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Islamic Architecture, 2008.
An analysis of the ways in which Islamic architecture has influenced the architectural styles of other religions.
2,936 words (approx. 11.7 pages), 12 sources, MLA, AU$ 104.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the origins of the distinctly Islamic architectural style. The paper begins by discussing Islamic history and then goes on to discuss how Islamic architecture has set a standard for religious architecture that has influenced other religious groups and contributed to various architectural styles evident to this day. Additionally, the paper also discusses how Islamic architecture has more recently been influenced by the West, not for religious architecture, but for office buildings and residential units.
From the Paper
"In the Islamic tradition, the idea of the dome was developed with religious connotations. The first centralized Ottoman mosque was created at Diyarbakir in 1521 with four semi-domes and not mere vaults. The four corner areas are surmounted by four small cupolas, while the central dome is supported on four piers. This is the logical conclusion to the mosques of earlier times. The squareness of the mosque at human level represents earthliness, and the domes represent the heavens, much as the square and the circle do in Chinese architecture. The two-centered arch forms a spiritual limbo in the design. The interior is spacious and well-lit, another reference to the heavens (Goodwin 178)."
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Helping the People in the Darfur Region of Sudan, 2008.
An examination of the assistance and hope that the Christian Mission can give to the people in the Darfur region of Sudan.
2,398 words (approx. 9.6 pages), 16 sources, MLA, AU$ 89.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the need to take the news to the people of the Darfur Region in Sudan that they will be saved. The paper is written from the point of view of the Christian Mission and what it believes God means for the people in that region. It looks at the history of the conflict in the area and how the Christian Mission can help to bring aid and peace to the area.
Table of Contents:
Introduction: Background to the Crisis in the Darfur Region of the Sudan, in Africa
Historical Background to the Conflict in Darfur
Lack of International Response Creates Gap for Christian Response and Mission Work
U.N. and Other Actions to Date:
Aid to the Area
Helping to Bring Peace - the Role of the Christian Mission over the Next Five Years
Developing Partnerships to Ensure the Upliftment of the Oppressed People Groups in the Darfur Region
The People who will be Saved - "Make known among the nations what He has done" (Isaiah 12:4)
Long term Vision: What Would it be Like if Everything God Desires for the People of Darfur were to Blossom in the Next Twenty-Five Years?
From the Paper
"The Christian Mission should develop many partnerships, to ensure that it can be truly effective in the long term in this area. Suggested partners would be the UN World Food Program, the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Doctors Without Borders, the U.S. Agency for International Development, Amnesty International, the International Crisis Group, and the World Health Organization. The Christian Mission can in fact learn from these partners, as many of them are already well aware of the extreme health and other problems in the area that need to be addressed. In addition, the Christian Mission should be aware of a rapidly growing movement advocating for humanitarian intervention in several countries. People and organizations that are part of this movement can be approached as sources of funding to help the Christian Mission achieve its goals in this region."
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Self-hood in Daoism and Buddhism, 2008.
An analysis of the sense of self in Daoism and Buddhism and how that compares to the sense of self in Western cultures.
1,448 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 58.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the Asian, Chinese or Buddhist personality in contrast with an allegedly consistent Western sense of self or pattern of socialization. The paper looks at the similarities and differences in Western and Eastern conceptions of the self and socialization, while it specifically refers to Daoism and Buddhism. The paper concludes by addressing whether there is a Daoist or Buddhist sense of self.
From the Paper
"If Daoism and Buddhism in Chinese society have both encouraged self-regulation and placing the self within the group or the cosmological environment, in the West, there has been a progression towards self-expression and self-direction away from past restraints in obligations to others or a surrounding system. All of these ideas are fascinating to think through but, as Douglas Allen argued in assessing various perspectives in Asian and Western concepts of self and their influences, the personality is not one thing. (1997 140) What Allen criticized as a monolithic notion of the personality or self, anywhere in the world has given way to awareness of how the self is exercised or presented in different settings. For instance, whatever may be argued of the Daoist, Buddhist or Christian or secular Western self needs to be more evaluated in terms of the particular setting. Socialization and different social settings stand to tell us a great deal of a changing, adaptable self, East and West, which adjusts to particular situations."
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Clash of Consumer Rights and Religious Freedom, 2008.
A discussion regarding the clash of consumer rights and religious and which has priority.
877 words (approx. 3.5 pages), 2 sources, MLA, AU$ 38.95
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Abstract
In this article the clash of consumer rights and religious freedom is discussed. The paper relates that the issue is framed in the two articles discussed in the paper, which look at decisions by Muslims in the United States not to perform certain tasks that are part of their jobs. The writer notes that this issue extends far beyond this religious group or a specific issue and has been argued most often recently in terms of Christian pharmacists who do not want to fill certain prescriptions because they are opposed to birth control and abortifacents. The writer points out that America is a country that supports religious freedom, but all freedoms have some limitations when the rights of others are being infringed. The writer argues that given the way the needs of each side are being characterized, consumer rights take priority over religious freedom.
From the Paper
"In truth, the religious freedom of the Muslims is not being curtailed at all. No one has said they cannot worship as they please, and no one is saying they have to act in a way that runs counter to their beliefs. What they are saying is that Muslims can exercise their right freely in their own domain, but in the public arena of commerce, they cannot decide to change the nature of commerce to make it more Islamic. For one thing, while religious freedom is a right, having a specific job is not a right. Employers can always place certain requirements on an employee as to how the job is to be performed and in fact has the right to fire an employee for any reason, at least in most circumstances, though a contract or union agreement might change this situation. This places the power in the hands of the employer so that the employer could insist that its cab drivers carry all passengers, or that its clerks be able to perform all tasks on the goods sold and for the benefit of the customers served."
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Japanese Religious Ethic, 2008.
An analysis of the religious character of the Japanese in everyday society.
2,487 words (approx. 9.9 pages), 9 sources, MLA, AU$ 91.95
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Abstract
This paper examines Japanese religious characteristics within the context of the rapidly evolving Asia-Pacific Rim in terms of culture and society. It discusses how Japanese society can be thought of as very religious to the degree that its religions are intertwined with its cultural roots, making them influential even if not consciously practiced. The paper also discusses how, politically, Japan has a tendency to restate history in terms that bring various elements of its society and culture into line with the official conception of homogeneity that is essentially a worldview based on Shinto heritage.
From the Paper
"Japanese cultural resistance to outside influence is all the more surprising given that it itself, though most Japanese would never acknowledge this, was formed through the amalgamation of various cultures and societies in the region. Japan is an archipelago or island nation which is a geography that is conducive to developing a variety of localized cultures and languages: "It cannot be denied, however, that, from past to present, Japan has come into being as a multicultural society through the complex interaction of various cultures...". The researcher intent on illuminating the religious character of the Japanese will understand this rational dichotomy between self-conception and actuality and use it to commercial or interpersonal advantage. "
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The Dynamics of Christianity around the World, 2008.
This paper discusses the patterns by which twenty-five countries experienced the arrival of Christianity.
4,295 words (approx. 17.2 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 137.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, whether a person's experience of Christianity is evangelical or just awareness of ancestors who long ago adopted the religion, there is often the idea of Christianity as a catalyst for positive change. The author points out that the theme of monotheism as superior and as a marker of civilization combines well with other stabilizing projects wherever Christianity is taken. The paper relates that, if a religion favors one god that values humble efforts at getting along with others, a powerful personal philosophy for dignity can be found in situations of poverty and perhaps extreme oppression. The author underscores that, in the early 21st century, the same cycle of Christian myths and allegories continues even in a world that seems more secular, devoted to a religion of consumerism. The paper states that the early 21st century is dramatized as a time of Muslim and Christian activism, including theories of colliding civilizations, religions and cultures; however, this situation has become merely as politicized as they were in the Middle Ages. The paper describes Christianity in several countries.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
In the Beginning
One God Better
Underdogs, Again
Christian Myths
Christian Beginnings
Into the Present
Concluding Remarks
From the Paper
"The New Testament repeats the message of God preferring the humble of the earth, forgiving every kind of human sin if an individual, of any kind, makes a genuine effort to turn over a new leaf. The New Testament appends the letters of Paul, a reprobate turned Christian, who went to tell Gentiles of the good news, the divine nature of the departed Jesus and the hope that he offered to ordinary people. A favorite Christian theme, in keeping with its roots in Judaism and what came later in Islam, is the superiority of one god above polytheistic religions."
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Karma, Buddhism and Hinduism, 2008.
An analysis of the law of Karma in Hinduism and Buddhism.
1,725 words (approx. 6.9 pages), 7 sources, MLA, AU$ 67.95
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Abstract
The doctrine of Karma and the Law of Karma have their roots in Hinduism. Later they were accepted by other religious teachings that developed throughout history, most notably Jainism and Buddhism. This paper looks at the similarities and differences between the Law of Karma in Hinduism, as a religion in which they originated, and Buddhism, a religion that probably played the most important role in the spread of the idea of Karma. The paper also looks at how, even though the Law of Karma and the concept of karma are similar in the two religions, there are major differences in teachings. The discussion is then extended to the differences in the concept of reincarnation since Karma and rebirth are mutually connected.
From the Paper
"What is today known under the name Hinduism is the oldest of all the living religions of the world (Coomaraswamy, 1999; Singh, 1983). Hinduism is a set of Indian faiths collected under the common name that has its origins in the Sanskrit name for the great river Sindhu (today Indus River) representing the north-west boundary of India. The term itself has been coined relatively recently by Europeans. Modern Hindus have accepted the term however they call themselves Sanatana Dharma, an eternal faith (Singh, 1983). When the Indo-Aryans invaders came to India from the north in 1800-1500 BC, they found a flourishing civilization in the conquered regions south of Indus River. "
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Carl Sagan on Abortion, 2008.
A critical article review of "Abortion: Is it Possible to be Both Pro-Life and Pro-Choice?" by Carl Sagan.
1,390 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 56.95
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Abstract
This paper provides a critical look at Carl Sagan's article "Abortion: Is it Possible to be Both Pro-Life and Pro-Choice?", which provides both sides of the religious and scientific arguments that are currently part of the abortion issue in American society. The paper points out that Sagan provides a two-fold analysis of the science and theological definitions of life and how this acts within the social conflict between pro-life and pro-choice factions in their differing objectives for legislation on abortion. The paper also points out that Sagan seeks to promote the importance of why compromise and balance between these two factions are important in American society and for the creation of legislation on this issue. The paper concludes that, although Sagan provides a mastery of the scientific facts that are part of modern research of life in the womb, he is decidedly biased in his reliance on science.
Outline:
Summary
Discussion and Analysis
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The central issue for Carl Sagan is understanding the debate between the religious (pro-life) and the secular scientific (pro--choice) factions that currently debate the issue of abortion. Sagan argues for the issue of pro-life arguments that determine that the life in the womb is 'alive' at first conception, which Sagan refutes by imposing a more scientific point of view that life is not an issue related to conception, but that there is a longer history for human life since the beginning of the Earth, nearly 4.6 billion year ago (201). Yet with science, the clarity of these issues do not always refer a more valid sense of where and how life is determined within religious values. For pro-lifers in the American Christian culture, the idea of conception takes on a human characteristic that must also be taken into account due to missing details of current incomplete scientific evidence that equally philosophize on the nature of life."
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The Messianic Complex, 2008.
This paper analyzes the multiple factors of the Messianic complex in the "Hebrew Bible" ("Old Testament").
1,420 words (approx. 5.7 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 57.95
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Abstract
This paper presents a Biblical analysis to determine the ideology of the messiah complex that arises within the Second Temple Period of the Hebrew Bible. The paper relates that the multiple meanings for determining a savior or messiah of the Jewish peoples is defined through a prophetic, kingly, and textual analysis of how God's will is projected within the text. The paper concludes that this provides a non-absolutist determination for realizing the complexity of God's interaction with the various figures that rise up and take action to protect their religious culture from various enemies. The often militaristic presence of leaders like David and Jacob provide a majority of the messianic principles involved in God saving his "chosen people", which provide an analytical framework for realizing the messianic complex with the Second Temple Period.
From the Paper
"Although David is being described as a priestly incarnation of the physical presence of God, he is invariably a military and governmental leader that has taken religious vows to define his messianic complex. This is the multiple variations of the divine spirit that emulate from him, as he became more aware of God's will for him to save his people. This view contrasts with the Jewish sect of the Pharisees that often saw the messiah as a "Son of God" as both a spirit and a human being, yet the majority of Jewish perspectives on the messiah complex offer a wider range of qualifications to define religious leadership."
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Prophecy in the 'Book of Daniel', 2008.
An analysis of prophecy in the 'Book of Daniel', chapters 7 to 12.
1,830 words (approx. 7.3 pages), 10 sources, MLA, AU$ 70.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the prophecies found in Daniel, chapters 7 to 12, focusing particularly on the four beasts that come from the sea. The paper maintains that these chapters can be judged to be true by looking at history. It points out that the four animals refer to the time period after Babylon and the present time. The paper also looks at charts, maps, and literature on the 'Book of Daniel' to show how these prophecies relate to different kingdoms. To conclude, the paper suggests that, considering the present problems in the Middle East, the prophesy that the beasts will come back to life through the Antichrist could possibly be true.
From the Paper
"Daniel describes the fourth beast as terrible and strong with iron teeth. "After that, in my vision at night I saw in front of me a fourth animal that was cruel, terrible and very strong. It had large iron teeth. It crushed and ate what it killed, and then it walked on whatever was left" (Wheeling). This fourth beast represents the Roman Empire and how it would conquer Jerusalem and destroy the Temple. The Roman Empire was stronger than the other empires. "The angel explains to Daniel, the four beasts; lion, bear, leopard and the terrible beast are four kings from the earth. With each king comes a kingdom" and each of these kingdoms connected to Israel (The Book of Daniel). The last kingdom, Rome, was in power when Jesus was alive. Comparing different analyses about the four beasts show similar interpretations. While the four beasts relate to the immediate context of the nations affecting Israel, these four beasts also relate to the future or a broad context of the future countries referring to the present times."
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The Reconciliation of Faith and Science, 2008.
This paper discusses that science and religion or faith are thought to be irreconcilable; however, recently some scientist and religionists have attempted to reconcile these arenas.
2,505 words (approx. 10.0 pages), 8 sources, MLA, AU$ 92.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that religion is an experiential based field that relies on faith alone and is therefore highly subjective in its world view; whereas, in contrast, science is experimental but anchored in observation and has an objective interpretation of facts and events. The author underscores that both science and religion are based on faith and have as their common objective the quest for a formalized type of truth that can be applied universally to the human condition. The paper contends that achieving some sort of balance between science and religious faith is critical if mankind is going to continue to advance as a species. The author points out that, for Albert Einstein, the melding of science and religion was not a conundrum at all but rather, for him, the real problem lay in how man consistently chose to interpret both scientific and religious concepts and particularly religious concepts.
From the Paper
"One of the primary points of contention for the religious proponents has been the view that science attacks religious precepts and undermines religion's doctrine. Many scientists have patently disproved this argument as being somewhat disingenuous since much of their activity has been centered only on illuminating the specific characteristics of systemic phenomena in the physical world and make no judgment at all on the origin, necessarily, of these phenomena per se. Science and scientists almost as a collective unit admit that while they can understand many of the systemic processes in the physical world they are at a loss as to how many of these highly complex processes could have simply evolved out of the molecular fabric of space."
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Same-Sex Marriage and Artificial Insemination, 2008.
This paper argues against same-sex marriage and the related issue of artificial insemination.
2,075 words (approx. 8.3 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 79.95
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Abstract
In this article the writer looks at same-sex marriage and at the artificial insemination of lesbians with an eye towards asserting that both are offensive on religious, moral, and sociological grounds. The paper first points out that the Holy Scriptures provide a number of compelling justifications for the elevation of heterosexual marriage. Proceeding further, the writer argues that there are moral reasons why artificial insemination (and gay marriages involving children) are unacceptable. Finally, the writer maintains that there is sufficient evidence decrying the effects of households headed by homosexual couples upon children for our society to re-examine its glib acceptance of the idea that homosexual couples (perhaps couples inseminated by artificial means) should automatically be given carte blanche to be parents.
From the Paper
"The reasons why homosexual union appears to be frowned upon by the Church ties into the notion of complementarity; that is to say, pairs of men and pairs of women cannot conceive children via natural means. In short, the procreative process, at least if it involves natural means, is only possible if one man and one woman are involved. As May understands the matter, natural fertility is a blessing of God and demands the active participation of both genders. More than that, the ability to have progeny invests in human couples the creative power that would otherwise be limited to God alone; thus, the natural process of mating is an act that should not be trifled with inasmuch as man and woman - in their natural states as God designed them - have been rendered in God's image, or at least man has been rendered in God's image and have been given the responsibility of carrying out a procreative act sanctioned by the Almighty. Clearly, man and woman have been designed the way they have for a reason, and it would be unwise to alter this complementary state by allowing lesbians to become pregnant via artificial insemination."
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The Abbasid and Ottoman Empires, 2008.
This paper discusses the Abbasid and Ottoman empires, as possible examples of Islamic imperialism.
1,360 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 55.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the Abbasid and Ottoman empires made use of the glorification of Islam. The author points out that these empires attempted a standardization of language, brokered different relationships with non-Muslims, saw extensive economic growth and continued expansion of the arts, letters and cultural attainment. The paper relates that both the Abbasid and Ottoman empires had the emotive symbols of their respective capitals as political, commercial and spiritual centers. The author underscores that both empires made errors in over-expansion, failure to consistently respect minorities and the use of force. The paper concludes that the result was forever fragmentation when faced by external pressures and the risk of oppressing constituent groups, which tends to affect all empires in the end.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Political Control and the Abbasid Empire
Economic and Social Affairs
Symptoms of Decline
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The decline of the Abbasids owed in good measure to the way in which the Shii community had been treated since the beginning. Anti-Caliphal sentiment understandably continued as much the Sunni ulama worked to crate the impression of Muslim unity by way of strong self definition and standardization of law, language, religious practice and political rationales. By the 13th century, the Abbasid Empire was a fragmented collection of states and territories ruled by military commanders. Of course, the Ottoman Empire would also over-expand, its different oppressive campaigns and government by military force creating quiet enemies."
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Christian Culture, 2008.
A discussion of the material and symbolic aspects, as well as the values and norms of the Christian cultural group in the United States.
878 words (approx. 3.5 pages), 3 sources, APA, AU$ 38.95
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Abstract
This paper considers the cultural group (Christians) of which the writer is a member. The paper outlines the various elements - both material and symbolic - which form that group's ontological and even epistemological views. It then looks at what kinds of values and norms are important to the group and how these values and norms have been learned and internalized. In the end, the paper illustrates the fact that many Christians associate their subjective well-being with their religiosity and not with the material possessions they acquire.
From the Paper
"In some important respects, Christians are a segment of the American population that few who are not among their fold have made an effort to understand - beyond, of course, the popular (and not always flattering) image of Christians that the mainstream media likes to provide. With that in mind, the following brief paper will argue that Christians are a people who do care about material possessions in some respect (after all, they have loved ones for whom they wish to provide) but are - true to the popular image of them - more overtly concerned with spiritual matters and with inner contentment. Going further, whatever the general clamor against Christianity in today's world, the values and norms of Christians have become the values and norms of many parts of America - perhaps even the most admirable parts of America. Thus, the Christian balance between making money and being a good human being is one that continues to resonate for all the right reasons."
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The Sunni and Shiite Conflict, 2008.
This paper examines the ongoing conflict between the Sunni and Shiite branches of Islam.
3,323 words (approx. 13.3 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 114.95
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Abstract
The paper explores the beginnings of the conflict between the Sunni and Shiite factions of Islam and explains their ideological differences. The paper focuses on the twentieth century and why the Islamic conflict continues. The paper discusses how concessions to the Islamists will not work because wiping out the West is part of their agenda. The paper points out, however, that a better understanding of this conflict among Westerners can only yield positive results by clarifying how our interests lay with the Muslims who do not answer the Islamist call to battle.
Table of Contents:
Outline
Beginnings
The Schism
The Contemporary Sunni-Shiite Divide
Conclusion
From the Paper
"This essay will examine the ongoing conflict between the two principle branches of Islam: Sunni and Shiite. This is a relevant, even critical topic for anyone interested in today's world events. The current War on Terror and the struggles between Palestinians and the Israelis make understanding the acrimony between Sunni and Shiite Muslims necessary. The secular, Christian West remained generally ignorant of Islam until September 11, 2001, when members of Islam's radical fringe besmirched their faith in the eyes of the world through an amazing act of terrorism."
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Riba and Marx's Exploitation, 2008.
The paper examines the Islamic concept of riba and Marx's famous premise about the working class' exploitation by capitalist elites.
2,349 words (approx. 9.4 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 87.95
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Abstract
The paper explores the similarity between the idea of riba in Islamic law and Marx's belief that the working class is exploited by capitalist elites. The paper examines how Islamic banks inspired by Islamic law and theology differ substantively and procedurally from western banks. The paper looks at the merits of Islamic law and Marxism vis-a-vis their shared concern for less-fortunate individuals. The paper concludes that both schools of thought are exceptional at articulating the needs of poor and struggling persons, but that the Islamic school of thought appears to be the more prudent and practical.
From the Paper
"To begin with, experts who study the Koran are generally agreed that the abolition of riba (interest) is an essential injunction of Islam. Specifically, Islamic orthodoxy holds that riba is the exploitation of the poor by the wealthy; it is, in short, an undue charge and an instance of income re-distribution, with those who need the money least siphoning it away from those who need it most. Proceeding onward, the Islamic revulsion towards interest or riba appears to lead to another innovation of Islamic economic practice: the adoption of profit-sharing in lieu of interest-bearing transactions."
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