| Papers [229-240] of 2033 :: [Page 20 of 170] | | Go to page : <— 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 —> | |
|
|
Technological Determinism, 2006.
Reflections of Marshall McLuhan's technological determinism theory.
930 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 33.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper takes a look at how the evolution of human societies and the influence of technology in shaping the social (world) order, is captured best through Marshall McLuhan's technological determinism theory. This paper demonstrates how McLuhan's theory has influenced and served as a mirror to the radical changes occurring in today's human cultures.
From the Paper
"McLuhan's description of the future culture of the society cannot be any more specific than what we are witnessing today. With the presence of computer technologies, it has become possible for mass media to penetrate and reach people with the widest and most varied scope possible. Through the Internet and mobile technologies, it became possible to send/transmit messages to people, whether this message is in visual, audio, or audio-visual form. As a response to these cultural changes, society adapted by integrating these computer technologies in their everyday lives: keeping in touch with personal friends and family became easier through mobile phones, and using the computer anywhere is possible through notebooks and PDAs, among others. "
| |
|
The Modern Middle East, 2003.
A review of 'Struggle and Survival in the Modern Middle East' by Edmund Burke.
1,491 words (approx. 6.0 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 49.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper takes a look at Edmund Burke's book, 'Struggle and Survival in the Modern Middle East'. Burke's book consists of a collection of essays, documenting the life stories of peasants, villagers, pastoralists and urbanites.
From the Paper
"Defensive Modernization defines the transformation of the Arab political, cultural and social worlds. Artisan shops in the Bazaar were gradually replaced by factories and industrial complexes. Smokestacks and skyscrapers increasingly rivaled minarets in the Middle East's newly urbanized skyline. Eventually new Western forms of communication such as the telegraph and telephone, railroads, trucks and airplanes displaced human and animal transport. In the period after the end of the Second World War, when the Middle East finally threw off the burden of colonialism, defensive modernization became an essential part of new Arab states investiture into nationalism. Projects on a grand scale such as the Aswan Dam in Egypt, or the drive for modernism at a pace that overrode traditions in the Shah's Iran are all symptomatic of the concept."
| |
|
Sex in Development, 2006.
A review of the ideas of Stacey Leigh Pigg, a professor of anthropology and sociology, regarding sex and society.
1,461 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 48.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper discusses how Stacey Leigh Pigg writes that there is a distinction made between biology and beliefs about the body in international health, setting traditional cultural beliefs against scientific truth. According to the paper, Pigg argues that, although what is taking place in international health today is the process of replacing misconceptions with facts, there is also a lot more going on.
From the Paper
"The power to define what is normal is also the power to call anything that does not meet the criteria of normal a misconception and so something that must be made correct through the use of facts. In much of the world, the decision as to what is normal derives from religious prescription or from cultural tradition, while in the West, that decision is made on a scientific basis, which at some point is a matter of statistics, meaning that which is most common is likely to be identified as that which is normal. As Pigg notes, "The ability to claim privileged, rational access to 'reality' accrues to those most firmly connected with the longest and most stable network" (Pigg 61). In traditional societies, that role is often maintained by the religious leader or some similar arbiter of morality and rightness. "
| |
|
Dogs and Humans, 2007.
This paper discusses how the relationship between dogs and humans has evolved through history.
2,554 words (approx. 10.2 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 77.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper traces the relationship between man and dogs from pre-historic to modern times. The paper first discusses recent discoveries that have disproved assumptions about the first domesticated dogs. The paper also explores the various functions dogs served in different cultures, from hunting, guarding and more recently as pets and companions. The paper includes a section on how dogs have been portrayed in literature. An annotated bibliography is included with the paper.
From the Paper
"Dogs also were valuable as sentries, and were important in transport, both for pack saddles in the Plains areas, and for dog-drawn sleds used by the Mandan in the north. The Plains Indians had a device called the "travois," Fiedel writes, which was made of two long poles attached at the dog's shoulders, "with the butt ends dragging behind the animal; midway, a ladder-like frame, or a hoop made of plaited thongs, was stretched between the poles, and could carry a load up to sixty pounds or more. "
| |
|
War, 2007.
This paper studies various works in order to examine the subject of war.
883 words (approx. 3.5 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 31.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
In this article, the writer points out that a variety of artists and others have sought to encourage people to consider both the horror of war and whether a need for warfare actually exists. The writer notes that in her essay "Warfare: An Invention-Not a Biological Necessity," anthropologist Margaret Mead argues that waging war is a choice made by humans and not something innate to our species. The writer describes that in "The Man I Killed," Tim O'Brien communicates the effect of choosing warfare on one soldier. The writer also explains that Garry Trudeau, in his cartoon "Doonesbury", uses visuals to broaden the message and demonstrate the high number of soldiers who have endured the trauma of war. Further, the writer discusses a painting by the Spanish artist Pablo Picasso, that shows an image of warfare based on civil war in Spain that demonstrates the terrible toll war can take on non-combatants. The writer concludes that the four artists present war as both avoidable and terrible.
From the Paper
"Mead did not analyze any particular war. Rather, she demonstrated that warfare is an act that was invented by societies, not something necessary for human existence. By doing this, she argued that warfare was avoidable. She used the parallel of how trials developed through time in societies, evolving from barbaric practices to civil, logical proceedings. Through this analogy she suggests that war is barbaric and that societies should strive to find nonviolent ways to settle differences between countries and societies, just as societies have found civil ways to settle disputes between individuals or between individuals and the societies in which they live."
"Having established that warfare is only one way to settle differences, the other artists in this selection of examples demonstrate what it is that makes war barbaric. Tim O'Brien's story draws the reader into the mind of both the American soldier and the Vietnamese soldier he kills. We feel the horror of the American soldier, Tim, as he views the terrible damage done to the enemy soldier."
| |
|
African Art and Repatriation, 2007.
A debate over the importance of cultural repatriation of the Lega figure to the people of Congo.
715 words (approx. 2.9 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 25.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper discusses the issues surrounding cultural and artistic repatriation, which remains one of the most contentious debates within the international archaeological and artistic community. The paper specifically discusses the Lega figure and the arguments for and against its repatriation, for cultural reasons, to the people of Congo. The paper then draws a conclusion as to the best course of action to take, regarding this piece of work.
Table of Contents:
Basic Criteria For Repatriation
Argument In Favor Of The Return Of The Selected Object
Argument Against The Return Of The Selected Object
Conclusion
From the Paper
"However, merely because using the Lega figure as teaching tools in museums to different nations of the world does not justify the cultural loss to the people of the Congo, who originated these works to be part of their religious tradition, not as artifacts to teach the nations who exerted colonial domination over their territories. Also, even if the Lega figures are individualistic, this does not take away from their ritual significance. Finally, the idea that Western art scholars only approved of the Lega after recognizing the individual component added by certain creators shows that the Lega remain judged by Western standards, and not by the indigenous standards of their local community--the repatriation and relocation of the works may be necessary so the world can be educated in the contextual significance of these figures as well as judged by Western standards."
| |
|
Woodland Indians, 2006.
A look at Woodland Indians and their culture.
1,196 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 40.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper takes a look at the lives of Woodland Indians. According to the paper, the study of Woodland Indian culture is difficult, the reason being a lack of evidence. Many artifacts and remains were destroyed by amateurs lacking the skills to preserve the evidence. However, archaeologists were able to substantiate an entire society's way of life by tracking and analyzing how much chert was to be found in rocks and stream beds.
From the Paper
"They also left weapons, including; arrowheads, axes, spearheads and knives of many different shapes and sizes. A well trained archeologist would be able to glean much information from these artifacts if allowed to discover them in their context. The museum also displayed how the Woodland Indians played and hunted."
"One display showed how hunting was their main source for food and also supplied them with skins for clothing and bedding to keep them warm during the winter. That same display informed us that the Indians played many games, including lacrosse. There were some games that only the woman played, while the men also showed off their skills at archery and spear throwing. Dice was also popular, although they probably did not use the same type of manufactured dice that we use today. "
| |
|
Isaac Bashevis Singer, 2007.
An analysis of the novel "Enemies, A Love Story," and the short stories "Gimpel the Fool," and "The Gentleman from Cracow," by Isaac Bashevis Singer.
2,160 words (approx. 8.6 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 67.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
The paper discusses the conflict between religion and worldliness, or between the pure and impure in three stories by Isaac Bashevis Singer. The paper examines how the difference between purity and impurity, or religion and worldliness, is quite apparent in these stories. The paper further discusses how Singer teaches his readers a lesson using charming characters, wit, and some tongue-in-cheek good humor. The writer concludes that reading these stories gives a glimpse into Jewish folk life, Jewish roots, and most of all, the feelings about purity and piety that endure in any and all religions.
From the Paper
"Gimpel is a victim, and yet, there is something about him that does not seem like a victim. He allows the people around him to take advantage of him, and he even revels in it. However, he is never pathetic. It is clear he has an inner core of strength and purity, and so, the reader admires his patience and courage. They also admire his wisdom, for he really is no fool at all. He says of his unhappy marriage, "But I'm the type that bears it and says nothing. What's one to do? Shoulders are from God, and burdens too" (Gimpel 11). Gimpel's patience comes from his pure and forgiving heart, and so he is a model of piety and purity. He is truly good, and that is why the people have to torment him so - they are not used to having such a good, decent person in their midst. They can only see the evil and negative in the world, and so they have to torment the goodness out of Gimpel, but they cannot."
| |
|
Sex Tourism in the Caribbean, 2007.
An analysis of the history and current conditions of the sex trade in Jamaica and Cuba.
1,694 words (approx. 6.8 pages), 11 sources, MLA, $ 54.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper discusses the sex trade in Jamaica and compares it to Cuba. It describes the history of the trade and the factors that influence it. The paper examines the socioeconomic factors that contribute to the trade, as well as the rise of men in the trade of prostitution. It also look into the participation of tourists in the demand for this service. Finally, the paper researches the conditions in which the women work and live, which women work within the strip clubs and brothels, the accompanying use of drugs, their health-care (specifically as to HIV and STD testing) and their chances of being arrested for their work choice.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Research Questions
Background
Literature Review
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The work of Kempadoo (2004) strives toward illumination of the inner working of the sex trade in the Caribbean as related to gender, sexuality, race and work and the economics of the sex industry. According to Kempadoo (2004) generally prostitution is viewed as violence toward women however Kempadoo challenges this accepted view holding that sex for money can be oppressive but in the lives of the women in the Caribbean it may also be a provider of a form of freedom. In the work "Global Sex Workers" the various authors use the term 'sex workers' very deliberately. The view held is that criminalization of prostitution is that it results in hurting the workers themselves instead of protecting them. The authors look at prostitution from an angle that looks at the deeper morals that exist within the inner-workings of the economics of prostitution and introduces the reader to the voice of the sex workers themselves. This work provides a candid view in the reality of prostitution in the Caribbean."
| |
|
Rwanda, 2006.
A review of the Rwandan Genocide and the role that the Christians played.
1,084 words (approx. 4.3 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 37.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper takes a look at the blood-curdling episode of genocide in Rwanda, in which 800 000 people were murdered and million of others were left injured, maimed and homeless. The paper discusses how such a travesty could occur in a country that is supposedly the most Christian of all Christian countries.
From the Paper
"When people were being butchered mercilessly on the streets, the one question that emerged on the scene was connected with the Christianity of the country. What kind of Christians would go on this slaughter spree? Was the mission a failure as it was able to convert people but failed to instill the true Christian spirit? These were some important questions which were relevant since Rwanda is regarded as the most Christian of all African states with 80 to 90 percent of its population claiming to be following this faith. Christian work had started in early 1900s and by 1920 Roman Catholicism had spread into many parts of the country. The mission was considered highly successful when in 1930s, almost 1000 people were being baptized every week (Barrett 1992). The country officially became a Christian state in 19466 when most of its tribal heads had converted. (Gatwa 1995:5). "
| |
|
The Roman Empire, 2006.
A review of the Roman empire and a discussion as to why Rome, which began as a city-state, was so much more successful than Athens in creating and maintaining an empire.
1,034 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 36.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper describes the structure of the Roman empire during the time period known as the principate. The paper reviews how the Romans governed their provinces, what methods were used to secure and protect them, the taxation policies, ways in which Roman ideology and values were impressed upon subjugated peoples, and how the Romans exploited the natural and human resources of their conquests.
Outline:
Introduction
The Principate
Rome over Athens?
From the Paper
"The Romans imposed their ideology and value system upon conquered peoples through a long process of assimilation that generally took many years, if not several generations. The assimilation naturally begins with the conquest of a nation or territory by the Legions. In the fighting, many native warriors are killed, particularly any leaders or nobility that opposed the Romans. After the conquest, Rome appointed governors to rule the territory that were amicable to Roman rule, and often were native leaders that welcomed Roman influence in their homelands (usually for personal gain). Roman soldiers would settle in the new province, furthering the assimilation process by interbreeding with the native peoples. Roman temples were built to replace domestic religious sites. Young warriors would join the Roman army, which would serve to indoctrinate them into Roman culture and ways, including the use of Latin as a language- one of the rewards of military service was full Roman citizenship. Over the years, these factors would slowly change the native cultures until almost no vestiges of the original culture remained, and the people were living by Roman laws and customs. This assimilation process came to be known as "Romanization." [3]"
| |
|
History of Marriage in India, 2007.
This paper traces the history of marriage in India, citing its religious and cultural importance.
1,724 words (approx. 6.9 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 55.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper explores the history of marriage in India, where it is viewed as a sacrament and the greatest bond between a man and a woman and between their families. The author discusses arranged marriages and the role of sexual intimacy in marriage. The paper further highlights the different outlooks on marriage between Northern India and Southern India. Also considered is the impact of other cultures in India, including Islamic and Western Culture. The author concludes that despite these cultural influences, marriage remains a sacrament in India.
From the Paper
"The greatest event in a family in India is a wedding, which celebrates and evokes every possible social obligation, kinship bond, traditional value, sentiment and economic resource (Encyclopedia of Nations 1995). It is considered essential by virtually everyone in the country. The individual sees it as the setting for one's transition to adulthood, which is the result of a combination of choices by everyone in the group or family. Everyone is born in a family and the choice of a family is beyond individual choice, which is why arranging a marriage is a critical responsibility of parents and other relatives on both sides. Some Indian parents make this arrangement at the birth of a child while some wait until later. Child marriage was practiced by small ancient groups, especially the Rajasthan, for their children under the age of five (Encyclopedia of Nations, Stormloader). Hindu scriptures sanctioned the practice and its early consummation and emphasized that a girl should be married before puberty or before her first menstruation. If not, she would go to hell because it would constitute abortion. Their Prophet Islam taught that marrying young girls from 2 to 8 would be ideal. Indians also fixed the age of the groom at ideally three times that of the child bride..."
|
|
|
