of the concept of evil. It looks at how, over time, historical evil has evolved into administrative evil, a form of evil that is unique to modernity, and how the main differences between historical and administrative evil lie in the perpetrator?s motivation. It analyzes how, to illustrate their arguments, Adams and Balfour cite numerous and varied cases of administrative evil, including the Jewish Holocaust, welfare reform, immigration, and the destructive organizational culture at NASA that spawned the Challenger tragedy.
From the Paper
"To support their argument, Adams and Balfour apply their theory to a number of modern historical events. In their first study, the authors analyze the Holocaust, first by summarizing the debate between intentionalist and functionalist scholars. However, to fully understand the German society?s complicity in the Holocaust, Adams and Balfour argue for a synthesis ? that the Holocaust grew out of a ?confluence of historical and political forces, racist ideology and anti-Semitism, organizational competition and the bureaucratic processes of a highly developed modern society? (59)."
| |
|
"Sin: Radical Evil in Soul and Society", 2008.
A review of the book "Sin: Radical Evil in Soul and Society" by Ted Peters.
816 words (approx. 3.3 pages), 0 sources, MLA, $ 29.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper discusses how in his book, "Sin: Radical Evil in Soul and Society", Ted Peters tackles the subject of sin and evil in human lives and the lives of society. It looks at how, according to Peters, sin is a progression that leads to radical evil, or evil pursued in the name of evil.
From the Paper
"In order for humans to believe that concupiscence may succeed, they invent lies, and seek self-justification, which Peters defines as "identifying ourselves with the good." This self-justification can result in prejudice and profound racism and culture wars. This self-justification is essential for hypocrisy, as Peters shows in Jesus' discussions with the Jews. However, as self-justification results in bigotry and hypocrisy, justification by faith brings freedom. In it "God creates new life out of death just as he first brought the creation into existence out of nothing." God's justification is the only way we can find freedom."
| |
|
Good Versus Evil in "Billy Budd", 2001.
This paper touches on the theme of good versus evil in "Billy Budd" by Herman Melville. It explains how Billy is the symbol of ultimate good and Claggart is the symbol of ultimate evil.
1,225 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 5 sources, $ 41.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper discusses the age-old concept of good versus evil in the book, "Billy Budd", by Herman Melville. The author provides an overview of the characters of the protagonist and antagonist, who respectively personify good and evil. Biblical parallels as drawn as well.
From the Paper
"Good versus evil is a very common theme in many different types of literature. One literary work which portrays the battle between good and evil very affectively is Billy Budd by Herman Melville. In this novel, good is portrayed through the character of Billy, while the character of Claggart portrays evil. The battle between good and evil is personified through the characters of Claggart and Billy."
| |
|
Good And Evil, 2002.
Discusses the good and evil elements of human nature and what factors may influence a person to act in a good or evil manner.
1,900 words (approx. 7.6 pages), 6 sources, $ 71.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper discusses the forces of good and evil and how man's character and nature is influenced by both childhood experiences and genetic composition. While in my personal opinion, a person's nature is dependent on his upbringing, some scientists maintain that there may be some genetic connection which urges a man to indulge in evil acts.
| |
|
Augustine on Evil, 2003.
This paper is on Augustine's concept of evil.
2,770 words (approx. 11.1 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 82.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper is an examination of St. Augustine's doctrine of evil, the existence of evil, the nature of evil itself, and why it exists in the world. It further examines whether or not this definition of evil is still applicable to the modern world.
From the Paper
"Augustine?s doctrine of evil is certainly among the more debated areas of his philosophy. In this paper we will examine Augustine?s arguments on the idea of evil and determine whether or not they are still satisfying in the modern world. We do this first by examining what Augustine believed evil actually was and from whence it came. After we review Augustine?s views on evil, we will consider arguments that claim Augustine?s interpretation to be insufficient for explaining evil in the contemporary world. We will find that although Augustine?s arguments on the subject of evil are enough to explain evil itself, they fall short in helping us to understand the root causes of evil."
| |
|
Literature about Evil, 2006.
This paper discusses the phenomenon of evil in the human heart as demonstrated in the short stories "The Cask of Amontillado" by Edgar Allan Poe and "Young Goodman Brown" by Nathaniel Hawthorne.
975 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 34.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper explains that "The Cask of Amontillado" by Edgar Allan Poe and "Young Goodman Brown" by Nathaniel Hawthorne show two different sides of evil, but they both illustrate how evil can corrupt a person right down to his very heart and soul. The author points out that the heart of the narrator of "The Cask of Amontillado" is evil because of an insult; however, Goodman Brown is evil because of an encounter with the devil. The paper relates that both these men are weak and allow their emotions to take over rational thought; nonetheless, they represent everyone because every person has evil inside them.
From the Paper
"While most people would not admit it, evil lurks in just about every human heart, and so, most people could at least partially identify with these two stories. While most would not go to the lengths Montresor does to gain revenge, evil is seen every day on the highways and freeways of America. Nowadays people call it "road rage," but it is still evil in the hearts of drivers who suddenly lose control of their tempers after even the smallest infraction by another driver. Some of these events lead to accidents and even death, and so, the enraged drivers are not that different from Montresor."
|
|
|
