What is Religion?

What is Religion? Religion is a special form of awareness of the surrounding world, which is based on the belief in the existence of one (or more) of the gods. It includes a set of moral and ethical conduct, which are usually reflected in the sacred texts. Religions emerged in the form of different beliefs, that appeared almost simultaneously with the emergence of mankind. Despite lacking a clear organization like modern religions, it has always played a prominent role in different societies.[1] Even though, we usually see religion as the belief in one or more gods, this is not always the case. In Buddhism, for example, there are no deities. However, like other religions, Buddhism strongly asserts the existence of a spiritual reality, which is separated from everyday life of the material world. Consequently, perhaps, those who, by their own assurances, believe in the existence of the spiritual world should be called religious people. However, this is not necessarily true: religion, at least partially, can be institutionalized gathering in the shadow of their communities of those who join similar or common beliefs. However, the presence of the community is only one side of religion. Among others lay faith personal beliefs and feelings of reverence and veneration; the cult rites and church premises, collective prayer, and so on, norms moral rules and prohibitions, as well as notions of sin and holiness. However, this does not make religion an ideology. Like religion, ideology such as Nazism or communism require their followers absolute loyalty and direct follow of dogma, but do not need gods or special spirituality. Religion is not magic either. Magic fans believe, that certain rituals produce the desired changes in the material world without interfering with what is happening on the part of a deity. Religious people, on the contrary, pray about something, believing that only God is able to help put their prayers into reality. Religion can also be viewed as a cultural phenomenon, characteristic of various human societies with their system of values and fundamental myths. Some religions, such as Christianity or Islam, affirm their universality, and insist on their own exceptionalism and its special position in the world. Nevertheless, even Christianity and Islam can be seen as a product of historical development under certain conditions.   People throughout the ages have tried to answer the question about the essence of religion. Theologians, base the definition on the value of the word religion, that in Latin means connection. It is about the relationship between God and man. One of the Orthodox dogmatic teachings asserted that religion is a contract or union between God and man.[2] But, to agree with this explanation of religion is impossible, as it is impossible to agree with the simplistic interpretation of the fact, that religion is a fraud and a charlatan. Marxism suggests a scientific definition of religion. Exploring the laws of development of human society, the classics of Marxism-Leninism revealed the social essence of religion. We have convincingly shown that religion   is, for example, politics, law, morality, science, art is a form of social consciousness.[3] Each of the forms of social consciousness reflects a certain aspect of the life of society. Politics, for example, reflects the relations between classes, states, nations, morality the moral qualities of people. In other words, peoples consciousness reflects the objective world. However, this may be a reflection of true and false. Religion is a specific form of social consciousness, which always reflect objective reality as false, ugly, distorted. As Engels pointed out, All religion, however, is nothing but the fantastic reflection in mens minds of those external forces which control their daily life, a reflection in which the terrestrial forces assume the form of supernatural forces.[4] This is manifested in the peoples faith in the real existence of God, as well as different kinds of spirits, angels, demons, faith in supernatural connection between the real existing material objects and their properties. The definition of religion also includes representations, a system view of the world, expressed in the so-called holy books containing various myths, regulations and instructions, as well as by word of mouth of the mythical images, visions, paintings, based on a belief in the supernatural. Another element of religion are the sentiments of the faith. Religion can possess not only thoughts but also feelings of people. Theologians argue that man is born with the religious feelings, that is, with a ready ability to communicate with the supernatural, to feel the power of God, to see and feel his actions. Science denies the allegations and says religious ecstasy, fanaticism, and feelings of believers perversion of healthy human psyche that occurs under the influence of religious beliefs. Specificity of religious feelings is that, they are directed at the fictional, supernatural objects, rather than actually existing ones. The third element of religion is actions. Theologians say that the supernatural world cannot be known by human reason, it is necessary to believe in it, despite the arguments of science and reason, reject the existence of God. Therefore centuries elaborated and corresponding patterns of human behavior, customs and traditions passed down from generation to generation, performing religious rites and rituals following different regulations. All these actions are called worshipping.[5] When talking about religion, the existence of specific groups of people clergy should also be considered. Together with the faith, they constitute a special community or religious organization called the Church. For example, the Catholic Church, the Orthodox Church, and so on. The clergy is promoting beliefs and worship. However, the existence of the clergy cannot be regarded as an indispensable element of religion: there are religious organizations, that do not have a permanent priesthood.[6] Thus, religion and belief is what connects the human with the divine world and gives the person a special state of inner warmth, tranquility and confidence because he does not feel alien to the divine forces that surrounds it. He does not feel thrown out in front of the meaninglessness of life. Life becomes meaningful with its purpose to union with God. It becomes clear and positive. We can say, that religion is one of the universal cultural mechanisms of regulation of human activity, it is through the actions of religious system organizes daily life, with the help of the development of doctrine structures the world, that makes us think about the basics and the meaning of our own life. [1] Kucheman, Cark, Religion, Culture, and Religious Socialism, The Journal of Religion, Jul 1972 [2] Holy Bible [3] Bauer, Andrea, The Marxist view: In the beginning was the World, Apr 2006 [4] Engels, Frederick, Anti-Dà ¼hring, Part III: Socialism, Ch. 5, 1877 [5] Wellman, James, Religon, Ideology, and Belief, Oxford Scholarship Online, Sep 2008 [6] Ibid

Global Warming Essay -- Environment Global Warming Climate Change

Global Warming Global Warming is an important ecological issue and has many negative effects upon our environment. Global Warming, or what has been called the Greenhouse effect, is the result of a fourfold ecological process. 1-Sunlight radiates from the sun, through space, to Earth’s atmosphere. 2- The sunlight enters the atmosphere and hits Earth. Some of it turns into heat energy in the form of infrared light. The heat gets absorbed by surrounding air and land, which in turn makes it warm. 3- Infrared rays, that are remitted into the atmosphere are trapped by greenhouse gases. 4- The gas then absorbs the light and is remitted back to the Earth’s surface and warms it even more. Left on it's own this natural process keeps our planet warm enough for habitation, but with the increases in temperature, caused by modern industry, our current way of life could become threatened. Over the past 100 years the emissions of greenhouse gases have been increasing due to increases in technology and human developments. Modern factories and production plants have been responsible for d...

Fetal Humanity and Brain Function Essay

Baruch Brody begins his argument by making assumptions that a fetus, being a human being must acquire all the essential properties of a human being, such that the loss of any would lead to out of existence or death. Thus, the essential property of a human being is the property whereby the loss would result in the death of the human being. From the Brain-Death theory, death is defined as an irreparable cessation of brain function. Therefore, it follows that a fetus becomes a human being when it possesses the essential property of a human being that is, having a brain that has not suffered irreparable cessation of function. To reinforce this conviction, he added that by the sixth week of conception, when the fetus possesses a functioning brain, all the other properties that are required for being human are also present. However, when the fetus acquires all the necessary properties by the sixth week, the fetal brain is still not developed to support spontaneous motion until the third month. Some may argue that the fetus does not comes into humanity until the point of spontaneous movement, so it would be precise to say that fetus becomes a human being at some time between the sixth and twelfth week after its conception. According to Ramsey’s theory of death, human being goes out of existence or dies only when all the essential properties of being human- that is, the possession of the brain, heart and lung- suffer irreparable cessation of function. And the fetus becomes a human when it acquires any one of the properties. The fetal heart is developed at the second week, prior to the brain and lung. Thus, based on the theory of essentialism, the fetus becomes a human being at week two. However, as there are progressive developments in the functioning of the fetal heart, it would be more accurate to conclude that the fetus becomes a human being some time between the second and twelfth week of conception. Between the second and twelfth week after conception, the fetus becomes a human being and right to life should prevail. Since it is morally impermissible to intentionally kill a human being, abortion is immoral unless in unusual circumstances. Therefore, it is concluded that moral opposition to abortions is based on human-rights. Evaluation of the argument Baruch Brody attempted to prove that abortion is morally impermissible by showing that a fetus is actually a human being and holds the right to life. Using the brain-death theory and Ramsey’s theory of death, he argues that the fetus becomes a human being not at the moment of conception or at the moment of birth, whereas it is some time between the second week and twelfth week of conception. This is period when the fetus develops its heart, brain and lungs. Once one of these organs starts functioning, it becomes a human being and the right to life should prevail. First, consider the assumption Brody made. It is reasonable to believe that the loss of the essential property of a human being would entail the human being’s death. Then, based on the Brain-Death theory, he associated the property necessary for being a human with having a functioning brain. However, this creates a fallacy. The Brain-Death theory states that â€Å"as long as there has not been an irreparable cessation of brain function, the person continues to exist†, does not equate to the person die if there has been an irreparable cessation of his brain. Hence, the conclusion is not true although the given premises are true. Next, Brody invalidated the claims that other properties such as movement, being perceivable to others and viability are essential properties of human beings. The analogies he presented convinced us that these claims are not necessary properties of being a human. He further explained that when the brain operates, all other properties essential for being human are already acquired. Therefore, it can be deduced that the main required property of being a human is having a functioning brain. Finally, as there are progressive stages in the physical development and function of the brain, the fetal brain can only support spontaneous motion in the third month after conception. Brody concluded that the fetus becomes a human being at some time between the end of the sixth week twelfth week after its development. There seemed to have an inconsistency with this conclusion and the proposed claim that the possession of a functioning brain is the only property essential to humanity. Baruch Brody also adopted the Ramsey’s theory of death stating that human being goes out of existence when all the essential properties of being human- that is, the possession of the brain, heart and lung- suffer irreparable cessation of function. This premise is very convincing to prove that the loss of all the essential properties of a human being would entail the human being’s death. The claim that the fetus becomes a human when it acquires any one of the properties is ambiguous and does not seem to be valid. Since the heart is a vital organ for living, it is true that the fetus becomes a human being when it develops a heart. And in all cases, the fetal heart would develop first followed by the brain and lungs. However, it is not right to assume that the fetus becomes a human being when it possesses any one of the properties. Suppose the lungs develop first, the body of the fetus is not able to operate without the functioning of the heart. Hence, it is only right to conclude that the fetus becomes a human being when the essential property of a functioning heart is acquired. The fetal heart starts operating at week two and since there is no precise period of time the fetus becomes a human being, following the theory of essentialism, it is concluded that the fetus becomes a human being with the right to life some time between the second and twelfth week after conception. In order not to provide false premises as there is no specific time, this inference is acceptable. With that, Brody summed up his argument stating that after that point, the fetus is a human being with the right to life. Thus, abortion is morally impermissible except in rather unusual circumstances. Brody proved that a fetus becomes a human being and should be entitled to the right to life. It follows that abortion is immoral seeing intentionally terminating a human’s life is immoral. Even though Brody did not consider theological terms in this argument, there are some missing premises. He did not explicitly define the term â€Å"unusual circumstances†. And since Brody proved that the fetus has the right to life and killing a life is immoral, abortion should be morally impermissible in any case.

Leadership Vision Paper Essay

The vision statement continues the expression of the desired service and the level of achievement necessary to achieve the mission. The values selected are those that support example of innovation-based mission, vision, and values statement (Porter-O’Grady & Malloch, 2011.) My vision statement is: To treat all patients with dignity and respect at all times. To explain not only what I am about to do for them, but why. I will provide Evidence-based research, when available, for their knowledge. I will allow them autonomy, in their decisions. I will provide each patient compassion and empathy, at all times. I will remember they are a person not just a patient. We will come to understand the vision through the various sections of this paper. The sections are: Key concepts of vision, Critique of evidence, Importance in nursing and lastly, the Summary. Key concepts of vision I believe that when a patient is given the evidence-based information in a clear and concise manner, they are in a better position to make better medical decisions. While I am providing each patient with evidence-based research, I am proving them with the necessary tools to make the informed decisions. In turn, giving them the autonomy they deserve. Being respectful, showing empathy and compassion are all easy tasks to perform, when the patient is thought of as a person, not just a patient. An example would be when I explain why I am about to perform some task, not simply that I am going to perform the task. I need to ask permission of the patient, giving them the opportunity to reject the task. It may be in their best interest to have the task performed, but, if I respect them, then I will respect their decision. Critique of evidence In an article titled, Toward the ‘Tipping Point’: Decision Aids and Informed patient Choice, â€Å"there is strong evidence that patient decision aids not only improve decision quality but also prevent the overuse of options that informed patients do not value†. Which I believe aids in better patient satisfaction. Policymakers increasingly believe that encouraging patients to play a more active role in their health care could improve quality, efficiency, and health outcomes (Coulter & Ellins, 2007). Another area that I have an important stance on is that the patient is a person, not just a patient. In an article by Danielle Ofri, she talks about a crowded waiting area where the medical assistant is yelling out the patient’s name, so cattle-like. â€Å"Nevertheless it feels horrible to me, so demeaning, like we’re in the DMV instead of a medical clinic. I want the environment to be more humane, more civilized, and so when I go out to call a patient, I use a much softer voice, with a tone that I hope conveys more respect.† Importance to nursing According to Lesly Simmons, a blogger for Georgetown University, the Nursing profession is the most ethical and honest profession for the 11th year in the Gallup survey. â€Å"Nurses have been the highest ranked profession for 11 out of 12 years.† So why is that? Nurses consistently capture patient and public trust by performing in accordance with a Code of Ethics for Nurses that supports the best interests of patients, families, and communities. They often are the strongest advocates for patients who are vulnerable and in need of support (Sachs & Jones, 2012). Summary Treating the patient as a person shows the patient that I respect them as a person. When I respect them as a person, I have more compassion and empathy for them. When I have empathy, compassion and respect for them, I can help them make better choices. By giving them evidence-based research I am providing them with the tools so they can be more informed. By being more informed, they have a better understanding of their situation. By them understanding their situation, they will then have autonomy. Allowing the patient autonomy, gains respect from the patient for the nurse. Hence, making the nursing profession the most honest and ethical profession over the last decade. So, I continue to keep my vision statement close at hand. References Coulter, Angela., & Ellins, Jo. (2007). Effectiveness of strategies for informing, educating and involving patients. BMJ 2007;335:24 O’Connor, A. M., Wennberg, J. E., Legare, F., Llewelllyn-Thomas, H. A., Moulton, B. W., Sepucha, K. R.,Sodano, A. G., & King, J. S. (2007). Toward the ‘Tipping Point’:Decision Aids and Informed Patient Choice. Health Affairs. May 2007. Vol. 26(3) p716-725. Ofri, Danielle. (2012). Humanizing Medicine and Respecting the Patient. A Sweet Life. January 19, 2012. Retrieved on January 16, 2013 from http://asweetlife.org/feature/humanizing-medicine-and-respecting-the-patient/ Porter-O’grady, T., & Malloch, K. (2011). Quantum leadership: Advancing innovativion, transforming health care. Strategies to integrate and advance innovation. 3rd ed. p149. Sudbury, MA: Jones & Bartlett. Sachs, Adam & Jones, Jemarion. (2012). Nurses Earn Highest Ranking Ever, Remain Most Ethical of Professions in Poll ANA Urges Policymakers to Listen to Nurses on Health Care Policy, Funding. American Nurses Association. News Release December 4, 2012. Simmons, Lesly. (2011). Nurses Most Respected Profession for 11th Year. Nursing@Georgetown Blog. May 16th, 2011.

Boiling points essays

Boiling points essays Boiling Points and Intermolecular Forces Introduction: Intermolecular force is the force of attraction and repulsion between molecules. They are much weaker than covalent bonds. When boiling a liquid to form a gas, the intermolecular forces are broken not the covalent bonds. A molecular compound that has strong Van der Waals forces will also have a higher boiling point since more energy is required to break the intermolecular bonds. (Notes) Purpose: To test the theory and rules for London and dipole-dipole forces. Question: What trend in boiling points of the hydrogen compounds of elements in groups 14-17? Hypothesis/Prediction: According to dipole-dipole attractions attractive forces are between polar molecules which have higher electronegetivity difference. And only H2O and HF are the polar molecules in group 16 and 17 which means they have the chances of larger dipole moments in the molecules with greater attraction between molecules. Since we know that the strength of the London forces depends on the number of electrons and boiling point increases as the number of electrons increases. And as we see in the groups in each group the number of electrons increases and also the same one repeats itself, but some molecules in it are also polar like HF and H2O. And so when a polar molecule that has the same number of electrons as a non- polar molecule will have higher boiling points due to dipole- dipole forces. And thus it is predicted that the boiling point increases as the of electrons increases in each group. c) The trend in boiling points of the hydrogen compounds of elements in groups 14-17 is that as the total number of electrons increases in the same group and boiling point also increases and also as the group increases the boiling point also increases as they are all non- polar and their number of electrons also increase as it goes down the same group. But there are two exceptions in that t ...

The Leader's role in effective governance of organisations Essay

The Leader's role in effective governance of organisations - Essay Example Among humans leaders appear in a variety of roles and include politics, business, religion, and other social factors. In such a scenario, absence of effective leadership will eventually lead to the destruction or at least decay in a group or society. Due to their superior intelligence, many styles and forms of leadership have evolved in the world of humans. This has also resulted in leadership being the subject of study by various scholars and theorists over a period of time. This paper is a study of leadership and corporate responsibility in business organizations and will look at a broad range of features, factors, and issues with regard to its influence in an organizational setting. Corporate governance is of great importance and focus in the world of business today. Undoubtedly, it has become one of the hot topics for writers and academicians. However, there is no consensus as to what constitutes CG. An academic paper points out, in this context that â€Å"Most academics, business professionals, and lay observers would agree that CG is defined as the general set of customs, regulations, habits, and laws that determine to what end a firm should be run. Much more fraught, however, is the question: â€Å"what defines good corporate governance†Ã‚  (Corporate Governance, 2006)?  Corporations unlike its smaller counterparts like sole proprietorships, partnerships, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are much larger and hence more complex to govern. Even though no owner or partner can avoid the concept of good governance, the consequences of a smaller firm being unsuccessful due to poor practices is much lower when compared to larger corporations. One o f the main reasons is that the number of stakeholders who are affected is comparatively huge in the case of corporations. In this case, the stakeholders are comprised of the employees, the shareholders, the local governing bodies, the creditors, other contractual partners, any

A Causal Relationship Between Imagination and Knowledge Essay

A Causal Relationship Between Imagination and Knowledge - Essay Example The power of imagination involves a number of aspects which include reasoning, reflection and thinking. It has often been said that what makes the difference between humans and other animals is the ability to imagine through reasoning. The reasoning is a process by which beings draw conclusions or reach decisions based on the strength of imagining. The imagination may be beliefs or observations. Being rational is understanding that forms facts or beliefs that make others follow, and using understanding to make decisions and judgments. Another ability that evidently belongs only to human animals is the ability to reflect. Reflecting is part of imagination which means giving deep, serious and total concentration when doing something. For example, when someone is thinking reflectively, she does not just make up her mind on impulse, but considers alternatives, thinks about consequences, weighs up available evidence, and so on (Ernst & Maureen, 103). Another aspect of reflective imaginati on is critical thinking and problem-solving. One very valuable form of imagination can be described as ‘thinking about thinking’ the reflective thinker does not just think about the problem to be solved, the decision to be made, or the argument to be won, but also the reasoning processes that go into those activities. Reflecting in the way we think allows us to evaluate how effective our thinking is, what its strength is, where it sometimes goes wrong and most important of all, how it might be improved.