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Teaching Philosophy, 2007.
This paper discusses the beliefs of William James, Blaise Pascal and Immanuel Kant on the means and methods of teaching.
950 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 33.95
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Abstract
The paper examines William James' belief that any person can succeed, provided he/she is given the correct opportunities and motivation by a good teacher. The paper then discusses how Blaise Pascal took a less empowering view of the individual's abilities, believing the teacher must provide guidance about the child's natural inclinations and tastes. The paper also looks at how Immanuel Kant focuses on training the mind, attempting to give the student the intellectual tools to reason and learn on his/her own.
From the Paper
"William James' view of the correct means and methods of teaching places a tremendous amount of empowerment in the hands of the student. James' expressed views reflect the American belief that any person can succeed, provided that person is given the correct opportunities and motivation by a good teacher. This is reflected in James' anecdote, chronicled in his Principles of Psychology, of the boy who was prodded to learn to read, because of his natural curiosity about interesting pictures in a book. The boy's father teased his son with the prospect of learning about the pictures, telling the boy he must learn on his own, thus the boy becomes motivated to read because "An artificial and indirect desire" to read had been "grafted on a natural and direct one" to learn about the pictures (James 290-291)."
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Cultural Materialism, 2007.
This paper discusses the concept of materialism and specifically the theory of cultural materialism.
1,334 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 44.95
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Abstract
The paper explains that one of the most persuasive theories in its analysis and relationship with empirical understanding is the theory of cultural materialism. The paper attempts to dissect cultural materialism to give a broader contextual understanding of why this theory is the most plausible explanation for current socio-cultural events and environments. The paper focuses on the theories of Marvin Harris.
From the Paper
"The concept of materialism can be broadly understood as the general theory that the "ultimate constituents of reality are material or physical bodies, elements or processes". It is a principle that holds everything in existence is reducible to a material or physical nature. Materialism directly contradicts dualistic theories which claim that body and mind are distinct entity and also directly attacks philosophical idealism which denies the existence of matter. The direct implication of materialism in general, is that the diverse qualitative experiences we have are reducible to quantitative changes in objects or our physiological functioning."
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Reason in Education, 2007.
An analysis of reason's role in childhood education and the writer's reactions to the views of Thomas Aquinas and Aristotle.
1,251 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses reason's role in childhood educational development. It particularly focuses on the views expressed by Thomas Aquinas and Aristotle. The paper then describes the writer's reactions to these views. It also looks at the ways in which she, as an assistant in a class for talented and gifted students, has developed her own educational philosophy with regards to reason's role in education.
From the Paper
"My mentors and role models, both from childhood as a young student and from my adult student career, set the stage for my passion for education. Bad teachers as well as good inspired in me the desire to rise to greatness within my chosen profession. As Aristotle notes in the Nichomachean Ethics, we must strive for excellence, for perfection, in all our endeavors. Perfection is crafted by reason, and reason is in turn perfected by practice and honest self-reflection. I have not yet developed a career that would enable me to reflect on my performance has an educator. As a trainee, however, I have strived to exercise all mental and physical faculties "in accordance with excellence or virtue," as Aristotle advises (p. 14). Mundane as my tasks may seem as a teacher-in-training, I imbue them with pride and enthusiasm."
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Genesis, 2007.
This paper provides a comparison of two Genesis creation stories.
1,520 words (approx. 6.1 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that the creation story/myth as found in the Book of Genesis in the Revised King James Version is one of the most hotly-debated books of the Old Testament. The writer points out that currently, there are two groups of opinion as to the book's authorship, one accepting the suggestion that Moses was the author and/or compiler, the other denying this claim. Generally speaking, the writer maintains that the creation story may have been received as a direct revelation from God; on the other hand, it may be nothing short of an account of creation based on earlier stories. The writer examines two specific accounts of the creation by contrasting and comparing them in order to more fully understand how this story/myth came about, namely, the traditional account of the creation and that traditionally assigned to the priestly writers or scribes, circa 500 to 400 B.C.E. in the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible.
From the Paper
"Thus, the exact origin of the Book of Genesis remains a mystery."
"Obviously, it is rather difficult to obtain any historical evidence to compare to the Book of Genesis, especially chapters one through eleven, the main body of the creation story/myth. In the creation account as found in the Old Testament, it is not possible to discover exactly how God made man and neither archeology nor anthropology can provide definite answers as to the time, place or means of man's origins as outlined in Genesis."
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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, $ 91.95
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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, $ 61.95
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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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Atlantis, 2007.
This paper discusses the concept of Atlantis, as described in two of Plato's works.
834 words (approx. 3.3 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 29.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer points out that the concept of Atlantis originally came from Plato's two books, 'Timaeus' and 'Critias' written in approximately 370 B.C.. The writer explains that according to Plato, Atlantis was first founded by a mix of gods and mortals. In 'Timaeus', Plato describes Atlantis as a prosperous nation out to expand its domain. The writer concludes that Plato's 'Timaeus' and 'Critias' are the only written records that describe Atlantis in detail. The writer notes that they are written in two dialogues of conversations between Socrates, Hermocrates, Timeaus, and Critias as a result of an earlier talk by Socrates about perfect civilizations.
From the Paper
"The residents lived in buildings and plantations, where separate accommodations, with baths, were provided for royalty and commoners, women, horses, and other beasts of burden."
"This sounds very feasible and could very likely be a nation state that existed at that time. It is very indicative of other cultures at that period. However, this is not the whole story. According to Plato, Atlantis was first founded by a mix of gods and mortals. Poseidon wed the mortal woman Cleito. As a god, Poseidon easily created the
centre island and brought up the two springs of water as well as every variety of food to grow from the rich soil."
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United Nations, 2007.
This paper discusses positivism versus post-positivism as it relates to the United Nations (U.N.).
987 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 35.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses positivism and post-positivism and maintains that post-positivism focuses on a particular situation, rather than setting general principles of ethics for all persons to follow.
The writer then argues that it would seem that the post-positive perspective would be an ideal leadership approach for the currently divided United Nations. The writer argues that for positive intentions to become effectual actions, the member states of the United Nations must forge a better working relationship led by a post-positivist paradigm of leadership, However, the writer concludes that this does not mean ignoring the clear, positivist moral purpose of the UN to defend human rights.
From the Paper
"The new Secretary General, Ban Ki-Moon from South Korea, much like the past Secretary General Kofi Annan, comes from one of the less powerful member states not permanently represented on the Security Counsel. This does not mean if his predecessor's work is any indication, however, that he will necessarily be able to create a more pluralistic forum within the context of United Nations in terms of how power is balanced amongst its leaders, although he states he will strive to do so. Besides the power of the UNSC, certain factions have often been able to dominate the decision-making of the UN General Assembly, no matter how post-positivist the orientation of some of its leaders, as infamously embodied in the biased UN Resolution 3379 equating Zionism and thus the existence of Israel as racism. The UN's inability to effectively address the genocide in Rwanda and Darfur in recent years highlights the difficulty of taking effective action on behalf of an organization of such pluralistic composition."
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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, $ 39.95
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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, $ 50.95
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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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Poe, Reason and the Irrational, 2007.
This paper discusses the work of Edgar Allan Poe's as it relates to reason and the irrational.
8,527 words (approx. 34.1 pages), 10 sources, APA, $ 180.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that a significant literary tradition exists questioning the defining characteristics of madness, as not deviant behavior but behavior associated with brilliance. The writer then points out that discussions of the literary interpretation of madness as a form of brilliant understanding, is expressed through the works of Edgar Allan Poe so effectively that even his interpretation of the mundane as horrible, can be called into mind on the issue of analogous representations. The writer maintains that when speaking of Poe and his contribution to literature one expert expressed that the analogous idea of the mundane as filled with horror was not based upon the reality of the object but on its interpretation by the individual character and therefore his or her readers.
Outline:
Introduction
Morality
Intuition and Reason
The Death of Reason
Power
Supernatural
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The defining characteristics, of madness in the literary and cultural determinism present in Poe's 19th century and now our 21st century worlds are associated not with the inability of an individual to function, within a normal scope of human cultural existence but with his inability to function within such a context while still knowing so much more than the average man. The individual, whom the norm expresses as possessed of madness has both superior reasoning and increased knowledge, including greater knowledge than the leaders of average men, who are in and of themselves leaders, likely to be average as well, as a product of their ability to possess power among those whose admiration is based on normalcy and who constantly seek the clues of congruence to determine their trust in another and self. Poe expresses this idea masterfully in Marginalia, when he expresses that seeking the brilliant in the historical would require one to discount the great and look for those who were condemned to death or who died in obscurity within the walls of an asylum or prison."
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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, $ 40.95
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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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Kierkegaard and Radical Fideism, 2007.
An overview of the history and philosophy of fideism.
3,136 words (approx. 12.5 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 91.95
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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, $ 34.95
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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, $ 51.95
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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, $ 50.95
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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, $ 41.95
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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, $ 43.95
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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, $ 107.95
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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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