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"An Inconvenient Truth", 2008.
This paper discusses the documentary film "An Inconvenient Truth," presented by Al Gore.
2,030 words (approx. 8.1 pages), 1 source, APA, AU$ 83.95
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Abstract
The paper is of the opinion that "An Inconvenient Truth" is an excellent film, primarily because it manages to get its message across. The paper relates the main message of the movie, that global warming is real, that humans play a significant role and if we continue to neglect what is happening, the future could bring catastrophe on a global scale. The paper discusses how and why global warming has become a political issue.
From the Paper
"The film chosen for the analysis is "An Inconvenient Truth". This is a documentary film made in 2006, directed by Davis Guggenheim and presented by Al Gore, the former Vice-President of USA and a US presidential Candidate. The film deals about global warming and climate change and it presents and explains to the public a crisis that impacts and will impact us all. This film, although not a Canadian production, was chosen for several reasons. First climate change and global warming is a global issue, affecting all people on Earth, regardless of their nationality, religion or social status. It is also a Canadian issue because Canada is a part of this global community but it also a Canadian issue because of very specific environment in the north of this country."
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Euthanasia: Morality and the Sanctity of Human Life, 2008.
A critique of Peter Singer's views on euthanasia.
770 words (approx. 3.1 pages), 5 sources, APA, AU$ 35.95
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Abstract
This paper outlines Peter Singer's defense of euthanasia for the severely disabled and, by extension, the very young or very old. The paper argues that Singer's rationale does not stand up to scrutiny insofar as, as a moral philosophy, it constitutes a real danger to any concept of the social contract. The paper posits that if society permits people to be grouped according to some sort of hierarchy that privileges some above others, then it becomes easy for individuals to forget the essential humanity of other members of the community. In the end, the paper maintains that Singer's philosophy is rife with problems.
From the Paper
"My personal view is that Singer's argument is manifestly weak. For one thing, to allow human beings to be euthanized (killed off might be a better expression) is to create a new kind of moral philosophy that, for all intents and purposes, undermines the humanity of all us. To put it another way, if it is possible for the severely-disabled to be killed without fear of moral condemnation (to say nothing of legal condemnation), what is to stop the large-scale killings of individuals on the basis of skin color, perceived mental acuity (they do not have to be severely disabled but can merely be burdened by below average intelligence) and/or on the basis that the abilities they possess are of little use to the larger community?"
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Racism and Canadian Society, 2008.
This paper discusses the statement "In my opinion, it is too easy for people to blame their failures on things like racism."
1,287 words (approx. 5.1 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 56.95
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Abstract
In this essay, the writer argues that the statement, "In my opinion, it is too easy for people to blame their failures on things like racism", is incorrect and is one that is usually put forward by people who have never experienced racism. The writer maintains that the reality is that many failures are caused by important factors such as racism. This should be acknowledged, and then steps should be taken to address the racism in our society. The writer argues that pretending that racism is just an empty, self-serving excuse obscures the reality of the racism in our society. The writer concludes that when a black person says their failure is a result of racism, they are far more likely to be correct than incorrect.
From the Paper
"As a result of this failure, many consequences flow. For one thing, the little girl is never cast as the heroine, and all the audiences who see the school plays over the years have their racist assumptions that heroines/princesses etc. are always white reinforced. Thus, the systemic racism is bolstered, reinforced and perpetuated to a new generation. The effect on the girl herself is that she is repeatedly sent the message that she is not good enough to be the princess/heroine - no matter what she does. The girl is likely to internalize a very deep level of unworthiness, and a resultant crippling lack of self-esteem. Contrast this with the raised self-esteem that will be fostered in the white girls who were picked for the roles. After that, all of these girls go on to university. Which girls are more likely to do well at university, and then go on to successful, well-paid careers? And taking this even further, which of these girls are likely to raise children who have every possible advantage in life, and who will do well when they grow up?"
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Judith Jarvis Thomson on Abortion, 2008.
A critique of Judith Jarvis Thomson's article "A Defense of Abortion".
1,395 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 22 sources, APA, AU$ 60.95
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Abstract
This paper comments upon Judith Jarvis Thomson's views on abortion in her article "A Defense of Abortion". The paper analyzes Thomson's arguments and beliefs about a woman's right to have an abortion, including her belief that abortion should be safe, legal, albeit rare. The paper concludes that Thomson's cautious and meticulous position is not unreasonable.
From the Paper
"To Thomson, this leads to a logical dilemma. If the pregnancy will kill the mother, why is it wrong to deny an abortion at the cost of the mother's life? She rejects the notion that killing the fetus (direct killing) is fundamentally different from allowing the mother to die. (190) Thomson reasons that if the woman managed to cause an abortion, she would not be charged with murder. She has a right to defend her life, even against the fetus in her womb. (189-91) From this, she reasons that if the woman unplugged the violinist, causing his death, she would not commit murder. If this is so, then to refuse to grant the rape victim the right to terminate a pregnancy is to refuse to grant her "that very status of person which is so firmly insisted on for the fetus.""
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Draft for the War in Iraq, 2008.
An analysis of why the American public will not support a draft for the War in Iraq.
1,176 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 52.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the history of the draft to the United States' Army. It particularly focuses on how the draft became an issue of debate in 2004 with regards to the War in Iraq. The paper discusses the reasons that the American public is failing to support the military presence in Iraq and how this public opinion affects whether or not there will be a draft for the present war.
From the Paper
"Vennochi (2006) states "either this war is worth every citizen's effort, or it's not worth any soldier's life" (para. 15). Through this statement it is evident that as a nation the people must support the troops by all means possible if there is ever to be an end to the conflict that took the lives of those on 9-11 and will, as promised, take greater numbers of Americans, if America does not act aggressively. Therefore, while public opinion may not support the reinstatement of the draft and support for the troops would be even less likely if a draft became a reality once again, the fact that a draft is needed at this time is significantly evident."
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Gun Control in America, 2008.
This paper discusses why gun control is needed in America.
1,944 words (approx. 7.8 pages), 7 sources, MLA, AU$ 79.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer argues that the nation's gun laws need to be modified in such a way that those with mental debilities cannot access firearms - while at the same time ensuring that law-abiding citizens can still purchase guns for their own protection (and for the protection of their family) as long as they follow proper procedure. The writer further asserts that, if these things are done, there is every hope that future tragedies like the one at Virginia Tech can to be avoided.
From the Paper
"Significantly, the U.S. Department of State proudly reminds visitors to its official web site that crimes involving rape, sexual assault, aggravated assault, burglary, and motor vehicle theft have all dropped fairly precipitously since the early 1990s; in fact, Americans of every racial and ethnic affiliation, as well as Americans of every socio-economic level, are less likely to be victims of crime today than they were a decade-plus ago. Adding to the good news, the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Uniform Crime Reports (UCR) has shown remarkable progress in the realm of violent crime; to wit, since 1994, the UCR has recorded a decline of more than one-third in violent crime across America. As one last point, the Bureau of Justice Statistics released a cross-national study in 2004 that indicated how America, rather shockingly, now has the same level of crime as relatively placid nations like England and Wales. By most every conceivable measurement, America is a safer nation today than it has been at most any time in its recent past."
"So why then, with this shower of good news, is gun control such an issue of pressing importance? The simple reason is that America has been forced to come to grips with a series of terrifying mass-shootings - shootings that have, far too often, taken place on college, university, high school or even elementary school campuses."
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Use of Herbicides, 2008.
This paper looks at the history of the U.S. war on drugs, with specific attention devoted to the use of herbicides as an instrument to overcome Colombia's illicit drug trade.
1,980 words (approx. 7.9 pages), 10 sources, MLA, AU$ 81.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer outlines the controversial topic of aerial spraying or fumigation in Colombia as it pertains to efforts to destroy the country's illicit drug trade. To really understand the issue, however, the writer discusses the lengthy history of narcotics in Colombia, the history of the American war on drugs and the types of drugs that appear most prevalent in Colombia. From there, time is devoted to looking at the issue of aerial spraying, why it seemed like a good idea when first conceived, and precisely what impact it has had upon Colombia. In the final analysis, the writer maintains that aerial spraying seems superficially to be an effective means of thwarting the drug trafficking problem in Colombia, but it may simply be a needless distraction diverting resources and expertise away from worthwhile alternatives.
From the Paper
"The history of the war on drugs is a long and important one, but it is necessary first to place it within the context of the even longer history of Colombia as a major international distributor of illicit narcotics. To begin with, marijuana cultivation in Colombia first emerged during the initial decade of the twentieth century. By as early as the 1930s, some cultivation was taking place among the Costeno black population on Barranquilla and urban criminals located in this territory were routinely smoking marijuana. Additionally, during the course of the Second World War, hemp cultivation muscled its way to the forefront courtesy the growing demand for large-scale fiber production as one part of the much larger war effort. Finally, by the latter part of the 1960s and by the early 1970s, marijuana production in Colombia became a fairly huge and lucrative industry in response to a growing demand for such a good in the United States."
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Living Between Two Cultures, 2008.
This paper looks at the issue of higher education for immigrants living in the United States and the related cultural aspects.
3,685 words (approx. 14.7 pages), 16 sources, MLA, AU$ 132.95
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Abstract
In this document the writer discusses a psycho-educational program that is targeted at the foreign student population of American higher education institutions. The writer notes that these types of psycho-educational group programs are designed to help the foreign student population better integrate socially and culturally. Further, the writer points out that these types of dimensions are often overlooked by higher education institutions which typically concentrate on assistance with academic performance only. The writer maintains that since the numbers of foreign born students studying within the United States is expected to increase, improving their acculturation process performance can benefit not only the institution of higher learning but the US' international standing and reputation as well.
Outline:
Abstract
Literature Review
Overview
Language Aspects
Cooperative Nature of Psycho-Educational Groups
Summary
Evaluation of Program Outcomes
Strengths of the Program
Limitations of the Program
Summary and Conclusions
Program Summary
Comparison to other Programs
Recommendations for Improvement
Recommendations for Future Study
From the Paper
"The idea is that these students must also be culturally integrated as well as linguistically capable. If they are able to comprehend all aspects of navigating common experiences in the US such as going to the bank or post-office but still lack any type of effective social skills and awareness in the host culture then they will still remain effectively isolated. The structure of these programs are in large part responsible for their success for both majority and minority language speakers because the students are not separated from their native language nor expected to lose their cultural identity but are give the tools and the opportunity to gradually work in the host culture environment. For the foreign born student, because so much of the instruction of these cultural familiarization and acculturation programs is in their primary language they receive a much more comprehensive education regarding what it means to integrate. However, it should be noted that these types of programs are offered outside of any official academic program and typically are not offered for credit and thus do contribute to a student's workload with little concrete return other than peace of mind. "
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Global Warming, 2008.
This paper discusses the impact and causes of global warming, concentrating on the greenhouse effect.
1,123 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 50.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that global warming is an issue that has been occupying Canadian as well as global headlines recently. The writer points out that although the severity of the problem has been recognized for quite some time, global warming has only recently become a 'mainstream' issue amongst Canadians and public interest in putting pressure on the governments of the world, to take action. The writer then discusses that this is a complex and all consuming task that requires extensive commitment and cooperation not just of governments, but also of industries of the world. The writer maintains that the main obstacle cited to pursuing the reduction of the greenhouse gases is the fear that it will negatively impact the economy and cut jobs. The writer concludes that many scientists, including David Suzuki and the United Nations IPCC, believe that any further increase in greenhouse emissions will devastate economies in the long run and keeping greenhouse emissions near current levels would cost only a very small fraction of the world's economic output.
Outline:
Introduction
What is the Greenhouse Effect?
What is Global Warming?
The Effects of Global Warming and Global Climate Change
From the Paper
"The Sun provides earth with great amounts of energy, of which about half is reflected or absorbed by the atmosphere. Ultraviolet light is absorbed by the ozone layer, while infrared (heat energy) is absorbed by the CO2 and water in the atmosphere. The energy absorbed by the earth surface is reradiated back into space. However, while most of the solar energy reaching the earth is visible light, the energy reemitted by the Earth is mainly infrared. This infrared energy is absorbed by the CO2 and water in the lower levels of the Earth's atmosphere. Because of this naturally occurring effect, the Earth's surface temperature is such that the planet is capable of sustaining life. This phenomenon is called the 'greenhouse' effect."
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Low Self-Esteem and Teen Marijuana Use, 2008.
This paper discusses the connection between low self-esteem and the use of drugs, in particular marijuana.
1,200 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 10 sources, MLA, AU$ 53.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses that teen use of illegal drugs such as marijuana is high, and appears to be on the increase, in the West. It is suggested that this is because many teens have poor self-esteem, and therefore they are likely to turn to destructive behaviours, such as using marijuana and other illicit substances. This essay draws on research to show that this is a valid explanation for the high incidence of marijuana use by teens in the West. The writer maintains that it seems very likely that low self-esteem can lead to substance abuse in teenagers. The writer concludes that increased use of marijuana among teens in the West is partly a result of the fact that many teens have poor self-esteem.
From the Paper
"Similar studies by other researchers have yielded similar results for girls. For example, several studies indicate that girls who have self-esteem and body image issues can turn to drugs. Unfortunately, such self-esteem and body image issues are wide spread in adolescent girls. One study showed that many girls go through a dramatic transition in early adolescence, and that this transition is characterized by issues around body image and low self-esteem. To make matters worse, research has turned up the unsurprising finding that girls with low self-esteem find it harder to cope with the usual stressors of adolescence. Similarly to the research with boys, researchers have found that pre-adolescent girls with low self-esteem are much likelier to abuse drugs by the time they reach the age of 15. Thus, the age of beginning to use drugs such as marijuana appears to be older than girls - but nevertheless, like boys, there seems to be a link between low self-esteem and marijuana and other illicit drug use."
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An Inconvenient Truth: Can Humanity Survive Global Warming?, 2008.
An outline of how humanity can survive global warming.
1,119 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 50.95
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Abstract
The following paper briefly outlines how humanity can survive global warming despite its obvious dangers to human beings. Most notably, the paper looks at how human beings contribute to climate change and thus are uniquely qualified among all the Earth's creatures to reverse the destructive trends that are taking place. In a related vein, the paper looks at how climate change threatens human life and the existence of other organisms residing on the planet. The author concludes that although we are at a pivotal moment in history - we can overcome the problems of today with a clear plan for tomorrow.
From the Paper
"To begin with, Gore's text emphasizes the vulnerability of the Earth upon which we live. Specifically, the Earth's atmosphere is notoriously thin - like a thin coat of varnish spread out over a classroom globe, As Carl Sagan once said (Gore, 22) - and that makes it extraordinarily vulnerable to cosmic forces and to anything humankind might inflict upon it. In particular, Gore argues that human industry is "thickening" the vulnerable atmosphere with carbon dioxide gases that are simply not permitting infrared radiation to escape out into the universe. As a result, the temperature on the Earth's surface is rising steadily, threatening the delicate equilibrium that has allowed human life (and other forms of life) to flourish for so long (Gore, 26-27). The question, then, of whether or not human beings can survive in spite of themselves seems fairly clear; to wit, if we can negatively affect the composition of the atmosphere with our huge manufacturing industries, then we can also positively change the composition of that same atmosphere by embracing environmentally-friendly practices. Seen in that light, human beings really can survive global warming insofar as it lies within our power to change atmospheric conditions for the better."
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The Legalization of Marijuana, 2008.
A strong argument that the ban on marijuana is illogical, hence marijuana should be legalized.
1,183 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 10 sources, MLA, AU$ 52.95
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Abstract
The paper offers three main reasons for the legalization of marijuana. The paper discusses its useful medicinal qualities that can relieve the suffering of many people and argues that the war on drugs is not working and is a waste of money. The paper contends further that banning marijuana violates the human rights of sick people. The paper claims that marijuana is banned for reasons that have more to do with history and politics than with any innate harmfulness.
From the Paper
"Marijuana has proven medical applications, and it is therefore time that Canada legalizes marijuana for medicinal purposes. Indeed, it seems that the medical value of marijuana is indisputable, as there are extremely reputable scientific testimonies in favour of the medical use of marijuana. For example, Lynn Zimmer, Ph.D. (associate professor of sociology at Queens College, University of New York) and John P. Morgan, M.D. (professor of pharmacology at the University of New York Medical School), conducted a metastudy utilizing every existing academic research paper on the medical properties of marijuana."
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Immigration Reform, 2008.
This paper addresses the debate surrounding immigration reform in the US and argues that migrant laborers are a necessary component of the U.S. economy.
2,366 words (approx. 9.5 pages), 8 sources, APA, AU$ 94.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses immigration reform and the growing Minuteman Movement, in which armed vigilantes have taken to patrolling the border.
The paper supports border security but contends that immigration should be expanded. The paper explains that the country should validate what is occurring anyway and what is in fact required for the country's economic well-being.
Outline:
Overview
The Minutemen Project
Open-Door Immigration Reform
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Immigration and immigration reform are issues central the United States (U.S.) and will continue to be important because of the U.S.'s historical encouragement of immigration and its ongoing reliance on foreign labor crossing the border from its Southern neighbor Mexico. The U.S. has several lengthy border with its neighboring countries; primarily Canada and Mexico. Because of Canada's high standard of living and developed economy, illegal immigration across the border with that country is minimal and not considered a priority. However, Mexico is a developing market with a large population and a high rate of poverty and therefore its citizens consider crossing the border into the U.S. and working primarily in labor positions as an opportunity to improve their quality of lives."
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The Mafia and Immigration, 2008.
This paper explores immigrants and their potential social connections to the mafia within the United States.
1,359 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 14 sources, APA, AU$ 59.95
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Abstract
The paper reveals that large formal organized networks of criminals that operate within a single city or a larger geographic region are often outcomes of immigration. The paper looks at the historical, immigrant background of the mafia within the United States. The paper shows how the defining characteristics of organized crime stem from exclusion from processes that are found within a normal social order.
From the Paper
"Immigration within the United States has tended to be regional and community-specific, where immigrants from specific ethnic populations are more likely to take up residence within the same region and form communities comprised of their native ethnic groups. These processes are used to help provide a sense of collective purpose within the immigrant population as these persons face a new and unfamiliar environment. The close community environment also helps the immigrants to maintain unique cultural traits and customs that may not exist within the new territory or within the cultures of the native population."
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Is Wire-Tapping Constitutional?, 2008.
This paper argues that the wire-tapping program of the United States government is necessary in today's world.
3,257 words (approx. 13.0 pages), 16 sources, MLA, AU$ 121.95
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Abstract
The paper examines the provisions of the United States Constitution as well as pertinent federal statutes that are affected by wire-tapping. The paper looks briefly at previous decisions of the United States Supreme Court vis-a-vis government wire-tapping. The paper argues that a solution to government wire-tapping is for a constitutional amendment to be passed authorizing its use - but only if specific criteria are satisfied. The paper then discusses the social implications of the proposed solution.
Outline:
Introduction
Statement of the Constitutional Issue
Research on the Issue: Federal Statutes and Court Precedents
Proposed Solution with Supporting Argument
Social Policy Implications of Proposed Solution
From the Paper
"The constitutional issue at the heart of the ongoing controversy over the government wire-tapping initiative comes down to Article II of the United States Constitution. Among other things, this article gives the President the power to serve as Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy as well as the authority to preside over the militia of the nation's states; he or she also has the power to make treaties and these treaties are binding as long as two-thirds of the Senate is in accord. In the overview, Article II appears to give the President considerable scope or latitude in the realm of national defense. With this in mind, it may be argued that the White House's wire-tapping initiative is validated by the explicit obligation the President has to protect the well-being of the nation in times of peril."
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Information Systems and Security, 2008.
This paper critically examines the information systems of the United States with regards to the struggle against terrorism.
2,977 words (approx. 11.9 pages), 10 sources, APA, AU$ 113.95
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Abstract
The paper examines the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and looks at how the United States' information systems fail to meet the tests of universality and of platform and operating systems compatibility. The paper then looks at how border security and the war against bioterrorism have been facilitated by cutting-edge technologies that are compromised by the same interoperability issues. The paper concludes that the failings of the DHS is proof that a more streamlined, centralized data-gathering and data-exchange process is needed.
Outline:
Abstract
Introduction
Information Systems and Standards Universality, Oversight and Compatibility: the Case of the United States Government
Federal Information Systems and the Border
A brief Look at Federal information Systems and Bioterrorism
Future Vision
Conclusions/Summary
From the Paper
"A Government Accountability Office Study conducted in June of 2005 found many problems with the information system in place at the Department of Homeland Security - problems that clearly reveal logistical and planning problems that must be overcome both in the public and in the private realms if the terrorist threat is to be appreciably reduced. To begin with, if the DHS is to be held up as an example, the United States government has done a desultory job of putting in place universal information security practices and controls. Things like a proper risk assessment, security plan, a regime of security tests and evaluations, remedial action plans, and a structure for the continuity of operations have (in one way or another) fallen short of expectations or have simply been absent (Government Accountability Office, 2005)."
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