The Right to Vote Essay Example for Free

The Right to Vote Essay In this research paper, I intend to analyze the historical events and public activities that created a ground for politically unprivileged portion of 18th and 19th century United States society to express their dissatisfaction and the desire to have a right to vote. I will study how relevant historical events took place in different states or towns, how did the municipal and state authorities respond to them, how the press illustrated these events and what level of impact the events had on the future of the democratization of the voting process in the United States. As a result of this study, I aim to explain how politically discriminated portions of the society did obtain a right to vote through the democratic process and what factors assisted to this process. My working hypothesis would argue that obtaining a right to vote in the United States society was the product of constitutional conventions, rapid increase in the number of population that resulted in majority of them having an economic participation but no political participation and the formation of political parties that competed for votes. My research will focus on books that give the account of historic events that unfolded in 18th and 19th century regarding the democratization of the right to vote, such as Alexander Keyssar’s work on the right to vote – the contested history of democracy in United States, and newspaper accounts that illustrated or described the relevant events, informed the society on what different intellectuals think about the issue and raised the mass awareness regarding the problem that should be resolved. For example, Albion Tourgee begins his article â€Å"The Right to Vote† by bringing different questions, such as what is the right to vote, how to regulate it, limits of state and national authority, in what manner it should be asserted and to whom does it attach. Also, the monthly law reported on 1853 describes the constitutional convention that was held in the state of Massachusetts, the outcome of the event and how the event would impact the process of democratization of political power. Such historical articles or reports illustrate that the majority of inhabitants or citizens had a desire to know their rights better  and participate in the political process of the town, state or the country, thus impact the political process. Alexander Keyssar in his book â€Å"The right to vote† brings important historical events, such as the formation of constitutional conventions, increase in the number of population of states, physical act of voting, conduct of elections, voting requirements, property and tax requirements, differences in the state and local eligibility and their role in the democratization of the voting process in the United States. For instance, Alexander Keyssar mentions that between 1790 and the 1850s, every state held at least one constitutional convention, and more than a few held several. The issues addressed by these conventions were many, but almost invariably a key concern was the distribution of power among the increasingly diverse residents of each state. While examining the above mentioned historical and other relevant data, I will be studying the level of impact of each event. I will examine how each event that are mentioned in the Alexander Keyssar works or in the works of other scholars and which are illustrated by journals and newspapers allowed the politically discriminated portion of the society raise their voices and concerns and down the road allowed them to gain a political power and obtain a right to vote trough the process of democratization. By conducting the analysis, I aim to rate the level of importance of each historical event or public activity and analyze the role of each stakeholder, such as inhabitants, citizens, aliens, municipal and state authorities, federal government and perhaps women and slaves. Besides relying on books for relevant historical events, I will also look on how the magazines, journals and newspapers of that time reported the events, and to what level they were engaged in the process of the democratization of the right to vote in the United States. While exploring these questions, I will be relying and examining the work of wide range of scholars who have attempted to analyze the major historical events and public activities that resulted in or prepared a ground for the democratization of the right to vote in eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Alexander Keyssar, for instance, in his works has focused on relevant historic events and analyzed the role of stakeholders, such as inhabitants or citizens, political parties, local and state authorities, and the federal government. He also attempts to analyze the role the public events, such as constitutional conventions and the role of arguments of delegates. In his work on the right to vote the contested history of democracy in United States, Alexander Keyssar has a section where he intends to analyze different ideas and arguments to figure out which factors played a crucial role in balancing the political power, including amendments to or changing constitutions. In should be mentioned that in fact Alexander Keyssar conducts a detailed analysis of different factors, such as he analyzed the role political parties in the process of democratization of the right to vote. My next level of analysis would include the assessment of relevant newspapers, journals and other printed materials of 18th and 19th century. I intend to find a connection between the press and stakeholders, such as activists, municipal and state authorities, federal government and political parties and see to what level did this relation impact the material that were published in the press. [ 1 ]. Tourgee, Albion W., Forum (1886-1930); Mar 1890; American Periodicals, pg. 78 [ 2 ]. The Monthly Law Reporter (1848-1866); Sep 1853; 6, 5; American Periodicals pg. 241 [ 3 ]. Alexander Keyssar, The Right to vote the contested history of democracy in United States pg. 28-29 [ 4 ]. Alexander Keyssar, The Right to vote the contested history of democracy in United States pg. 34-35 [ 5 ]. Alexander Keyssar, The Right to vote the contested history of democracy in United States pg. 32-33

The rise and fall of Richard III

The rise and fall of Richard III Using first hand accounts and the views of historians from various sources this essay focuses upon the question: When considering the reasons for Richard IIIs rise and fall from power to what extent were Richard IIIs strengths also his greatest weakness. Many historians consider that he usurped the English throne in 1783, triggering the end of the medieval period and the Plantagenet dynasty. The study of the role played by Richard in the ending of this epoch allows us to look at whether one man really can make that much difference to history as well as to consider how history itself is written. This essay sets out to investigate Richard IIIs many qualities as a ruler, such as his intelligence, and aims to show how these aided him in claiming the throne, yet also ultimately led to his downfall. Other, exogenous factors in his rise and fall are also considered in order to judge the comparative importance of his personality in this matter. The essay starts by looking at the legend of Ri chard III (including the famous Shakespeare play in which he is portrayed as a tyrant by the Tudor playwright) in order to set his achievements, and interpretations of him, in a historical context. The reasons behind Richard successfully taking the crown and keeping it are then considered. This touches upon many controversial, deeply-debated events (such as what happened to the Princes in the Tower?) which have arguably led to his poor reputation. The essay then analyses how his apparent strengths failed to prevent his dethroning by Henry Tudor, before concluding that these eventually became his areas of greatest weakness, such as his patriotism and his high levels of education and ego. To what extent were Richard IIIs strengths also his greatest weaknesses? In 1485, the medieval period ended with the death of Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth. Richard III is well known throughout the world due to the scandalous Princes in the Tower situation, where many historians and the public hold Richard III responsible for the double disappearance of the heirs to the throne, Richard IIIs nephews and sons of Edward IV. Not to mention with him being eternally immortalised within Shakespeares play Richard III. However regardless of his forceful and slightly underhand taking of the throne, Richard was not the complete villain that history portrays him as. His evil reputation, Conscience is but a word that cowards use, devised at first to keep the strong in awe, possibly exaggerated by Shakespeares Richard III, was fashioned at least in part by the labours of Tudor propagandists to rationalise Henry VIIs own usurpation. It is possible that Shakespeare was funded by Tudor patrons, thereby possibly ensuring that Shakespeare wrote positively about Henr y Tudor. However it appears that Shakespeare used the Chronicle writers, Vergil and Holinshed and even Thomas More to base his play upon, so perhaps he was only writing with the information provided and it was not a vindictive quest. According to Alison Weir nearly all narrative sources for this period have a partisan bias: most were written in the South of England and reflect anti-northern sentiments, for Richard III was identified very much with the northern interests. He achieved power in 1483 due to many of his strengths; nevertheless Richard III had lost power two years later to Henry Tudor, potentially demonstrating that although Richard IIIs strengths achieved him the throne they also led to his downfall. The first strength that is instantly noticed when looking into Richard IIIs childhood and life before he became king, is how educated he was in the ways of being a member of the Royal family. As a young man Richard III was sent to train under Warwicks Master of Henxman, this was a household official whose job it was to implant in Richard the rudiments of knightly conduct. According to a source at this school the pupils were taught to ride cleanly and surely; to draw them also to jousts; to learn to them to wear their harness and to have all courtesy in words, deeds, and degrees however what is important to note is that along with all these necessary skills of a noble, he was also taught a traditional English public school education, tempered with book learning and other liberal accomplishment. This source demonstrates that in appearances he would have looked and ac ted like royalty, but it also taught him knowledge which aided him greatly in the future for example making English the standard language for law so that everyone could understand it. Intelligence and cunning played a huge role in the success of Richard III in becoming King as his intellect stood him ahead of other individuals. This can be seen consistently throughout Richard IIIs seizing of power and throughout his short reign. The main event that allows us to see the part that intelligence and cunning played is with the introduction of the law Titulus Regius (1483) by which the title of King was granted to Richard III. Invented by the parliament, all loyal subjects and advisors to Richard III, this official declaration explains why Parliament had decided that the marriage of Edward IV of England to Elizabeth Woodville had been false, in order to give more power to Richard III as well as aid the prevention of another potential uprising like what had just occurred. Consequently their offspring had no right to the throne, and therefore placing Richard III on the throne of England. Furthermore we see how cunning he was by the fact that no one tried to oppose this new ruling, not even Henry VII as he was hiding and gathering an army in France during this period. This is a prime example of how cunning and intelligence were key strengths in helping Richard III achieve power, as few individuals had the flair to create such an elaborate scheme and the desire to achieve power, without his education and background he may have never achieved his ruler status in the first place. Another instance of this is regarding his arch-rivals stepfather Lord Stanley. Richard knew that he had to keep Stanley on his side and although he could not trust him, he needed his influence in the North West and in North Wales so he used Stanley to keep order in his country, this is another demonstration of Richards cunning allowing him to obtain power. There are many instances where the chicanery of Richard III appears throughout his life, firstly in the usurpation of the throne where he decided that Hastings was too loyal to the children of Edward IV, so he trumped up a charge of treason on this lord and had him summarily executed, showing Richard IIIs ability to be wily and ruthless. The highest profile example of this was concerning the Princes in the Tower, in 1483. Although this event is held in controversy by many historians, such as historian Alison Weir who argues that Richard III was to blame whereas another historian who researches the period Paul Murray Kendall argues that Henry had an even ambiguous claim to the throne so if the Princes where still alive Henry Tudor would have had even less claim to the throne. Who is responsible for this catastrophic occurrence, resulting in the death of the two heirs to the throne after Edward IV? There are many different people who have been blamed for this tragedy, however many consider that Richard III had the biggest reason to see the two sons of Edward IV dead. Alison Weir, a well-known historian has written a novel on the subject looking at both sides of the argument and the sources, and in her conclusion she states Given all the other evidence already discussed in previous chapters, then only one man could have been responsible for their deaths: Richard III. However as he discredited them as being illegitimate, why would he have them killed and have negative impact towards his reign, but his right to the throne was still shaky so he potentially had them killed to remove any possible threat to his reign. This all just shows how cunning and conniving he was through removing any threat and doing the whole process without making the situation appear like a coup dà ©tat. Instead it appeared that Richard III was doing the country a favour. This all goes to show the great advantage that Richard IIIs strengths played in allowing him to achieve the throne through guile and shrewd. Looking at the other side, there are many other people who could be blamed for this tragedy, firstly Henry Tudor for the same reason that Richard III is blamed, in order to remove the rightful heirs to the throne. However revisionists now claim that it might have been the Duke of Buckingham, Richard IIIs biggest ally, trying to clear the path for Richard. Potentially this tragic situation could show off another of Richard IIIs strengths, if he is not responsible for the death of the heirs, that of being an opportunist and ruthless in his quest for power. This personality trait that we see in Richard III could have resulted from childhood, according to a website devoted to the Monarchs, the young Richard grew up amidst the violent civil strife of the Wars of the Roses, it formed and molded him and he was very much the product of that turbulent age. From this source we can see that Richard was just a product of the time and for that reason we can see that Richard III used many of the events that occurred both in the past and present. In agreement with Alison Weir about how ruthless and dangerous Richard III could be Sir Thomas More, famous for writing the History of King Richard III the novel that was later used by Shakespeare to write his famous play. At the same time that the Princes in the Towers situation was going on Richard III was also allegedly involved in falsely accusing and arresting Jane Shore, late Edward IVs mistress. This was once again another power play. As written by Thomas More from firsthand accounts the Protector sent into the house of Shores wife (for her husband dwelled not with her) and spoiled her of all that she ever had, above the value of two or three thousand marks, and sent her body to prison. And when he had a while laid unto her for the manners sake, that she went about to bewitch him, and that she was of counsel with the Lord Chamberlain to destroy him. From this source we can see that Richard III even before he became King was ruthless in his removal of all potential enemies, not caring whether he falsified the crimes that this woman supposedly committed. Despite this source coming from a historian at the time it is possible that Sir Thomas More only wrote unflatteringly about Richard III because he thought that he would be able to further his career at the time. Also Thomas More grew up in the house of the Lord Chancellor during Henry Tudors reign so it is likely that he had biased opinions regarding Richard III. His ruthlessness is perhaps best summed up by how he attempted to seize power following the unexpected death of Edward IV, on the 9th April 1483, with the death of the current ruler there was a sudden gap in the countries leadership that needed to be filled. As the current heirs to the throne were 12 and 9 respectively, they were too young to rule by themselves, so Richard III was named protector. Richard III then used this chance to achieve power himself. All this again shows just how much of an opportunist he was, and how much this played in helping him to achieve the throne. A more cynical historian could view this as just a stroke of luck and it did not demonstrate anything about Richard IIIs actual character. A final important strength that Richard III possessed was loyalty to his king and country. Understandably this is a good quality so why would a loyal man commit treason and potentially kill Edward IVs sons? Well there are many differing views on why this happened; firstly it was never a doubt that Richard remained loyal to the king throughout Edward IVs reign. This can be seen quite often throughout the reign as Richard III supported Edward when he was overthrown by his other son, Duke of Clarence, and then helped Edward regain power through his military prowess and his courage in battle. However it is possible to argue that here is another example of Richard IIIs cunning, he could possibly just be supporting the right man to further himself in politics. Some historians even claim that Richard III was often reckless in battle, which could explain why Richard lost the Battle of Bosworth, 1485. This view of many is supported by Anne Crawford who in her study of Richard III states that Richards plan had turned into disaster and all he could do was attempt to make political capital at home, Furthermore in regards to loyalty there is a clear case that on the accession of his brother, Richard was created the Duke of Gloucester, traditionally a royal title, and at which Richard adopted he white boar as his personal badge, according to a source he also took the motto Loyaulte me lie (loyalty binds me). This would explain Richard IIIs loyalty to Edward IV but not to any of his descendants. However relating back to the question, his loyalty enabled him to become King on a variety of levels, rather ironically; firstly according to the majority of historians such as Nigel Saul, Richard III would never have gained power without the aid of the duke of Buckingham. Richards loyalty inspired other people to join in and support him, which was obviously key to his claim to power. The support of the second most influential man in England eased Richard IIIs path to become King. In conclusion the most important strengths of Richard III that helped him achieve power successfully were his intelligence and cunning. However it can be argued that out of these attributes it was Richard IIIs cunning and intelligence that allowed him to achieve power, through scandals and new laws and many other reforms. However what is well-known is that Richard III only reigned for approximately two years, a relatively short reign, before he was killed at the Battle of Bosworth in 1485 and the Tudor period began, with Lord Stanley claiming King Henry, God save King Henry! Firstly through loyalty as we saw Richard III manipulate his way into power, through rewarding those those who were loyal to him during this period, showering them with gifts in order to keep them loyal. An example of this is with Richard IIIs new son in law, the Earl of Huntingdon, who took over the lands of Buckinghams betrayal, and with this he bought Williams loyalty through wedding Richards bastard daughter Katherine to him as well as including a generous dowry, according to Anne Crawford as much as the sum of 1000 marks a year. Finally another trait that of being cunning also served Richard III well, as he decided after being crowned to go on a royal progress to gather support for himself. These skills mentioned helped Richard III to keep power for the two years that he held it for, but eventually many historians, including Anne Crawford, Nigel Saul and Antony Cheetham agree that these skills also contributed greatly to his ultimate downfall. Firstly with Richard IIIs intelligence from his education he felt able to introduce new laws all by himself, which therefore made him responsible in the publics eyes for the negative laws restricting the peoples lives. Also he increased taxes in order to reward his followers, maintaining their loyalty. Evidently the public would not have liked this as they could barely afford to pay the old taxes. Therefore Richard III lost a lot of the public support that he had gained and with the growing popularity of Henry Tudor, it appeared that Richard IIIs downfall was becoming imminent. Another attribute that arguably turned from a strength into a weakness was loyalty, that of his followers and his loss of the ability to inspire. Richard III sat uneasily on his throne in 1483; the deep mistrust of the nobility had been engendered by the death of Lord Hastings and the apparent vanishing of Edward V and his brother. At Lincoln, on 11th October, Richard received the disturbing news that his most loyal ally, the Duke of Buckingham, had abandoned his cause and now supported Henry Tudor. Buckinghams reasons for deserting remain a mystery, he was said to feel sorry for his previous actions, possibly an admission of guilt for the Princes in Tower, but it is possible that he felt that he deserved more recognition for all that he had done for Richard III, and Henry offered the Duke more power and rewards. It has also been suggested that, as the Duke was the direct progeny of Edward IIIs youngest son himself, his support of Richard was part of a plan to help him achieve the th rone himself. Anne Crawford, a historian of the Yorkist era puts forward the argument that who knows whether Buckingham aspired the throne himself, whether he jumped on a bandwagon or whether he foresaw that his rule of south Wales would be threatened. This betrayal by the Duke hit Richard III very hard as he lost his greatest ally whom he considered a friend. In a primary source letter to his Chancellor Russell, Bishop of Lincoln Richard expresses his anger at the betrayal of Buckingham, the Duke of Buckingham-the most untrue creature living: whom with Gods grace we shall not be long till that we will be in that parts, and subdue his malice. We assure you there was never falser traitor purveyed for; as this bearer Gloucestert shall show you. In this letter we see how far Richard III had potentially slipped emotionally. This looked very bad for Richard now as he lost the main support of other nobles to Henry Tudor. Furthermore in the following year after Richard showed that he intended to keep all the power that he had amassed as a Duke in the north of England, as a result he lost support around the country. In the summer of 1484 after this action, many rebellious ballads and rhymes started to emerge in London, the most famous attributed to William Collyngboure the Cat [Sir William Catesby], the Rat [Sir Richard Ratcliffe] and Lovell our dog[Lord Lovell] all serving under a Hog [Richard III]. This slanderous rhyme a deliberate slur at the supporters of Richard III and the King himself showed how far Richard III was starting to fall in public opinion. In further support of exogenous factors leading to Richard IIIs downfall from the throne on the 22nd August 1485, there was finally the expected battle between Richard III and Henry Tudor, now known as the Battle of Bosworth, famous for being the last time a monarch was killed in battle. After Richards death the continuator of the Croyland Chronicle depicted the event as thus the tusks of the boar [Richard] were blunted and the red rose [Henry Tudor], the avenger of the white [the princes in the Tower] now shone upon England. This source clearly shows how public opinion was no longer supporting Richard and they saw Henry as a righteous avenger for the evil deeds of Richard III. However it is impossible to be sure whether this was just propaganda or a personal belief. Linking to the attributes that led to Richard IIIs downfall here is a key skill that ultimately led to his death as well as ruin. Richard IIIs pride meant that he wore his crown into the battle, making him an easy target. In fact this can be linked to the earlier point about loyalty; Richard III was not killed by Henry Tudor or even the duke of Buckinghams men, but by Sir William Stanleys men. Stanley saw a chance to win the gratitude of Henry Tudor, while leading a counterstrike from the sidelines and surrounding the King with a superior force cutting off Richard III from his main army. With Richard dead the army disintegrated, leaving Henry Tudor to claim the throne. It can be seen here how both pride and loyalty turned on Richard III leading clearly to his downfall. However it can be argued that there are other reasons why Richard III lost his throne, firstly the time that Richard ruled was a turbulent period. With Richards usurpation, it led to the possibility that there would be another, either by the people to replace the rightful heir or another potential candidate to try and take the throne before Richard III could consolidate his power. It could also be considered that unlucky situations that Richard III faced, first, on 9th April 1484, Richards only son and heir, Edward of Middleham died, perhaps of tuberculosis. Both Richard and his wife Anne Neville were said to be preoccupied with grief. Many in that superstitious age saw it as celestial vengeance for Richard IIIs handling of his brothers sons. Furthermore fate seemed to working against Richard III. In March 1485, when Queen Anne Neville died of tuberculosis, her husband was said to be loath to visit her in her lodgings. Subsequent to Annes death rumors arose that Richard III had poisoned her, though ungrounded in fact, they demonstrate Richards subjects suspicions of him. He was required to make a mortifying communal refutation of the rumors, saying that he was not delighted at her death but as sorry and as heavy in heart as a man can be and to deny that he planned for an incestuous matrimony with his niece. Richard III was destroyed by grief, which all affected his judgment to rule and provided Henry Tudor with the opportunity to muster a force to remove Richard III from the throne. In conclusion we can see that Richard IIIs key characteristics eventually changed from assets to liabilities and played a huge contribution to his downfall. It is easy to see that Richards strengths ironically became his weaknesses. His cunning and intelligence seem to have been a recurring factor in all aspects of Richard IIIs life. In his use of the law to achieve the throne, but then he used this knowledge to introduce new measures and taxes which lost him public support. Pride and deviousness allowed him to inspire followers however it also arguably led to his death on the battle field as he foolishly wore his crown into battle. Finally manipulating his supporters, this led to him losing many supporters including Lord Stanley which ultimately led Richard IIIs defeat in battle. His luck also ran out with the death of his wife and son, by taking the throne by force, his determination also ended up working against him as it inspired Henry Tudor to copy him. He started a trend of people taking the throne, rather than being born to it. Therefore it was only a matter of time before Richard III met his downfall, whether he caused it himself or whether it was just fate. Revisionist historian Nigel Saul, writer of the Oxford Illustrated history of Medieval England is of a similar opinion that it is doubtful whether either Edward IV or Richard III ever quite felt secure on the throne analyzing the evidence and arguments it appears that the revisionist idea is the most valid as it appears Richard III was vilified by propaganda. However his methods did provide a basis for his infamously flawed character and led to the circumstances which caused his downfall. Word Count: 3677

Advanced Social Psychology: Overview and Analysis

Advanced Social Psychology: Overview and Analysis Theresa A. Patterson Social psychology is a relatively young science. This branch of psychology includes the study of individual behavior in a social setting as well as factors that influence behavior. Social psychology was established as a formal discipline approximately one hundred years ago (Reis, 2010). Throughout its history, social psychology demonstrated the effects of notable social and political themes of various time periods. Also, methodological and theoretical advances impacted the development of social psychology in many ways. Although many people equate the origins of social psychology with the publication of the first social psychology textbook by McDougall in 1908, the roots of this field can be traced to the writings of Aristotle and Plato (Reis, 2010). For example, Aristotle noted the need for individuals to live in groups, while Plato emphasized the impact of the environment on behavior. McDougall incorporated the concepts of emotion and morality in his textbook and emphasized the idea that behavior was instinctive and individual. In addition to McDougall’s contribution, Wundt’s writings regarding the effect of groups on individual behavior played a critical role in the development of social psychology (Reis, 2010). However, Wundt did not advocate experimental methods. In addition, his ideas did not match the behaviorist views that predominated in the early 1900’s. Thus, Wundt’s views were not long-lived on social psychologists. Despite the advent of novel social psychology textbooks, the discipline of social psychology was not well defined. The work of Floyd Allport in 1924 outlined the tenets of social psychology in a way that reflected current thinking to a higher degree (Reis, 2010). Allport noted that interpersonal relationships are the hallmark of social psychology, but emphasized that social psychology must be studied in terms of the individual rather than in terms of the group (Patterson, 2015). Additionally, Allport asserted that many factors in the environment might elicit behaviors. Allport took an experimental approach in social psychology and invested hos efforts in basic research (Reis, 2010). Allport’s writings, which emphasized such topics as conformity, emotion and social influence, exerted a lasting impact on contemporary researchers. Although Allport clearly utilized a methodological approach, Norman Triplett is widely credited with the implementation of the first social psychology experiment in 1898 (Reis, 2010). Triplett (1898) investigated the effect of the presence of other individuals on performance based upon his observation that bicyclists rode faster when paced by another rider. In addition, Sherif (1936) conducted studies that investigated the development of social norms and the impact that societal rules had on behavior. The occurrence of events such as the Great Depression, World War I and World War II set the stage for further development in social psychology (Patterson, 2015). During the World War II era, several European social psychologists fled Nazi Germany and immigrated to the United States. Notably, Kurt Lewin implemented research regarding group processes and styles of leadership in the workplace (Reis, 2010). Furthermore, Lewin’s field experiments during World War II, founding of the S ociety for the Psychological Study of Social Issues (SPSSI), and his conviction in the applied aspect of social psychology, left a lasting impact on the field (Reis, 2010). Following the end of World War II, the discipline of social psychology flourished in the United States (Reis, 2010). Social psychologists enjoyed greater prestige and high status, and were rewarded by the government with new research facilities, grants, and teaching positions. The G.I. Bill created a need for psychologists to teach at universities, and tenure was quickly earned (Reis, 2010). Also, research on conformity and obedience demonstrated the power of group influence on the beliefs and behaviors of participants (Asch, 1956). Other notable experiments occurred during this era, which lasted from approximately 1946 to 1969. For example, Festinger’s (1957) research regarding cognitive dissonance showed that individuals strive to maintain consistence between their beliefs and their behaviors (Reis, 2010). Additionally, Milgram’s (1963) experiments on obedience to authority demonstrated that the majority of people will obey an authority figure even if it includes infl icting possible harm to others. Furthermore, research on romantic attraction generated both interest as well as controversy among social psychologists (Reis, 2010). Despite ground-breaking advances in the area of interpersonal attraction, many people did not think that love and romance should be topics of research experiments. In addition, the 1964 murder of Kitty Genovese stimulated bystander intervention research (Reis, 2010). The attempt by the government during the 1960s to eradicate societal wrongdoings generated research regarding the interaction of personality variables and environmental factors in behaviors. The 1970’s was notable for an increase in social cognition studies (Reis, 2010). However, the public became disillusioned with the possibility that society could benefit from social psychology research. In addition, women and minorities noted that social psychology represented an extremely biased view of predominantly male, white, middle-class social psychologists. As a result of this crisis of public confidence, a more comprehensive and revitalized discipline of social psychology emerged. For example, more rigorous ethical standards in experimental research were implemented (Reis, 2010). As social psychology continues to grow in the present era, views are expanding to include interdisciplinary as well as global concepts. The influence of social psychology has been demonstrated in various areas such as healthcare, industry and schools (Reis, 2010). Additionally, technological advances provided access to participants from many cultures. This cross-cultural perspective will undoubtedly influence future research studies. Also, methodological advances, as well as growth in neuroscience and evolutionary psychology, will continue to assist researcher in the interpretation of data. Advances in social psychology would not be possible without experimental research. However, proposed studies and related methodology necessitate attention to ethical concerns. As social psychology grew, researchers shifted their focus from speculation to the demonstration of empirical evidence. Early laboratory experiments were often criticized for their artificiality and potential biases (Reis, 2010). As a result of this evaluation, field studies were conducted to provide realistic results that could be generalized to other situations (Reis, 2010). Therefore, ethical codes of conduct must be in place to make certain that participants are not harmed in any manner. In general, researchers must adhere to the ethical principles of respect for persons, beneficence and justice. The American Psychological Association (APA) developed its code of ethical standards to guide researchers in appropriate treatment of participants. The 1974 National Research Act requires the formation of committees referred to as Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) to review potential experiments before researchers begin a study (Gravetter Forzano, 2006). This process, which may include required modifications and revisions, helps to ensure the protection of participants’ welfare. For example, an IRB will examine the cost/benefit ratio to ascertain whether the possible benefits are greater than potential risks. In the event that risks are likely, researchers may be advised to seek lower-cost alternatives (Gravetter Forzano, 2006). Experiments involving the use of deception must be carefully evaluated prior to the start of the study for analysis of the cost/benefit ratio. Above all, researchers must always endeavor to protect participants from harm. In addition, researchers must obtain informed consent from all participants prior to the start of an experiment. Informed consents includes the responsibility of researchers to be forthcoming regarding possible risks and what is involved in the experiment. For example, Asch’s (1956) study concerning conformity involves a possible breach of informed consent for several reasons. First, participants were deceived regarding the nature of the experiment. Also, participants were not told about the possibility of stress during the experiment, and may have suffered subsequent mental distress. Asch’s (1956) study included the debriefing of participants, which is now required in all experimental studies. Debriefing involves explaining the true nature of the study to participants after the experiment is over (Gravetter Forzano, 2006). Several additional research studies were criticized for violations of ethical principles. For example, Milgram’s (1963) landmark experiment regarding obedience to authority generated much controversy. This experiment investigated the power of authority figures on individuals by â€Å"ordering† them to administer electric â€Å"shocks† to a confederate. Participants were misled concerning the nature of the study and may have suffered severe distress as a result of the deception. Furthermore, participants may not have been aware that they had the right to leave the experiment at any time. Because the participants were paid, they might have felt obliged to continue as long as necessary. During the course of the study, the experimenter urged participants to continue to the end of the experiment. Thus, coercion might have been a factor that contributed to participants’ completion of the experiment (Gravetter Forzano, 2006). Milgram’s (1963) study illustrated an explicit violation of ethical principles regarding informed consent. This violation included misinformation concerning potential psychological harm as well as not informing participants that they were free to terminate the experiment at any time. Additionally, researchers did not adhere to the critical principle of inflicting no harm upon participants. Many participants in Milgram’s (1963) study reported significant mental distress from both the pressure of the experimenter and subsequent guilt associated with their willingness to inflict pain upon others. Since individual differences could not be ascertained, researchers were unable to predict the extent of participants’ distress. Finally, past research demonstrated the crucial role that environmental and situational factors play in human behavior (Haley, Banks, Zimbardo, 1973). A study by Haley, Banks and Zimbardo (1973) utilized a simulated prison setting in which participants were randomly assigned to the roles of prisoners or guards. However, the participants quickly adapted to their roles and reacted as though the situation was a real-life occurrence. The guards behaved in a cruel and demeaning manner, and the prisoners became increasingly passive and depressed. The experimented had to be terminated early as a result of the extreme psychological symptoms that participants exhibited. The realistic nature of the experiment may have precluded participants from exercising their right to withdraw from the study. Like the Milgram (1963) study, researchers associated with the simulated prison study were not able to predict the extent of psychological harm to participants, which violated an element of informed consent. During the majority of the experiment, no attempt was made to curtail the abuse inflicted by the guards toward the prisoners. Thus, potential harm to participants was not minimized (Gravetter Forzano, 2006). Although participants were screened for psychological disorders, the development of unanticipated harmful effects changed the risk/benefit ratio. Researchers must continually evaluate potential risks that may occur during the study as well as possible benefits. In addition, researchers need to ensure that participation in experiments is completely voluntary and that participants do not feel coerced. If deception will be utilized, researchers must be certain that no viable alternatives exist (Gravetter Forzano, 2006). Finally, in most circumstances, researchers need to obtain an informed consent form for each participant in the study. Also, researchers must be vigilant regarding signs of psychological distress or unexpected effects of participation in the study. Debriefing is essential to ensure that participants understand the purpose of the experiment and to alleviate any negative effects of participation in the study (Gravetter Forzano, 2006). Finally, researchers must protect the confidentiality of data that is collected as well as identifying information that is provided by participants. References Asch, S. (1956). Studies of independence and conformity: A minority of one against a unanimous majority. Psychological Monographs, 70, No. 9 (Whole No. 416). Festinger, L. (1957). A theory of cognitive dissonance. Evanston, IL: Row, Peterson. Gravetter, F., Forzano, L. (2006). Research methods for the behavioral sciences. (2nd. Ed.). Mason, OH: Thompson. Haney, C., Banks, C., Zimbardo, P. (1973). Interpersonal dynamics in a simulated prison. International Journal of Criminology and Penology, 1, 69-97. Milgram, S. (1963). Behavioral study of obedience. Journal of Abnormal and Social Psychology, 57(4), 371-378. Patterson, T. (2015). Advanced social psychology midterm exam. Unpublished manuscript. Mount Aloysius College, Cresson, PA. Reis, H. (2010). How we got here from there: A brief history of social psychology. In R. Baumeister E. Finkel (Eds.), Advanced social psychology: The state of the science. (pp. 25-60). NY: Oxford University Press. Sherif, M. (1936). The psychology of social norms. New York: Harper Bros. Triplett, N. (1898). The dynamogenic factors in pacemaking and competition. American Journal of Psychology, 9(4), 507-533.

Aristotle Essay -- essays research papers

Aristotle   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  With the possible exception of Plato, Aristotle is the most influential philosopher in the history of logical thought. Logic into this century was basically Aristotelian logic. Aristotle dominated the study of the natural sciences until modern times. Aristotle, in some aspect, was the founder of biology; Charles Darwin considered him as the most important contributor to the subject. Aristotle’s Poetic, the first work of literary notice, had a string influence on the theory and practice of modern drama. Aristotle’s great influence is due to the fact that he seemed to offer a system, which although lacked in certain respects, was as a whole matchless in its extent.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Aristotle was born in 384 BC in Stagira in northern Greece. His father, Nicomachus, was a physician with close connections to the Macedonian court. In 367, Aristotle went to Athens to join Plato’s Academy, first as a student then, a teacher. Plato had gathered around him a group of outstanding men who shared no common belief but who were united by the exact effort to organize human knowledge on a firm theoretical basis and expand it in all directions. This effort identified Aristotle’s own work.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  It was also part of the Academy’s program to train young men for a political career and to provide advice to rulers. After Plato’s death, Aristotle joined the court of Hermias of Atarneus in 347, and later went to the c...

The Problem with Ticketmaster: Solutions to Music Industry Corruption

The Problem with Ticketmaster: Solutions to Music Industry Corruption   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   I consider myself to be a fan of all types of music and I like to stay involved with the music world. Music is such an integral part of society in so many different aspects. Music defines time periods, brings back childhood memories, educates, relaxes as well as inspires. Stop and think for a moment if the music stopped, what would the world be like? A sudden silence overcoming the world. More realistically, stop for a moment and think what it would be like if you could not see your favorite band in concert.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   This is a scenario that is becoming more apparent. In upcoming news the rock and roll band U2 has launched a world wide tour and they plan to come here to Tempe to play Sun Devil Stadium in the beginning weeks of May 97. The political group Rage Against The Machine will also be opening for U2. I am a fan of both of these bands so I looked into getting tickets for the show. I have found some shocking results as far as tickets go as well as tickets for other bands. For the U2 shows it can cost up to $61.60 for ONE ticket. â€Å"Thanks in part to eye-popping Ticketmaster telephone service fees of $8.35 per ticket, a set of tickets for U2’s May 31 show at New Jersey’s Giant’s Stadium cost a fan $246.40 for four tickets†(Boehlert 25). As a freshman in college on a tight budget it is extremely difficult for myself to pay that much money for one ticket with a $8.35 surcharge. I am sure that many people can empathize with not wanti ng to see some of your favorite music at such a high price. Why must the surcharges be so high?   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   This is just one example of the manipulative business manner in which Ticketmaster operates. Ticketmaster... ...practices are exposed ticket prices will change and a college student would be able to go see that U2 concert. Works Cited Boehlert, Eric. "Pop Journal." Rolling Stone. April. 97: 25 Errico, Marcus Pearl Jam Tours. E! online. Go To (1996, July 24). Gossard, Stone and Ament, Jeff on prepared statement in connection with the oral testimony before the sub-committee Guinto, Joseph. Vs. In Dallas. met@onramp.net (1995, May 17). Marks, Craig. "Pearl Jam." Spin Feb. 1997: 39-45 Moody, Fred. Pearl Jam Versus Ticketmaster. Seattle Weekly. Go To. Philips, Chuck. Pearl Jam to Tour on Own Terms. Los Angeles Times. Go To (1996, July 25). Selvin, Joel. Online Club Tickets On Sale. San Francisco Chronicle. (1996, Sept. 29). 54 Najarian12 TicketWeb. at info@ticketweb.com Uhelszki, Jaan. Dave Marsh on the Pearl Jam/ Ticketmaster Mess. (1995, May 11).

The Extinction of Penguins

Emperor Penguins have been around for millions of years. Although they are a type of bird they can not fly. They walk, slide on their stomachs, or swim. They can swim up to nine kilometers an hour. That is faster than an average person can run. Emperor Penguins can hold their breath over twenty minutes and dive over eighteen hundred feet. Another interesting fact about them is that they show no aggression towards humans. The real question is though whether or not Emperor Penguins are on their way to extinction? Some of the reasons why we may think this would be climate change, depletion in food supply, pollution, tagging, and their predators. Climate change is the reason for the Emperor Penguin population to decline by fifty percent over the past fifty years. Penguins use the ice to escape from predators, and to raise their chicks. A temperature increase of 2. 1 degrees Celsius will jeopardize forty percent of the world’s Emperor Penguins. When the ice melts before the chicks have matured and grown their waterproof feathers, chicks that are swept into the ocean are likely to die. If the ice isn’t sturdy enough to last until when the chicks are ready to head out to sea, they aren’t going to be able to raise them. The loss of sea ice for adult penguins can lead to lower food availability, which can result in increased mortality. In Antarctica an Emperor colony has declined from 250 pairs to 10 pairs since 1960, due to rapid loss of the sea ice. Since global climate change has been causing the rapid melting of sea ice, the amount of krill in the southern oceans has decreased in recent years. Krill in which many penguins feed upon, survive by feeding off the algae which forms on the underside of the sea ice. So the reduction in sea-ice which has resulted from climate change has meant there has been much less food for penguins to eat. If this continues to happen the Emperor Penguin population is going to keep on declining. Over fishing of krill, and fish is another factor in helping penguins become extinct. It is putting pressure on food chains and food availability for penguins. Industrial fisheries deplete the penguins’ food supply and entangle and drown the penguins in longlines and other destructive fishing gear. The more fish and krill being caught by humans the less food there is for penguins to be able to eat. Ocean acidification which is caused by the absorption of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide into the oceans is also harming penguins. Plankton is a major part of the food chain for many fish on which penguins feed. As gases are absorbed into the oceans, they become less hospitable places for plankton and other organisms to live which is less food penguins have to eat. Oil pollution kills tens of thousands of penguins annually. The oil destroys the natural water repellent on their feathers, causing the birds to become vulnerable to hypothermia. Penguins also consume the oil while trying to groom, poisoning them and causing internal organ damage. The oil also kills the penguins’ food and poisons the penguins when trying to eat contaminated fish. The banding of penguins is another issue contributing to the declining population of penguins. The first evidence that flipper bands might be causing damage to penguins came in the 1970s. Zoos reported that the bands would wound penguins’ flippers, especially during the yearly molt, when flippers enlarge. Over a ten year period, banded penguins produced thirty-nine percent fewer chicks and had a sixteen percent lower survival rate than unbanded birds. Banded penguins also had less time and energy to reproduce and care for their young because they spent more time searching for food and provisions and arrived more than two weeks late to breeding areas. The penguins wearing bands expend twenty-four percent more energy while swimming and attract the attention of predators. Rory Wilson, an ecologist at Swansea University said the extra baggage likely increased the drag penguins experienced and impaired their athletic ability.

Mary the Mother of Jesus Christ In the Qur’an

The genealogy of Mary the mother of Jesus according to Ali, 1935, started from the bloodline of Moses and Aaron’s father Imran and wife Hannah( 131).   Imran’s wife Hannah (Anne) was very excited that she conceived of a child so she offered it to God’s service again even when it was still in her womb (132). Hannah was thinking it was a male (132). After giving birth and realizing it was a baby girl, Hannah named her Mary (132).   The people cast lots with bows and arrows and disputed over the care of the baby girl Mary (134). Hannah then sought God’s guidance, protection and sustenance for her daughter Mary because during those times the Mosaic Law was in force and it prohibits females from temple service (132). After realizing that God must have plans for giving her a baby girl, she was inspired to commit Mary to the care of people who was directly related to her family. Hannah entrusted Mary to a priest Zacchariya who was already an old man and wife Elizabeth.   Elizabeth was her cousin as she was the daughter of Aaron (132).   She was already past her menopausal age so she does not have a child at the moment (132).   Zacchariya and Elizabeth took Mary just like their very own and housed her in a place that was secured and protected from harm (132).  Ã‚   Every now and then just like a real daughter, Zacchariya would check on the condition of Mary in her room (132).   Zacchariya would offer her food and other needs but all the time Mary was found to have abundant supply (132).   As a priest Zacchariya could not question Mary’s faith (132). Mary never lack in any material needs (132).   When Mary was asked where she got all those stuff, her answer would be God provided her everything she needs (132).   This kind of secluded life, a life away from socialization was the lot of Mary the daughter of Imran and Hannah up until she was about twelve when lo and behold! Angels who were in human form from nowhere appeared (134). They said God has picked you above all women on earth (134). At first she was adamant and scared and so she sought God’s help (771).   She then pleaded for them not to approach her until after she could veil herself up (771). Covered with a veil she conceded talking to her visitors (771).   The visitors informed Mary that they were messengers of God and they are here tasked to deliver to her some lessons to learn (134). They taught her whom to worship alone (134).   The visitors who were actually angels in human form taught her also how to properly prepare herself before worship and the proper way of doing worship to God (134).   She was told to bow down like a Muslim does and stand humble before God as those Muslims who bow down and worship God Alone (134).   She was very obedient and receptive that she followed all that they taught her (134).   So, the angels went away.   After sometime, one of them name Jibril (Gabriel) came back (134).   He said, this time he has a new message from God (134).   Mary was told that she will conceive of a child (134).   Of course she was stunned and dumbfounded (134). But the angel relieved her by saying only through the words of God â€Å"Be and it is†, then, this will be realized (134).   She submitted to the call but she added in her innocence saying, how will I ever get pregnant when I do not have any relationship with any male (135)?   The Angel answered that it is up to God on how to go about it (135).   Whatever God plans, it can happen there is no question on that (135).   The angels told her that she will be pregnant with a boy.   This boy she will have to name Christ Jesus (Isa), the son of Mary (134).   Mary conceived while she was in Nazareth of Galilee some 65 miles North of Jerusalem (772).   Because this pregnancy condition was a taboo in her country and people, and people would kill her for immorality, Mary must keep herself away from the probing kinsfolk and neighbors (772). So she was led by the Angel to a place called Bethlehem, around six miles South of Jerusalem (772). She stayed in seclusion until she delivered Jesus nine months later (772).   Mary was all alone when she delivered her child, so, she held on to the trunk of a palm tree to pull her strength up as she felt the pangs of birth and she cried because of pain that she said to herself, it could have been better if she died before and just laid to rest (772), but she was able to push out the baby successfully.   Alas! She heard a voice telling her not to be sad and to quench her thirst, wipe away her tears, and cool herself down with the spring water just flowing beneath the palm tree, and if she shakes the trunk of the tree the ripe dates would fall down for her to eat with delight (772). Amr bin Maymun said, â€Å"Nothing is better for the woman confined in childbed than dried dates and fresh dates† (http://www.tafsir.com/). When Mary regained her composure, she was also instructed not to talk to anyone, and if ever there are those who persist, just to tell them with a hand sign that she was fasting (772).   The area where she delivered Jesus was an obscure place and so she was thought to have moved the child to the manger in a stable (772). After gaining back her much needed strength and confidence, she decided to go back to her hometown carrying along the baby Jesus (773). But, to her dismay, her towns mate slapped on her face the fact that she was the sister of Aaron and that her father was not a bad man so as her mother was not a bad woman (773).   To all these however she did not say anything, but, she just pointed out her finger to the child she was carrying (773).   The people said how on earth a child can talk to us (773).   And to their amazement, the baby Jesus on her mother’s arms talked (773).   This was in defense of His mother Mary whose chastity was a special virtue and became an ideal for all nations to learn (843). Works Cited Ali Yusuf, Abdullah. The Holy Qur’an. Lebanon: Beirut. 1935.