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Durkheim in Sociology of Religion with Marx, 2007.
A comparison of the philosophies of Karl Marx and Emile Durkheim with regards to religion.
5,963 words (approx. 23.9 pages), 10 sources, MLA, AU$ 228.95
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Abstract
This paper explores the philosophies of both Karl Marx and Emile Durkheim. It attempts to show how similar the two sociologies are and how the same conclusions were reached despite vastly different approaches to the same problem. The paper further highlights some of the substantial differences between the philosophies. It also offers some insights into religion that both Marx and Durkheim may have overlooked. This paper also briefly explores materialism and functionalism and discusses how they equate to each other. The paper includes an example of an outline at the end.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Body
From the Paper
"Marx does not examine the facets of society, but this is because Marx is a materialist. Thus, Marx focused on the material foundation of religion, this being its economic origins. Once these original theoretical differences are overcome, the underlying components can be discussed."
"It is here that Durkheim and Marx are very similar. Both believe religion was created by society. Both believe its purpose is, despite neglecting the aspect of loyalty that I covered, positive in nature. And both believe that the roots of these assumptions are rooted in the examination of primitive societies. Therefore, despite the differences in their respective paradigms, Karl Marx and Emile Durkheim's sociologies of religion are very similar."
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"Sinuhe the Egyptian", 2007.
This paper examines the story of "Sinuhe the Egyptian", as a work of ancient Egyptian literature.
1,300 words (approx. 5.2 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 70.95
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Abstract
In this paper, the writer maintains that to read "Sinuhe the Egyptian" as solely a piece of political propaganda would significantly underestimate the narrative qualities of the tale and the maturity of ancient Egyptian literature. The writer notes that Miroslav Barta, an Egyptologist, claims that the text serves primarily as political propaganda, idealizing Egyptian society and especially its monarchy. The writer maintains that the lengthy poetic interlude at the point in the story at which Sinuhe meets the Syrian King for the first time does suggest an idealistic attitude toward the Egyptian theocracy. However, the writer notes that other scholars point out that Sinuhe demonstrates literary prowess; its ending comes as a surprise but only when read within a modern framework and corresponding biases. The writer concludes that rather than being propaganda, "Sinuhe the Egyptian" is more clearly an epic literary journey.
From the Paper
"In the first case, Sinuhe naturally waxes poetic about the ruler from whom he fled; he never once suggests that he doubts the divinity of the pharaoh's office. His fear of civil strife stems not from a disregard for the court but from personal cowardice (Lorton). Furthermore, he praises the new king so as to not appear weak and pitiable in the eyes of the Syrian King who discovered him. His positive attitude engenders favor, causing the Syrian King to trust him immediately and give him his daughter's hand in marriage as well as scores of wealth and land. If the Syrian King suspected that Sinuhe were a disloyal subject it is unlikely he would have offered such kind service."
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Ontological Arguments, 2007.
This paper discusses Thomas Aquinas and St. Augustine's "ontological arguments" in favor of God's existence.
920 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 2 sources, APA, AU$ 52.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the "ontological argument" in favor of God's existence has remained one of the keys to the fundamental notion that the existence of God can be verified through logical argumentation. The author points out that Aquinas introduces the idea of the first, unmovable mover, which is responsible for all of the cause and effect events witnessed today, and investigates what aspects of the world betray the existence of God and why His existence is questioned so readily. The paper relates that Augustine's position is that human beings are positioned so that they can act rightly but that the actions and sins of the past have hindered the path towards God.
From the Paper
"The first sin Augustine characterizes as being like an act of a prisoner who creates false freedom for himself by breaking the rules and intending not to be caught. Obviously, Adam was caught, and all the subsequent sins of man have created a world in which God cannot be found without help; it has become too easy to commit acts of moral evil that those who do so often act out of ignorance. In other words, ignorance of God is not an innate facet of the human condition but is the burden that all human beings carry as a result of past sins."
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Women's Image in Advertisements, 2007.
This paper is an analysis of the portrayal of women's image in magazine advertisements in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), as based on a content analysis of the literature and on a convenience sample survey of 50 female students.
17,435 words (approx. 69.7 pages), 34 sources, APA, AU$ 403.95
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Abstract
This paper states that the the main purpose of this study is to determine the characteristics of women's image in advertisements' contents as depicted in the most widely circulated Arab women magazines in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and to identify the effect of such contents in formulating the societal image of women. The study also examines how women feel about the presented image of women in advertising. The author points out that, in the UAE, women not only are gaining ground in workforce participation but also are filling positions once held primarily by men; however, this is not always reflected in ads. The paper indicates that the majority of female students felt that the relationship between the woman's image in published advertisements and society's view towards her is a highly positive one. The paper includes the data generated by the survey and several figures, tables and quotations.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Introduction
Need for the Study
Purpose of the Study
Research Questions
Procedures
Research Hypotheses
Review of Literature
Background and Overview
United Arab Emirates Today
The Impact of Advertisement
The Importance of the Visual Image in Advertisements
The Women's Image in the Visual Advertisements
Depiction of Women in Magazine Advertisements
Methodology
Sample
Instrumentation
Data Collection Procedures
Results
Data Analysis
Discussion and Conclusion
Discussion of Results
Recommendations
Questionnaire
From the Paper
"Arab information media have by and large been established on a weak economic base throughout the Middle East. For example, Arab newspapers were introduced when national incomes and populations were small, and the literacy rates were low; as a result, both advertising revenues and mass-circulation sales (the two primary sources of commercial newspaper income elsewhere), were restricted. Even after World War II, as the Arab economies enjoyed a new level of prosperity, advertising remained sufficiently insignificant to most Arab businessmen, and did not appear to represent a viable avenue of revenue-generation in the modest-circulation press, to enable newspaper publishers to generate many advertisements in the first place."
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The Church and Human Sexuality, 2007.
This paper concentrates on the Christian view of human sexuality.
3,153 words (approx. 12.6 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 148.95
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Abstract
In this paper, the writer notes that in recent times, there has been a tremendous amount of discussion about Christianity and its approach to human sexuality. The writer points out that depending on the commentator, the Church's position on sexuality is empowering, negative, supportive, or neutral. In addition, the writer discusses that some suggest that it is impossible to describe one Christian view about sexuality because of the various positions that differing Christians have taken regarding the relationship between one's sexuality and one's spirituality. However, such an answer belies the fact that, until recently, Catholics, Orthodox Christians, and all of the mainstream Protestant denominations took a negative view of human sexuality except for the purposes of procreation. The writer concludes that one must assume that the Christian view of sexuality will continue to evolve, as science and society gain a greater understanding of human sexuality.
From the Paper
"It is important to recognize that there is not one version of Christianity. Orthodox Christians and Catholics have a similar approach to the church, and their religions are shaped and formed by much outside of Scripture. In fact, with Catholicism, given that the Pope is considered to be the voice of God, some extra-scriptural things are given more weight than the words in the actual scripture. This attitude has allowed for the development of a religion that expands upon, explains, and even contradicts, the teachings in the Bible. Protestantism, as the name implies, began as a reaction to the Catholic Church's deviations from scripture, and has been characterized by faithfulness to the literal interpretation of the Bible. The problem with the Protestant approach is that the Bible relays information about events, which has been perverted by people into an endorsement of those events and behaviors. In fact, Biblical literalism may have damaged the Church, especially in gender and race relations. Anti-Semitism, slavery, homophobia, and sexism have all been explained away and even justified by the use or misuse of Scripture."
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Politics of Toleration, 2007.
This paper discusses the politics of toleration, analyzing the beliefs of John Locke and Pierre Bayle.
1,917 words (approx. 7.7 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 99.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses two different theories regarding political toleration. The writer notes that the views discussed are those of John Locke and Pierre Bayle. The writer argues that of the two philosophies, Bayle seems more applicable to modern times particularly on the issues involving Roman Catholics and atheists. The writer maintains that the doctrine of an "erring conscience" can work better today in that it allows a person to perform an act based on his best knowledge. Further, the writer points out that it also acknowledges that there is no way to determine the difference between a right conscience and a wrong one. The writer concludes that unlike Locke, Bayle allows any view to deserve toleration but also requires the sincere but erring conscience to take diligent efforts to correct itself.
From the Paper
"His prejudice was shared by the Whigs who were behind the 1688 Glorious Revolution, which excluded Roman Catholics from participating in English political life until the Catholic Emancipation of 1829. The spirit of this prejudice endures to this day in the Act of Settlement, which has excluded Roman Catholics from the English throne since its promulgation in 1701. Locke wrote about the bitter experience of the English nation from the leadership of a Roman Catholic monarch, Mary Tudor, under whose reign religious and civil liberty was lost. The Roman Church decreed that Queen Mary's loyalty was first of all to the Church and the Popes and not to the land. The Roman Catholic's loyalty was to the Vatican and the Vatican is a government in itself. It consists of an apostolic successor from Peter's time and a temporal power, which wields the Pope's authority over the kings of the earth. Some Roman Catholics might be rebellious and refuse to submit to the Pope's authority as God's, but this would still be the doctrinal position of the Roman Catholic Church of which they were members. Locke construed the English nation as a particular and geographically existing political commonwealth with members of its own."
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Life Choices, 2007.
This paper discusses the process of making life choices that lead to developing a person's "best self".
1,130 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 3 sources, APA, AU$ 64.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the author believes that the two most basic areas needed to develop his or her "best self" are religious faith and making ethical and moral choices instead of leaving everything in life to chance. The author points out that the concept of choice, as one of the elements needed in the quest to live his or her "best self" comes from philosophers, such as Socrates, and modern day leaders, such as President Dwight D. Eisenhower. The paper stresses that, to make a good life, a person must give back to society; therefore, volunteering is a vital part of the "best life".
Table of Contents:
Choice
Religion
From the Paper
"Because we are gifted by higher powers with the ability to choose, we are provided with a vehicle by which we can make choices that help us live to be our best selves. One example of this in action in my own life is my decision to further my education. Being my best self includes becoming more educated so that I can use that education to help my community and society as a whole. I believe that through education we will be able to improve the path we are currently on and avoid many pitfalls in the future. Choosing education is one place where I am exercising my ability to make choices so that I can work to help others who may not be as fortunate as I am. "
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View of God, 2007.
This paper examines the idea of human beings as manifestations of God.
1,520 words (approx. 6.1 pages), 2 sources, MLA, AU$ 81.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer maintains that the idea that human beings are manifestations of God is not just a New Age platitude, because it has serious implications for the healing professions. The writer notes that nurses who cultivate this attitude can help their patients develop more constructive attitudes toward their illness or discomfort. Moreover, the writer claims that patients who embody the notion that they are manifestations of God can use their subconscious mind for healing, as Joseph Murphy suggested in his classic book 'The Power of Your Subconscious Mind'. The writer discusses that the science of unitary human beings also demands that health care practitioners take into account issues related to family background, culture, ethnicity, religion, and personal taste. The writer concludes that when viewed as manifestations of God, all human beings will be treated equally.
From the Paper
"These two theories share several features in common, although they were developed separately. Murphy did not focus exclusively on the healing professions. He suggested that the same mental tools and attitudes could be applied to all areas of one's life: a unitary principle in itself. Rogers' science of unitary human beings was applied specifically to the nursing field and applies equally as much to the practitioner as to the patient. Both Murphy and Rogers present a humanistic vision of the universe but one that does not presume human superiority. Rather, human beings are viewed as integral parts of a vast universe of interrelated life forms. One of the core tenets of Rogers' philosophy is diversity. No two people are alike. The needs and backgrounds of individuals differ greatly, allowing for a panoply of divine manifestations. Inherent in this idea is a paradox: God is both unity and multiplicity. Similarly, human beings are simultaneously unified and diverse."
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Women as Rabbis, 2007.
This paper explores the history of the role of women in Judaism to understand the contemporary position of women as rabbis.
3,305 words (approx. 13.2 pages), 19 sources, MLA, AU$ 153.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that women rabbis, who can be found in Conservative, Reform, Reconstructionist and even a few Orthodox Jewish communities, are largely a product of the Jewish feminist enlightenment, which has experienced the greatest change over the last few decades. The author points out that Jewish feminism perceives that historical Judaism is based on a broad patriarchal world view in which Torah, Israel and God have been construed from the male perspective. The paper concludes that the theology has never been opposed strongly to the idea of women as Rabbis; however, tradition and history have been the major reasons for denying it in the past. The paper includes several quotations.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Separation
The Reform Movement
Women and Judaism
The Role of Women
Conclusion
From the Paper
"As Ruth Adler notes, the process of inclusion for women has been ongoing for some time. For two centuries, men and women claiming liberal Judaism have been learning what it means to include women in prayer. She notes that at the Hamburg Temple in 1818, "inclusion meant allowing women's voices to be heard in the choir." At a synagogue in 1851, it meant relocating women from the women's gallery to "the family pew" beside their male relatives. "For the Reform, Reconstructionist and Conservative Judaisms of the 1970s and 1980s, it meant beginning to ordain women as rabbis.""
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Augustine, 2007.
This paper studies St. Augustine's beliefs, concentrating on the concept of original sin.
1,172 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 65.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses that St Augustine, born in the Middle Ages, continues to be one of the most influential individuals in today's world regarding the matter of 'original sin' and what it means, how it is used in religion and why it should be of importance to mankind. The writer notes that Augustine's influence has been present for almost 1500 years and it is not dissipating quickly. The writer explains that part of that influence was the fact that he gave original sin a description that is still closely followed by many religions today. The writer concludes that Augustine would probably be pleased with the influence his work has had, both in the past and currently. The writer maintains that with 'original sin' prevalent in his thoughts, along with his numerous other writings, he will continue to have his thoughts and ideals espoused throughout mankind.
From the Paper
"Describing his influence as of paramount importance on the waning, old organization and the relatively new organization of the Catholic Church was exactly what Augustine may have been searching for. Instead of the mystical past, he wished to have a well-grounded future, giving exact meaning to what was seen as some well-intentioned but rather obscure ideas and ideals as espoused by former religious organizations."
"Other experts agree with Kligerman, including Jean-Francois Collange , who states the following in agreement with Kligerman's assertions regarding Augustine ... "
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Islam and Modernity, 2007.
This paper discusses the book "What Went Wrong: The Clash Between Islam and Modernity in the Middle East" by Bernard Lewis.
994 words (approx. 4.0 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 57.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer maintains that the title of Bernard Lewis' book, 'What Went Wrong: The Clash Between Islam and Modernity in the Middle East', immediately strikes the eye of the reader as potentially, perhaps dangerously judgmental in its nature. The writer notes that Lewis' book, for all of its faults, does express a very common view, that there is something inherently dangerous about the Islamic world, and the way that it interacts with the rest of the world. In articulating this thesis, the writer discusses that Lewis does at least dare to bring this question about Islam to the forefront of discussion, a question that many persons are afraid to ask. The writer concludes that Lewis' refusal to judge Christianity in the same terms as he does Islam makes his book difficult to respect.
From the Paper
"The influence of Islam makes itself felt in many regions within the Middle East, and many nations, and all have their own unique complexities. Finally, the title also suggests that this 'Islam' is anti-modern in a way that is wrong and problematic, specifically with the nature of the religion, rather than with some of the leaders of nations or groups who might have been Muslim persons and committed wrongdoing."
"A bad or simplistic title does not necessarily mean that the author has written a bad or inaccurate book. But in this case, the title unfortunately provides clues as to Lewis' schematic interpretation of Middle Eastern history. Even in early modernity, Lewis does not allow for any possible good things to come from Islam. He begins, not with a discussion of the tenants of the faith in an effort to make them comprehensible in the terms of his Western readership, but with wars and clashes of civilizations."
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Hasidism, 2006.
A discussion regarding the religious and psychological dimensions of the practice of mystical piety in Hasidism, focusing on Maurice Friedman's text, "Religion and Psychology: A Dialogical Approach".
1,245 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 68.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews Maurice Friedman's discussion and analysis of Hasidism in the text, "Religion and Psychology: A Dialogical Approach".
The paper reports that the author looks into the religious beliefs and practices that characterize Hasidism as a mystical religion.
From the Paper
"Looking into Hasidism from a psychological, specifically psychoanalytical, point of view, it provides a good example of how the individual makes sense of his/her realities as a Hasid. Unlike other religions, Hasidism and its practices and traditions does not bring forth problems of self-deprivation in order to achieve the state of otherworldliness, since it already advocates for the individual's establishment of being in sync with the material world. However, Hasidism is unique in that it tries to balance both the individual's needs and community's requirements in the practice of Hasidist religious experiences."
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Mother God, 2007.
This paper discusses the concept of Mother God as presented by 14th century mystic and author Julian of Norwich.
1,315 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 72.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Julian of Norwich was one of the first few and probably the most well-known female writers to conceive of God as a nurturing mother figure within the Trinity. The author points out that, although Julian feminized her vision of God, she was not a feminist herself because she was willing to accept her subservient role in the society and found comfort in this status, which she associated with being in God's care. The paper relates that Julian uses two images, which have become widely discussed in feminist writings: (1) The hazelnut that she evokes as the representation of the womb and the potential to give birth and (2) The flow of blood as 'a living stream' that she employs in her discussion of Christ's suffering and the blood that appeared. The paper includes several quotations.
From the Paper
"Before the 13th century, women had come to occupy a vital role in the society. They were important figures in household and other matters and even in the Church, women were assigned roles of clerical authority. But the status of women declined gradually to the point that in the late 14th century when Julian composed her visionary writings, she found herself in a male dominated society. But this male dominance was relatively new and women still had some memories of the time when they had the upper hand."
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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$ 64.95
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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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Russian Mennonites, 2007.
An analysis of the history and culture of the Russian Mennonite society.
1,833 words (approx. 7.3 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 94.95
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Abstract
This paper explores the history and background of the Mennonite society in Russia. It discusses their structure and culture, as well as their function and purpose as they see it. The paper also discusses how their fortunes changed in Russia and looks at their attempts to flee from the country to begin a new life elsewhere.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
History
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Many of the Mennonites discussed the situation and decided to leave Russia and search out new lands to settle in. With the possibility of losing 40,000 of its most industrious and prosperous farmers, Russia met with the colonies and convinced many of them there would be untold hardships in other countries for those who left the comforts of Russia (The Russian Mennonites http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russian_Mennonite). Many Mennonites were frightened by this discussion and agreed to stay. It did not last long however, and the ravages of war and other politically motivated measures in Russia convinced the Mennonites to restart the exodus plan."
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Mennonites, 2007.
An overview of the religious and cultural practices of the Mennonites in the United States.
2,161 words (approx. 8.6 pages), 8 sources, MLA, AU$ 109.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the religion of the Mennonites who became the first German colony in America when, in 1683, they planted their settlement in Pennsylvania, called Germantown. It describes the history and the background of the Mennonites and focuses on their religious and cultural practices. The paper also describes the current practices of the Mennonites living in the United States.
From the Paper
"Prior to World War II, members of the Historic Peace Churches--Mennonites, Brethren in Christ and the Quakers--sent a letter to President Roosevelt outlining their peace position and requesting special provisions before any war ensued. The Selective Training and Service Act of 1940 granted that those opposed to war because of religious beliefs should be given "work of national importance under civilian direction," such as forestry, soil conservation, public health, and agriculture and instrumental in the mental health system. The Mennonites embraced this Civilian Public Service (CPS) system not only as a substitute for armed services but, more importantly, as an expression of biblical faith and dedication to their society. Over 4,600 Mennonites served in the CPS program and about 3,900 served as noncombatants conscientious objectors in the military ((Towes, 1930, p.141). Similarly, in the Vietnam War, they aided both sides with food, money, and relief work around the world, and they will continue to pursue this outlet in the future."
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