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Kierkegaard and Radical Fideism, 2007.
An overview of the history and philosophy of fideism.
3,136 words (approx. 12.5 pages), 8 sources, MLA, AU$ 132.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses fideism, a philosophical view extolling theological faith by making it the ultimate criterion of truth and minimizing the power of reason to know religious truths. The paper looks at how, for strict fideists, there is no place for reason in finding or experiencing the fundamental tenets of religion and how blind faith is the only way to becoming confirmed and saved. In particular, the paper looks at how 19th-century Danish philosopher Soren Kierkegaard used fideism in his approaches to philosophy.
From the Paper
"Soren Kierkegaard held the fideist position that God's existence cannot be known and that one's faith cannot be founded on needs or rational justifications, but on simply believing in God. This belief became known as Christian existentialism and many of Kierkegaard's works, including Fear and Trembling, written under various pseudonyms, representing works of fiction whose viewpoints are as varied as their supposed authors and espouse hypothetical positions that Kierkegaard did not, himself, especially espouse, rebut his beliefs, or are rebuttals of others' beliefs."
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Utilitarian, 2007.
A review and discussion regarding the differences between the utilitarian, libertarian and contractarian theories.
982 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 7 sources, MLA, AU$ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews and discusses and compares utilitarianism, libertarianism and contractarianism. According to the paper, John Mills is known as the father of utilitarianism and John Rawl defines the theory of contractarianism.
From the Paper
"Utilitarians might beg to differ with this statement since what they would suggest is that individuals have the responsibility to do what is best for the most amount of people. Utilitarianism could be described as an effort to provide an answer to the practical questions "What ought a man to do?" According to utilitarian theory the answer to that question would be that man ought to act so as to produce the best consequences possible. Using the utilitarian approach, and individual must first analyze the issue by identifying the different courses of action that are available, and after such analyzing decide on the course that would be most beneficial for the largest number of people."
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What is Happiness?, 2007.
This paper analyzes "Nicomachean Ethics", Aristotle's most comprehensive analysis of ethical theory.
1,576 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 74.95
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Abstract
The paper examines "Nicomachean Ethics", a collection of Aristotle's essays that focus on discovering, through reason, what happiness is. The paper discusses Aristotle's conclusion that happiness is a total good and only the exercise of moral and intellectual virtue will lead to this good life. The paper explains how Aristotle aligns this intellectual virtue with the seductions of real life.
From the Paper
"Aristotle begins by looking at every being, and noting that each has its proper function according to its nature. The proper function for a human being, the ultimate rational animal, is to reason and act in accord with reason. This is the core of Aristotle's doctrine: the exercise of moral and intellectual virtue will lead to the good life. True happiness lies in the virtue of contemplation. This is the most fitting and proper function for a human being, the highest virtue. "Happiness, therefore, must be some form of contemplation...those to whom contemplation more fully belongs are more truly happy." (Nicomachean Ethics, Book Eight)"
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Shakespeare's "The Tempest", 2007.
This paper analyzes the means of control used by the character of Prospero in Shakespeare's "The Tempest".
1,520 words (approx. 6.1 pages), 2 sources, MLA, AU$ 73.95
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Abstract
This paper points out parallels between philosopher Michael Foucault's work and "The Tempest" and relates that the topic of both works revolves around the topic of justice. The author argues that Prospero's behavior in Shakespeare's "The Tempest" represents a shift from a medieval power structure to one that is institutionalized and which takes power from the individual and gives it to society. The paper comments that Prospero's main conflict was not with his brothers but rather with the centralized power that they represented.
From the Paper
"Prospero has to design a tactic for each individual. This demonstrates great intelligence and adaptability. The first stage of the plan was to separate them and take away their power in numbers. He knew that he would be overthrown if he were not able to do this. Therefore he first isolated his "guests" and gave them a display of his power. The prison cell had much the same effect. Foucault goes to great lengths to explain and give examples of how the prison cell acts of isolate and convey the sense of power to the convict. The jailor has complete control over the prisoner."
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Revolutionary Philosophy, 2007.
This paper compares the political philosophies and views of Karl Marx and Thomas Paine.
1,215 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 2 sources, MLA, AU$ 60.95
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Abstract
This paper illustrates how Karl Marx and Thomas Paine shared many philosophies and had surprisingly similar ideas in many areas. The paper discusses their ideas of class and the need for revolutionary reform. The paper shows how they both felt strongly about the poor and that the different levels in society that led to rich and poor classes needed to be altered. The paper emphasizes that both philosophers advocated change that would make governments and life better for everyone in society, not just for those at the topmost levels of the social ladder.
From the Paper
"Karl Marx and Thomas Paine both reject their past experiences with government and hope for reform that will make government and society more equal. They also are concerned with the poor, and the social classes that create poor and rich, owner and worker. Paine is especially concerned with the British cycle of government that creates vast levels of society that create kings and subjects, with little room for growth and change at either level. He writes, "But there is another and greater distinction for which no truly natural or religious reason can be assigned, and that is, the distinction of men into KINGS and SUBJECTS" (Paine, 1995, p. 11). This of course is what the English government and society was based on, and what America's early government was founded on."
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Existentialism, 2007.
An overview of the history and philosophy of existentialism.
1,275 words (approx. 5.1 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 62.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how existentialism is a belief which distinguishes between essence (what can be observed and known) and existence (placing the individual in a dangerous and changing world). It looks at how it comes from the Danish religious writer Soren Kierkegaard and is often associated with Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus.
From the Paper
"The philosophy of existentialism found a powerful background during the two world wars. The catastrophic collapse of Europe, the horrible experience of the Nazi dictatorship and occupation of France has left people thinking that their principles and values are meaningless. The world in which they had to leave no longer seemed susceptible to a normal and rational examination and instead, only the arbitrary beliefs seemed to provide them the key in the face of an unintelligible universe.
Existentialism focuses on the existence of humans, it was a protest again the traditional notions of man having as thesis the idea that existence proceeds essence. "
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Art-based Methods in Education for Social Justice, 2007.
A discussion regarding the need for awareness and action in regards to social justice issues, and the effectiveness of art-based methods of social justice education.
3,967 words (approx. 15.9 pages), 12 sources, MLA, AU$ 155.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at the issues surrounding social justice and the need for more awareness. According to the paper, art-based methods of education use creative thought and expression as a means of understanding and incorporating the lessons at hand and, therefore, art-based methods in education can have wonderfully effective results in regards to social justice issues. The paper goes on to say that there is no right or wrong when it comes to the expression of creative ideas. The paper further examines the fundamental roles of education in society as expressed by Aristotle.
From the Paper
"When it comes to the development of effective art-based approaches for education on social justice issues, It may be helpful to incorporate three basic, yet powerful, instructional strategies. These strategies are respect for diversity, the power of reciprocal learning, and personal reflection (Smyth, 2005). These strategies are especially important in the context under discussion due to the sensitive nature of social justice issues, and the vulnerability that may possibly be felt by students involved in creative expression. Being respectful of diversity simply means acknowledging and attending to the needs of students in the classroom, and ensuring that the learning environment is safe and promotes appropriate instruction (Smyth, 2005). Practices in the classroom should reflect appropriate methods that foster the creation of a community of individuals and an awareness of differences. One of these methods is open discussion (Smyth, 2005), and this can provide a basis for learning about and absorbing social justice issues. This then sets the stage for the creative expression of the understanding of these issues."
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Society and Societal Change, 2007.
This paper explores the beliefs of Karl Marx, Max Weber and Emile Durkheim on the causes and effects of modernization.
1,737 words (approx. 6.9 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 81.95
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Abstract
The paper compares and contrasts the views of Karl Marx, Max Weber and Emile Durkheim on society and the forces that drive change. The paper examines their perspectives on whether society exists and the nature of society, the relationship between society and the individual, how and why societies change, the consequences of modernization and the concepts of specialization and exploitation. The paper demonstrates how the ideas of Weber, Marx and Durkheim give us several opposing views on society and the changes that led to capitalism.
Outline:
Does Society Exist and What is its Nature?
What is the Relationship Between Society and the Individual?
How and Why do Societies Change?
What are the Consequences of Modernization?
What are Their Thoughts on Specialization and Exploitation?
From the Paper
"All three of our authors felt that society exists, but they have different theories on the reason for its existence. Weber felt that society existed as a result of the collective forces of the individual. He believed that the essence of society was to help individuals further the development of their personal connection to God. The sole purpose for the work of the individuals was to glorify God and recognize his supremacy over man. Weber believed that society exists to serve the individual, who in turn exists to serve God."
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God and the Theory of Evolution, 2007.
A look at the defense of the cosmological argument for the existence of God against the theory of evolution
1,444 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 68.95
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Abstract
This paper attempts to defend the cosmological argument for the existence of God against the theory of evolution by presenting arguments in favor of the cosmological argument, refuting some of the major objections against it and elaborating the weaknesses of the evolutionary theory.
Outline:
The Cosmological Argument
Criticisms of the Cosmological Argument & their Refutation
The Theory of Evolution
Does the Theory of Evolution Negate the Cosmological Argument?
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Man has sought to unravel the mysteries about the origins of the universe, life, and mankind itself since times immemorial. Philosophers, theologians, and scientists have thought hard and deep through the ages and put forwarded divergent theories about the mystery. These have eventually boiled down to two major and contrary ideas, i.e., the "evolutionary" theory that life was created by pure chance and has over time evolved into ever-more complex forms of life through a process of natural selection, and the theist argument that an outside supreme force (God) was responsible for the start of the universe and life. The "Cosmological Argument" for the existence of God and the "theory of evolution" best represent the two divergent schools of thought on this important argument."
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Tragedy, Aristotle and "Death of a Salesman", 2007.
An analysis of how Aristotle defines tragedy and how it is portrayed by Arthur Miller in his play "Death of a Salesman".
4,224 words (approx. 16.9 pages), 9 sources, APA, AU$ 162.95
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Abstract
Arthur Miller's "Death of a Salesman" has several strong literary and socially disturbing dimensions, but the one that stands most is its tragic dimension. This paper contends that "Death of a Salesman" is in fact tragic, and that within that tragic dimension there are several themes that are apparent and important: financial failure, emotional inadequacy, false pride, sports promise and sports failure, sexual confusion and impropriety, career stumbling, a dysfunctional family, death and madness. Tragedy to varying and diverse degrees is presented as a dynamic that is witnessed in Willy's family, in Willy's failed careers, and of course in his failed relationship with his son and in his marriage. Additionally there are tragic circumstances within the popular American contemporary vernacular of sports. The paper also examines Aristotle's stance on tragedy and how it compares to that of Arthur Miller.
Outline:
Introduction
What Is Tragedy? Miller's Philosophy on Tragedy and His Perspective on the Play
What Is Aristotle's Philosophy Regarding Tragedy?
The Death of a Salesman: The Literature and the Scholarship
Other Tragic Features of the Play
From the Paper
"After going to lengths to point out that Miller sees the central tragic figure in the play as Willy, Hagopian insists that it's Biff Loman, Willy's son, is the one who "ultimately makes things happen, who responds to the great trauma in his life with an emotional and moral paralysis..." That point could be rebutted effectively, but meantime a more pertinent point that Hagopian makes is that, after Biff finds his dad in a hotel room with another woman; "You fake!" he barks. "You phony little fake! You fake!" And now dad has been fired from his job, and Willy fears his son will expose his immoral deeds to mom. But Biff does not, he just wants to rage at his dad, and say "goodbye to you Pop...let's just wrap it up, heh?" The scene that Willy provokes has definite tragic consequences, Hagopian admits on page 40. "
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Immanuel Kant, 2007.
A discussion regarding Immanuel Kant's religion and rational theology.
1,144 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 8 sources, MLA, AU$ 57.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews and discusses the ideas and theories of German philosopher Immanuel Kant. According to the paper, Kant rejects St. Augustine's ontological argument in that reason is too limited to know anything that is beyond human experience and, therefore, cannot prove the existence of God. The paper goes on to say that Kant does, however, accept that religion can be established by the operations of morality in the human mind or by practical reason. Thus, God's existence becomes a necessary presupposition to objective, moral judgments, which extend beyond mere relative moral preferences.
From the Paper
"Despite his rejection of ideas as objects of experience or speculative thought, Kant recognizes the legitimate function of ideas in thinking (Peters 2004). He believes that ideas can be used as "regulative." This means that they can be treated as if they were true in directing the understanding to a certain objective or purpose and to give concepts "the greatest possible unity in combination with the greatest possible extension (Kant 1945 as qtd in Peters)." These ideas can, then, provide the possibility for completeness and unity of experience. He also acknowledges the role of ideas in practical reason (Peters)."
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"The Inward Morning", 2007.
A discussion of the philosophical text "The Inward Morning" by Henry Greenwood Bugbee.
930 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 48.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses how the author of "The Inward Morning", Henry Greenwood Bugbee, maintains that it is impossible to know anything for sure. The paper explains that rather than seeing the state of constant doubt as dangerous, Bugbee sees this as one of the blessings of the human condition. The paper looks at Bugbee's belief that the only thing that is anxiety-provoking is the false notion that there is one correct path for all people.
From the Paper
"The Inward Morning is a philosophical text that makes a profound statement against philosophical certainty and the quest for absolute truth. It is a very appropriate work to read by people who are living today, in an age filled with many possible ways of living and many possible truths, an age that is often called the post-modern age of doubt. The availability of so many options and choices can make the modern world seem frustrating and confusing. This book suggests that confusion is not necessarily a bad thing, but a natural part of human experience. The only thing that is anxiety-provoking is the false notion that there is one correct path for all people."
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John Locke's Philosophy of Government, 2007.
This paper examines the work of several critics in order to analyze the meaning of political power as presented by John Locke in his "The Second Treatise of Civil Government".
3,850 words (approx. 15.4 pages), 6 sources, APA, AU$ 152.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that John Locke suggestion, in his "The Second Treatise of Civil Government", that establishing the rule of law without the use of force is not easy; however, Locke's discussion is clouded not only by vagueness but also by the fact that he "says too much". The author stresses that there is evidence that John Locke indeed supported the American colonies' drive for freedom. The paper relates that Locke points out specifically in his "Second Treatise" that taking property without the will and consent of the people is against both natural law and the fiduciary nature of civil authority.
Table of Contents:
The Limits and Functions of Government
Political Power
Hobbes on Sovereignty
Does Locke Trust People Too Much?
Conclusion
From the Paper
"In fact, the British had repealed the Stamp Act after the colonies dumped tea in Boston harbor and otherwise rebelled against heavy-handed British rule; the colonies also objected to the very fact that they had come over to the new world seeking both religious freedom and a chance to get a new start economically. And from far away in England, came oppressive rule and taxation "without representation." Locke expressed - in his Letter on Toleration, which was "highly esteemed in New England" and which "the care of souls cannot belong to the civil magistrate," ..."
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A More Just Society, 2007.
This paper explores Jean Jacques Rousseau's "Social Contract" and his "Discourse on Inequality".
3,891 words (approx. 15.6 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 153.95
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Abstract
The paper reviews and critiques Rousseau's "Social Contract," and his "Discourse on Inequality" and discusses the practicality of his philosophy. The paper explains Rousseau's ideas of what constitutes a more just society. The paper is of the opinion that the "Social Contract" and the "Discourse on Inequality" are brilliantly thought out narratives and asserts that more governments should study and adopt them for the good of their citizens.
Outline:
Are Rousseau's Ideas Desirable?
Is Rousseau a Nihilist?
How About the Fact that Rousseau Goes Back Against His Own Writings?
Conclusion
From the Paper
"When Jean Jacques Rousseau began his Discourse - "What is the Origin of Inequality Among Men, and is it Authorised by Natural Law?" - by calling attention to the fact that he considered his "Sovereign Lords" "honourable" and "magnificent," was he using charm to get attention? Was he "buttering them up" - those who would be reading his tome - in the hopes that his arguments would be more persuasive? No, and no. Those "Sovereign Lords" Rousseau spoke of were not the political or religious powers of his day in France, but rather, the citizens. The ordinary people who could read and write and think."
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Philosophy and Education, 2007.
This paper explores Aristotle, Francis Bacon and Adam Smith's ideas on education.
941 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 48.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses how three famous philosophers, Aristotle, Francis Bacon and Adam Smith, wrote extensively about the effects of the study of poetry, music, art, history and historical example on the character. The paper shows how although Aristotle, Bacon and Smith all approach their discussion of education differently, they place a great deal of value on education as important in forming the minds of students. The paper illustrates the philosophers' beliefs that learning to think and form judgments contributes greatly to improving one's character.
From the Paper
"All three scholars are immediately concerned with how education is provided to the student. Aristotle in "Politics" takes issue with physical versus mental training at a young age in the development of the mind. He believes that youths should first be trained in "the labor of the mind" (Aristotle 544) as it will make them nobler in character. Training the body and the mind at the same time will adversely effect education because, as Aristotle claims, "the two kinds of labor are opposed to one another" (Aristotle 544). Bacon's famous "The Advancement of Learning" is concerned with education as having too great a reverence for the past. He believes that thinking people need to re-open their eyes and minds to the world around them and draw an education for themselves."
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Aristotle, Change and Stability, 2007.
An analysis of the philosophical doctrines of Aristotle as they relate to
change and stability.
843 words (approx. 3.4 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 44.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the doctrines of Aristotle, as they relate to change and stability and how they are superior to those of Plato, Parmenides and Heraclitus. It also examines his astonishing ability to realize the true nature of physical reality some two thousand years before it was officially recognized and understood.
From the Paper
"One of Aristotle's specific categories of explanation is related to "origin of movement," or what we commonly refer to as "change." This is a subject which the Greek philosopher Plato, Aristotle's mentor and teacher, often thought about when contemplating the mysteries of time,
space and reality. According to Plato, "real things (being forms) do not change" except in the realm of appearances, i.e., the physical world. In contrast, Aristotle insisted that "there must be three basic ingredients in every example of change--a pair of opposites and an underlying subject of change," something which Plato wholly disagreed with, for he was convinced that a pair of opposites were all that was necessary for change (Cohen, Internet)."
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