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A Review of "The Imitation of Christ", 2008.
A summary of and recommendation to read "The Imitation of Christ" by Thomas Kempis.
1,290 words (approx. 5.2 pages), 0 sources, MLA, $ 43.95
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Abstract
This book review strongly recommends Thomas Kempis' "The Imitation of Christ" and claims that it is a life-changing book for Christian readers. The paper summarizes the book and discusses some of the issues it addresses, such as self-assessment, resisting temptation and the willingness to change. The author concludes by stating that the book helped him to become more self-reflective and aware of the changes that need to be made in his life.
Table of Contents:
The Benefits of Reading "The Imitation of Christ"
The Importance of Self-Assessment
Resisting Temptation and the Willingness to Change
Personal Relationship to Christ
Putting God First and the Willingness to Change
From the Paper
"Throughout Kempis's meditations, the focus is on self-reflection and being willing to make changes when needed. The third book of Kempis's writings is different in that the disciple speaks and then the voice of Christ. One of the stories in the Old Testament is about Samuel hearing the voice of God. He is told to ask the Lord to speak to him. The second chapter in the III Book says, "Speak, therefore, Lord, for your servant listens. 'Thou hast the words of eternal life. Speak to me for the comfort of my soul and for the amendment of my life" (Kempis IIIii para. 7). When I read this, I asked myself if I was willing to listen. Am I willing to hear his voice? Sometimes we are so busy that we fail to hear his voice."
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Creationism versus Evolution, 2008.
A comparison of the evolutionary and creationist paradigms of history.
922 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 32.95
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Abstract
This paper investigates the irreconcilable differences between evolutionary and creationist paradigms. The paper begins by describing the evolutionary paradigm and the creationist paradigm separately. It then contrasts the two views and discusses their differences. The paper concludes by suggesting that the ultimate argument between these two perspectives is a contest of faith versus fact.
From the Paper
"Creationism is a philosophical perspective that intends to keep specific social systems and conventions alive. However, Creationist beliefs display a blatant disregard for acknowledged scientific premises. Their ultimate argument is a contest of faith versus fact, and because of their refusal to incorporate credible evidence into their theories they can not destabilize the normal science of evolution. Even though the prevalence of Christian, Judaic, and Muslim religions might lend some credence to Creationist claims (given that all holy texts confirm the existence of a divine creator), the modern world is driven by evidence, details, and specifics. Their paradigm continues to influence people with unbreakable conviction in fundamental scriptural laws, but the scientific world remains unshaken."
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Zen Buddhism, 2008.
An overview of the beliefs and philosophies of Zen Buddhism.
1,878 words (approx. 7.5 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 60.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at how Zen Buddhism is a hugely complex and sprawling philosophical/intellectual construct that cannot be easily expressed. The paper attempts to outline what Zen Buddhism is by looking at what sort of mind-set it teaches and what it demands of its followers. Furthermore, the paper relates how, at its core, Zen Buddhism demands that people let go of the attachments and curious affectations which contribute to unhappiness insofar as these things offer a distorted view of what constitutes a good life. Additionally, the paper considers how Zen Buddhism argues against blindly accepting traditional knowledge and how it takes what could even be called a relativistic or post-modern approach to studying language and the written word. Lastly, the paper looks at the chief "truths", of which there are four, that informs Zen Buddhist thought. In the final analysis, the paper suggests that Buddhism is fundamentally about valuing experience and feeling over formal cosmologies and epistemologies.
From the Paper
"For one thing, Zen Buddhism (Buddhism in general, really) teaches people to accept pain as the price one pays for growth. This pain is not a bad thing: on the contrary, pain deepens character and a deep character allows an individual to probe more deeply into the secrets of life. It is through pain that one embraces revelation - and Buddhism teaches people to accept discomfort as part of the learning process. In a closely-related vein, Zen Buddhism is a philosophy which encourages people to become less ego-centered. By effacing (in part) or by denying the ego, the individual takes the first step towards understanding the infinite, the metaphysical, and to developing a sincere religious consciousness (Suzuki, Essays in Zen Buddhism, 15-17). All of this, of course, is predicated upon personal self-inquiry and introspection."
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Buddhism in China, 2008.
An analysis of how and when Buddhism came to China and the obstacles it faced there from the state and Confucian opponents.
1,713 words (approx. 6.9 pages), 8 sources, APA, $ 55.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at how Buddhism came to China and what main problems pertaining to assimilation greeted it once it arrived. Specifically, the paper analyzes when exactly Buddhism made its appearance, what factors in China made it possible for it to establish a toe-hold and what arguments were leveled against it by Confucian opponents. The paper also discusses the role of the Northwestern Purists, as well as what obstacles the state offered.
From the Paper
"Yet, there is still confusion among scholars as to when exactly Buddhism began to eclipse (or at least rival) Confucianism in ancient China. Lewis Hodous seems to place Buddhism's gradual rise during the Han dynasty that extended from the third century BC to the third century AD - which appears to accord with the work of Hawkins insofar as the latter draws the conclusion that 300 AD was right about when Buddhism became pervasive and prominent in China. However, Xinzhong Yao (2000) argues that Buddhism did not really begin to flourish until roughly the end of the fourth century AD - a later date by nearly a century. Ultimately, the imprecision of the dates (and they all do fall within the same general timeframe) can be attributed to the relative scarcity of textual sources and, presumably, to different scholarly preoccupation and emphases. The key point, in any case, is that Buddhism came about because Confucianism's own failings gave it cultural space in which to carve out a niche."
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Zen Practitioners in the West, 2008.
An analysis of the challenges and opportunities that face Zen Buddhism as it is practiced in the West.
1,694 words (approx. 6.8 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 54.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at Zen practitioners and what challenges they face as they practice in the West. It particularly discusses the ignorance which seems to have sprung up over time with regards to the precise nature of Zen Buddhism and looks at how Zen practitioners must confront this ignorance by vigorously educating neophyte westerners interested in the religion and philosophy but who may be ill-informed about its origins and teachings. The paper also looks at the lingering specter of racism and the common misperception regarding Buddhist "retributive" or karmic suffering.
From the Paper
"Lastly, Buddhism is diminished in the popular imaginings of many westerners because of its apparent tolerance for human suffering - a situation which, given its association with India, can lead it to being confused with the ugly caste system historically supported by its rival (and philosophical cousin), Hinduism. Zen Buddhism thus can become easily seen as the manifestation of a religion that takes a neglectful view of the degradation visited upon unfortunate groups within a society. What is rather ironic about all of this is that the harsh, retributive notion of "karma" is actually quite alien to canonical Buddhism (Jones, 66) but the notion that Buddhism encourages this sort of human misery is a popular article of faith among its critics (Crabtree, no.6)."
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Zen Buddhism, 2007.
This paper discuses Zen Buddhism as a form of Mahayana Buddhism, which is a tradition that has had much appeal to some westerners in the last generations.
3,015 words (approx. 12.1 pages), 8 sources, APA, $ 88.95
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Abstract
This paper relates the history of Zen Buddhism, explaining that it originated in China and later spread throughout much of Vietnam, Korea and Indo-China. The author points out that Zen Buddhism demands a great deal of the follower but its gift is a pure simplicity that brings the transformation of the person and all awareness. The paper relates that many North Americans, including Heidegger, Erich Fromm, and Aldous Huxley, value the 'in the moment' focus of Zen Buddhism as a solution to fast-paced societies that cause many people to feel overwhelmed by stress. The paper relates that the aesthetics of Zen appeal to Westerners as seen in sand or stone 'Japanese' gardens that reflect the influence of Zen Buddhism.
Table of Content:
Introduction
The Buddha's Emissaries
Zen's Appeal and its Spread
Zen's Appeal to Non-Asian Persons
Concluding Discussion
From the Paper
"Those leaving India for East Asia in the 6th century AD believed they carried a simple but very powerful message. The smile of the Buddha was a symbol that had spread through India by those known as the 28 Patriarchs, the symbol brought to China by Bodhidharma and later taken on to Japan. Part of the appeal of Zen Buddhism perhaps was its accessibility in societies where only the elite, indeed, only the philosophical or priestly classes, were literate. Zen's emphasis on personal consciousness, as aided by a learned teacher, appealed to people who were given simple - but extremely difficult meditative exercises to master."
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What is Zen?, 2008.
An analysis of the concepts behind Zen with a view to trying to explain what it is.
2,294 words (approx. 9.2 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 70.95
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Abstract
This paper attempts to offer an explanation of what Zen is. It explores the history of Zen and the effects that Zen has on people. It begins by describing the relationship between zen and Shakyamuni Buddha and its relationship to Buddhism. The paper also looks at what Zen helps people to achieve and the importance of this understanding of how to live and die without anxiety and fear.
From the Paper
"Thus we see that Zen can be defined in historical terms, and it can be defined in terms of practice. Yet it is clear that the most important approach to what Zen is, is to see that Zen achieves for human beings. As we have seen, Zen enlightenment appears to hold the key to the two most important problems of life: how shall we live, and how shall we die. Zen enlightenment offers us nirvana, a place in which we can live and die without suffering. This seems to be a key way to understand what Zen is - to see what it can make possible for us. Thus, though it is hard to precisely define Zen, just as it must once have been hard for people to define the Sun, we can come towards an understanding of what Zen is, by understanding what it can achieve. If it can help us to achieve an understanding of how to live and die without anxiety and fear, then clearly it is a very important, powerful and wonderful thing - even if we cannot precisely define what it is."
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"The Divine Comedy" - Dante Alighieri's "Inferno", 2007.
A discussion of the epic poem "The Divine Comedy" by Dante Alighieri, focusing on canto III of Dante's "Inferno".
1,192 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 40.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the scholars and the de-contextualization of Dante's "Inferno" - with special emphasis upon canto III. The paper summarizes the scene when a fearful Dante first enters Hell and discusses its significance in terms of understanding Dante and his world. The paper also looks at how intellectuals view Dante's "Inferno". The writer believes that the work stands out as a classic example of the medieval allegory play taken to new rhetorical heights. The writer concludes that it is also an example of how even the simplest works, if powerfully wrought, can spark wide discussion among academics who seek out meanings unimagined by the author.
From the Paper
"Ultimately, the canto, like the rest of the cantica, is a potential mirror into the world in which Dante Alighieri lived as well as a mirror into his own inner turmoil as a devout Christian seeking a purpose to his life as well as answers to questions that presumably many devout Christians were asking in the fourteenth century. To start with, the canto (in the original Italian, anyway) was written in the demanding terza rima rhyme pattern (Scott para.2) and, even in English translations, the text can be difficult to follow as Dante tries to bend the language into shapes and forms to which it does not adhere willingly."
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The Extinction of the Dinosaurs, 2008.
An analysis of whether or not dinosaurs could have become extinct because of the biblical flood.
2,071 words (approx. 8.3 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 65.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at the extinction of the dinosaurs and assesses the validity of the arguments put forward by creationists in favor of a biblical explanation for their demise. In particular, the paper discusses whether or not it is plausible to believe that the extinction of the great beasts was occasioned by the flood of the story of Noah's Ark. The paper looks at the biblical time-frame and explores whether or not dinosaurs and humans could possibly have existed contemporaneously. Finally, the paper looks at the plausibility of a great Ark existing and at whether the biblical flood could have ever taken place. The paper concludes that there is just enough evidence available for it to be unwise to dismiss the biblical explanation for the demise of the dinosaurs.
From the Paper
"For one thing, critics of the Ark thesis state that supporters of its existence - such as John Woodmorappe - fail to consider how some creatures ostensibly not on the life-saving vessel (terrestrial snails, to cite one example) could have survived the relentless deluge. Further, critics charge that animals and other living beings which managed to survive the Flood could not possibly have been cared for adequately in any Ark - no matter how big. For instance, those who favor an evolutionary explanation for the earth's past (which necessarily means dismissing biblical accounts of why some creatures persisted into the modern age while others died out) point to the apparent logical improbability of being able to house, feed and sustain thousands of different species in a cramped, confined area; as far the critics are concerned, the example of modern industrial farming simply does not suffice as an explanation for how such an enormous task could have been undertaken (Morton, para.4-5)."
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Religious Discrimination in Schools, 2008.
This paper explores religious discrimination, with a focus on public schools.
1,670 words (approx. 6.7 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 54.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses the lack of progress in preventing religious discrimination in schools or throughout the social order. The paper explains that this is because there is a subjective attitude regarding what can be classified as religious discrimination; even in the United States House of Representatives some believe that certain forms of religious discrimination are acceptable, while the highest court demands that the separation of church and state be universal law. The paper shows how the methods of limiting such discrimination are few and ineffective, preventing deterrence from discrimination on a large scale.
From the Paper
"Discrimination has been an issue that has existed since the beginning of society in the United States in one form or another. Racial discrimination and discrimination based on gender have been the most discussed forms of discriminatory practices since the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s. Religious discrimination has also been of primary concern throughout society, especially in relation to those of religious faiths other than Christianity. This is perhaps because the founders of the nation supported this religious philosophy and the bulk of Americans have continued to practice the Christian faith as well. Yet, the founding fathers believed that public education was not the place in which religion should guide instruction. This was perhaps because education, as an unwritten rule, requires that the student's mind be open to new ideas and concepts that may be different than his or her social norms. Therefore, the separation of church and state became a guiding principle in the public school system."
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"An Introduction to Buddhism", 2008.
A review of "An Introduction to Buddhism" by Paul Harvey.
1,477 words (approx. 5.9 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at "An Introduction to Buddhism" by Paul Harvey, published in 1990 which was written as a text book with the intention of introducing either high school or college students to some of the concepts of Buddhism. Because Buddhism is such a broad subject, much of which is covered by this book, this paper compares how the concept of "suffering" is addressed in the book and in other different texts. The language that is used to discuss suffering is also examined, in terms of how the term is conceptualized by its inclusion--or its lack of inclusion--in the First Noble Truth and in terms of accessibility.
Outline:
Concepts and Comparisons
Successes
Failures
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Harvey (1990) does spend a great deal of time in discussion on the topic of suffering, since that is a major aspect of Buddhist teachings. However, Harvey describes the concept of suffering as an isolated event, in a somewhat clinical fashion. The basic concept of "suffering" actually tends to get lost in his discussion of "self" and "not-self," (Harvey, 1990, pp. 50-52), until he actually begins to discuss what he calls "the Second Holy Truth" (Harvey, 1990, p. 53). In part, the difficulty in this discussion comes with the use of unfamiliar words in Harvey's text; the reader spends more time translating and organizing concepts than he or she does in processing and un understanding them. "
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Compensation Bonus Plan, 2008.
A research proposal for a compensation bonus plan.
2,919 words (approx. 11.7 pages), 12 sources, APA, $ 86.95
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Abstract
This paper addresses the question of whether an organization can identify the compensation strategy that is most effective for it and how it can establish a methodology to ascertain what that compensation strategy might be. The paper includes a completed review of the relevant literature as well as a research design methodology. Finally, the importance of compensation strategies to contemporary organizations is noted and personal reflections of the author's relationship with God are revealed as central to the development of this project.
Outline:
Abstract
Problem Statement
Research Objectives
Literature Review
Importance of Study
Research Design
Budget
Measurement
Reflections
From the Paper
"Compensation strategies typically fall within the functional control of human resources (HR) within most organizations. HR management has become one of the last remaining functional areas of an organization where differentiation can be achieved in the marketplace and where competitors might still be appreciably out performed. The reasons for this revolve around the ubiquitous and relative inexpensive character of technology and technological applications that have levelled the competitive field across all industries. Essentially, no matter where a company is located it can access and deploy the very same technological solutions as any other competitor; thus, organizations have determined, and correctly so, that human resources are a vital source of competitive edge if managed properly. "
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Shinshu Buddhism, 2008.
An overview of the creed and practices of Shinshu Buddhism.
1,369 words (approx. 5.5 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 45.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how Shinshu Buddhism stems from Mahayana Buddhism and is one of the Pure Land Buddhist schools called also True Pure Land Buddhism. The paper then looks at how Shinshu is characterized by the total negation of monasticism, making it the religion of the ordinary man. It also discusses how Shinshu Buddhism bears many similarities to other Buddhist schools particularly those of the Pure Land and how there are significant important differences in the practices and moral values between Shinshu and others.
From the Paper
"The Shinshu Buddhism practice is focused on chanting practice termed nembutsu, which "literally means to think on or be mindful of (nen) the Buddha (Butsu)" (Ueda and Hirota, 127). It simply consists of chanting the phrase "I take the refuge in Amitabha Buddha". This chanting presents gratitude to Amitabha and his Eighteenth Vow and as such some do not consider it a practice at all but plain affirmation of gratitude and trust in this Vow. The vow ensures that those who sincerely commend to the Vow and desire to be born in Pure Land and who perform even ten nen (or nembutsu) will secure the birth in the Pure Land for themselves. This was enough to gain the support of the Other Power."
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Defending Judas, 2008.
An analysis of Dante's placement of Judas within the "Inferno" and the meaning behind it.
1,042 words (approx. 4.2 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 36.95
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Abstract
This paper presents information in order to attempt to defend Judas from mainstream Christian theology, which teaches that Judas is the greatest of traitors because of his betrayal of Jesus to the authorities. The paper discusses Dante's placement of Judas within "Inferno" and discusses what this placement suggests about Judas' guilt or lack thereof.
Table of Contents:
Outline
Argument
From the Paper
"However, if we do not limit ourselves, as Dante did, to accepted official or orthodox beliefs, we have to recognize that the existence of these ancient teachings about Judas may be worthy of being taken into consideration. Even some modern writers have started to feel that these old arguments are worth a new look, as can be seen in books such as The Last Temptation of Christ by Nikos Kazantzakis, and the short story "Three Versions of Judas" by Jorge Luis Borges. Without claiming any definite value as truth, but only speculation, they do suggest to us that keeping an open mind to different ways of looking at old beliefs can bring new knowledge to light."
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Theology Sermon, 2008.
This paper presents a sermon on theology.
1,255 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
In this speech or sermon, it is explained that the writer is a student of divinity. The writer explains that a number of people have asked whether the writer is studying theology. Therefore, the pastor suggested that the writer presents a sermon on the subject of "theology" and its importance to the Church and religious community. The writer firstly explains the concept of theology, defining it as a discussion on or about God. The writer expresses the belief that the words of Jesus are very important in allowing an understanding of what exactly is the purpose of theology. The writer concludes that theology is, in its essence, an effort to understand in a systematic way the message of Christianity as embodied in scriptural text and, with the assistance of the Spirit, to apply this message in everyday life.
From the Paper
"I believe that these words of Jesus are very important in allowing us to understand what exactly is the purpose of theology. In the early days of Christianity there were some in the Church who felt that "theology" represented a movement away from the roots of Christianity in the Scripture and in Jewish traditions, and towards Greek and Roman ideas of logic and debate. Yet this is not an accurate view of the value of theology in the long history of the Church. In fact, theologians emphasize the importance of Faith and the operation of the Holy Spirit in allowing us to understand the deeper meaning of Christ's words."
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Untouchables, 2008.
An analysis of the relationship between Hinduism and the caste system in India.
1,234 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the system of Untouchables within the context of Eastern religions and Indian society. It discusses the tradition of the caste system in India. The paper also discusses what connection, if any, there is between the caste system and the Untouchables, and Hinduism. It concludes that the Untouchables are not a Hindu concept, but are rather based on Indian tradition and culture.
From the Paper
"While it seems fair to conclude that the system of discriminating against a caste of people known as the Untouchables persists in India to this day, and that this results in systemic discrimination against millions of people, it also seems fair to conclude that the blame should not be laid at the door of Hinduism. After all, many academics agree that it is a system which has arisen out of historical factors, and that it manifests primarily in economic, social and political outcomes. Therefore, while it is fair to see the system as problematic, it is not fair to therefore see Hinduism as some kind of "primitive" religion. On the contrary, great Hindus such as Gandhi have spoken out against the system. It is also unfair to look down on India as a whole because of this system. After all, most social systems retain some kind of discrimination based on historical factors. For example, women are still discriminated against in Western society to this day - and worldwide, there are still pitifully few female leaders of countries. Thus, we might simply conclude that the Untouchable system is simply one more manifestation of the reality that all human societies so far have failed to achieve equality."
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The Hellenistic Era, 2008.
An analysis of philosophical and religious syncretism in the Hellenistic Era.
1,334 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 44.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the syncretistic or homogeneous tenets of Hellenistic religion and philosophy. It looks at how the military expansionism of Alexander the Great's Macedonian armies helped to bring about a greater knowledge of differing belief systems, which allowed greater syncretism between philosophy and religion. It also discusses how, due to the elitist and often exclusionary principles of extremist religious (Pharisees) and philosophical tenets (Aristotle and Plato), the creation of Stoicism and Epicureanism helped unify the divide between these two factions.
From the Paper
"The greater part of the Hellenistic era is derivative from the invasions of Alexander the Great (356-323 BCE) form his native Macedonia. From about 336 BCE, Alexander the Great had conquered much of the Mediterranean and had a massive influence over the way that people thought about religion and about philosophy. Although Alexander was essentially a Macedonian he was far different from the mainland Greeks in his tolerance for other religious ideals. In many ways, he was able to integrate both aspects of religion and philosophy into a more unified system. "
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Homosexuality and Roman Catholic Youth, 2008.
This paper reviews an article by Fr Robert Mattingly SJ entitled 'Gay Adolescents in Catholic Schools - Avoiding the Topic Won't Make It Go Away' printed in "Momentum".
955 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 33.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Fr. R. Mattingly, in his 2004 article in "Momentum", stresses that sex scandals within the Roman Catholic Church have forced attention on matters of sexuality that the Church has rarely wished to discuss beyond firm moralizing positions. The author points out that, although the Church still discusses homosexual acts as sinful, Mattingly reminds the reader of the stronger discussion of how all human beings are created in the image of God. The paper relates that, rather than criticizing homosexuality or failing to discuss it, the Church school community should ensure that gay students receive the inclusion and support they need. The author stresses that Mattingly also feels strongly that Roman Catholic schools should be sure that students can discuss matters of sexuality, homosexuality and heterosexuality.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
The Hazards of Ignoring Homosexuality
Whose Child is it Anyway?
A Positive Environment and Acceptance
Concluding Remarks
From the Paper
"Accordingly to Mattingly, teachers and other adults must understand what happens when a homosexual youth is not included, not understood or denounced in different ways. When gay students are not given proper support they will experience self-destructive emotions and engage in self-destructive behaviors as what seems a usual set of results. He refers to social scientific research to explain that 40 percent or more of homeless youths in the United States are homosexuals, many of them engaged in substance abuse or confirmed addicts, and that many become HIV positive."
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Dante's "Inferno", 2008.
Presents writer's reasons for agreeing with Dante's placement of illicit heterosexual relationships as one of the least serious sins in his "Inferno".
869 words (approx. 3.5 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 30.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes Dante's view in making illicit heterosexual love the least of the serious sins in Hell in his "Inferno" and then presents the writer's opinion of Dante's arrangement. The writer bases his opinion on reasons based on Catholic theology, the mitigating circumstances in the case of at least two of the people he meets and Dante's own confessed susceptibility to a kind of literary seduction.
Table of Contents:
Outline
Argument
From the Paper
"Dante's vulnerability to a similar seduction: The same modern writer who suggested that Francesca may be considered partly a victim also noted that "her account of her seduction by literature might be taken as a veiled confession of a similar susceptibility on Dante's part" (Pinsky xiii). That is to say, Paolo and Francesca's reading in a book about another famous adulterous affair (that of Lancelot and Guinevere) may have influenced them to commit their own sin. Commenting on the Fifth Canto in general, the writer goes on to state that "the damned in Dido's train bear witness to the power of literature more than to the irresistibility of love" (Pinsky 313). Dante's own recognized vulnerability to the strong influencing power of literature may have inspired him to treat other victims of this power more lightly than another writer would have."
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