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Gender Roles, 2007.
An examination of gender roles in in Morocco and Algeria.
2,460 words (approx. 9.8 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 74.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses how, over the past several decades, two neighboring Northern African states, Algeria and Morocco, have taken different paths in their views and treatment of families and genders. The paper examines how, as a result of the specific differences in the treatment of gender, the male and female genders have assumed different roles in each of these countries. In this paper, several books and films are discussed and analyzed in order to better describe the topic of gender roles in Morocco and Algeria.
Outline:
Introduction
Portrayal of the Gender Roles in Books
Common Threads of Gender Roles
Conclusion
Works Cited
From the Paper
"There are deeper cultural clashes that are depicted in "Year of the Elephant", which is a collection of stories written and compiled by Leila Abouzeid. The "title story", if you will, shares the history of a woman who has been divorced and left with nothing to her name, essentially leaving her trapped within the confines of her village. She goes through a period of depression and recounts her life story, her involvement in the independence movement, her marriage to a young man who becomes seduced by materialism. Through all of these trials, she takes on the viewpoint that the colonization that held Morocco in a powerless position is not over, that it has simply been replaced by ambitious and greedy Moroccans wielding power over the disenfranchised--the poor and women. By presenting such a complex story, Abouzeid takes on several cultural issues- secular versus sacred, materialistic versus personal, the powerful overtaking the weak, and of course the classic struggle for the genders to attain equality and more specifically for women to achieve equal rights in a society that basically refuses to give them those rights."
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Marine Ecology, 2007.
This paper explores marine ecology with a focus on organisms' specialized adaptations.
787 words (approx. 3.1 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 28.95
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Abstract
The paper defines marine ecology as how plants and animals in a marine setting interact with the physical attributes of a water-dominated environment, such as in the major oceans of the world which are predominately saline. The paper shows how a great variety of animals and plants have managed to adapt themselves to this often harsh environment in order to survive and flourish. The paper relates that one particular adaptation is the application of camouflage, meaning that some marine animals are capable of disguising themselves in order to elude predators. The paper demonstrates how flounder, mussel, the sponge and barnacles have adapted themselves to their marine environment.
From the Paper
"One particular adaptation is the application of camouflage, meaning that some marine animals are capable of disguising themselves in order to elude predators. A specific type of camouflage is called disruptive coloration, best illustrated by certain types of fish that are striped or spotted or have external markings or colors that blend in with the environment, making it very hard to see them when set against a sandy or rocky bottom. A prime example is the flounder, a flatfish belonging to the families of Pleuronectidae or Bothidae and well-known for its ability to conceal itself on the ocean bottom to primarily escape detection by predatory fish."
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"A Different Mirror", 2007.
A review of multiculturalism and the need for tolerance as discussed in the book "A Different Mirror: A History of Multicultural America," written by Ronald Takaki.
974 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 34.95
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Abstract
This paper introduces, discusses and analyzes the book "A Different Mirror: A History of Multicultural America," written by Ronald Takaki. Specifically, it summarizes parts three and four of the book, which focus on "distances" between cultures and "crossings" and what the mirror may hold for the future. The paper concludes with Takaki's advice that we all came from different shores in the beginning and that our stories and history have many more commonalities than differences.
From the Paper
"Mexican migrant workers form another facet of this multicultural mirror in America. They too crossed the border into America hoping for opportunity and jobs. What they found, like so many others, was backbreaking work in the fields of the West. This section indicates how Chicano and American workers were paid far different wages, even doing the same jobs, and they, also like many others, created their own communities, the barrios, where they felt comfortable and secure. They also worked in a number of other low-paying professions, and often sent money home to their relatives to support them. The compelling issue among all these immigrants is their desire for a better life, and their need to retain at least some of their own culture. This seems to be the biggest problem with Americans, who expect immigrants to immediately become Americanized and forget their old lives and cultures. For many, this is simply not possible and desirable. The mirror is different for all, and that is one of the strongest points the author makes throughout this section of the book."
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Vodou, 2007.
A historical look at the origins of Vodou spirituality in Haiti.
1,007 words (approx. 4.0 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 35.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses Vodou spirituality, particularly the Vodou that is practiced in Haiti. The paper traces the roots of Vodou to religious practices in Africa and describes how the practices were taken up in Haiti. The paper traces how the Haiti's view on Vodou has changed over time and how it is becoming more accepted by the clergy in Haiti.
From the Paper
"Since 1986, the Haitian clergy have been forced to acknowledge Vodou as a vital force in Haitian social and political life, and its priest and priestesses, oungans and mambos, as powerful and influential figures (Schaeffer). Cosentino describes Catholicism as "almost a sister religion" for Haitians who practice Vodou, saying "In the racist colonial world in which Vodou developed, Vodou is the black sister, Catholicism is the white sister. They are truly sisters, but the white sister won't acknowledge the black sister. The black sister truly KNOWS her white sister and LIKES that other world, but she also knows her place" (Schaeffer). There are no creeds, prescribed liturgies, membership rolls, formal organization or theology in Vodou, it is an ancestral religion and "a religion of healing, an aid to balancing life, to coping, to keeping things under control" (Schaeffer)."
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Female Genital Mutilation, 2007.
This paper examines the practice of female genital mutilation including its history and effects.
2,224 words (approx. 8.9 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 69.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer explains that female genital mutilation (FGM), still common in parts of Africa, is condemned by most people as a serious violation of human rights and gender discrimination. The writer notes that some communities consider it a harmless cultural rite whose dangers are needlessly exaggerated by outsiders. This essay discusses the topic of FGM in detail by tracing its background and explaining different types of FGM. The writer looks at where and why it is currently practiced and discusses its physical and psychological effects. The writer also examines the alternate point of view that dismisses concerns about FGM as exaggerated and cultural arrogance.
Outline:
Background
Origin
FGM during Prophet Muhammad's lifetime
FGM in the West
Current Prevalence
Numbers
Countries where FGM is practiced
Types of FGM
Type I
Type II
Type III
Type IV
Physical Effects of FGM
Pain, infection
Genealogical Problems
Reduced sexual enjoyment
Psychological Effects of FGM
Negative effects
Positive effects
Why is FGM Performed?
Tradition & Gender Identity
Psychosexual Reason
Hygiene and Aesthetics
Religious Reasons
The Alternative View about FGM
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The psychological effects of FGM are much more difficult to investigate scientifically than its physical effects. The negative psychological effects could include feelings of trauma, anxiety, terror, humiliation, and betrayal that may lead to long-term behavioral characteristics such as docility, feelings of incompleteness, anxiety and depression. However, not all psychological effects of FGM are negative, particularly in places where the practice is part of the ancient culture of the people. In fact, in such societies, women who have not undergone the essential 'rite of initiation' may suffer from psychological problems due to fear of rejection by the society and feelings of inferiority. Those women who have undergone FGM experience feelings of empowerment and fulfillment."
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Darwin and Boas, 2005.
A review of Charles Darwin and Franz Boas' regressive views of human racial progress.
1,447 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how, although Charles Darwin and Franz Boas were paradigm-shattering theorists within their respective disciplines of biology and anthropology, their analysis of race reflected the common assumptions of their era, namely that the Caucasian race was superior to races of darker complexions.
From the Paper
"Thus Darwin, to justify what he sees as self evident, namely the superiority of white, supposedly civilized human society over the society of individuals in Africa and India despite appearances to the contrary instead but argue from the suspect supposition that because humans are afflicted to different degrees by different external parasites (even though flies can afflict both horses and dogs and members of many different species) that this must justify the distinction of different species of humanity. Continually, Darwin falls into bad science when creating demarcations between the races. Darwin accepts the dominant racial paradigm of his day, begins with a self-evident thesis--that the races of humanity are different, even if this is against empirically observed evidence--and uses his science to justify society's assumption. With a lack of data regarding the sterility of interspecies relationships of the kind he used to apply to animals, he still insists on the existence of different races as inherently different because of color and perceived temperament and a few anecdotes. "
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Human Rights, 2007.
This paper discusses different classifications and types of human rights.
1,364 words (approx. 5.5 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 45.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer examines the difference between civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights. The writer maintains that the difference between various types of human rights is largely dependent on the various human and societal functions. However, the writer points out that a central difference lies in the classification of the classic and the social main groups. The writer concludes that notwithstanding the many issues surrounding human rights the one integrating factor is that all the various types and classifications of these rights are bound by the underlying foundation of all human rights; namely to promote and protect the rights of the individual in order to create a more equitable and just world.
Outline:
Introduction
First Generation Rights: Civil and Political
Second Generation or Social Rights.
Conclusion
Works Cited
From the Paper
"These different areas fall under various categories such as civil rights, which includes the right to fair legal and trial. Another category aligned to civil rights is political rights, which includes the right to vote. In addition there are other rights that are included under the general rubric of human rights. These refer to economic, social and cultural rights which include, for example, the right to water and adequate housing. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is a formal agreement which guarantees all these different types of rights in an international sense.
The division and categorization of the different types of human rights also has a historical context and foundation that helps us to understand the differences between these various categories. It should also be remembered that many of these categories are interrelated."
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'How Much Is Enough?', 2006.
A discussion regarding the book 'How Much Is Enough?' by Alan During.
1,204 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 41.95
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Abstract
This paper argues that the solution proposed by Alan During in his book 'How Much Is Enough?' to create a new ethic in the industrialized world based upon need rather than consumption, is ultimately ineffective. According to the paper, practical solutions would have to generate a more long-standing lifestyle change.
From the Paper
"Also, During seems blind to a number of shifts in American culture, shifts that have been occurring since the stress upon going back to nature and natural products that have existed since the 1970s. According to Alan B. During's How Much Is Enough, in the industrialized world the more one consumes the higher one's status. But although During asserts that fashionable people "measure success" by how much they consume, the idea of not consuming is has become increasingly popular amongst the affluent. During notes a sobering economic statistic about social inequity on a global level--the world has 202 billionaires, but 100 million homeless. (During, 1992, p.22) But these billionaires are not necessarily the individuals who generate the highest levels of consumption with the greatest proportion of their income--in fact, billionaires have the luxury of using very little of their income to consume, and instead use it to reinvest their money to generate more revenue for themselves and their businesses. The poorer one is, the more of one's income one must use to sustain one's life by buying basic necessities."
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Humanitarian Disaster in Darfur, 2007.
This paper assesses the humanitarian disaster in Darfur.
3,837 words (approx. 15.3 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 105.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer looks at the history of Darfur and the difficult situation faced by the people in Darfur. The writer relates that the country where Darfur is situated is in Sudan and this was ruled by the United Kingdom till 1956. The writer notes that the country has not been free from natural and man made plagues like a bankrupt economy, war-ravaged lands, violent Islamic militancy and existing conflicts due to differences in religion, and culture and natural calamities like droughts and famines. The writer concludes that peace comes to human groups only when there is a certain amount of satisfaction of their expectations and the expectations vary from area to area and groups to groups. This is a part of what one may call culture.
Outline:
Introduction
Analysis
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The cheapest method of getting these items from those countries was to occupy them and "rule" them. The objective of the "rule" was not to look after the well-being of the people ruled, but to ensure the smooth availability of the goods in demand by the West. However, it became essential after the Second World War for United Kingdom to grant freedom to these countries, not because they felt generous, but due to their inability to control those countries. The battle over the Suez Canal in neighboring Egypt bears testimony to this contention. The new rulers of Sudan were not the most enlightened as those people had been systematically butchered by the previous rulers in their interest to rule, but were the people who were most loyal to the previous rulers as this was felt to be a safe option for them to retire.
Ultimately, some of the companies of the ruling country still had "assets" in the ruled country, though they generally consisted of old and outdated plant and machinery, or pieces of land in the country ruled, or stocks of money of the ruled land. They would not permit the ruling elite to withdraw till their pound of flesh was ensured. While all this was going on, the unity of the countries that were left could not be ensured. In some cases, the departing rulers themselves broke up the country like India into India, Pakistan and later, Bangladesh."
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Hispanic Assimilation, 2007.
A discussion on how Hispanic women are less likely to learn English and assimilate into American culture than Hispanic men.
836 words (approx. 3.3 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 29.95
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Abstract
The paper examines how one of the central myths about Hispanic or Latino people in America is that they do not want to learn or speak English. The paper details how this myth has been disproved in many studies and statistical analyses. The paper explores how there is tension between the need and desire for assimilation and acceptance and the simultaneous pull towards the retention of culture and language; and the fear of loss of identity through the process of assimilation. The paper concludes that there is a gradual process of assimilation which is taking place among Hispanic women. However, there is also the pull towards cultural traditions, which has resulted in fewer Hispanic women than men learning English and assimilating into American culture.
From the Paper
"This also points to the fact that there will a strong tendency to retain cultural language and traditions among many of the Hispanic immigrants. Furthermore, In the U.S., more than 28 million people speak Spanish at home, and about half of these people speak English less than "very well." (Rodriguez, L.) The following is an excerpt from an interview with a Hispanic woman. From a report entitled Hispanic Trends, this interview serves to illustrate the important part that language plays in the retention of culture."
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'Casino', 2006.
A review of Martin Scorsese and Nicholas Pileggi's book 'Casino'.
1,354 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 45.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at the book 'Casino' by Martin Scorsese and Nicholas Pileggi. The paper begins by summarizing the story line in the book and then moves on to discusses the main theme of the book. According to the paper, the main theme of this book is the casino in Las Vegas and the involvement of the Mafia in casino life.
From the Paper
"One of the weaknesses displayed in the book however is the confusion that can occur about who is who. Because of the many characters involved one might find that they need to go back and reread passage to maintain a sense of who is who and what is happening in each sub story(Scorsese, Pileggi, 1995).
The book does succeed in the desire to drive home the truth of casino life from the 1960's to the 1980's(Scorsese, Pileggi, 1995). It introduces the Teamsters. Few people in America are not aware of the Teamsters and their reputed mob connections. The story brings the Teamsters front and center and provides a bird's eye view of that organization's ties to the mob and the power that it has to shut the nation down if the call went out to do so(Scorsese, Pileggi, 1995). "
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African-American Culture, 2007.
A discussion on the origins and makings of the African-American culture.
1,064 words (approx. 4.3 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 37.95
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Abstract
This paper claims that the study of the historical evolution of states such as Ghana, Mali and Songhai is essential for understanding the differences in the cultural and social approaches. It explains that the African-American culture and the identity and sense of belonging of a shared system of values has been the result and the reaction to the violent contact the Africans were forced to have with their western oppressors.
From the Paper
"Despite this however, inside the territory that is nowadays defined by the African borders, different and distinct civilizations were emerging, each with it specificities, but at the same time they were manifesting themselves inside similar general guidelines. This is why, it can be said that the African culture was in fact one which developed in a rather secluded atmosphere, without the pressure or influences of other cultures. This can be explained by the fact that the European notion of geography in particular revolved around certain concepts such as terra nullius which reduced all non western world to the Christian project "which perceived itself in both its textuality and significance as the most perfect expression of human culture" (Middleton,1997, p. 18)"
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