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Psychology and Christianity, 2008.
A review of the content of D. Entwistle's work, "Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity."
816 words (approx. 3.3 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 29.95
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Abstract
This paper summarizes and reviews D. Entwistle's work, "Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity." It describes the content of the text and briefly looks at the background to his beliefs. The writer then provides a response to Entwistle's work and suggests that he provides a very selective ideological focus which requires the reader to approach these excerpts with caution.
Table of Contents:
Summary
Response
From the Paper
"The text provides some admirable assistance in condensing different philosopher's views about reason and religion over a broad span of time, from the church patriarchs, to Freud, to C.S. Lewis. However, because of the author's very selective ideological focus, the reader must approach these excerpts with caution as representative of these thinkers' larger philosophies--the author has an ideological agenda of his own. Also, Entwistle's book does not reflect some recent developments in the field of neuroscience that challenges some of the assertions he makes in a blanket fashion--for example, some scientists would argue that what Entwistle sees as the innate proof of faith in the idea of God might be, evolutionary biologists argue, a naturally selected gene or defense mechanism."
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The Republic of Turkey, 2008.
Looks at the modern Republic of Turkey, especially the issue of religion and secularism.
3,575 words (approx. 14.3 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 99.95
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Abstract
This paper relates the actions and beliefs of General Mustafa Kemal, known as Father Turk, who led the establishment of the modern Republic of Turkey in 1923. The author stresses that Kemal transformed Turkey into a secular state where religious belief would be a matter of individual and personal conscience. The secular states still flourishes today although many Turks view their Islamic practices as incompatible with western philosophy, which creates a political tension. The paper contends that the history of the conflict between religion and secularism in Turkey is the story of the struggle between a state-imposed modernization and a people's resistance.
From the Paper
"Kemal set up the foundations for a strong nation-state yet allowed repressive practices to seep in against the freedom of the press, which survive to this day. He put into place the necessary reforms to make Turkey a secular state. He abolished the constitutional provision, which decreed Islam as the state religion and the caliphate, which symbolized the Sultanate's religious authority. He removed the rest of Islamic institutions. He replaced these with Western laws, practices and principles. He introduced the use of the Latin calendar and alphabet."
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Youth Oriented Ministry, 2008.
This paper discusses age-appropriate teaching and activities in ministry.
2,078 words (approx. 8.3 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 65.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that a minister's responsibility is not merely to convey the gospel, as for that purpose, a parishioner could merely turn to the text. Instead, a minister's pastoral responsibility is to provide guidance to the members of a congregation, depending on their immediate spiritual needs. A minister must also creatively respond to the individual's unique social needs and take into consideration where he is located in his personal life journey history. Today, young people are faced with tremendous moral challenges about what makes a meaningful Christian life. The writer discusses that, although from a minister's view, the underlying message of finding fulfilling devotion in serving Christ may be the same for all Christians, the way that message is conveyed must be tailored to suit a person's current stage of development. The writer maintains that children must learn the gospel from stories that invigorate and excite them and older people must learn about the ministry in a way that suits their needs and life challenges, such as retirement and relating to their grandchildren.
From the Paper
" It is important to recognize that children are children, that young people are no longer children, and that adults are seeking to better relate to their children. Today, young people may have the difficult task of going to a competitive institution of learning, have to face the pressure of work, classes, and the social pressures of peers, and still find a way of leading a meaningful life. Adults may face the pressures of balancing work, school, and home life. Even today's children have seen their country go to war, and may have had friends or loved ones participate in that war and may ask, how can God allow this to happen, how is the world still good. All must learn to exercise their critical thinking faculties, and in fact are likely to want to do so, and will do so amongst themselves, without prodding, even though young children may be silent upon such topics in the presence of adults. Ministers must find a way of creating a safe, directional, and nonjudgmental yet still faith-based place for all of these age groups to express spiritual concerns in a way that they will be 'heard.'"
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Nichiren Buddhism, 2008.
An outline of Buddhism as adapted to the American culture with specific reference to the sect known as Nichiren Buddhism.
1,098 words (approx. 4.4 pages), 10 sources, APA, $ 38.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses the American version of Nichiren Buddhism which continues to evolve and to adapt to the American context. The paper states that the success of Buddhism worldwide is attributed to its ability to adapt to different cultures and different requirements without losing its central moral system. The goal remains enlightenment, though how this is defined may differ, and how it is achieved is a matter for argument. The paper concludes that the movement survives in spite of the division into two different organizations and in spite of battles between the priesthood and the laity, and in some parts of the country the movement not only survives but thrives.
From the Paper
"Ordination in the Buddhist context means initiation into the Buddhist Order, or Sangha, which occurs in the presence of witnesses, or members of the Sangha. There are two kinds of Buddhist Order. The first is the lower, or pabbajj, by which a man becomes a smanera or novice; the second is the higher, or upasampad, by which a novice becomes a monk, or bhikku. The ceremony by which the novice becomes a monk varies from country to country and may vary according to whether the novice had the intention of remaining in Order for several months or years or for a few days only, as for the three to seven day period on the occasion of a relative's cremation. The ceremony for the admission of a novice who intends to become a monk is formal. The candidate is brought before a chapter of at least ten monks, headed by an abbot of senior monk of at least ten years standing. The candidate takes part in the set form for ordaining novices and monks. The ceremony is held in the sanctuary (vihra). The candidate kneels, asks for admission as a novice, and hands two yellow robes to the abbot. "
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Moral Theology, 2008.
This paper explores a definition for the nature of good virtue.
1,128 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 39.95
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Abstract
The paper looks at the ideas of three contemporary theorists, Carol Gilligan, James Fowler and James T. Brotzke regarding the meaning of virtue. The paper shows how each of these three theorists bring a unique and often conflicting perspective onto what it means to be moral and thus have good virtues. The paper concludes that there is no answer to the question of what is good virtue since too many independent and personal factors go into determining what one person considers to be virtuous.
From the Paper
"The fundamental moral question of human existence is what is the nature of good virtues? Although virtues by its very nature means good, or the opposite of vice, this does not make the answer to the question any simpler. Every individual has a different idea of what virtues are, meaning that to one person a virtue may be a virtue but to another the virtue is perceived as a vice. The result is that there is no definition as to what is virtuous, therefore leading to the ongoing question of "what is the nature of good virtue?""
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"Hosea 11: 1-11", 2008.
A exegesis of "Hosea 11: 1-11".
2,045 words (approx. 8.2 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 64.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the thesis of this exegesis of "Hosea 11: 1-11" is that, when a nation goes deeply into sin and worships the gods of money and sex, then God sends a prophet to warn the people who are participating in this great sin. This prophet must arise from the people who are sinning and let those who would turn away from the evil in society know how to come back to God. The paer explains that the events in "Hosea" took place during the Assyrian period and then describes the three part structure of this portion. The text of 'Hosea' is included.
Table of Contents:
Text
Thesis
Exegesis
Argument
From the Paper
"In this passage, Hosea is strongly warning and rebuking the northern Kingdom of Israel for their turning to idol worship and away from God's Covenant with them. Their corruption in matters of their worship and their morals is terrible to behold. In his personal life and in his preaching, Hosea is actively pleading and warning his fellow Israelites to repent and turn back to Jehovah God, a God who has loved them and sheltered them and kept them in times of terrible turmoil. Hosea warns them that if they do not do this, a terrible fate awaits them, as they shall be utterly destroyed."
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Islam, 2008.
An overview of the rise of Islam.
2,776 words (approx. 11.1 pages), 11 sources, APA, $ 82.95
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Abstract
This paper provides a historical and philosophical review of the rise of Islam together with an overview of the core beliefs of the Islamic faith, a history of the prophet Mohammed, his conquests and the opposition Muslims have had with the papacy. The paper states that part of Islam's success may be attributed to the fervent belief and ardor followers have for the Qu'ran, the sayings of the prophet of Mohammed and their beliefs about their purpose here on earth. The paper concludes that most believers accept common tenants, and the religious doctrine outlined by the prophet Mohammed. This has led to greater unity, and is one reason the rise of Islam took the entire world by storm. The paper reviews these key concepts and arguments.
Outline:
Introduction
Mohammed (570-632)
Conquest (632-732)
Reasons for Success
Opposition to Papacy (600-1054)
Doctrine/Women and Iran
Conclusions
Religion
From the Paper
"The Muslim faith also focuses on the teachings of the Books of Allah, or the Holy Qu'ran. Other books important to the faith include the Taurah, Zaboor and Injeel. These books reflect many parts of the Old and New Testament. Muslims generally accept the existence of prophets. People believe they come to this earth to worship God and live a life that is virtuous and respectable, guided by the divine light. Further, the faith concentrates on the belief that life on this earth is one of "trial" where individuals have the opportunity to test their faith and allegiance to God . Anyone following the full doctrine of God will be rewarded in the afterlife, while those who do not follow God's doctrine are condemned to live eternally in Hell. Muslim's believe in destiny and in the divine decree or ability of God to plan life and execute life in the best way possible."
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The Catholic Mass, 2008.
A description and discussion of the significance and complexity of Catholic Mass.
845 words (approx. 3.4 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 30.95
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Abstract
This paper describes the ritual of the Mass and discusses how it is viewed differently between Protestants and Catholics and even amongst Catholics themselves. In particular, the paper discusses Catholic theologian Michael McGuckian's explanation of the Catholic Mass and suggests that Catholicism's unclear understanding of what McGuckian calls an "unbloody" sacrifice in the first chapter of his work proves how essential it is that greater clarity be attained regarding the definition of Mass. The paper concludes that McGuckian's explanation of the Mass in a three-part structure is both powerful and lucid. It is also inspiring, given that it counters the tendency of some Catholic authors to stress only the painful aspects of Christ's sacrifice, rather than the eternal, positive, and visionary elements of the crucifixion.
From the Paper
"One of the difficulties presented by the Mass to modern Christians is that Christians live in the absence of a concrete memory of the sacrificial system from which the Mass is derived. Thus, sacrifice can seem like a primitive concept, something from a long ago time, even while the Catholic Church teaches that the Eucharist is above all a sacrifice. It is a sacramental sacrifice, but not only a sacramental sacrifice or re-enactment of reality remembered--it is reality, in the moment and time of the Mass."
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Victorian Science and Religious Beliefs, 2008.
Examines the science and religious beliefs of Victorian society as exemplified in the period's literature by Robert Browning and Gerard Manley Hopkins.
1,240 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, even in the early 19th century, there were few ideas about a confrontation between science and religion; generally, religion and scientific study were seen to be in accordance with each other. The author points out that Darwin's evolution theory is the turning point in this relation between religion and science. Many theologians saw Darwin's theory as an open threat to Christianity; whereas, scientists began to see religion as a threat to scientific thinking and approach. The paper highlights this dilemma through the writings of Robert Browning, whose shifting religious views personified the challenges to thinkers of the era, and Gerard Manley Hopkins, who was a significant icon upholding the tenets of Christian faith and morality.
From the Paper
"Everett (2006) opines that Browning's shifting religious views personified the challenges that thinkers of the era were subject to. Although Browning approached this issue, there have been differing interpretations of his words and views. The manner of his dramatic monologue also serves to make a clear-cut verdict difficult. Such was the strength of Browning's characters and their monologues that it would often be unclear whether the beliefs presented in the monologue were his own or not."
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'Spirit of Fire': Ursula King, 2008.
A review of the book "Spirit of Fire: The Life and Vision of Teilhard de Chardin" by Ursula King, a biography of a religious and controversial figure.
977 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 1 source, APA, $ 34.95
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Abstract
The paper introduces, discusses, and analyzes the work "Spirit of Fire: The Life and Vision of Teilhard de Chardin" by Ursula King. The paper summarizes the book, discussing how faith and science complement one another. The paper states that King's biography of the scholar Teilhard de Chardin illustrates how science and faith can indeed complement and support one another.
From the Paper
"Banned from discussing his theories by the Catholic Church during his career, Teilhard de Chardin did become discouraged, but he refused to stop believing science and faith could balance each other. In the late 1930s he wrote, "[G]ood is ... everything that brings a spiritual growth to the world" (King 166). Thus, he explains his ability to balance science and faith. Science, at least in his mind, brings a spiritual growth to the world by explaining how systems work and live together, and how they have evolved. Science has made broad achievements in the world, from halting illness to discovering life-changing global problems that must be solved to ensure the survival of humankind. Thus, science brings knowledge, but also brings spiritual growth, and in that, it cannot be bad."
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Qur'an and Social Order, 2008.
A look at how Islam demonstrates itself as a stronghold of social order, as a lifestyle depending on the norms and principles which are ordained divinely.
2,005 words (approx. 8.0 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 63.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that a socially just society, which relies upon the unity and equality of all believers, is visualized by the Quran. The author describes the ways Islamic moral and social justice offsets all kinds of oppression and exploitation. The paper stresses that, even though this social order is focused upon practical concerns that make the observance of Islam advantageous and just, problems occur when the Jihadis attempt to compulsorily extend this social order to the whole world by means of coercion.
From the Paper
"The Qur'an indicates that in Islam, no supremacy, no discrimination and no pre-eminence could be legally claimed by one over that of another other than with regard to the virtue of piety. All are alike in terms of their social status and this is completely apparent in the congregational prayers where there is no scope for designation and special advantage. All are alike in the eyes of God irrespective of being a caliph or slave. Prophet Muhammad viewed that all persons were equal similar to that of the teeth of a comb."
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The Amish, 2008.
An analysis of the culture of the Amish that is at odds with American culture and values.
1,617 words (approx. 6.5 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 52.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the culture and values of the Amish. It specifically focuses on their culture of community and the ways in which it is at odds with much of American life and values. The paper discusses the beliefs and religion of the Amish, their view of education and their desire for separatism from 'the English' or non-Amish. The paper concludes that the Amish have become beloved by the society they spurn.
From the Paper
"Separate, yet dwelling in the world in a practical fashion, is the hallmark of the Amish community. "As well as being modest, their clothing also separates them from the world," that is from others (Inge, 2007). The Amish do not serve in the military; because their sect is pacifist. However, they do not involve themselves in political causes like the anti-war movement, except when public matters affect the Amish community. They do not swear oaths because that would involve the community in the values of the world ("Beliefs of the Amish," 1996, Religious Tolerance.org. 1996). "They believe that the taking of photographs where someone is recognizable is forbidden by the Biblical prohibition against making any 'graven image'" ("The Amish and the plain people"1995, Pennsylvania Dutch Country). They speak their own dialect, the Pennsylvanian Dutch dialect when amongst themselves. They do not pay taxes, as they do not collect Social Security or other welfare benefits, as the Amish community takes care of its 'own.'"
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