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Existence of an External World, 2008.
A critical analysis of the arguments of Rene Descartes and John Locke with regards to the existence of an external world.
1,520 words (approx. 6.1 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the arguments of Rene Descartes and John Locke with regards to whether or not we can have knowledge of the existence of an external world. The paper shows that there are fundamental problems with both of their arguments and as such, the paper suggests that we are not yet in a position to demonstrate unequivocally that we can have knowledge of the existence of an external world.
From the Paper
"I thus conclude that neither Descartes nor Locke offer me sufficient proof that I can have knowledge of an external world. Descartes' argument fails on the basis that his argument for the existence of God is circular, and thus we have no particular reason to trust our own reasons. And Locke's argument fails because Descartes' arguments effectively destroy the foundation of Locke's argument. But as I have now have shown that I have no sound reason to trust the evidence of my reason, nor any sound reason to trust the evidence of my senses, it follows that there is nothing left on which I may base any confidence that we can have knowledge of the existence of an external world."
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Reality and the External World, 2008.
A comparison of the views of Rene Descartes and George Berkeley on the notion of the external world and how people interact with it.
1,058 words (approx. 4.2 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 37.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the notion that there is an external world and that people generally interact with it in similar manners. It describes and analyzes the philosophies of Rene Descartes and George Berkeley who both attempted to formally justify these notions. Furthermore, the paper compares and contrasts the views of the two philosophers in their explanations of the external world and reality.
From the Paper
"It seems that there is an almost undeniable disconnect between our mental constructions of how the world operates around us--largely through language--and the way in which this world may actually work in an objective sense. Since, according to Berkeley and many others, there may be little logical backing to the notion that an objective, physical reality can ever be reasonably approximated by any of us--because we are so completely committed to our own individual points of view--it has been historically difficult for correspondence theorists to generate a formula by which objective truth can be determined. After all, the linguistic mechanisms that we all make use of every day involve, extensively, relational propositions, universals, predicates, and other functions that fail to unambiguously possess any meaning in the physical world."
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Threats to the Third World Security: Not Quite External?, 2002.
A review on Mohammed Ayoob's book "The Third World Security Predicament: State Making, Regional Conflict, and the International System".
1,935 words (approx. 7.7 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 61.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how the author Mohammed Ayoob, provides a fresh and in-depth view on the political dynamics on the other side of the world, the Third World. It shows how throughout the book it is emphasized that the Third World security concerns are linked to its internal vulnerabilities, which stem from a low level of social cohesion and of regime?s legitimacy vis-?-vis its own population and how these are the main factors that are considered to have resulted on much intrastate conflicts and upheaval in the Third World.
From the Paper
"Ayoob explains that such a condition is caused by two factors. Firstly, these countries are still in the early phase of state-building. Most of the Third World countries have only started this process only after the end of the colonization era in the 20th century. Conversely, North American and European countries have undergone four to five centuries of state-building process and have now become ?territorially satiated? with social and political cohesiveness, high level of industrialization and evenly-distributed prosperity (p. 195). These countries have already obtained the three primary components of ?security software?: legitimacy, integration and policy capacity."
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Non-Existence, 2003.
A paper which classifies existence from non-existence and demonstrates the pervasiveness of infinity and its relation to an ordered reality.
1,739 words (approx. 7.0 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 56.95
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Abstract
What is existence? This essay categorizes existence, with reference to the conceptions of reality made by Aristotle and Sartre. The paper asks if existence of something unknowable is possible? Is metaphysics a legitimate enterprise based on an authentic order to the world? The paer shows that existence is to be examined as whole and all encompassing, and that reality and non-reality are necessary components for experience.
From the Paper
"When we consider our experience, and the ?place? in which it occupies, many questions come to mind. What is this experience? Is what I experience all that exists? Do things out there exist? Why does this exist? And so on. It is my contention that all of these questions, and many others of a similar nature are all related in a fundamental way to the question of infinity. Naturally enough, when we think of infinity, we think of it pertaining to something, as a property of something. It is this question of whether a thing is finite or infinite that comes before all others, even whether it has the ?property? of existence. This is due to the fact that finity and infinity define two possible values of existence. Finite existences have a subset of properties that establish its nature. Infinite existences, or possible existences, also have another subset of properties that establish its nature. It is my further contention that infinity represents an ultimate logical impossibility in the establishment of existence, and threatens the ?wholeness? that establishes a reality. With that in mind, we can rule out the subset of properties associated with infinite existences, as they turn out to be the very properties of non-existence, which, as I will show, if a fundamental aspect to a reality itself. In short, this essay will systematize reality from non-reality, existence from non-existence using the notion of absolute finitude as a touchstone."
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The Existence of God, 2006.
Compares and contrasts Thomas Aquinas' and St. Anselm of Canterbury's arguments for the existence of God.
3,549 words (approx. 14.2 pages), 12 sources, MLA, $ 99.95
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Abstract
This paper examines St. Anselm of Canterbury's and Thomas Aquinas' attempts to prove the existence of God. The paper examines the arguments of both theologians and explains that, while their methods of proving the existence of God are very different, their arguments have endured and influenced Christian thought through the centuries. The paper also looks at the weaknesses in both men's theories and concludes with the assertion that the major weakness of both theories is that they prove the existence of God but not the existence of the God of the Bible and that in order to believe in the Christian God, divine revelation is needed.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Anselm's Arguments
Argument from Goodness
Argument from Existence
Ontological Argument
Aquinas' Arguments
Argument from Motion
Argument from Efficient Cause
St. Aquinas on St. Anselm
Problems with Anselm
Problems with Aquinas
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Anselm (1033 - 1109), would be considered in today's terms a theologian/philosopher. Anselm is most famous for his writings on; "Why God Became Man", his "satisfaction" theory of the atonement, and the "ontological argument." (His satisfaction theory effectively refuted early medieval notions of the devil's "rights" over fallen humankind. The satisfaction theory shaped nearly all Catholic and Protestant thought on redemptive theology, and is still prevalent at the date of this paper. (Evangelical dictionary of theology)). Anselm attempted to prove the existence of God via a much-debated theory known as the "ontological argument", which will be considered in further detail below."
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The Existence of God, 2002.
An analysis of philosopher, Rene Descartes' "Meditations on First Philosophy" in which he gives proof of God's existence.
1,334 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 44.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses "Meditations on First Philosophy" in which philosopher Rene Descartes uses proof of God?s existence to both confirm and complete his views of nature, the external world, and the validation of reason. The paper shows that Descartes' arguments in the proof of God?s existence also serve to validate his views of reason and human nature.
From the Paper
"As such, Cartesian dualism forms the basis for Descartes proofs of the existence of God. Both the first and second proofs of the existence of God that are discussed in this essay are firmly based in the human mind?s conception of God. In the proof in the Meditations III, Descartes argues that God must exist in order to place the idea of God in the finite minds of humans. In Meditations V, Descartes argues that human ideas of the internal qualities of God, including infinity and independence, could not have originated within the human mind, and thus God must exist to create these ideas."
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Proving God's Existence, 2002.
An analysis of the ideas of St. Anselm and St. Thomas Aquinas and their theories of proving God's existence.
1,450 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
The paper deals with St. Anselm's approach to proving there is a God and also deals with St. Thomas Aquinas' five ways of proving God. The paper shows that Anselm?s takes an ontological approach to explaining God?s existence and his argument is based on the idea that God is a perfect being. Anselm uses this nature of being to prove that God, not only exists, but also exists as the most perfect being. The paper discusses how St. Thomas Aquinas takes more of a universal or cosmological approach to proving God?s existence through five specific ways.
From the Paper
"One of the greatest questions of all time, ?Is there a God?? For as long as people have been walking the earth I think somewhere somebody was wondering if there was a greater being. For me personally it was a wonder as well. Before reading St. Anselm of Canterbury and St. Thomas Aquinas I never really thought about the existence of God too deeply. I had always just assumed God existed I did not really have much to say about why I thought God existed. But in today?s society it is important for many people to have proof or evidence to back ideas up. People like to have information before making a decision. Both St. Anselm and St. Thomas Aquinas provide unique views on the big question ?is there a God??"
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The Existence of God, 2007.
An argument in favor of the scientific and logical proof of the existence of God in this world.
1,549 words (approx. 6.2 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper presents a detailed exploration of the existence of God. The writer looks at society's need to believe in a God as well as any proof or evidence of a higher power in existence. It discusses the debate over scientific proof, as well as logical proof for God's existence. The paper concludes by suggesting that God does in fact exist, as is seen by the arguments presented in the paper.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Scientific Proof
A Practical Man's Proof of God
Social Belief
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Whether or not there is an existence of God has dominated school debates in philosophy classes for thousands of years.
Proof of God's existence can be argued with a study and discussion about creation. There are two basic facts when it comes to the existence of mankind. Either there was a beginning of existence or there was not a beginning of existence when it comes to mankind. Atheists believe there is no beginning when it comes to the creation of mankind and therefore society."
"The universe is expanding. This has been scientifically proven in recent years and with that expansion comes a better understanding of the creation process and the fact that there had to be a beginning. It is a fact that the scientific community calls a singularity (http://www.doesgodexist.org/Phamplets/Mansproof.html).
The fact that the sun provides a never ending supply of gas and energy is also an evidence based proof of God's existence. If one were to drive a car without ever putting any more fuel into it the car would eventually run out of gas. However, when one scientifically looks at the sun one realizes that if the sun and the cosmos and the universes have been here forever without a beginning it would have run out of hydrogen gas."
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Berkeley's Great Distaste for the Existence of Matter, 2002.
This paper critically analyzes George Berkeley's first argument against the existence of matter presented in "A Treatise Concerning the Principles of Human Knowledge."
2,220 words (approx. 8.9 pages), 0 sources, $ 68.95
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Abstract
In this paper, the writer critically examines Berkeley's first line of argument against the existence of matter that he presents in "A Treatise Concerning the Principles of Human Knowledge". This argument is frequently called "the Perception Argument" and is his first attempt to more firmly establish his central thesis of existence being tied into perception. The paper thoroughly explains the argument and presents Berkeley's responses to the most immediate objections that come up to it (the objections that are actually addressed in the text of his treatise). The writer also examines briefly how Berkeley's argument serves to contradict arguments regarding material substance made by Locke in "An Essay Concerning Human Understanding". The paper then offers a more robust objection to Berkeley's Perception Argument that attacks some key assumptions that the argument clearly relies on, specifically those regarding relationships between matter and ideas that Berkeley clearly assumes do not exist. The objection is furthered by examining the sections where Berkeley assumes that matter does exist in an attempt to show that such an assumption involves manifest contradictions.
From the Paper
" Over the course of reading A Treatise Concerning the Principles of Human Knowledge, it becomes evident that Berkeley is not so much trying to convince the reader of a certain opinion of the nature of the world and our perception of it as much as he is trying to present his actual, everyday perception of the world and his existence in it. Berkeley repeatedly says things like, "Some truths there are so near and obvious to the mind, that a man need only open his eyes to see them," (?6) that suggest the intuitive obviousness that he sees in his doctrine. Frequently, a tone of frustration comes through in his writing - especially in the sections dealing with possible objections to his theory (?34-84) - illustrative of the difficulty he must have been feeling in trying to get everyone else to see what was so damn obvious to him. As such, many of Berkeley's arguments in support of his particular fundamental beliefs seem to be afterthoughts of their respective conclusions. His vision of the nature of existence being grounded in "esse is percipi" (?3) is so strong that he does not always seem to be too concerned with the particular logic behind his supporting arguments. This is especially true when it comes to his arguments denying the existence of matter. In this paper, I will argue that, while Berkeley's conclusion regarding the non-existence of matter is quite profound, his actual arguments for this conclusion do not sufficiently verify it. To do this, I will examine the first argument Berkeley makes against the existence of matter, the so-called "Perception Argument." I will argue that this argument relies heavily on a fallacious line of reasoning about the nature of matter and the inability of matter to cause ideas in us. I will then examine several passages in Principles that support the idea that Berkeley's belief that matter does not exist is grounded largely in his - or anyone else's - inability to really define what matter is. "
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Berkeley?s Immaterialism and the Existence of God: A Case Study, 2001.
This paper discusses the philosopher George Berkeley's concept of immaterialism, his subsequent argument for the existence of God, and the reasons why his argument cannot be accepted as being valid.
1,665 words (approx. 6.7 pages), 8 sources, APA, $ 54.95
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Abstract
An intricate discussion of philosopher George Berkeley's concept of immaterialism and his subsequent argument for the necessary existence of a Supreme Being, or God. The author outlines and analyzes Berkeley's two major philosophical treatises, and the main arguments found in each are clearly defined and presented in a succinct, yet detailed manner. Philosophical ideas/concepts discussed include the ?Likeness Principle? and the variability of sensory experience. The paper then presents Berkeley?s argument for the existence of God, which builds upon the already established theory of immaterialism by discussing the distinction between absolute and relative existence.
From the Paper
"Immaterialism, as defined by Berkeley, is the idea that it is impossible for any sensible qualities whatsoever to exist independent of a mind (Berkeley 1965, 5-6). This argument is brought forth succinctly and clearly in the Dialogues, in which Berkeley presents his case through the character of Philonous, and defends it against criticism by the character of Hylas. Although there are many aspects in both Principles and the Dialogues that contribute to the overall argument for immaterialism, for the purpose of this essay, only two of the strongest points will be discussed- the argument from variability and the likeness principle.
One of the key features of Berkeley?s argument for immaterialism centers on the variability of one?s sensory experiences in comparison to another?s. He notes that each individual perceives the world differently, whether in terms of smell, taste, sight, or touch. One of the ways in which this variability of sensory experiences is presented by Philonous to Hylas is during a discussion between the two concerning taste. Philonous points out that although a certain food may taste pleasant to one person, that same food may taste awful to another. ?How could this be?, Philonous asks Hylas, ?if taste was something really inherent in the food?? (Berkeley 1998, [180]) There is only apparent taste, and this requires dependence on a mind. The same argument is also applied to smell, touch, sight, extension, motion, and solidity, and is reasoned to be just as effective. Perceptual variability occurs with these senses/qualities as well, and none of the apparent smells or colors seem to be any more real than any other ([68-78])."
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God's Existence, 2002.
The Teleological argument for God's existence.
1,150 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 1 source, $ 44.95
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Abstract
This is a teleological argument for God's existence. Cleanthes' argument for the existence of God is based on the assumption that the universe has an ordered arrangement. This is why Cleanthes attempts to present a case for order in the universe. In doing so, he argues for the existence of God. In his view, there is a design in the creation, and he believes that a certain amount of scientific thought was needed to create the universe.
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Automated External Defibrillators, 2006.
An overview of issues and applications concerning automated external defibrillators (AEDs).
1,778 words (approx. 7.1 pages), 16 sources, APA, $ 57.95
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Abstract
Automated external defibrillators (AED's) are essential tools in health care and emergency services. It is a portable automatic device used to re-establish regular heart rhythm to patients in the event of cardiac arrest. This paper examines how their use has become popular and how, though they have been proven to have potential in saving lives, there are still important issues regarding their use and education that have to be addressed. It attempts to show how the success of AEDs in the health industry depends on the effectivity of awareness and educational programs.
Outline:
Introduction
Automated External Defibrillator Use
Issues Regarding Automated External Defibrillator
Conclusion
From the Paper
"AED's are small computing devices, electrodes, and electrical circuitry. The electrodes collect information about the heart's rhythm. There are specific AED's designed for children, which deliver milder shocks, and for adults. When the heart is exhibiting ventricular fibrillation, the computer prompts for the delivery of a defibrillating shock to the heart through the victims' chest wall (Liddle et al, 2003). Ventricular fibrillation is detected and electric shock delivered through the AED's electrodes imbedded in adhesive pads which are placed on the victim's body. A critical element in the successful use of AED is the placement of the electrode pads because they are the tools for detecting heart activity as well as the channels for the actual defibrillation (Beckers et al, 2005). "
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Internal and External Environments of Bargain and Haggle, LLC, 2002.
A discussion on the necessity of knowledge about the external environment, competitors, changing marketplace and the regulatory arena of companies in maintaining a competitive edge.
798 words (approx. 3.2 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 28.95
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Abstract
The following paper examines Bargain And Haggle, LLC's external and internal environments, a company formed by an employee-led group from Mindpepper, LLC with the goal of continuing the day-to-day operations, marketing, and customer support www.bargainandhaggle.com. This paper looks at the company's external strengths, weaknesses, external threats and business strategies.
From the Paper
"Bargain and Haggle?s customers are bargain-hunters, looking for a deal on anything from their next pair of shoes to a house. The advantages of the business are it is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It is faster and easier than buying at an on-site store, new items can be purchased and old items sold, and the prices are cheaper than retail.
The competitors of Bargain and Haggle include Ebay, Half.com, TJ Maxx, and EZ Pawn Corp. Ebay and Half.com are very similar to Bargain and Haggle because a customer can both buy and sell on-line. The difference is that eBay.com is the most popular shopping site on the Internet. eBay offers online trading and buying in the auction-style and fixed price on a local, national and international basis."
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The Philosophy of the Existence of God, 2004.
This paper explores extensively the ontological, cosmological, and
teleological arguments as to the existence of God.
12,175 words (approx. 48.7 pages), 24 sources, MLA, $ 235.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that all the great philosophers, from the ancients to the moderns, proposed and developed the concept of God. The author points out that the ontological arguments seek to establish the existence of God on the basis of logic. The paper relates that the most common and ancient among all the traditional classical arguments is the teleological argument, which attempts to prove the existence of God within the systematization of universe.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Ontological Arguments
Cosmological Arguments
Teleological Arguments
Conclusion
From the Paper
"There was a shortcoming in the view of Descartes which was sorted out through an attempt of Gottfried Leibniz. Leibniz argues that the arguments of Descartes are not perfect as it has not been shown that the concept of the being which is Supreme and perfect is coherent, or that it is possible for a supremely perfect being to exist. He then argued that perfections cannot be analysed and thus it cannot be shown that perfections are not compatible, and this led him to conclude that all the perfections can exist simultaneously in one entity. The arguments of St. Anselm, Descartes and Leibniz have interesting connections to the recent arguments of Godel, Plantinga and Malcolm. Among these, the most interesting are the arguments of Godel and Plantinga. At the same time, it is difficult to say whether the claims of these authors really lead to any further proofs of the prevalence of God."
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Descartes and the Existence of God, 2004.
An analysis of Descartes views on religion and the existence of God.
2,201 words (approx. 8.8 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 68.95
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Abstract
This paper provides an overview of Descartes' theories concerning the existence of God using his "Meditations" as the basis to emphasise his belief in God. It specifically concentrates on "Meditations 2 and 5" and describes Descartes use of the ontological argument, cosmological argument and use of mathematics to prove the existence of God.
From the Paper
"Proceeding in his demonstration of the existence of God by analysing thoughts, Descartes distinguishes several classifications of thought: ideas, 'volitions and affections'1 and judgments. Descartes explores the concept of 'idea'1 further by identifying three types of idea: 'innate ideas'1, 'adventitious'1 ideas which come involuntarily into the mind from outside and 'factitious ideas'1 that are manufactured by one's self by combining innate and adventitious ideas. As Descartes 'has the power of conceiving'1 thought, it is possible his ideas could be of any class. Descartes thoughts are 'inventions of his mind'1, thus he is unable to determine their true origin. Therefore, it is plausible that the thoughts his 'senses have conveyed'1 to his mind could be all innate, adventitious or factitious."
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