Current Issues Assignment( change another topic about this) Essay - 1

Current Issues Assignment( change another topic about this) - Essay Example Civil societies have always been staunch defenders of human rights in autocratic systems an example is Liu Xiaobo who was given an 11-year sentence for subversion of state power. Li et al (104) acknowledges by asserting that the â€Å"demand for human rights in china today is actually an indispensable step in the country’s modernization plans† The Chinese economy has been growing rapidly and that the pace of human rights reforms have been picking up and that it should be noted that political reforms should not be equated to legal reforms, they be correlated but not synonymous Political reforms should set the tone for legal reforms; adoption of democratic principles in governance ultimately has a bearing on the justice system of a nation. For BeÃŒ ja et al (158) a â€Å"harmonious society should feature democracy, the rule of law, equity, justice, sincerity, amity and

Confucianism vs. Daoism Essay Example for Free

Confucianism vs. Daoism Essay Confucianism and Daoism, although are intermingled among people who practice them, have very different views on what is necessary to become an exemplary person. Confucianism is based on the thought that education, history, structure, rules and regulation will lead to achievement and becoming fully human. Daoists, although they believe in order, hate structure, do not believe in education, and feel wandering, or going with the flow, being with nature, is most important in life. While education is most important to Confucianism, it is least important to Daoism. Confucius’s believe that through education one is able to move up in society. Education is the energy or power that enables a person to climb the social ladder, so to speak. Daoism believe very different. For them, the most important thing is connecting with nature. To be like free flowing water and to find your level, or connecting with nature, allows one to become a virtuous person. Daoism and Confucianism have very different views on education within their religion. The importance of history is another example of the differences among Confucianism and Daoism. While history is an important part of Confucianism and what helps them to achieve higher status, Daoists do not believe the past is important, they believe in spontaneity, and the importance to go with the flow and live in harmony with nature. For Confucius’s, rituals, etiquette and maintaining status quo, bring tranquility. There are five roles with relationships, ruler/subject, parent/child, husband/wife, elder brother/younger brother, and friend/friend, which Confucians believe, along with the five virtues: human-heartedness, justice, propriety, wisdom and faithfulness, produce social order and full human beings. For Daoists the history is not important or relevant, it is the wandering, having no way, or going with the flow, that will help find the way itself. Each of these religions has their own thought as to what will make one fully human and how to achieve the highest value in life. For Daoists, they believe the problem is that we let life slip away and think the solution is to live life to the fullest and flourish like nature. They believe that this is only possible if we live life in harmony with the natural rhythms of the Dao, which is the natural way, imitating nature. Confucius’s have a different mindset, because they believe that through hard work and education they are able to move up in society helping them to flourish and become more human and achieve their highest value in society. Both Confucianism and Daoism want to become fully human and achieve their highest level but they have very different views on how to achieve this goal. To live in harmony for Daoists is to flourish with the nature of things. They believe that humans are made to flourish like trees, but this is only possible if we live in harmony with nature. This is accomplished through the Dao. According to Daoists, when we give into formal education, social conventions, and rituals we die a little each day by acting intentionally and not with the heart. This leads to thinking too much and not going with the flow or with nature. In Confucianism this is quite opposite because by acting intentionally and following social order, through education, social conventions and rituals, they believe this makes up more human. Confucians’ believe that through social structure and obedience we can live in harmony with each other. For Confucians’ the goal is social order. They believe that the problem is chaos and worried about society falling apart without social order. These two religions, although they both want harmony, have a very different way to achieve this. One of the major aspects of Confucians is to incline yourself to listen rather than speak, to follow the rule and behave in the proper manor. This is not true for Daoists who believe in following nature, not to think but to just go with it. Confucians feel that our actions should have a purpose and that in order to sustain social order we must act according to our status, traditions, and follow Li, which means â€Å"to arrange in order†. Also important to Confucius’s is etiquette, customs, manners, ceremony, courtesy, civility and propriety. Li and ren are two important concepts in Confucius’s thought because they both lead to self-cultivation and social harmony. Ren, which is human-heartedness, is inward and subjective, li, ritual, etiquette, and propriety, is outward and objective. While li and ren are important to Confucius, the Dao is important to Daoists. The Dao, or the way, is the way of untamed nature and real human life. Through the Dao there is an authentic natural order that results. Although these two religions are quite different in their fundamental thinking it is important to note that they do work to complement each other in their societies. People in china feel Daoists adopted Confucius as one of their own. Each of these two religions coexists. The text explains this well when it says, â€Å"Confucianism’s communitarianism and Daoism’s individualism, Confucianism’s formalism and Daoism’s flow, the hard yang of Confucianism and the soft yin of Daoism†. It is said that they are Confucian’s at work, Daoists on the weekend and Buddhists at death. This goes to say that these religions can be intertwined throughout this society and people do not need to adopt and follow just one religion. In conclusion it is important to note that, although these two religions have very different ideologies, they do work to create peace and serenity. They both do not believe in a God but in a higher power and promote becoming fully human to achieve that higher power. I find it interesting how different the concepts in these religions are but yet how people can acclimate themselves to being both Confucians and Daoists at the same time. For how different each of these religions are I can understand how following order and knowing your place is society is important as well is connecting with nature to find your true self. Works Cited: Chan, Alan K.L.Daoism. April 2013. http://www.oxfordbibliographies.com. Confucianism. China during time of Confucius. 2007. http://www.highbeam.com Confucianism. Encyclopedia Britannica online. http://www.britannica.com Confucianism: values and order. Faces: People, Places, and Cultures. May 2010. www.highbeam.com. Daoism (Chinese philosophy and religion). Encyclopedia Britannica. www.britannica.com. Miller, James. 2013 August. Daoist Studies. Daoism and Daoist Studies. http://www.daoiststudies.org/

Postmodern Characteristics Works Of Young British Artists Cultural Studies Essay

Postmodern Characteristics Works Of Young British Artists Cultural Studies Essay Got their fame in the early 1990s, the Young British Artists (YBAs) is known as a group of highly publicized British avant-garde artists active from the late 1980s (Chilvers, 1999). In this research essay, the works of two leading artists of the YBAs, Marcus Harvey and Damien Hirst, will be mentioned and analyzed within the context of postmodern theories. The evident postmodern characteristics being discussed in the four art pieces is pluralism. Marcus Harvey (1963-now) is an English artist and painter and a leading member of YBAs; his pieces cited and analyzed in this essay are Myra (Fig. 1) and Toilet Roll (Fig. 2). Both of the two paintings are the representation of an object with blurred lines and pieces, seemingly as if the macro images are composed by tiny units and sections. The composition of the paintings and the fuzzy impressions has largely corresponded to the meaning of pluralism in postmodern theories. Damien Hirst (1965-now) is a close friend of Marcus Harvey, he is the most prominent member of YBAs and most of his works focus on the theme of Death (National Galleries of Scotland n.d.). In this essay, two of his works being analyzed are the painting LSD (Fig. 3) and the sculpture For the Love of God (Fig.4). In these two art pieces, LSD is constructed using a grid of dots of different colors while For the Love of God is consisted of human skull, platinum, and diamond. These pieces illustrate how single elements can produce new meanings when being composed together or re-arranged, similar as Harveys works, these art pieces are also a reflection of pluralism in postmodern viewpoint. In postmodernism, the word pluralism is generally used to describe the multiplicity of meaning and the status of a mixture and disorder (Bohman 1999) of culture, identities, ideologies, worldviews, religions etc. in postmodern era, it embraces the idea of fragmentation or incoherence in contemporary world. Body Pluralism is literally defined as the quality or state of being plural (Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary, 2010), which is in contrary of dualism. As we learned from the course, pluralism within postmodern practice is not only apparent within its political content but also in the strategies, processes and the styles within the works themselves. Looking back to all the theories and argumentations on postmodernism, it is easily observed that the common ground among all the discourses is to admit the chaos, disorder, fragmentation, and even meaningless of any subject from my perspective, the balance of disorder and order is a representation of what we called pluralism. Doubtlessly, pluralism has become a dominant tendency in every aspect of modern life in the backdrop of globalization and commercialization tide. According to Milbrandt (2003), the characteristics of postmodern world have directly triggered the emergence of popular culture and postmodern art forms such as visual art, on the other hand, conceptual barriers between so-called high and low culture have broken down due to the evolution of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs). In one word, to study todays artistic creations in turns of different postmodern characteristics, such as pluralism, will provide us a comprehensive understanding of postmodernism theories as well as postmodern lives/practices. Speaking of the arena of art, more specifically, the YBAs, those conceptual artists, painters, sculptors and installation artists are noted for their shocking and creative tactics in making art; and as reported by The Guardian (14 June 2000), they dominated the art scene in Britain during the 1990s. By analyzing the four works I cited in this essay, I hold the viewpoint that as typical Young British Artists works, those art pieces from Marcus Harvey and Damien Hirst have notably demonstrated and reflected the qualities of pluralism. Myra (Fig. 1) is one of the most famous and disputed works by Marcus Harvey, it is the portrait of a child killer Myra Hindley recreated from multiple copies of childrens handprints. In this artwork, numerous childrens handprints seem to cover and claw at Hindleys face and shape a unique situation: on the one hand, the image of her face is composed by those handprints; while on the other hand, those tiny palms also obliterate her features. It is commended by The Guardian Weekend (Burn, 1997) that this artwork brings the chill of horror we feel but can rarely express and suggests the coolness that is, the affectless-ness; the loss of sensation; the stray; the cold stoniness in the work itself. Connecting it with postmodern theories, one can easily catch the smell of pluralism in Myra. As Hughes (2004) and Knoper (2008) summarized (though the idea is originated from Lyotard), postmodern art represents the death of so-called meta-narratives maintained in modern society and adopts plur alism to replace dualism, thus create a sense of chaos and disorder in meanings. Such is what we read from the controversial artwork Myra, in which the tiny units are both creating and destroying the whole iconic image, based on this, varied and more in-depth meanings are conveyed. Toilet Roll (Fig. 2) is another artwork by Marcus Harvey and from which we can also find evidence of pluralism. Ang (2006) points out that, the status of pluralism and the imitation of an existed style lead to things like pastiche (an empty copy), which is an idea that suggests little of the implied depth. Toilet Roll the painting is a reflection of such death of depth I personally dont think the image in this artwork conveys much aesthetic delight, nor it is as meaningful and thought provoking as Myra. However, when we look at the fuzzy images and small blocks in the picture, a sense of meaningless and confusion is generated in readers mind. In other words, from my perspective, no/little value or meaning is the meaning of this work. LSD (Fig. 3) by Damien Hirst might be the one among the four artworks that represents pluralism most apparently and directly: a grid of dots of different colors, a simple mixture of plural elements. Similar to many postmodern paintings, one cannot easily grasp what the artist wants to express in this painting. Villeneuve Erickson (2008) point out that contemporary art cannot be judged simply by whether they are representational or attractive, and contemporary artists tend to use unconventional materials and touch difficult topics (such as sexuality, patriotism, and religion), which all present obstacles in understanding. So as to LSD, readers can have numerous interpretations to the grid of dots from varied perspectives. Those perceptions express the complex and different cultural backgrounds and social identities of the appreciators as well create the multi-dimensionality in interpretation (Song, 2009), which reveals a broader pluralism beyond the painting format itself. Besides, t he interdisciplinary mediations and analysis (Trafà ­-Prats, 2009) of contemporary art also reflects the spirit of pluralism (i.e. the interpretation of LSD may touch upon the field of music, political science, cultural studies, religious studies, etc.). For the Love of God (Fig.4) is a sculpture by Damien Hirst produced in 2007, it consists of human skull, platinum cast, and 8,601 diamonds (Hirst unveils  £50m diamond skull, 2007). Besides the value of the material itself, the artistic value of this sculpture is also precious. George Steiner (2001) claimed in his book Grammars of Creation, the age such as ours is an age of ugliness the violence, oppression, economic enslavement and social irrationality. And this artwork For the Love of God shows a hope for beauty in this age of ugliness and death and is a restoration of respect for God (Moore, 2004). The materials used in this sculpture are shock, contrasting and creative, and when Hirst constitutes the skull, the platinum, and the diamonds together, they successfully create new meanings with sharp impacts such is an aspect of pluralism, that the single distinct elements can produce an organic whole. Conclusion In conclusion, all these four art pieces analyzed in this essay is a good demonstration of pluralism in postmodern context. As artistic works created by British avant-garde artists in the post-1990s era, they successfully used some tactics and gimmicks to produce and convey what I would call a sense of nonsense and a sense of confusion and shock to the audience. It is not surprising that all the works can easily find a niche in postmodern interpretations, not only because they were produced in the context and with the idea of postmodern thoughts, but also because we are trying to read them from a postmodern perspective. Nonetheless, although it is hard to elaborate in details what aesthetic feelings or experiences they create to audience, because each individual has his/her own judgment on artistic (especially postmodern artistic) works and also because postmodern fine art is often anti-aesthetic, it is still possible to reach a better understanding of them besides the sense of nonsense, confusion and shock. From my perspective, those works in general expressed the artists concern on the spurt of modern technology, industrialization and commercialization, as well as the loss of meaning and depth in postmodern way of life, which are the eternal focuses of all forms of postmodern fine art.

The Little Ice Age: A World Systems Approach Essays -- Climate Environ

The Little Ice Age: A World Systems Approach In today’s world, after more than a century of the internal combustion engine and the large-scale burning of fossil fuels, the climate has come to the forefront of public debate. As both sides use evidence from past climates to support their points, at the heart of this debate is history. For this reason, as well as for the political implications that the polemics of this issue engenders, objective science and objective historical study must figure prominently, however objectivity should not be subsumed for conformity. Debate is part of the process that brings science closer to truth. The study of climate is no different and the Little Ice Age is an area of study in which there is currently a healthy debate going on. Scholars’ opinions differ on numerous aspects of this period, even to the point of disputing its existence. Topics ranging from a definition of the characteristics of the period to its starting date, and its impacts on human society and hi story are all part of this debate. Among the multiplicity of issues surrounding the Little Ice Age, these are chief and, in order to follow a comprehensible thread, will be the focus of this paper. Describing and analyzing the major views relating to these issues (proposed by historians and non-historians alike) should provide a relatively full picture of the debate and shed light on current thought about the topic. The importance of climate to human history is an issue that has interested historians only relatively recently. According to M.J. Ingram, â€Å"(t)he majority of historians have been content largely to ignore† the implications of long-term climatic change on human societies.[1] Year-to-y... ...s the ‘Little Ice Age’?† in T. Mikame (ed.) Proceedings of the International Symposium on the â€Å"Little Ice Age† Climate. (Tokyo, Department of Geography, Tokyo Metropolitan University 1992) 3 [11] Landsberg 62 [12] Landsberg 62 [13] Landsberg 62 [14] Jean M. Grove. The Little Ice Age. (London and New York, Routledge 1988) 394 [15] Grove, â€Å"The Initiation of the ‘Little Ice Age’ in Regions Round the North Atlantic† 63 [16] Grove The Little Ice Age 260 [17] Ibid 416 [18] Ibid 416 [19] Ibid 391 [20] Grove â€Å"The Initiation of the ‘Little Ice Age’ in Regions Round the North Atlantic† 73 [21] Lamb 307 [22] Ibid 307 [23] Ibid 278 [24] Ibid 219 [25] Ibid 218 [26] Brian Fagan. The Little Ice Age: How Climate Made History, 1300-1850. (New York, Basic Books 2000) xviii [27] Ibid 58 [28] Ibid 165 [29] Ibid 48 [30] Ibid 59

How computers effect our lives?

Computer as a tool and a technique product is no longer strange for people in modern society. People use computer anywhere with and field. Computers have played an amazing role in the world. Nowadays, almost everybody has more than one computer in their home. More areas are being taken over by the computer. Today, the computer has changed the business world and our daily lives. To begin with, can you image that you live without computers during a week?For me, it is absolutely not possible since I use computer to contact my family and my friend everyday. Most of the youth of today use computers to relax in their daily lives. They play computer games or enjoy in the social network. Also, people can choose movies and listen to music that they like. In addition, computers are essential tools that help people in work area. Programs can do various functions and ease the process of doing it manually without computer. For instance, designers use software to deal with all the advertising and design papers.Businessmen use computers to communicate with their clients like video chat, online phones and sales transaction, while some people can find a job or an opportunity on the internet. Moreover, the most important is that computer improves efficiency for people’s lives. For example, individuals not only can use computers to book trios online, but also book hotels, flights even a delicious meal. Furthermore, people can shop on line to buy anything for a lower price. It’s not only convenient, but also saves people money and time.Additionally, computers are used extensively in public department like hospitals; the doctors can log new information or take the medical history from the patient. Also, computers play a significant role in a surgery which the doctors can know the condition about the patient during the process. It is the best way to help doctors analyze and solve problems for patients. Besides medical system, in the high crime rate society computer tec hniques help the police to analyze cases and it’s both quick and accurate to solve a case.Computers are the best tool to learn about people whether you are old or a disabled person. It is no longer that time, when people only could be educated in school. Nowadays, everyone can study online to learn languages, cultures, history etc. Also, you can watch public classes online courses from Yale, Stanford, Oxford which have fascinating selection to attract you to help develop cognitive abilities. You needn’t go to the UK or US, the only one thing you do is just open your computer then enjoy it. On the other hand, the computer is a great tool for people who are looking to learn anything in the world.Whether you want to read books or search the news, or get information worldwide, the computer can handle all these of things. Computer can compute thousands of problems in just a second. You can send documents in just one click and keep in touch with your relatives in aboard. Fin ally, the computer is a very spectacular tool that can change and effect people’s lives. The computer has truly revolutionized changed this epoch. It has made everyone’s life easier by doing difficult subjects. The computer is one of the most incredible inventions in history.

Commemorative Speech-My Father Essay

Over the years his real job has come with many different titles. For 50 years he has been a son and brother, for 31 he has been a loving father, for 26 he has been a dedicated husband, for 5 he has been a grandfather, and for 18 years and counting he has been and will always be my mentor. Today I would like to honor my father John Zachary Smith, and explain to you how and why he has become my mentor. Standing at exactly 6 feet tall, sporting dark black hair and tan skin, being loud, extremely talkative and radiating with energy, are just a few characteristics that can be attributed to his Italian heritage. When introducing himself to someone new, he reaches out his rough and calloused hand giving them a firm handshake and replies â€Å"My name’s John Smith, really honest†. My father has the ability to make friends with anyone because he is truly a real joy to be around. He sparks conversations with people and it would seem that were best friends. My father never lets an opportunity pass to teach his children. Being a father alone is difficult, but finding the time to impact each and every life of those seven children is a completely different rigorous task. Dad has taken this as a challenge and a life-long goal. My dad has taught me lots of things there is to know about many different subjects. Because of him I have learned to change tires on a car, because of him I have learned how to respect my siblings, because of him I have learned to cherish the moments in everyday life, because of him I have learned to have more confidence in myself. Moving away from home and being in college, I look back on my years at home with a little bit of sadness and tad bit of regret. I realize that I took my father for granted. When I would complain about how much homework a teacher had given me, I never once heard him complain about staying late after work. When I would complain about not having the latest outfit, I never once heard him complain about the worn out jeans and shoes he always wore. When I would complain about being tired, I never once heard my father say how exhausted he was from working long hours. My father was the hardest worker I know. My father and mother together have raised seven children. While my mom stayed at home taking care of the young ones, my father would be working to provide for his young family. When the children reached schooling age, my parents were smart with the money my father diligently worked for. When sending their children to a local public school would be easy and cost much less.