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"The Second Shift", 2008.
A review of the book "The Second Shift" by Arlie Russell Hochschild and by Anne Machung.
1,226 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 1 source, APA, $ 41.95
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Abstract
The paper examines "The Second Shift" by Arlie Russell Hochschild and by Anne Machung that addresses the struggles women face when they combine motherhood with a demanding career. The paper looks at the purpose of the book, the main ideas, the central thesis, the research methodology used and the possible biases of the writers. The paper also identifies the overall strengths and weaknesses of the book and the impression it made upon the writer. The paper shows how the text is a solid one, but also one that has significant shortcomings.
From the Paper
"At its core, Arlie Russell Hochschild and Anne Machung's book, The Second Shift, is about the struggles women face when they try to "marry" motherhood with a demanding career; the book, in essence, is a manifesto on the challenges confronted by having both parents pursue careers in a world wherein a "buck" does not have quite the same buying power as it once did - and where gender roles are being dramatically re-drawn (not always with happy results for both parties)."
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"A Streetcar Named Desire", 2008.
A comparison of patriarchal behaviors in the historical period after World War II with those in modern times, as portrayed within the play, "A Streetcar Named Desire," by Tennessee Williams.
806 words (approx. 3.2 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 28.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes the sexism of patriarchal behaviors that were present in the historical period after World War II. It then compares this how they have changed in modern times, as portrayed within the play, "A Streetcar Named Desire," written by Tennessee Williams. The paper analyzes the roles of both men and women in the play in order to examine patriarchal dominance.
From the Paper
"A modern woman in the feminist perspective would certainly be offended at Stanley's 'lordly' patriarchal values, which would have the woman only be a servant to his domestic needs. The contrast in this scene with modernity in the roles between men and women would be defined through a feminist construct, enabling women to defy commands and overtly sexist demands that Stanley makes to Stella. In this manner, Stanley becomes the patriarchal figure that would not be tolerated in the 21st century, but within the context of the post World War II era, he is able to incite sexism and machismo in the cultural context of the returning soldiers and their behaviors toward women as objects for their servitude in the home. In this manner, the greatly contrasting choices that feminism brought in the 1970s until modern times has changed the way that women react toward sexist men, providing them with a choice to follow or reject these patriarchal behaviors that Stanley epitomizes in the play."
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Canadian Gender History, 2008.
This paper discusses Canadian gender history, focusing on masculinity before and after World War II.
2,050 words (approx. 8.2 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 64.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer examines how notions of masculinity in Canada have changed perceptibly over time. As a line of demarcation, the paper looks at how masculinity was perceived in the pre-World War II period, and the notions of masculinity that have emerged from 1946 onward - if only gradually. In so doing, the paper reviews traditional (pre-1939) notions about men being only worthy of the title of a man if they were willing combatants and providers, as well as how men today are now expected (and encouraged) to also be nurturers and care-givers. The writer presents a general idea that men are being pressured into becoming more feminine in their world-view even if Canadian society (at least in the matter of men as nurses) still harbors some sexual stereotypes that instinctively rebel at the thought of men fulfilling certain tasks.
From the Paper
"Reviewing the Canada that existed before the advent of World War II, the idea that men should stand and fight - whether for principle, for honor, or for love - was not one dismissed lightly. Without question, it was expected of a man that he would not lightly take an insult or slur cast his way. For instance, tavern fights were quite common in nineteenth century Canada and the masculine code of the era dictated that a man who backed down from a challenge was, for all intents and purposes, relieving himself of some of his manhood. What would be interesting to find out - although this writer had difficulty finding appropriate scholarly sources - is whether the average term of imprisonment for assault and battery offenses was higher in the pre-World War II era than it was, and is, in the post-World War II epoch. The reason why this is a significant matter deserving of further exploration is because new information might offer fascinating insight into how the judicial elites of the age (and all of those residing within the Canada of the time who wielded socio-political power) tacitly encouraged - or at least did not actively discourage - male violence. More than that, it would be especially interesting to find out how cases of violence that involved the "upper-crust" were treated relative to instances of violence that involved only the "plebeians" of early Canadian society."
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The Causes of Rape, 2008.
A review of the book "The Minds of Boys: Saving Our Sons from Falling Behind in School and Life." by Michael Gurian's and Kathy Stevens.
1,330 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 1 source, APA, $ 44.95
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Abstract
This paper examines Michael Gurian's and Kathy Stevens' book on the causes of rape, "The Minds of Boys: Saving Our Sons from Falling Behind in School and Life." by Michael Gurian and Kathy Stevens." The paper discusses the excellent manner in which Michael Gurian and Kathy Stevens touch upon the need for parents to make the early years of a boy's life ones in which emotional intelligence and bonding capabilities are established. The paper then outlines how teachers (and society as a whole) must do a better job of recognizing the vulnerabilities of men and the challenges they face. The paper also looks at the contradictory "messages" that society transmits to young men and how they contribute to incidences of sexual violence. In conclusion, the paper shows that until the psychological, emotional and scholastic needs of boys are fully met by society, sexual violence will continue to be a frightening menace.
From the Paper
"The tension between men and women has grown substantially in recent decades as the initial fight for equality waged by feminists on behalf of all women gradually gave way to a "gender feminism" all-too-often typified by anti-male rhetoric and by a legislative agenda that privileged the needs of girls over boys. Not surprisingly, this anger and resentment has dramatically increased the prospects of an all-out "gender war" that will leave both sides as victims."
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Gender and Foucault, 2008.
This paper discusses textual construction of gender differentiation in texts of Sigmund Freud, Nancy Chodorow and Michel Foucault.
1,000 words (approx. 4.0 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 35.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that the issue of gender differentiation is a highly contentious one. The writer points out that this involves not only questions of how the process occurs in humans, but also its political associations in terms of power relations between the sexes, and institutional power in western societies in general. In order to understand the significance of the textual construction of gender differentiation the writer maintains that it would be useful to consider Foucault's analysis of how the medical community has played a major role in exploring this issue. Foucault's analysis is important for he does not simply consider the debates over gender differentiation to involve simply questions of biology and psychology, or even gender relations between the sexes. Instead, the writer notes that Foucault asks that we consider the textual explorations themselves as instruments of power by which medical institutions and society define and control sexuality.
From the Paper
"This "debate" between Chodorow and Freud with regard to the differentiation of gender can thus be seen as a struggle for gender power in society as a whole. The capacity to define one or the other gender as a normative state of humanity is clearly an assertion of power. However, in a larger analysis, Foucault would suggest that we see both researchers as been fundamentally similar in that they both partake of an institutional approach to infantile sexuality in the medical and scientific community which has, as its ultimate purpose, the assertion of control and domination over children's sexuality through processes of surveillance and behaviour modification. These processes with regard to the development of gender differentiation, Foucault argues, can be seen in the rendering as "perverse" such gendered states as "homosexuality" in children. This is revealing of the instrumentality through which western societies have, for at least the past few centuries, applied significant efforts to the control of individuals through the control of sexuality and - in particular - the power to define sexuality according to the interests of institutional powers."
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Bad Women, Spies and Vamps, 2008.
A proposal for an early cinema series for Cinematheque Ontario whose theme would appeal both to those interested in early cinema as well as those interested in gender issues and feminism.
2,387 words (approx. 9.5 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 73.95
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Abstract
In this article, the author explains that, if asked to program an early cinema series for Cinematheque Ontario, the them she would choose for the program would be "Bad Women, Spies and Vamps: Female Gender Transgression in Early Cinema." The author then goes on to explain why she thinks this theme is appropriate for this cinema and then identifies a number of films to be screened in the program, as well as some issues and information that would be included in the pamphlets accompanying the films.
Outline:
Introduction
Bad Women and New Women: Traffic in Souls
She Spies, Shoots and Saves: Serial Queens of the Early Cinema
Pearl of the Army
The Perils of Pauline
The Early Cinema Femme Fatale: Les Vampires
Conclusion
From the Paper
"One of the interesting features of these films is that their narratives are often dominated by the dynamic tension between two figures: the Bad Woman and the New Woman. It should be recalled that this was a period when the traditional gender norms were under assault; most notably in the form of the Suffragette movement in the United States and Great Britain where women were protesting for the right to vote. As a result, there was a great deal of uncertainty as to what were the proper gender roles for women in this changing society. In this environment, reformers were at pains to distinguish between the New Woman - who was demanding unprecedented rights and privileges - and traditional Bad Woman who violated gender norms for different purposes. The issue of moral regulation was a central concern in this debate, as is illustrated in the words of one reformist text from 1913 .. "
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Male Sexuality, 2008.
The paper assesses an article by Charles Michael Smith 'The Politics of Penis Size (Book Review)' in "The Gay and Lesbian Review" relating to the stereotype that African-American males are "well-hung".
2,745 words (approx. 11.0 pages), 8 sources, APA, $ 82.95
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Abstract
This paper explain that, in Charles Michael Smith's article 'The Politics of Penis Size (Book Review)', which is a review of Scott Poulson-Bryant's book "Hung: A Meditation on the Measure of Black Men in America", the idea of the black sexual Olympian is ridiculed but Smith fails to avoid making some sweeping generalizations that the available literature cannot substantiate. The author points out, from the literature review to assess this article and book, that the myth about African-American men being "huge" and thus more "man" than Asian or Caucasian men is really a projection of deep-seated fears of inadequacy. The paper argues that, if these fears are addressed, then anxiety about the sexual prowess of black men, on the part of those who are non-black will be replaced by a more holistic view of African-American males that restores to them a measure of their full humanity.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Summary of Account
Background Research (or what the scholarly literature has to say about penis size and about black men)
Assessment of the Popular Account
Implications and Future Directions
From the Paper
"According to Charles Michael Smith (2006) the penis is one manifestation of masculine power. Smith goes on to state that penis power is male power and that the tallest buildings, the imposing skyscrapers that dot the landscape of the modern western world, are really the ultimate phallic symbols. In short, the penis equates with all that is seen as masculine, virile, powerful, and potent. Smith, in his review of Scott Poulson-Bryant's, "Hung: A Meditation on the Measure of Black Men in America", writes that white slave-holders often justified the brutal treatment of African-American men by seizing upon the desire of the latter to assault and seize for themselves the womanhood of white females."
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Prostitution in Thailand, 2008.
An analysis of how prostitution influences the social and economic systems within Thai society.
1,550 words (approx. 6.2 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the culture of prostitution in Thailand and the failure of the officials there to prosecute or enforce the law with regards to prostitution. The paper aso discusses the economic impact of prostitution on the nation. In addition, the paper looks at the arguments for and against official recognition of prostitution and concludes that, according to this analysis, the problems of prostitution outweigh the benefits.
Table of Contents:
Sexual Mores and Practices, and Thai Prostitution
Economics, Gender Politics, and Prostitution
Devastating Effects on Thai Culture
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Prostitution in Thailand is semi-legal at present, with many people tolerating it and officials not prosecuting or enforcing the law regarding it. There are even some voices within Thailand that have called for an official recognition of prostitution so the sex tourism industry can be carried out in an openly legal manner. However, according to the arguments reviewed here, prostitution causes problems within the society by limiting the choices of women and child. Therefore, the problems of prostitution are believed to outweigh the benefits according to this analysis."
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Sexuality among the Tomboi and Travestis, 2008.
An examination of the reproduction of sexual norms among the travestis of Brazil and the tomboi of Indonesia.
1,330 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 44.95
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Abstract
This paper examines two groups of 'spectacular sexual deviants' in two sexual-cultural contexts and examines if and how they reproduce and reinforce gender and sexual norms that they are transgressing. Specifically, the paper examines the travestis of Brazil and the tomboi of Indonesia. The paper argues that, in general, the travestis of Brazil reproduce the dominant ideas about women and femininity particularly in the area of gendered beauty and sexual relationships and that the tomboi of Indonesia, reproduce the dominant notions of masculinity, which leads them to be attracted to the 'opposite' feminine sex.
From the Paper
"Many travestis also embrace characteristics that are traditionally called 'feminine' and according to Kulick (1998) these include the tendency to gossip, be jealous and strive towards passionate love. Another way in which the travestis reinforce gender roles and definition is in their choice of boyfriends and the relationships that they have with those boyfriends, particularly sexual relationships. Travestis look for heterosexual boyfriends only and in that relationship the travestis are the 'givers' (Kulick, 1998), that is they are penetrated by the boyfriends during sexual relations, and they are never that penetrates. In this way they assume the role of the woman in the relationship. They are also expected to do the housekeeping and cooking in such a relationship. According to Kulick (1998) the boyfriends even sometimes dictate what the travestis wear and sometimes veto clothes they consider to revealing or sexy. The only oddity is the fact that it is the travestis who are the financial providers in the relationship. The boyfriend usually moved in with the travesti, and depended on him/her for food and clothing. This may seem odd in a relationship with a heterosexual male. However, travestis consider themselves men too and perhaps the role of a financial provider is not so odd when viewed in this way."
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Travestis and the Berdache, 2008.
A discussion of sexual norms in relation to the travesties in Brazil and the berdaches in North America.
1,385 words (approx. 5.5 pages), 2 sources, APA, $ 46.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how travesties of Brazil reproduce and reinforce gender and sexual norms of Brazilian society even as they transgress them. It takes a look at how they reflect dominant ideas about men and women, masculinity and femininity. The paper also compares travesties to the berdache of native North America in order to show how sexual "others" in different cultures, even though historically and geographically distant. The paper concludes that both reveal the culturally constructed nature of sex and gender and even emphasize it as they reflect locally meaningful social norms.
From the Paper
"Travestis did not only adopt and reproduced the female image, they have also reinforced it. They are in a constant competition with Brazilian woman. This includes body shape, fashion and behavior. Thus travestis are generally better dressed, better maintained, have better lovers (Kulick, 1998). In order to feel feminine when you do not (or are not), the formula to follow is described above. Relating it only reinforces the prescribed feminine image in the eyes of observers. This application shows that it is an accepted way of being a "female". Making it something close to competition places additional weight on this socially constructed perception of a woman."
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"Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet)", 2008.
An analysis of how Ann-Marie MacDonald undermines gender stereotypes in her play, "Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet)."
1,269 words (approx. 5.1 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 43.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses Ann-Marie MacDonald's play, "Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet)" and shows how MacDonald uses gender bending and variations on sexuality to challenge and ultimately undermine gender stereotype. In particular, the paper focuses on the character of Constance and how she rises to her full human potential in this play, and in so doing, undermines the gender stereotypes which often function to deny a fully rounded personality to people.
From the Paper
"In conclusion, what MacDonald seems to be saying in this play is that the choice made by Constance is open to all of us - and without alchemy. All that is needed is for us to probe into the powerful depths of our sub-conscious, and in this way choose powerful personal attributes that will enable us to rise to our full human potential. The crucial point is that women may choose supposedly male attributes such as courage, because the gender binary that says most personal attributes are gendered is culturally constituted and illusory. We can have it all, regardless of gender. Thus, MacDonald's play powerfully undermines gender stereotypes."
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Boys and Reading: Gender Stereotyping, 2008.
A discussion on the underperformance of boys when they learn to read in comparison to girls.
2,469 words (approx. 9.9 pages), 11 sources, MLA, $ 75.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the underperformance of boys at reading and language skills in comparison to girls. The essay provides a critical exploration of the issues in the debate, and argues the thesis that the underperformance of boys at reading and language skills in comparison to girls is a consequence of systemic gender stereotyping in our society as a whole.
Outline:
Introduction
Boys and Reading: The Critical Context
Boys and Reading: The Stereotype
Boys and Reading: What Can Educators Do?
Analysis
From the Paper
"Among contemporary teaching professionals, one of the most compelling issues of our time is that of the underperformance of boys at reading and language skills in comparison to girls. This is a particularly controversial issue, as it follows upon a very similar concern in the discipline some years before regarding the underperformance of girls in particular subjects. Moreover, as any review of the literature on the subject will reveal, the complex and controversial issues of gender stereotyping, and how we as a society understand, construct and/or shape masculinity, lie at the core of the debate."
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Gender Bender, 2008.
This paper looks at whether there are scientifically proven differences between the brains of men and women.
1,149 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 39.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer argues that there really are scientifically provable differences between the brains of men and women. Specifically, the paper explores how the brains of men and women atrophy over time. The writer then looks at how men and women have different intellectual competencies - differences which, broadly stated, suggest that men are better in the realm of mathematics and mathematical logic while women are better in the realm of language arts and visual memory. Lastly, the writer notes that evidence provided by Doreen Kimura suggests that boys and girls differ in their levels of aggression because they really do have minds shaped by widely divergent hormones. The writer concludes that it is simply not smart to suggest that men and women are exactly the same.
From the Paper
"Simply put, the process by which the brain atrophies in men and women is quite pronounced, can be measured quantitatively, and suggests that men and women experience varying levels of mental acuity and efficacy at different points in their lives. As an addendum, this sort of thing clearly indicates that the differing behavior of men and women in, say, their middle to late 50s is not necessarily predicated upon sociological constructions but upon differential aging of the brain and the changes in behavior this creates.
"There are also cognitive differences between men and women that suggest different patterns of competencies - not necessarily, as ideologues on both sides of the gender debate might like to argue, different intellectual capacities. For instance, a host of studies conducted over many years proves that men perform better than women when it comes to spatial tasks such as those that involve object manipulation and/or envisioning an object moving through space."
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Gender and Crime, 2007.
An examination of why women are committing more crime.
1,948 words (approx. 7.8 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 62.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the rise in the number of female offenders and how this occurrence impacts our understanding of crime. The paper investigates the new branch of criminology that has recently emerged to study this phenomenon, and the reasons researchers are giving to explain it. The paper discusses the different approaches and debates within this new discipline regarding this issue including the liberal feminist point of view, the power-control thesis, and the socialist feminist approach. The paper concludes that, in the end, it seems that we have still not come up with a definitive explanation as to why it is that the rates of women offenders seem to be on the rise.
From the Paper
"Criminological theories have traditionally been divided into two types: conflict theories and consensus theories. The former are based on a conception of society as primarily conflict-driven (people and groups of people are constantly competing for resources); while the latter are based on a conception of society as primarily consensus driven (people want to live together happily and share resources). In the case of the former, apparent consensus is artificially created by forcing people to live together peacefully, for example by the use of laws. In the case of the latter, those few individuals who do not conform are controlled by law. What these two divisions of criminology theories have in common is that both have suffered from an extraordinary omission for a long time: namely that both have all but ignored the role that gender plays in crime."
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Aggressive Driving, 2007.
A discussion of aggressive driving.
1,354 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 45.95
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Abstract
This paper examines all aspects of aggressive driving. The paper explains that aggressive driving can be defined as driving that fails to consider the safety of others and that aggressive drivers know they may be driving in such a way that could endanger others. The paper then looks at the difference between road rage and aggressive driving. The paper points out that studying the behaviors of aggressive drivers and knowing what to do when someone is driving aggressively is vital in reducing the number of accidents caused by aggressive drivers. The paper then looks at why male drivers are more aggressive than females. The paper concludes with suggestions on how one can protect oneself from aggressive drivers.
Outline:
The Dangers of Aggressive Driving
Understanding Aggressive Driving Behaviors
Male Drivers Are More Aggressive than Females
Protecting Oneself Against Aggressive Drivers
From the Paper
"If a driver intentionally intends to harm another driver or another person, they can be stated to be aggressive drivers. Some people may not intend to be aggressive drivers, but they know they are taking risks that could endanger the lives of others which make them aggressive drivers. Some of the behaviors that aggressive drivers have are tailgating, failure to obey traffic signs, weaving in and out of traffic with no regard to safety, passing on the right, honking, yelling, and facial or hand gestures (Aggressive Driving). Most aggressive drivers have high levels of stress and may be angry at loved ones and/or angry at themselves. Often these drivers may have mental health problems. Three factors are in common and they are "lack of responsible driving behavior, reduced levels of traffic enforcement, and increased congestion and travel in our urban areas" (Aggressive Driving)."
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The Legalization of Prostitution, 2008.
This paper discusses the negative social repercussions of legalizing prostitution within the United States.
1,965 words (approx. 7.9 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 62.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the premise of the argument against legalizing prostitution within the United States rests on the devaluation of female identity within society as women will be promoted as mere objects of male sexual aggression and patriarchal institutions. The author points out that the basis for arguing against the legalization of prostitution revolves around the issue of what is moral in society in regards to the law. The paper relates that proponents for legalization often cite ideological reasons for allowing a regulatory governing body to control underage victimization of female prostitutes; however, this will not end the cycles of abuse. The paper concludes that a more matriarchal construct to regulation, which allows women of a mature age to freely choose their profession, might be realistic, but the current patriarchic governments would not provide these regulations within the framework of legalization.
From the Paper
"This point of view from opposing countries defines how women in government act as agents that defy the premise that legalization will only help the condition of female prostitutes that are supposedly being supported by the government. The reality of German prostitution is that government is turning away from regulation, as can be seen in the sex booths provided at the World Cup by the German government. If this is a form of regulation, then the often victimized and kidnapped women from foreign countries being allowed at German events is a premonition of what conditions might be like for lower class and disenfranchised women in the United States."
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Workplace Evolution, 2008.
This paper discusses how and why the workplace has evolved regarding gender equality.
2,449 words (approx. 9.8 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 74.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer looks at changes that have been brought about in the workplace due to the emergence of gender equality. The writer then looks at the first inclusion of women to the workforce and discusses the issue of equal pay and gender inequality. The writer maintains that the gendered stereotypes have fallen one by one as women and men have interacted in the workplace. The writer points out that both women and men have reacted to their situation as their skills and abilities have required, rather than through the prism of some supposed stereotypical response that is driven by gender. The writer concludes, however, that certain stereotypes, based as they are on some form of fact, may prove more difficult to accommodate in the culture until new technologies and alternate arrangements that negate the effects of these differences are implemented.
Outline:
Background Information
Change
Operational Definition: Corporate America
Operational Definition:Traditional Organizational Cultures
Theories
Glass Ceiling
Gendered Stereotypes
From the Paper
"In Roe v Wade the woman's right to make decisions about her own body through abortion was considered. The justices of the Supreme Court concluded that women were given individual rights as citizens of the United States through the Bill of Rights and the United States Constitution. According to the justices, those individual rights included the ability of women to determine what would or would not happen to their own bodies through pregnancy or any other occurrence. Women across the country took this decision as a landmark decision that supported the control women had over their own lives and their quest to implement that control in all areas of existence."
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Same-Sex Marriage and Artificial Insemination, 2008.
This paper argues against same-sex marriage and the related issue of artificial insemination.
2,075 words (approx. 8.3 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 65.95
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Abstract
In this article the writer looks at same-sex marriage and at the artificial insemination of lesbians with an eye towards asserting that both are offensive on religious, moral, and sociological grounds. The paper first points out that the Holy Scriptures provide a number of compelling justifications for the elevation of heterosexual marriage. Proceeding further, the writer argues that there are moral reasons why artificial insemination (and gay marriages involving children) are unacceptable. Finally, the writer maintains that there is sufficient evidence decrying the effects of households headed by homosexual couples upon children for our society to re-examine its glib acceptance of the idea that homosexual couples (perhaps couples inseminated by artificial means) should automatically be given carte blanche to be parents.
From the Paper
"The reasons why homosexual union appears to be frowned upon by the Church ties into the notion of complementarity; that is to say, pairs of men and pairs of women cannot conceive children via natural means. In short, the procreative process, at least if it involves natural means, is only possible if one man and one woman are involved. As May understands the matter, natural fertility is a blessing of God and demands the active participation of both genders. More than that, the ability to have progeny invests in human couples the creative power that would otherwise be limited to God alone; thus, the natural process of mating is an act that should not be trifled with inasmuch as man and woman - in their natural states as God designed them - have been rendered in God's image, or at least man has been rendered in God's image and have been given the responsibility of carrying out a procreative act sanctioned by the Almighty. Clearly, man and woman have been designed the way they have for a reason, and it would be unwise to alter this complementary state by allowing lesbians to become pregnant via artificial insemination."
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Television and Sexual Orientation, 2008.
This paper discusses how race, sexual orientation, social class, gender and class are portrayed on television.
1,417 words (approx. 5.7 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 47.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that television is arguably our most pervasive mass medium, and reaches millions of viewers, often for many hours per day. As such, it is reasonable to expect that it may play a substantial role in forming and moulding public opinion. This essay examines how race, sexual orientation, social class, gender and class are portrayed on television, with specific reference to four very popular television series: 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer'; 'Ellen'; 'Frasier' and 'Friends'. It is argued that the relationship between television and the masses is becoming increasingly interactive, with the latter increasingly impacting the former, and both exerting a moulding action upon one another.
From the Paper
"First, it must be conceded that there is abundant evidence of television moulding our current society, conveying a view of the world that reinforces the current status quo. Take for example the enormously popular television series Friends. This series features four fabulously shallow, attractive, white, heterosexual, gender-role-conforming, slim, reasonably affluent, utterly self-centred thirty-somethings living in a US city. These characters surely represent the current patriarchal North American status quo. None of them transgresses any societal norms, and all devote themselves with indefatigable vigour to the most important social virtue of our time - consumption. Indeed, much of the action takes place in a coffee shop, where the characters simply spend their time spending money and being amusing. This is reminiscent of the television series Frasier, where the characters also appear to have a bottomless capacity for expensive coffee (as well as fine wine and good food)."
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