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Knowledge, 2006.
This paper discusses several theories and philosophies about knowledge.
1,710 words (approx. 6.8 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 55.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that knowledge, a kind of belief, deals with abstractions and concepts in the brain, which are possible only to conscious human beings and which is acquired through time, not something inborn such as instinctual actions. The author points out that verification or epistemology is necessary in achieving or claiming knowledge because human beings make mistakes. The paper relates that phenomenalists maintains that perception is the only existence and the perception is all that occurs; whereas, pragmatists consider only knowledge, which is important and solves certain problems amidst the constraints in the world and human objectives.
From the Paper
"Knowledge is propositional or factual if acquired only mentally or intellectually. A person can learn how to swim by reading about swimming but does not possess procedural knowledge until he performs the act. Michael Polanvi introduced the term tacit knowledge, which distinguishes the ability to do something from the ability to describe how to do it. Gilbert Ryle named the characteristics of knowledge through his aphorism, "efficient practice precedes the theory of it." The distinction is traced to Plato's use of the term techne or skill for knowledge of how and episteme for claims of truth or falsity."
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Forced Freedom, 2007.
This paper examines Jean-Jacques Rousseau's beliefs in the "The Social Contract."
1,784 words (approx. 7.1 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 57.95
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Abstract
In "The Social Contract," Rousseau argues that we are all born free and equal, yet do not live either freely or equally. The paper focuses on Rousseau's arguments about the general will, the social contract and the nature of freedom in society. The paper shows how Rousseau's argument lacks some practical considerations but contends he is right in stating that people are forced to be free. The paper maintains that freedom can be achieved for all individuals, but not without force. It is the whole of society that provides the force that allows for individual freedom.
From the Paper
"It is first necessary to consider how Rousseau describes freedom. The most important point to note is that Rousseau differentiates between two types of freedom, personal freedom and social freedom. Personal freedom is an individual's own selfish choices, where an individual will carry out only those actions that are of benefit to them. Social freedom is the freedom achieved when an individual carries out those actions that the general will requires. Rousseau argues that social freedom must be achieved at the expense of personal freedom. This is the cost of being part of a society. Thus while an individual is born free, their freedom in society cannot exist until they give up their personal freedom. Giving up personal freedom for social freedom means that all individuals act in accordance with what is best for society as a whole, not their own needs and wants. It is true that individuals do give up freedom. But the gains from giving up this freedom must also be considered, with these gains coming from society as a whole."
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Durkheim and Marx, 2007.
An analysis of the differences in Emile Durkheim's and Karl Marx's philosophies.
988 words (approx. 4.0 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 35.95
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Abstract
The paper examines the central philosophical differences between Emile Durkheim and Karl Marx and explains that these are what eventually culminate in Marx's "Marxism" and Durkheim's indeterminate status in sociology. The paper explains how the differences between Marx and Durkheim's interpretations of social institutions reveal the weakness inherent to both. Durkheim chose to take a purely mystical perspective regarding society; it was the outcome of abstract notions and social norms. Marx, on the other hand, saw it as purely a materialistic structure; it was based upon tangible and physical realities. The paper contends that neither can be completely accurate, but both maintain a level of truth as well as value for the future.
From the Paper
"Emile Durkheim's reasoning skill and complexity of thought have made him one of the most renowned and celebrated social theorists of all time; however, rather unlike most other sociologists who have received similar levels of praise like Marx or Weber there are very few scholars today who could be termed "Durkheimians." This suggests that there is fundamentally something about his thought that is remarkable apart from the conclusions he reached: Durkheim's power to illicit deep thought and analysis from his readers comes through, largely, the questions he raises about society. Ultimately, it would seem that his terrific ability to view human society from a tangential perspective has allowed him to pose key questions about facets of our lives that commonly go unnoticed."
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Derrida's "Differance", 2007.
An examination of Jacques Derrida's philosophical work; "Differance."
2,085 words (approx. 8.3 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 65.95
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Abstract
The paper exposes certain key and central issues present in "Differance" that place the work in a framework in which it can be clearly understood. The paper shows how Derrida moves beyond the dualism of traditional Western thought to expose a view of reality which assumes that there is a permanent truth that can be discerned behind appearance. The paper examines Derrida's belief that meaning and truth are not static and that understanding reality through language is not a simple matter of connecting the signifier with the signified or the word and its apparent designated meaning.
Outline:
Preamble
Understanding the text of Differance
From the Paper
"Philosophy and Western thought has for centuries, since Platonic idealism, wrestled with the concept of a dualistic view of reality. The Platonic view of the ideal and the real forms constitute the underlying basis of Western thought. An implicit and critical part of Platonic thought is the separation between common reality and the ideal forms and Truth. This separation between being and Being is also, for Heidegger, the fundamental structure of Western metaphysics. The assumption of duality and reason as modes of reality in modern thought was radically questioned by Nietzsche and later in the works of Jacques Derrida and Martin Heidegger, among others."
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"Second Wind", 2007.
This paper provides a close reading of the poem "Second Wind" by Fred Chappell.
1,400 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 1 source, APA, $ 46.95
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Abstract
In this essay, the writer analyzes Fred Chappell's poem "Second Wind". The writer points out that the information in the first verse establishes the setting as being the grandmother's home on the day her husband is being buried. The poem also establishes the grandmother's frame of mind, where she is observing the day as if disconnected from it. The writer notes that this shows that she is at a point of disbelief, where everything has just changed with her husband's death. The writer maintains that this makes the grandmother feel disconnected and makes her aware of everything. The writer discusses the woman's feelings as demonstrated in the poem. The writer points out that in the final lines, the woman finds herself alone just as she imagined she would. The writer concludes that it is in this alone state, that she finds her own meaning, understanding, and ability to cope.
From the Paper
"The tone becomes more depressing in the next verse as she describes herself alone in the bedroom. She describes lying down, closing her eyes, and sitting up. The thing that makes her sit up again is the idea that she will "come down weak and crazed and sickly, waiting for my time." In the next verse, she same subject continues as she wonders if she will ever be able to close her eyes again. This section of the poem is showing how overwhelming her thoughts are when she stops to think about them. As long as she is concentrating on something, her sad thoughts remain at a distance. But in the quietness of her room, sadness floods her and overwhelms her. This makes two important points. Firstly, it explains why the house is a flurry of activity. People are busying themselves with tasks to stop them from feeling the sadness. This is emphasized in this verse, where the poet describes how Aunt Tildy will start playing the piano and singing soon. At this point, it is seen that these types of actions are not being done because people are not sad. Instead, they are being done so that people get some relief from their sad thoughts. The problem for the poet is that her sadness is so great that nothing can distract her from it. This is the second important point made in this verse. In one way, she seeks relief like everyone else does. But she is not able to find an escape because her feelings are too great."
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Czeslaw Milosz' "The Captive Mind", 2006.
This paper analyzes Czeslaw Milosz' position on the philosophy of John Stewart Mill and Karl Marx as presented in his 1959 collection of essays "The Captive Mind".
1,470 words (approx. 5.9 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
The paper explains that, in "The Captive Mind", dissident Polish author Czeslaw Milosz relates that Karl Marx and John Stewart Mill stand as polar opposites in the history of modern Western thought. The author points out that Marx is the defender of modern international communism; whereas, Mill is the defender of modern, parliamentary democracy. The paper states that, like Mill, Milosz defends the rights of the individual over that of the collective by saying that all governments must acknowledge what is most fundamental to the human condition, a desire for liberty.
From the Paper
"In short, the individual can be deluded the farther he or she moves away from his or her sphere of knowledge. Individuals must have the allowance to learn from the different frames of reference of others, rather than have their interests assumed to be the part of something larger. Milosz makes critical defense of how associations of common persons, even oppressed persons, must be chosen and not imposed in terms of overarching theories like Marxism, as the individual's interests and frame of reference may vary from moment to moment in historical time and also in terms of place."
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"Nicomachean Ethics", 2007.
An analysis of Aristotle's concepts of goodness as described in his "Nicomachean Ethics."
1,841 words (approx. 7.4 pages), 1 source, APA, $ 59.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses Aristotle's particular concepts of goodness, virtuousness and happiness, as explored within Book I of Aristotle's "Nicomachean Ethics". The paper describes much of Aristotle's philosophy as a refutation of the single Platonic ideal of goodness and virtue, due to Aristotle's more empirical, scientific and experimental (i.e., teleological) approach to philosophy.
From the Paper
" To do so at any time, Aristotle further suggests in his Nicomachean Ethics, would be to compromise one's own state of rationality and virtuousness, thereby behaving contrary to the end nature of humans. However, not to do so in trying circumstances of one's own required discipline; self-control; and practice, which perhaps explain why Aristotle sees goodness and virtue, and rationality, as states to be achieved rather than merely as human qualities that some have and others do not. This, too, moreover, represents a test of rationality in an d of itself, Aristotle suggests, since a rational person has control over his or her impulses and desires."
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Ulrich Zwingli, 2007.
This paper looks at the life of Ulrich Zwingli and examines this voice of religious reform in Switzerland.
1,525 words (approx. 6.1 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses Ulrich Zwingli as a religious reformer in Switzerland, who actually started out from inside the ranks of the Catholic Church, but gradually became a crusader against it. The writer points out that his radical policies showed that he was fearless in challenging the Church, and he even died for his beliefs in battle.
The writer discusses that despite his relatively short life, Zwingli left his mark on the reformation by his insistence on changes such as the removal of indulgences, the outlawing of idolatry, the relaxing of marriage laws and the wielding of political power. The writer concludes that the legacy of Ulrich Zwingli as a religious reformer and political leader lives on in statues in Zurich.
From the Paper
"Zwingli left Glarus in 1516 because his faithfulness to Catholicism made it unpleasant for him. He took a position as a secular priest at Einsiedeln and continued studying the classics. It is unclear exactly when he began speaking out against the Catholic Church during this period. He claims he was speaking out against the church, but he still remained friends with Cardinal Schinner and continued to draw his pension from the pope. He was even appointed acolyte chaplain of the Roman See in 1518, so it is not entirely supported that he was preaching Catholic reform. Still, others were preaching reform during this time, and Zwingli soon became a powerful voice for change."
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'Living Jesus', 2007.
This paper studies the work 'Living Jesus: Learning the Heart of the Gospel', by Luke Timothy Johnson.
2,844 words (approx. 11.4 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 84.95
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Abstract
In this article the writer discusses that 'Living Jesus: Learning the Heart of the Gospel' offers a deeply personal insight into approaching the meaning of Jesus Christ within an admirably scholastic framework. The writer notes that the author's primary goal and objective in writing 'Living Jesus' may be to stimulate new modes of thinking about Gospel and to renew or initiate appreciation of the resurrected, living, omnipresent Jesus Christ. The writer concludes that the title of 'Living Jesus' offers readers a double-meaning to contemplate. The writer explains that Jesus is at once living, fully alive and omnipresent and that the title also refers to an active incorporation of Christianity into one's personal life: living Jesus, living as a Christian.
From the Paper
"Being a Christian, according to the author requires a heartfelt confession in the immanence of Jesus: His divine presence in the world. Johnson's emphasis is on action and process, rather than on historical analysis. While the author does not discount the relevance of historical examinations of the life and times of Jesus Christ, he denounces such historical investigations as missing the point. The historian's Jesus is dead, whereas the faithful Christian's Jesus is alive. The mystery of the resurrection is the central motif by which Christians can ponder the living Jesus and His role in the world. Moreover, the resurrection forms the actual inception of the Christian faith, because the cult of Jesus began with the moment of the resurrection."
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"A Room of One's Own", 2007.
A comparison of the ideas of Frederick Nietzsche's "Beyond Good and Evil" and Sigmund Freud's "Civilization and its Discontents" to Virginia Woolf's "A Room of One's Own."
1,850 words (approx. 7.4 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 59.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses Virginia Woolf's 1929 persuasive essay and meditative fantasy called "A Room of One's Own." Particularly, the paper attempts to compare Woolf's views with those of Frederick Nietzsche in "Beyond Good and Evil" and Sigmund Freud in "Civilization and its Discontents." It then discusses which of these philosophers would have been more likely to agree with the views that Woolf expressed in her work.
From the Paper
"However, despite his highly sexualized view of any relations between men and women, one might first think that Freud would have at least some support for a part of Woolf's essay, given his belief in the benefits of civilization. Woolf, although she espouses individual self-empowerment as innate in both men and women, does not take as dim a view of all civilization as Nietzsche. This is reflected in Woolf's belief in the benefits of modern education, but also her statement that one of civilization's benefits is that it gives women a life beyond the toils of childrearing that would have afflicted Judith Shakespeare, had she attempted to take her brother Will's path. Civilization can lift all individuals, but particularly women, over the stresses of primitive, brute, physical life and society."
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"Reflections on Violence", 2007.
An analysis of the concepts of violence as described by Georges Sorel in "Reflections on Violence."
903 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 32.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses Georges Sorel's 1908 "Reflections on Violence" and describes the work as a shocking text to read. The paper discusses the concepts that he advocates of society only being able to change from the outside in-- that marginal persons such as anarchists, trade unionists and workers denied political power must act and energize the laboring classes to overthrow their bourgeois oppressors. The paper discusses the impact of his ideas and the ways that he expresses them in his book.
From the Paper
"The primary reason Sorel uses the radical and mobilizing word of violence in his treatise is because he sees incremental, reformist methods of improving the legal status of the laboring classes, not only as not only minimally effective, but as actually contributing to the authoritarian rule of state that relies upon class inequality to survive. "All the revolutionary disturbances of the nineteenth century ended by strengthening the State," he writes in his introduction. (19) Sorel praises anarchists who taught the workers that they need not be ashamed of acts of violence, and believes violence is not an unfortunate byproduct of oppression but a natural and necessary response on the part of laborers to the inherent inequality of their situation, in a state where factory owners control their destines and lives. (37)"
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'The Ego and its Own', 2007.
This paper provides a conceptual book review of 'The Ego and its Own' by Max Stirner.
963 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 34.95
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Abstract
To fully comprehend the message of Max Stirner's philosophical classic, 'The Ego and its Own', the writer suggests that a reader must release him or herself from the negative associations of the word egotist. In fact, the author would argue that the reason the words ego and egotism have such negative assumptions in modern culture is the resulting influence of false ideologies, such as the Christian religion, totalitarian politics, and the conventional morality of the mob. The writer discusses that if a society, as envisioned by Stirner, was created where everyone refused to fight and die for others, or to believe in any creed other than their will of the moment, it might be possible that there would be less formalized conflict and greater creativity. The writer concludes that Stirner is sketchy as to how such a utopia can be envisioned, although his arguments against the dangers of idealizing dying or even living for a case remain timely.
From the Paper
"As soon as a person subscribes to the idea that to sacrifice him or herself in the name of something higher than him or herself is good, this is when danger occurs, to both the self and to society. To use an example from contemporary society, one might argue that this is how soldiers defend their choice to go off to war to commit murders (they serve the state), or how persons willingly commit suicide for religion in the name of God. From his own historical vantage point, Stirner reminds the reader that Robespierre, the architect of the Revolutionary Terror in France, was an idealistic man in the sense that Robespierre put ideology before himself and his own life, and thus defended the sacrifice of the lives and self-interest of other citizens until the human element became subservient to the incorporeal ideal of freedom."
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Developing Awareness, 2007.
An analysis of the factors that contribute to developing awareness of the world around oneself.
911 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 32.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the ideal of being able to develop awareness of the world around oneself. It goes into detail about the factors that make this awareness possible. It discusses a willingness to subject oneself to new ideals and release internal beliefs about what it means to be conscious or aware. It looks into the need to forgo one's reliance on factual information and instead come to recognize the symbolism apparent in every day activity. Finally, the paper explores how one's own perceptions are biased and often rely on factual or idealized versions of what is real, versus what is perhaps, unreal.
From the Paper
"Nabokov (2000) interestingly asserts that "common sense" reveals that we exist and reminds us of our existence, but is only a "brief crack of light between two extremities of darkness." Like Keller he asserts that true consciousness does not arise from mere experiences or perceptions of experiences alone. The author suggests that the collective conscious is often directed by rigid rules of society, and one have but reach out and tap into their own self and identity to awaken their conscious and perhaps begin to capture a glimmer of true awakening. Inner knowledge comes from perception that is not tainted by memory but rather open to new revelations that should not result from reflexive acts but rather new experiences. This is much as Keller would suggest, that mankind could raise his awareness or conscious if only he stopped relying on the obvious and instead takes a moment to explore that which is not obvious or that which is unusual and new."
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Nietzsche and Lenin, 2007.
A comparison of the philosophies of Friedrich Nietzsche and Vladimir Ilyich Lenin.
1,572 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 51.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses the philosophies of Nietzsche and Lenin, noting marked similarities between them in terms of elitism. The writer proposes that, despite the fact that they differ widely in general viewpoint and specific delineations, it is nonetheless clear that both are of the opinion that a certain sort of human being is better than another. The paper examines how the main contrast between the two philosophies is that Nietzsche's "Superman" is under obligation only to promote his own evolution, while Lenin's superior human being is socially obliged to uplift the masses until equilibrium is reached.
From the Paper
"In distinguishing between his Superman and the masses, Nietzsche distinguishes between the slave and master morality. The slave morality normally belongs to the unevolved, who emphasizes evil. This emphasis is based upon the resentment of the powerless towards those who are truly gifted. The only way in which the powerless can then gain a sense of power is by imposing thousands of rules, regulations and philosophies regarding how to live. The Superman however subscribes to the master morality. He, along with other talented and evolved individuals, do not resent, but respect each other as masters."
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Marriage and Priesthood, 2007.
This paper looks at the issue of whether or not priests should be permitted to marry.
1,700 words (approx. 6.8 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 55.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer points out that more and more the faithful are arguing in contemporary society that priests should be afforded the right to marry. The writer discusses that many are associating the failings of Catholic priests in particular in recent years with the strict doctrines of the faith that forbid marriage and promote celibacy among priests. This paper explores the origins of marriage and priesthood by specifically examining the doctrines and belief practices of the Roman Catholic faith compared with the Orthodox Christian faith. The writer concludes that lack of marriage and celibacy among priests only serves to degrade priests and results in excessive stress and loneliness among a population who has embraced their occupation as a means of giving back to their community. Further the writer maintains that to deny priests the right to marriage is to deny them their logical human nature and the gift of marriage, as it is described in the Holy Bible.
Outline:
Introduction
The Rights of Priests to Marry
Conclusions
References
From the Paper
"The issue of marriage and priesthood has been hotly debated for centuries in the Christian faith. The Roman Catholic Church is among few that support the notion that priests should remain celibate for life, a symbol of their sacrifice and ability to remain pure and spiritual representatives of God. Other faiths however including the Orthodox faith support more lenient attitudes toward marriage and priesthood, supporting marriage as a basic human right outlined by the bible, something that can be engaged in within the context of a spiritual and holy lifestyle. The Orthodox faith in particular supports the notion of equality within the faith community, suggesting that the role of priests include supporting the flock or followers but not holding priests to standards that are more or less stringent than those afforded the faithful as a whole."
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"Beyond Freedom and Dignity", 2007.
A discussion of B.F. Skinner's controversial book, "Beyond Freedom and Dignity."
1,672 words (approx. 6.7 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 54.95
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Abstract
The paper describes how in 1971, Skinner wrote "Beyond Freedom and Dignity" as an answer to the problems of the modern world, including crime, poverty, violence, pollution and overpopulation. Skinner argues that the classic theories of freedom and dignity are outdated and no longer apply to the "modern scientific understanding of man." Skinner asserts that humans are essentially animals that could be controlled by using his previously discovered and published observations about the domination of animals. The paper stresses that "Beyond Freedom and Dignity" goes far beyond psychology and enters into sociology, philosophy and politics. The paper contends that if viewed within these parameters, it is a work of value for generations to come.
Outline:
Abstract
A Synopsis of "Beyond Freedom and Dignity"
Skinner's Concept of "Freedom"
Skinner's Concept of "Dignity"
Conclusions
From the Paper
"A most interesting theory that Skinner puts forth in the book is the idea that, based upon his earlier research into animal motivation and control, that humans are essentially animals that could be controlled by using his previously discovered and published observations about the domination of animals through motivation and deprivation, subject to the same laws of stimulus-response that he observed in his "rat boxes", or what has come to be known as "Skinner Boxes" in psychological circles (Todd & Morris, 1995) . In the book, Skinner denies the existence of a "human mind", personal responsibility and any type of "inner personality" (Skinner, 1971). To him, free will, thoughts, and emotions only "seem" to exist."
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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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"The Voices of Time", 2007.
This paper analyzes "The Voices of Time" by J.G. Ballard.
1,189 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 40.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses J.G. Ballard's short story "The Voices of Time". The writer focuses on the themes of surrealism and inner space that commingle in this work. The writer notes that the setting Ballard selects for "The Voices of Time" intensifies the surrealist atmosphere of the story, revealing the supernatural in the natural. In addition, the writer maintains that this setting shows how the core themes of the story of evolution and time become manifest most poignantly in the human mind. Further, the writer discusses that the surrealistic imagery throughout "The Voices of Time" is nothing but the human mind grappling with its own mortality and relative insignificance in relation to the grandeur of the universe at large.
From the Paper
"Ballard describes Powers' death with precision, blending surrealism with inner space and encapsulating the mood of the entire short story. Death and mortality are keys to understanding Powers' mind, because although he is surrounded by oddities and distortions of form and reality, Powers is fundamentally human. Acutely aware of his impending death, Powers spends his last moments engaged in a sublime meditation. Although he has witnessed some of the most grotesque abnormalities possible, although he has transformed human consciousness to the point of eradicating sleep from Kaldren's life, Powers retains a sense of wonder for the world. Seen through his eyes, the world comes alive with fantastic and surreal impact."
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