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The Relationship between the United States and Japan, 2006.
A brief history of economic and political relations between Japan in the United States since the end of WWII.
2,789 words (approx. 11.2 pages), 8 sources, APA, AU$ 134.95
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Abstract
This paper begins by examining the broad issue of trade that affects the United States and Japan today. The paper then takes a look at the cultural and historical factors that have led to Japanese dominance in business. Finally, the paper considers how the Japanese gains in automobile market share have affected the United States and the world economy, as well as the problems and the opportunities facing business in an international setting given these circumstances.
From the Paper
"The United States and Japan have an interesting relationship. It was not so long ago that Japan was the sworn enemy of the United States, intent on the downfall of the United States. It was Japan that destroyed Pearl Harbor, dragging the United States into World War II. The fighting in Europe was intense, but fighting in the Pacific was more arduous, filled with more danger, against an enemy whose cruelty seemed to know no bounds. Stories of the war that fill high school history textbooks include the Japanese basically going on suicide, or Kamikaze missions to destroy U.S. naval power. The books tell a story of soldiers who buried POW's in the sand up to their necks, propped the POW's mouths open with sticks, and allowed local ants and other insects to feed on the soft tissue of the POW's mouths and throats. In response to this threat, the United States dropped nuclear weapons on two of Japan's cities, Hiroshima and Nagasaki. It was after the Japanese surrender that the relationship between the two countries became really interesting."
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The Asian-American Immigrant, 2004.
A discussion of the Asian-American culture through a review of their literature.
1,227 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 2 sources, MLA, AU$ 66.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes the way the literature of a certain culture portrays that culture. The focus of this paper is on the Asian-American immigrant population. The paper examines and compares two novels written by Asian-Americans, "China Boy" by Gus Lee and "The Hundred Secret Senses" by Amy Tan. The paper contends that the two novels share similarities in setting, the role of multiple languages and the belief in the Chinese spirit world. Nevertheless, the paper points out that these similarities exist only in the most general sense; these three shared themes are dealt with very differently in each book.
From the Paper
"The United States of America is a country of immigrants. Throughout the history of our nation, people from all over the world have come to the United States. Disparate as their reasons for new so may be, all immigrants had to learn to cope with a similar situation. Living in a new and, to them, foreign nation, the immigrants had to come to terms with both their present and their past and how the two could be integrated. What that de facto meant is that the immigrants and their children had, in order to become successfully a part of the culture of the United State, to reconcile the culture of their homeland with American culture. This reconciliation was often unwilling or forced, and often fraught with problems. Nevertheless, immigrants often wanted to keep part of their old customs, even while adapting to America. In the twentieth century, America has experienced a wave of non-European immigrants."
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Master Ukiyo-E Artist: Kitagawa Utamaro, 2005.
This paper discusses the Tokugawa society and its master ukiyo-e artist Kitagawa Utamaro.
2,585 words (approx. 10.3 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 126.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Kitagawa Utamaro, a master of portraying beautiful women in the pleasure quarters of Edo (modern Tokyo), was a significant contributor to the ukiyo-e arts and was a great influence to future artists such as Monet, van Gogh and Gauguin. The author points out that Kitagawa Utamaro's artwork flourished under the highly restrictive and moralistic Tokugawa government; nonetheless, his wood block prints were highly regarded. The paper relates that ukiyo-e artists always concerned themselves with pictorial themes, which emphasize the popular, the familiar or the erotic, at times exceeding the limits of morality.
From the Paper
"Financial security took on the form of a national market economy as well. The Tokugawa government implemented a widespread and lasting expansion of domestic commerce and manufacturing that heavily relied on money and credit, "This monetization of the economy made possible nation-wide transactions of a long-term nature, and caused the disappearance of barter and sporadic fairs." The social and political stability helped with the development of trade and credit facilities in Nagasaki, Kyoto, Osaka and Edo. Under Tokugawa rule, the townspeople enjoyed more opportunities and greater security in these places than in the average castletown. Due to these developments, more people were able to engage in trade and there was a creation of occupational skills, pride and integrity."
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Chinese Government Political Reforms, 2005.
A discussion of reforms in the Chinese political arena and how these affect the economy in practice.
1,587 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 12 sources, MLA, AU$ 82.95
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Abstract
The reforms that the Chinese government introduced in the last couple of decades or so have brought about a tremendous change in the Chinese economy, to the extent that a major reduction of poverty and a quick increase in income levels are experienced. This paper discusses the history of labor unions and managerial practices, the relationship between the government and business - both local and multinational companies and the market characteristics of the country.
From the Paper
"From Deng Xiaoping in 1978 to the current leadership level, the Chinese have shown a firm commitment towards economic reforms and opening the Chinese economy to the outside world. (Background Note: China) Hence the business environment in China is considered to be very attractive and there are many multinational companies that have already made use of the opportunities offered and many others are venturing to enter the Chinese business market. (Understanding Eastern & Western Culture and Business Practices Legacee) In this paper we shall have an understanding of the history of labor unions and managerial practices, the relationship between the government and business - both local and multinational companies, and shall look at the market characteristics of the country."
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Chinese Wives, 2006.
A look at the role of the ideal Chinese wife from an historical perspective.
5,069 words (approx. 20.3 pages), 21 sources, APA, AU$ 204.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the role of the ideal Chinese wife as it relates to the late Qing Dynasty and the revolutionary period. The paper investigates how the idea of the ideal wife changed during these periods. It begins with a historic overview of the role of woman and marriage during much of the Qing Dynasty.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Historic Overview
The Role of the Ideal Wife (Qing Dynasty)
Footbinding
Wives during the Chinese Revolution (After the Qing Dynasty)
Comparison of the Roles of Wives during the Qing and Revolutionary
Periods
Discussion and Conclusion
From the Paper
"Indeed, under the Qing dynasty marriage was expected of all young men and women. According to the laws of the dynasty, marriage was viewed as necessary during the teenage years also referred to as young adulthood. Although young adults throughout China married, the period known as young adulthood was something designated for the elite. According to Smith (1994), this time seemed ideal for marriage because it was the stage at which the demands of education and parental involvement began to decrease."
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Indian Culture, 2006.
An overview of the culture and traditions of India.
989 words (approx. 4.0 pages), 8 sources, MLA, AU$ 57.95
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Abstract
This paper describes the cultural life learned within the family unit of Indian families. The paper looks at the typical family structure, relationships and living arrangements within the family and the lines of authority. The paper also describes the different types of medicine practiced in the country, how it is administered and who is typically responsible for its administration.
From the Paper
"In India, the essential themes of cultural life are learned within the family unit, and in most of the country, the basic units of society are the patrilineal family unit and wider kinship groupings, with the most widely desired being the joint family, consisting of three or four patrilineally related generations living under one roof, working, eating, and worshiping in mutually beneficial social and economic activities (Indian pp). Patrilineal joint families include men related through male lineage, and their wives and children, and while most women are expected to live with their husband's relatives, they retain bonds with their birth families (Indian pp). Clusters of relatives live near each other in order to maintain strong bonds and respond to family obligations, such as economic and emotional support, and assistance in daily work and emergencies (Family Ideals pp). Moreover, specific annual rituals help define kin groups, such as the worship of the goddess to ensure the welfare of the lineage."
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World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, 2005.
This paper discusses the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and its relationship to the economy of Indonesia, China, Thailand, the Philippines, Korea, Vietnam and Cambodia.
3,980 words (approx. 15.9 pages), 17 sources, MLA, AU$ 174.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have been responsible for lending billions of dollars to Asian countries over the past thirty years; but, in the past, some countries were unable to repay their loans and the loans had to be refinanced in order to support the country's economy. The author points out that, to protect their investments, the IMF and the World Bank conduct a series of negotiations with the government that wishes to borrow money; these negotiations establish a series of policies and changes that the government promises to establish in order to enhance and strengthen its economy. The paper relates the economy and relationship to the IMF of several Asian countries including Indonesia, one of the leading recipients of foreign bank lending, whose history of borrowing has been troubled by political corruption and an unstable financial sector.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Indonesia
China
Thailand
The Philippines
Korea
Vietnam
Cambodia
From the Paper
"China used to be one of the world's poorest countries. Twenty years ago, 80 percent of the population was living on less than US$1 a day and there was an illiteracy rate of 60 percent. However, over the past two decades China has made enormous progress in reducing poverty. In 1978 and again in 1995, China launched an economic reform program which took it from being a communist economy to a market-based one. The economic reform package brought the country up to average growth rate in gross domestic product of 8 percent a year. Growth has continued in China and the poverty rate has declined, bringing more than 200 million Chinese above the poverty level."
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Confucius, 2004.
An analysis of the life and works of Confucius.
1,470 words (approx. 5.9 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 78.95
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Abstract
This paper presents a biographical account of the life of the most influential and respected philosopher in Chinese history, Confucius. The paper tracks the mile stones in the life of Confucius, contending that his ideas served as the single strongest influence on Chinese society. The paper explores the basic tenets of Confucianism, highlighting how they stress the need to develop moral character and responsibility. The paper claims that Confucius is arguably the most important political thinker in the entire East Asian tradition.
From the Paper
"Confucius was the most influential and respected philosopher in Chinese history. From the 100's B.C. to the 1900's A.D., his ideas served as the single strongest influence on Chinese society. These ideas, called Confucianism, stress the need to develop moral character and responsibility. In fact, Confucius is arguably the most important political thinker in the entire East Asian tradition. His teachings have had a profound impact upon the political and social development not only of China, but also of Korea, Vietnam, Japan, and other Asian lands. Furthermore, even in the modern era, his works remain influential."
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Feng Shui, 2006.
An examination of the history of feng shui and the void it has filled in western culture.
4,578 words (approx. 18.3 pages), 12 sources, MLA, AU$ 190.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the main concepts which are incorporated into the practice of feng shui. It explains that while it was considered with much scepticism in the beginning, feng shui has now successfully filled a much-needed void in western culture - practically in house design situations, and philosophically too.
Feng Shui More than a Fad
Wandering Founders
More than Geomancy
Chinese Folk Religion Inspires New Age
The Compasses
Religious Harmony
Feng Shui in Historical Context
Taoism, Confucianism, and Feng Shui
The Exportation of Feng Shui
Chinese Folk Religion and Feng Shui Persecuted
Classical Versus New Age Feng Shui
Feng Shui Growth and Transformations
The 'Flow' of Chinese Cities
Feng Shui Developments Throughout the Dynasties
No Replacements for Chinese Folk Religion
From the Paper
"The cultural revolution had destroyed the place of honor where Feng shui was held for thousands of years in China. Today, architects, designers, and homeowners in the East and West alike use ancient practices for placement, building, and decorating dwellings and workplaces. (Phan 2004) However, there are varying degrees of accuracy, confusion, and obfuscation of the original Feng shui ideals. "The West tends to demand quick immediate results and gratification, the antithesis of the East. ... Feng Shui... must be learned through centuries, and understanding the science behind them, rather than attaching some esoteric and mystical 'face' to these wisdom." (Phan 2004) The art of Feng shui is an ancient tradition that has been commercialized in modern culture, and mocked by the masses. However, there is a great deal that can be learned from these guidelines. In fact, many of the original Feng shui guidelines can be scientifically or logically proven through accepted means of today's world. The peasants of China and others who follow the ancient traditions despite accusations of being backwards and superstitious are a glimpse into ancient times and a living testimony to Chinese folk religion."
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Agricultural Practices in Emerging Nations, 2005.
This paper identifies sustainable agricultural practices in emerging nations especially China.
3,040 words (approx. 12.2 pages), 8 sources, APA, AU$ 143.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, in their haste to introduce market reforms and efficiencies into their antiquated agricultural systems, many emerging nations have sacrificed their environment and citizens' health in exchange for some well-intentioned but misguided short-term gains in productivity. The author points out that past agricultural practices were based on tradition and spiritual concepts; however, many emerging nations have succeeded in overcoming these constraints through innovative policies and initiatives. The paper stresses that modern western agricultural practices rely heavily on heavy and expensive equipment as well as industrial pesticides and fertilizers to wrench continued high yields from the soil are not readily transferable to many emerging nations.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Review and Discussion
Background and Overview
Existing Agricultural Practices in China Today
Innovative and Sustainable Agricultural Practices
Current and Future Trends
What Can Be Done?
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Within rural sociology, sustainable agriculture is frequently considered to be a mutually exclusive "competing paradigm" that challenges conventional agriculture on environmental, economic and ideological grounds. As a result, much of the research on identifying sustainable agricultural practices has been focused on understanding the characteristics which differentiate conventional and alternative farmers, as well as the conditions that serve to constrain or facilitate the development of alternative practices and ways of thinking among farmers and agriculture more generally. For example, researchers have examined a variety of farmer and farm attributes such as age, education, orientation to risk, perception of environmental problems, farm size, and profitability; the impact of agricultural markets and prices and state policies, programs and services have also been examined extensively."
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Chinese Terracotta Warriors, 2005.
This paper discusses the archaeological Chinese treasure Qin Shi Huang's mausoleum, especially the terracotta warriors, dating from the 221 B.C. and discovered in 1974.
3,165 words (approx. 12.7 pages), 6 sources, APA, AU$ 147.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the ancient Chinese believed that life in the nether regions after a person dies was similar to the present-day human world; therefore, emperor and supreme ruler of this world Qin Shi Huang commissioned the construction of a huge mausoleum, designed to look just like the Xianyang palace. The author points out that the tomb of the Emperor Qin has not been excavated; however, his buried terracotta army unearthed nearby has stunned the world and is being called the "eighth wonder of the world". The paper relates that the life-size images of his armed forces were made out of pottery and bronze and buried near him to guard his soul; of the more than 2,000 warriors already unearthed, no two look alike and their uniforms show different military ranks.
From the Paper
"Was this the same as the "pottery men" found by others many years ago in another village? They report their discovery to a local official, and over the next several weeks, archaeologists reveal a huge underground vault or room or cave. It was bigger than a football field and inside was thousands of life-sized clay or terracotta stat ues of soldiers. The pit is the resting place of more than 6,000 full-size soldiers, all standing in formation, many with their horses ready for battle. Most of the warriors are over six feet tall; some are close to seven. The statues tower over modern-day Chinese. The detail is astonishing. Thirty years later, the work continues on uncovering and restoring this vast discovery."
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Women in Hindi Society, 2006.
Discusses the status of women in Hinduism within a cultural and anthropological context.
3,587 words (approx. 14.3 pages), 8 sources, MLA, AU$ 161.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the position of women in Hindu society has changed considerably in modern times with the advent of modernity and technology, however she is still not on par with her contemporaries in the west. It argues that modern laws have mitigated the tightly restricted position women occupied in Indian society to some extent, however there is still much that needs to be done to raise the status of women in Hinduism.
Outline
Introduction
Traditional Concepts of Women in Hinduism
Status of Modern Woman in Hindu Society
The Dowry System
The Sati System
Female Foeticide
Hinduism vs. Modern Status of Women
Conclusion
From the Paper
" The status of women in Hinduism is much different from that of women all over the world. While Hindu women are also subject to the gender inequality that exists all over the world, it may be noted that religious restrictions and dictates mandate additional limitations upon the Hindu woman. Traditionally, her status has always been one of inferiority to man, but the underlying contempt that leads to this treatment of her as inferior is belied by the religious deception of her portrayal as a supremely moral being, as strong and as pure as a goddess. It may therefore be observed that Hinduism imposes upon Hindu women a religious standard of morality and purity that is almost impossible for a real woman to attain. It requires a level of self sacrifice and piety that is paradoxically denied to her by virtue of her "uncleanliness" caused by menstruation. Therefore, while Hinduism calls out to women to maintain the status of purity and morality that will ensure the attainment of a religious standard to serve in religious institutions, it also ensures that this standard will never be achieved - because she is ostracized from the religious shrines when she is menstruating. The highest ideal for Hindu women is the attainment of religious zeniths of purity. Everything in a Hindu woman's life is conditioned around religion and Hinduism is the source of all the cultural and societal values that are imposed upon the woman."
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Human Rights in Sri Lanka, 2006.
An introduction to the country of Sri Lanka, including a brief history and a look at its political, social and ethnic environment.
3,100 words (approx. 12.4 pages), 20 sources, APA, AU$ 145.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at the social turbulence, political instability and human rights violations that are a part of life in the country of Sri Lanka. The paper presents a brief history of the country, some background information on human rights violations there and then takes a look at how minority grievances, claims and rights are central to the human rights situation in Sri Lanka. The paper proposes that though the Tigers are the minority, and have been oppressed in significant ways for many years, both sides in the ongoing conflict in Sri Lanka have committed - and continue to commit - egregious human rights violations; as long as this continues, so will the suffering and killing of all ethnicities.
Human Rights and Political Realities in Sri Lanka Today:
Facts and Background
What do the Tigers (LTTE) Say is their Main Issue?
What are the Main Minority / Ethnic Issues that History will Show
are Legitimate, Insofar as the Tigers (LTTE) Grievances are
Concerned?
Evidence that the Sinhalese Government Commits Human Rights
Violations
Evidence that the LTTE Commits Human Rights Violations
From the Paper
"The island nation of Sri Lanka is located in Southern Asia, in the Indian Ocean south of India. The island's size is 64,610 square miles (which about the size of West Virginia) and its coastline is 1,340 km. The population of Sri Lanka is approximately 19,905,165, of which 68.2% are between the ages of 15 and 64; only 7% are over 65 and 24.8% are fourteen years of age or less, according to CIA data. The main environmental problems facing the island's peoples include: heavy deforestation; soil erosion; wildlife species threatened by urban sprawl and poachers; pollution caused by mining activities, sewage and industrial wastes; coastal degradation and serious air pollution in Colombo."
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Suicide and Society, 2005.
A critical evaluation of the notion that suicide is seen to be the result of a disturbance in the ties between the individual and society.
2,874 words (approx. 11.5 pages), 8 sources, MLA, AU$ 137.95
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Abstract
Suicide, as the most extreme expression of grief and anxiety and individual turmoil, is also an expression of despair and a cry for assistance. The sociology of death and suicide is largely concerned with the examination and exploration of the phenomena of suicide within a specific social context. This paper explains that the assumption that suicide is linked to the disparity between the individual and society is also an implied comment and critique of that society. Given this understanding this paper elucidates the meaning of suicide as a break in the ties between the individual and society. This study also deals with critiques of modern industrialized societies as the context of contemporary suicide - especially with examples from relatively newly industrialized counties such as Japan.
Outline
Introduction
Suicide and Loss Of Identity: Anomie
Dysfunctional Society
Japan as an Example
Conclusion
Works Cited
From the Paper
"The idea that suicide results from or is caused by a dislocation between the ties that should exist between an individual and his or her society implies that suicide must be understood as being more than a personal or psychological issue. This view of suicide is essentially sociological in nature. Furthermore, a critical analysis of this understanding of suicide also requires that the type and context of society must be taken into account. A society that is cohesive and supportive, with networks to deal with personal and social issues, is likely to have a very low suicide rate. Suicide in this social context would usually be more of a psychological than a social issue."
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"Mother Tongue", 2005.
This paper discusses Amy Tan's essay "Mother Tongue" about her experience as a Chinese descendant with a mother whose English skills could best be described as 'limited'.
1,095 words (approx. 4.4 pages), 2 sources, MLA, AU$ 62.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that in Amy Tan's essay "Mother Tongue", Tan reflects on the linguistic tensions which plagued her childhood and adolescence and made her believe that her parents' broken English was having a negative impact on her performance in school. The author points out that her difficulties with English made her intensely aware of the different versions of the language she had seen, spoken and found acceptable. The paper states that Amy Tan's essay is definitely an effective and powerful statement not only on variations of English and her exposure to the same but also on class and cultural discrimination, which people encounter because of their inability to use proper standardized English.
From the Paper
"While at school, she was taught standardized English, at work and with college audience, she used similar idiomatic English, the versions she used with her mother and husband were more intimate and personal to her. This personal version she describes as simple English because it lacked vast standard vocabulary but to Tan herself, this variation was anything but fragmented. "...to me, my mother's English is perfectly clear, perfectly natural. It's my mother tongue. Her language, as I hear it, is vivid, direct, full of observation and imagery.""
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Kien Nguyen's "The Unwanted", 2005.
A summary and review of Kien Nguyen's book about a Vietnamese mother's decision to leave her homeland with her child.
909 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 52.95
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Abstract
This paper describes the story told in Kien Nguyen's book "The Unwanted", about his immigration, along with his mother and brother, to America. The paper summarizes Nguyen's story and describes the reasons given for the decision to immigrate to the United States in spite of the certain difficulties immigration to a new country would entail.
From the Paper
"Every mother wishes to be a parent to her child and to nurture that child in a culture where that child is most comfortable and is accepted by his or her peers. A child should not reap the punishments and scorn of his parent's crimes. These are cliches that most of us, living in an affluent America, can accept without question or much indecision and internal debate. However, not all of the Vietnamese women who gave birth to 'half-caste' children after the American withdrawal were able to make such easy decisions, confident that keeping their child close to their Vietnamese home, their past culture and immediate family would bring the best fate for that child. When dwelling in a newly revolutionized society such as Vietnam, leaving all of these things proved to be the best option for Kien Nguyen's mother."
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