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Teaching Virtue, 2007.
A discussion of several philosopher's teachings on virtue, including Socrates and Jesus.
1,577 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 51.95
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Abstract
By consulting the works of Socrates and other philosophers, this paper examines whether virtue is something that can be taught. This question is examined, in particular, through a discussion between Socrates and Menon. The paper cites various quotes and paraphrases concepts to further illustrate the concept of virtue. The paper also examines beliefs of other experts who think virtue, and the ability to differentiate between good and evil, can be learned within the structure of a family or school environment. The paper then considers virtue from a Christian perspective, citing the example of Jesus.
From the Paper
"He continues by stating that virtue entails many qualities that enhance lives for good, and can also influence other individual's lives and of those whom we come in contact with. Learned virtue can encompass many thoughts and ideas, including those such as patience, humility, courage, justice, charity, etc. Many experts agree with Socrates that virtue is a quality of both inherited and environmental atmosphere. "
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Plato and Aristotle, 2007.
A comparison of the political views of Plato in "The Republic" and Aristotle in "Politics."
3,509 words (approx. 14.0 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 98.95
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Abstract
This paper compares Plato's "The Republic" with Aristotle's "Politics." It compares and contrasts their works in a political sense, in order to show how similar they are and yet how different in many ways. The paper looks at what Aristotle and Plato write about and how they address some of the things that humanity must deal with on a daily basis. It also compares the personalities of the two philosophers.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Plato
Aristotle
Political Issues
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The similarities and differences between Aristotle and Plato are easy to see once they are brought to light. No exactness can be found when trying to match up the two readings, however, but only hints of what might be related. Aristotle, while still being very much a philosopher, appears to be somewhat more literal-minded than Plato, at least in this respect and in these writings. For example, he talks of the causes for creating an object, and that object is always very literal, such as a statue. He makes no effort to explore the cosmos and what his information might mean to the creation of the universe. He concerned himself, instead, with small things, analyzing them until they made sense and he could grasp their meaning. There is certainly nothing wrong with this, but it is what caused many of the differences between his opinions and Plato's, it seems, because Plato looked at a very large picture. "
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Machiavelli's Virtue, 2007.
This paper studies "Machiavelli's Virtue", making use of the views of scholars.
1,518 words (approx. 6.1 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
In this essay the writer discusses that when hearing the name "Machiavelli," many people automatically think of negative words such as "corrupt," "evil," and "valueless." The writer notes that the controversy about the truth of this continues. In fact, the writer maintains that many historians better recall Machiavelli for his political philosophy and diplomacy during the Renaissance. The writer points out that in the numerous essays contained in the book, "Machiavelli's Virtue", Harvey Mansfield confirms that he strongly recognizes Machiavelli as ranking along with Plato, Aristotle, Descartes, to achieve his goal of "modernity." The writer concludes that Machiavelli's beliefs as well as the book 'Machiavelli's Virtue' provide a great deal to consider when looking at the political situation today across the world.
From the Paper
"Mansfield's following of Strauss is well recognized, so it seemed helpful to first start reading the section about Strauss in the book first. This would provide a foundation on how Mansfield derived his basic direction of thought regarding Machiavelli. It is confusing that the chapters are not in chronological order and this information on Strauss does not come until the middle of the book in chapter nine. In fact, it is easier reading the chapters in a different order and using the index to follow up on certain themes that are used throughout the essays."
"Mansfield admits his strong following for Strauss throughout his essays in Machiavelli's Virtue."
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Disease, Death and Dying, 2007.
This paper examines the subject of disease and death.
2,048 words (approx. 8.2 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 64.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer introduces, discusses and analyzes the topic of disease and death. Specifically, the paper discusses the grieving process in patients and loved ones in addition to the stresses of dealing with dying patients in the clinical setting. The writer notes that even though death is inevitable, it is still one of the most feared and misunderstood aspects of our culture and society. The writer points out that grieving is a natural result of death, but it is also misunderstood and even frowned upon in some cultures. The writer maintains that there are many different aspects of the grieving process, and it is imperative that healthcare professionals understand the stresses, reactions and grief so they can care for and understand terminally ill patients and their families. Further, the writer notes that a healthcare professional that does not understand or empathize with patients and family cannot give the full measure of care needed in such situations.
From the Paper
"The right to die has become a major issue in the discussion of death and dying. Many patients no longer wish to remain alive if they are kept alive through exceptional measures, such as being hooked up to respirators or other machines. The Living Will is one way to ensure this does not happen, as the patient requests to be removed from life-support systems. The Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order is similar, in that it asks healthcare personnel not to resuscitate the victim in the case of illness or accident. Right to die advocates believe that they have the right to die with dignity, and the right to choose when and where they die. Euthanasia is the act of putting that right to die belief into effect. Euthanasia is often called suicide, or physician-assisted suicide, and it is the most controversial of these many ways of dealing with death. Many terminally ill patients believe they have the right to die when they choose, rather than be kept alive when there is no hope for cure or survival. They want to die with at least some of their dignity intact. Today, only Oregon has right-to-die legislation, and it has failed to pass in numerous other states. This practice will continue to be controversial in the future, and it seems to be something each patient must decide for themselves."
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Free Will and Human Agency, 2007.
A discussion of the concepts of free will and human agency.
2,063 words (approx. 8.3 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 65.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses the philosophical arguments about 'free will' and 'human agency,' which both focus on the capacity of human beings to act on their own. The paper looks at Marxism with regards to free will and human agency and describes the concept of alienation. The paper discusses the main classes in capitalism; the bourgeoisie and the proletariat. The paper also compares free market capitalism to Marxism and contrasts their approaches to free will and human agency.
Outline:
Marxism and Free Will/ Human Agency
The Alienated Individual
The Individual and His/Her Social Class
Free Market Capitalism and Free Will/ Human Agency
Comparison of Marxism and Free Market Capitalism and Their Views on Free Will or Human Agency
From the Paper
"A similar concept is 'human agency'. Human agency states that human beings do in fact make decisions on their own and apply them accordingly to their own situations. Whether by free will or due to some other consequences that drive human beings to act is not the question. What is important is the claim that human beings can be agents of change. They are capable of altering their own conditions. Because people are seen as decision-makers, they are now regarded as under the obligation to think and apply value judgments to the consequences of their actions. Human beings are now to be held responsible for whatever decisions they make. It must be noted that 'human agency' does not merely imply the ability of the individual, rather the capacity of a group of individuals or a collective unity (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Human_agency)."
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'The Stranger', 2006.
A review of 'The Stranger' by Albert Camus.
1,002 words (approx. 4.0 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 35.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews and discusses the book 'The Stranger' by Albert Camus. According to the paper, absurdity is an important existential theme that appears in the book, comprising the sense of conflict between desire for rationality and the experience of irrationality. The paper further discusses how the sensibility and atmosphere of the novel is pervasive, creating a sense of unreal/surreal by favoring, up to a certain point, the irrationality and sense of absurd in human life.
From the Paper
"The trial is absurd in that the judge, prosecutors, lawyers and jury try to find meaning where none is to be found. There can be no rational motivation behind irrational actions. This is another great illustration of the absurd in this novel. Absurdity is a philosophical perspective which may appear as a result of a very repetitive existence (in Camus' opinion). However, as an existentialist theme in The Stranger, it is connected with the search for meaning. Meursault is a human who found himself "thrown" (Heidegger) into a world with no clear logical, ontological, or moral structure (A. Irvine 1998). This is the context that favors ultimate questions by the very nature of our lives. Meaning can be constructed by making a choice in such an absurd situation."
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"The Death of Ivan llyitch" and "The Metamorphosis", 2007.
A comparison of the two stories "The Death of Ivan llyitch" by Leo Tolstoy and "The Metamorphosis" by Franz Kafka.
945 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 33.95
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Abstract
This paper compares the protagonists' experiences of transformation as seen in "The Death of Ivan Ilyitch" and "Metamorphosis." Although the paper shows contrasting plot elements of the two works, the main characters' self-growth is similar. The reviewer describes that a key similarity between these two stories is that both characters find their old image of themselves is incorrect. The paper concludes that both characters realign their self-image with the opposite effect on their emotional world.
From the Paper
" One of the key similarities between these two stories is that both characters find that their old image of themselves is incorrect. Ivan finds that the way he saw himself was incorrect. Gregor finds that his self image is accurate. However, his image of how others view him is changed. Gregor thought that he was an important part of the family and that they appreciated his contributions. However, he found that when he became a burden to them and an embarrassment, they abandoned him. Their love for them was not unconditional, but was dependent on what he contributed to the family and gave them. "
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The Nature Of Justice, 2007.
Compares ancient philosopher Marcus Tullus Cicero's philosophy on the nature of justice with that of modern philosophers such as John Rawls and Martha Nussbamu
1,174 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 40.95
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Abstract
This paper compares ancient Roman politician and philosopher Marcus Tullus Cicero's philosophy on the nature of justice with that of modern philosophers, John Rawls and Martha Nussbaum. The paper looks at Rawls' and Nussbaum's theories of justice and expands upon their social contract theory to examine how to better preserve justice in a modern nation, balance the rights of the majority and the minority and create a more economically balanced society.
From the Paper
"Nussbaum's fundamentally distinct nature as a thinker is in her stress on women as a category. Even in traditional societies, they cannot be viewed as fundamentally distinct from men. Individual women can choose to live in a traditional manner but this does not mean that the state can justify limiting gender equality because the majority of women might wish to do so. Thus, again like Rawls, she believes that strict utilitarianism or democracy is not feasible. But Nussbaum does not limit her discussion redistributing the economic resources of the nation like Rawls; she also focuses on the nation's political resources or human rights."
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Dreams, 2006.
A discussion regarding the nature of dreams.
1,159 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 39.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at dreams, an area that has been studied for centuries with little understanding. The paper discusses various ideas and opinions regarding dreams, as well as the physiological explanation for dreaming.
From the Paper
"Though dreaming is broader and in a sense more exciting and wilder than waking thought, it only seems right to bring attention to the fact that it is only somewhat broader. We may at times fly in dreams, but we usually remain ourselves or creatures very much like ourselves. Hardly ever are we a mosquito or a hurricane though Hartmann does report hearing a report of such a dream from a client. Nor are we molecules of water, or mathematical formulas. We are usually ourselves or perhaps someone or something we can identify with easily. We experience a world roughly parallel to our usual visual-spatial one, though as noted, with some broader or wilder elements. "
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Ortega y Gasset, 2007.
This paper discusses the philosophies of Spanish thinker Jose Ortega y Gasset.
1,638 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 53.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer points out that philosopher Jose Ortega y Gasset built up an original philosophical system, based on a few central concepts, like those of perspectivism and ratio-vitalism. The writer maintains that his ideas on religion and Christianity, seen in the larger context constituted by his ideas on life in general, are very interesting. Further, the writer notes that it can be said that the axis of Ortega y Gasset's system of thought is the concept of vitalism, or the idea that life in itself is the actual purpose for man's existence in the world, and not thinking as the idealists proposed. The writer concludes that Ortega y Gasset's main attempt is to create a philosophy that reveals life-reality, above anything else, and for this, man should find his new belief in history, since it is history that best discloses the patterns of human life.
From the Paper
'However, according to Ortega y Gasset, it is not intellectualism as such that is wrong, but the separation of reason from vitality. This tendency is very common within the scientific domain and more particularly in modern science after Galileo, but also in Christian doctrine. Both science and religion are focused on something which is beyond the actual existence as such. As he proposes, science is only an ideal, something that cannot actually fulfill its purpose, and which does not give us the truth. The means by which science operates is that of the pure reason, which maintains itself in the realm of pure thought and idealism, and moreover manifests disdain for life as such. To this pure reason, Ortega y Gasset opposes the notion of vital reason, which is able to understand the value of life itself."
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Science and Religion, 2005.
A discussion regarding the relationship between science and religion.
883 words (approx. 3.5 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 31.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at the issues between science and religion. According to the paper, for centuries people have believed that the division between the two, is impossible to remedy. The paper goes on to say, that recently, steps have been taken to bridge the gap between science and religion.
From the Paper
"The most obvious factor of this research is that there are dramatically differing views of the topic. Some researchers state that to incorporate spirituality into hard science, especially medicine, and psychology, is to dilute both disciplines and to blur boundaries that should remain clear in order for the disciplines to operate properly (Sloan & VenderCreek; Conway & Gold). Others state that the integration of science and religion is a positive process that is helping individuals understand themselves better and to achieve a more whole sense of self (Field, Harvey, & Sharp; Bassett; Ontario Consultants; Pollack). Of course, some of the individuals used in this research indicated that they didn't feel that there has ever really been a clear division between the two (Long)."
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Fascism, 2007.
This paper discusses fascism, concentrating on the Italian fascism theory, put into practice by Mussolini.
782 words (approx. 3.1 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 27.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer points out that the start point in analyzing and understanding any social phenomena requires unambiguous definitions, empirical generalizations, general explanatory theories and a method of moral evolution. The writer maintains that regarding fascism, one cannot make a clear definition of what it means because there is no agreement between theories in any of these areas. The writer discusses that fascism can best be presented by the ideology of Mussolini's fascism in Italy. The writer concludes that this ideology, put into practice by Mussolini, is the most comprehensive and well-argued theory that pictures fascist beliefs, in comparison to any other theory, that was not as firmly formulated.
From the Paper
"Analyzing the theories from this list, Gregor makes a critique of all theories, presenting their strong arguments, as well as their flaws. In his view, all of these theories, although they seem well organized, have a shortcoming that makes them unusable."
"Taking into account the categorization of fascist theories into six categories, one can identify that a comprehensive theory of fascism would embody elements from all six categories. The only theory that Gregor identifies as being a solid fascist ideology is the ideology of Italian fascism, which uses some parts of all ideologies. As stated before, Gregor believes that there are many flaws in the theories developed so far, but there are also many elements that can be linked to what he believes to be the best representation of fascist ideas - Italian fascism under Mussolini."
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Marx and Engels Today, 2007.
This paper questions whether Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels would have been influenced by Albert Hirschman and Robert Putnam.
1,936 words (approx. 7.7 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 61.95
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Abstract
This paper questions whether Marx and Engel's theories of economic and social equality would be as readily accepted today as they were in the authors' day. The writer analyzes Marx and Engel's theories, with particular emphasis on "The Communist Manifesto." This is compared and contrasted to Robert Putnam's social capital perspective. The author feels that if Marx and Engels had read Putnam's ideas they might have been inspired by some of the benefits of capitalism, possibly altering their manifesto to include certain elements of democracy. The paper also examines the ideas expressed in Albert Hirschman's "Exit, Voice, and Loyalty." The author also believes Hirschman's philosophy would have impacted Marx and Engels as well. The author concludes that if Marx and Engels had lived to see recent history, their vision of a new, just society based on economic plenty shared by all would have certainly changed.
Outline:
About the Communist Manifesto
Putnam's Notion of Social Capital
Exit, Voice, and Loyalty
Conclusion
Bibliography
From the Paper
"It makes sense that if Marx and Engels were alive in today's society, they would have much different trains of thought. Given their philosophical natures, they would likely be influenced by many of today's contemporary thought leaders, such as Albert Hirschman, author of "Exit Voice and Loyalty", and Robert Putnam, author of "Democracies in Flux". This paper aims to provide a background on the ideas of "The Communist Manifesto" and offer some insight on what Marx and Engels may have changed based on reading these two contemporary works. "
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Suicide Theory, 2007.
A critical analysis of Emile Durkheim's suicide theory.
1,433 words (approx. 5.7 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 47.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how Emile Durkheim's suicide theory is considered a groundbreaking concept in the field of sociology. Published in 1897, Durkheim's book, "Suicide", addressed the connections between individuals and society, focusing on how these connections impacted suicide rates. This paper attempts to address the accuracies and inaccuracies of Durkheim's theory and determine if the theory still holds ground in modern society. It contends that the theory is strong and accurate in many ways; however, it appears that it is also flawed and in need of revision to accurately apply it to suicide as we know it today.
Outline:
Introduction
Statement of the Problem
Hypothesis
Methodology
Conclusion
From the Paper
"One of the main focuses of Durkheim's theory is how religion impacts suicide (Durkheim, 1897). For example, when Durkheim studied the differences in suicide rates between Protestants and Catholics, he found that stronger social control among Catholics results in lower suicide rates. According to Durkheim, people feel a level of attachment to their groups, which he which he calls social integration. If this level is too high or too low, increased suicide rates may be seen. A low level can result in a disorganized society, causing people to turn to suicide because they feel lost. A high level causes people to commit suicide because they do not want to become burdens on society. "
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Why Would You Doubt Your Senses?, 2006.
A discussion regarding senses, perception and reality.
1,114 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 38.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at a person's senses, perception and how it relates to reality. According to the paper, different people have different perceptions of the same thing, as our senses sense differently. The smell or taste that is enjoyed by one person, may be abhorred by another. The paper goes on to discuss the concept of hallucination and how it relates to reality.
From the Paper
"It was a nice warm spring afternoon and while I was taking a nap at our backyard, I had a dream - or a nightmare perhaps! In my dream, it was night and I was lying on my bed trying to sleep. But sleep was hard to achieve because I was wrapped in Saran wrap and I was having difficulties breathing. Deep, labored breathing...my chest was going up, down, up down and the more I try to breath deep, the more labored my breathing got. Somewhere in the subconscious or unconscious realm of my mind, I knew I was having a nightmare and I needed to fight it off. As my dream/nightmare continued, I felt myself getting out of bed - still wrapped in Saran wrap - and went out of my room, walked down the stairs and went to the kitchen. I opened the refrigerator, grabbed the first bottle of water and tried drinking, but to no avail. It was then I took the deepest breath I could muster and let out the loudest shout I could - then I woke up sweating and hyperventilating."
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Virtue Ethics, 2007.
This paper discusses the background of the theory of virtue ethics.
855 words (approx. 3.4 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 30.95
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Abstract
The paper explains that virtue ethics refers to the theory or a system of philosophical belief that focuses on the entire personality or disposition of a person instead of actions alone. The paper discusses how virtue ethics were developed by ancient thinkers Plato and Aristotle but it was in the 1950s that interest in virtue ethics was renewed by Anscombe's famous paper ""Modern Moral Philosophy."
From the Paper
"Prior to the 1960s, the field of normative ethics was largely dominated by deontology, which was based on the values and beliefs of eighteenth-century philosopher Immanuel Kant, and utilitarianism, which was based on the views of eighteenth- and nineteenth-century philosophers Jeremy Bentham and J. S. Mill. In most of the books published up until thirty years ago, virtue was discussed in terms of deontology or utilitarianism. Gradually a change was witnessed as people began searching for something beyond deontology and utilitarianism as it was found that these two theories did not encompass many important issues or had no answers for some modern problems. This gave rise to virtue ethics, which was not exactly seen as the third approach at first but attained a distinguished status of its own as it began to grow in stature and importance."
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Enron, 2007.
Discussion of the Enron Corporation's corruption, including who was responsible.
1,496 words (approx. 6.0 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 49.95
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Abstract
This paper presents a background of Enron's corruption, tracing the corporation's history and looking at who is to blame for its ultimate lack of ethics. The paper describes how Enron went from a corporate culture that promoted ethical behavior to one that emphasized cleverness and skill. The author further discusses how this outlook eventually lead to the company's downfall. The writer believes Enron's leaders dictated the company's outcome through their own actions of unethical behavior. The author concludes with a personal approach of how one could react as an Enron employee.
Outline:
Background
Who are the Stakeholders?
Who is Responsible?
Penalties
References Cited
From the Paper
"The stock shareholders are the main stakeholders. That does not mean, however, that the books should be illegally manipulated. Shareholders "hold" faith in the company executives that they will do their best, ethically and legally, to produce the best results. Yet shareholders also know that stocks can and do go down; there is risk involved. The other main stakeholders are the employees, who were hit twice by losing their stock and their jobs. "
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Taoism, 2007.
A look at how the Taoism of Zhuang and Laozi influenced the polity of the Song Dynasty.
1,704 words (approx. 6.8 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 55.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how, instead of dictating right from wrong, Taoism emphasizes the ideal of so-called pure talk, stressing that people should only talk about the good side of everything, to create a sense of positive energy and harmony between the spirit and the universe. The paper looks at how the epoch of Taoism came in the form of the Song Dynasty, which many historians consider the first modern era of Chinese history. The paper further explains that during this Dynasty the leadership and the emerging commercial classes embraced, for the first time, the spirit of the Tao to an imperial level, because of the economic and social changes gripping China at the time.
From the Paper
"For most of early Chinese history, Taoism was often "the philosophy and consolation of the gentleman in retirement, of the political failure." (DeBarry, Chan & Bloom, p.50) It was a religious philosophy distanced from the political administration of China, rather than embraced by the rulers of the empire, unlike Confucianism or even Buddhism. Taoism was a religion of "seclusion and cultivation," that seemed alien to the demands of the workaday world, much less the ways of rulers. (DeBarry, Chan & Bloom, p.50) Taoism stood in marked contrast to Confucianism's advocacy of n rigidly hierarchical to life that seemed to ideally suit the ways of an emperor operating under a mandate of heaven. However, the epoch of Taoism would come in the form of the Song Dynasty, which many historians consider the first modern era of Chinese history. "
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