The Christian View Of God - 1647 Words

With recent technology offering a more comprehensive perspective of the current global atrocities, the existence of evil has never been more prevalent. If evil is defined as extreme suffering, premature death, and moral corruption, its existence questions the Christian view of God. The Christian God is an all-seeing, all-powerful being of moral perfection. Because these two truths cannot coexist, the fact that evil exists disproves the existence of the Christian God. If God is omnipotent, He could prevent any injustice. Since injustice does exist, it is necessary to modify either our perception of God s morality of, the extent of his power, or the limitations of human understanding. It is unlikely that God allows for the existence of evil due to a moral reason. This view of morality comes from our modern interpretation of ethics and would need to justify the pain and prejudice evident in the human world, deeming it either neutral or good. Many of those who have experienced tremendous injustices also fail to reconcile the existence of God and evil. Elie Wiesel, a holocaust survivor, writes in his autobiographical work Night that I did not deny God s existence, but I doubted His absolute justice, (Wiesel, Ch. 3). It is an abuse of power to justify the suffering of others based on an end-goal without their consent or acknowledgment. If we accept this as fact, our perception of morality must change to include this defense of suffering. Thus, if the basis of faith and GodShow MoreRelatedChristian And Muslim Views Of The God2438 Words   |  10 Pagesyears, people have worshiped various Gods and idols, but by far Jesus Christ of Nazareth is now the most widely known religious figure in the world. He is central to Christianity, the largest religion in the world. In this paper, this writer will examine the Christian and Muslim views of the deity of Jesus. This paper will demonstrate the validity of the deity of Jesus Christ and the Trinity in response to the Muslims objection of Jesus Christ. The Christian and Muslim religions have many similaritiesRead More Comparing Islam and Christianity Essay735 Words   |  3 Pagesprominent differences include atonement, the identity of God, heaven, view of Jesus, and the perception of the Christian Bible. It is these not-so-subtle contrasts of thoughts that separate the two most prevalent religions in the world. One of the most important differences in Christianity and Islam is the concept of atonement. In Christianity, Jesus’ death on the cross allows Christians to repent from their sins and gain forgiveness from God. Conversely, in Islam there is no atonement from sinsRead MoreEssay on Christian Believe About the Sanctity of Human Life1309 Words   |  6 PagesChristian Believe About the Sanctity of Human Life Christians believe that God has given them the gift of life so therefore no one but God has the authority to end life or prevent new life. Exodus 20:13, â€Å"you shall not murder†, is an important biblical passage to the ‘sanctity of human life.’ It tells Christians initially that euthanasia, abortion and capital punishment are wrong although it is more complicated than that. Abortion is not mentioned in the BibleRead More Saint Augustine Essay1445 Words   |  6 Pagesmain figure in the development of orthodox Christian doctrine during the early Christian Church. Augustine was born in Northern Africa in AD 354. His father was a pagan and his mother a Christian. Though his parents were not extremely well to do, they had enough money to allow Augustine to obtain an education in the liberal arts. This education will eventually affect how he sees Christianity, especially concerning the use of neo-Platonic ideas in Christian theology. Augustine converted to orthodoxRead MoreChristian Worldview : A Worldview864 Words   |  4 Pagesof the world and second, an application of this view to life.† (Dr. John MacArthur, May 2006). A Christian worldview requires for us Christians to learn and know what the word of God teach us. For us Christians this worldview begins in Genesis chapter one verse one, with God creating the heavens and the earth. Christians should be altogether glad to embrace the certain and true mind of God the Father (Rom 11:34), God the Son (1 Cor. 2:16), and God the Spirit (Rom 8:27). In contrast to Peter, whoRead MoreCore Doctrines Are Apart Of The Christian Faith1488 Words   |  6 PagesGod: Core doctrines are apart of the Christian faith and should be taught no matter what the denomination is. Doctrines are not negotiable throughout the universal Christian churches. However, churches may have different dogmatic beliefs, because there are not set in stone and vary. Theology is defined by Beth Felker Jones as being â€Å"the study of the things of God, a God who loves the world.† Theology is a practice that affects Christians’ lives in many ways: the way that they think, live, and howRead MoreThe Christian Reality1003 Words   |  5 PagesThe Christian reality consists of both a physical and a supernatural world. Men for a long time have been aware of these two realities and yet many times have only looked at just one or the other. The Greek philosophers have held opposing views on what is real. These philosophies are known as idealism or realism. Each hold to truths that are found in Christian beliefs, but also contain beliefs that are opposed to Christian ity. Idealism holds to many ideas that can be accepted by Christians. OneRead MoreChristianity, Islam, And Judaism1375 Words   |  6 PagesIslam have similar beliefs in reference to their view of a deity, the afterlife, sin, salvation, and style of worship. The view each religion has of deity is one of monotheism, although Christians differ in that they have a Trinitarian monotheistic view instead of a strict one like the Jews and Muslims. Christians believe in the Trinity – God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Three parts all divided but also all one. Jesus – the Son of God – is recognized as the one who was sent to saveRead MoreDifferences Between Hebraic And Christian Worldview933 Words   |  4 Pages The Christian worldview has been influenced by various worldviews and ideologies. Because its roots are in the Hebraic worldview, Christianity shares similar outlooks on aspects of life and that which follows; however, there are definite differences between the two concerning morals and afterlife. Many of these differences between Hebraic and Christian worldview are due to the doctrine set by Jesus and the apostles. Platonic influence further altered the Christian worldview into the view that bec ameRead MoreChristian Teaching and Discussion About Euthanasia Essay1202 Words   |  5 PagesChristian Teaching and Discussion About Euthanasia The word euthanasia comes from two Greek words eu meaning good and thanatos meaning death. Literally it means a good death. Euthanasia is arranging for someone who has an incurable terminal illness to die as quickly and as painlessly as possible. It is the act of purposely aiding someone to die, instead of letting nature take its course. There are four main types of euthanasia these are: Voluntary, Involuntary

United Nations Development Programme

Question: Discuss about the United Nations Development Programme. Answer: Introduction The World War II broke the ice for the crusade that led to the formation of the United Nations in 1945. (Hambro and Goodrich, 1946) The ramifications of the war had a devastating impact on the sanctity of human life. Succinctly, the United Nation is a precipitate of the social and political maelstrom that transgressed, violated and trampled upon inherent human rights colonial era ethos. (Murphy, 2006)In this regard, various organizations stemmed from the UN Chatter, blossomed up to champion the well-being of humanity. (UN Chatter, 1945) Of special and keen interest to this report are the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and its legal environment. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) The UNDP was established in 1965 and has gained prominence in the promotion and the protection of human rights through sustainable development programme. (Murphy, 2006) Since its inception, its principal focus has been predicated on promotion of good governance, reduction of poverty in developing countries, disaster management and increasing the access to sustainable energy in a bid to achieving the Millennium Development Goals. (Stokke, 2009) The significance of the UNDP cannot be undermined as it has been working with an estimated 170 countries to achieve its objective. The Urban Partnerships for Poverty Reduction in Bangladesh epitomizes UNDPs true achievement. (Harrison, 2015) In 1998 the UNDP unveiled its policy of integration of human rights with human development as its touchstone for improving the quality of life. (Brett 2009) The bedrock functions of the policy included promoting the application of human rights with a development programme based approach and solidifying the national human rights enforcement systems and mechanisms. Recently, in February 2013 the UNDPs executive board that has 36 representatives from different counties held a meeting that deliberated on its promotion of access to energy and protection of the environment for poverty reduction and human development. Legal governance, management and relationship issues It is instructive to note that the world population has significantly increased since the inception of the United Nations Chatter. This has led to a drastic change and improvement in the management and structure of the UNDP, which has been improved to broaden its area of coverage and help the simultaneous eradication of extreme poverty and development of quality human life. The UNDP executive board developed a strategic plan in 2013 that came into effect in October 2014 with the result of a significant restructure of the regional and headquarters management and administration. Accordingly, the UNDP has developed a Programme and Operations Policies and Procedures (POPP) that provides for the managing of its internal affairs that include procedural standards and also it acts as a guide to make policy and risk-informed decisions. The POPP explicates how the financial and human resources of the UNDP are a management and provides for mechanisms of handling disasters and project management . This legal policy document can be accessed by the public. It is worth noting that the UNDP has an accountability framework that serves as an independent internal oversight to ensure the work undertaken by the UNDP is done within the international accepted standards and is markedly efficient and effective in its operations. Significantly, the UNDP through its operations has developed a plausible relationship with several countries to assist wrench humanity out of undesired suffering and follow the path of development. It bears noting that the relationships have been largely based on treaties and legal policies. Legislation At the outset, there is a collective web of legislations that were formed pursuant to the United Nations Chatter that aide the UNDP propel its objectives and goals. The UN Chatter is the mother of all documents that guide the UNDP that provides for fundamental freedom and rights of persons. The International Covenant for Civil and Political Rights that was adopted by the United Nation General Assembly in 1966 is very instrumental towards the realization of civil and political rights that help promote governance and prevent desolation and depredation of the political order. The International Covenant on Economic Social and Cultural Rights that was also adopted 1966 plays a pivotal role that drives the agenda of UNDP to eradicate extreme poverty and improve access to energy by providing for a comprehensive bill of rights that confers upon individuals rights such as the right to water, food education and medical services. The united Nation Declaration of Human Rights (UNDHR) is also a vital legislation of the United Nations that provides for human rights and fundamental freedoms in its provisions that should be achieved by member states. Areas of Risk The UNDP has faced very high legal risks in its operations. The governance of some countries has failed terribly with the political order in the states remaining indeterminate. In this regard, to implement the aims and objectives of the UNDP has been notoriously difficult. There are countries that are in constant war such as South Sudan where reaching the people becomes a challenge and the government. Governments that flagrantly violate human rights and do not observe are a major challenge too to the UNDP. The principles of the rule of law and equality before the law are paramount towards realizing good governance. States where the poor have no major say in decision making are almost having democracy slipping into comma. Essentially Democracy and the Rule of law are areas of high legal risk that UNDP subjects its self upon harboring the intention to pursue these areas in a state. (Goodman and Jinks, 2004) State sovereignty is among the major areas of high legal risk that this paper shall give peculiar interest. State sovereignty It should be borne in mind that UNDP is an international organization that seeks to intrude on the privacy of a sovereign state. (Edward, 2003) This is a major area of high legal risk that poises a conundrum to the UNDP to apply the concepts of international law and international customary practice to help some state develop and improve the protection human rights. Precisely, the concept of state sovereignty connotes that each country is independent and free from control by any organization and has unfettered power to make decisions concerning its own affairs. The UNDP lacks a formidable enforcement mechanism to defeat extreme poverty in counties like Africa where the precepts of international law that are contained in the legislations discussed above become difficult to apply. What shocked the conscience of the legal firmament in the world is the threat that members of the African Union made to withdraw from the Rome statues that forms the ICC. It is a pity that, while an organization such as UNDP seeks to help developing countries, the legal concept of state sovereignty is even in modern day a bar to its success. (Donnelly, 2014) Implication of the risk (state sovereignty) State sovereignty and territorial sovereignty find convergence in the idea inherent in them. (Larry and Zachary 2010) Some states declare that they do not need any international assistance to the extent of not allowing the support staff of such organizations such as the UN peacekeepers to cross to their territories. A considerable number UN peacekeepers other United Nation functionaries have lost their lives due to hostile states. Essentially, because of the myopic sense of thinking of the political class in some of these states, extreme poverty and under-development will become a permanent feature describing them. ( Lekha and Wermester, 2003) It is strategically unreasonable, while discussing state sovereignty, not to associate the corrupt behavior that is outlandish and unwarranted, of the political class that hides under the guise of state sovereignty to protect their opportunistic predation tendencies. Grand corruption prevents resources that were meant for the people and public at large from reaching them because of the selfish interest of the political. If this veil of state sovereignty is lifted then developing countries could quickly emerge to be developed through the help of organizations such as UNDP. (Kristen, 2009) The International Court of Justice (ICJ), which is a judicial organ of the United Nation, has had a share of its risk and challenges. Political leaders who systemically violate the principles set by the UNDP legislations are at times called to justice in this court and they plead that they are a sovereign state and their affairs should not be interfered with. (Cortright, Lopez and Gerber, 2002) Enforcement mechanisms to apply the warrant of arrest granted by the court have very little effect. Political leaders like Omar Bashir of Sudan still have a warrant on their heads but very little can be done to ensure his arrest. The recent case of Kenyas top political leadership answering to cases of egregious human rights violations in the country at the International Criminal Court is an epitome of the challenges and risks that the international organizations such as the UNDP face. The risk that is faced with the implication of state sovereignty is that some states which are at war will continue being at war if they rest their opinions on the assumptions that they are the only solutions to the challenges they face. The UNDP as an organization faces a high risk of possible weakening its institution for lacking proper and effective enforcement mechanisms of its policies and objectives. The continuous attack on international aide representatives is a high risk that UNDP faces in carrying out its mandate. Cases of an abduction of staff working for organizations such as this have been on the rise in developing countries with a particular notoriety in Somalia, where a terrorist group famously referred to as Alshabaab often abduct these staff. (Booth, 2013) Additionally, the ramifications of this risk will have a long term effect on the citizens of the country that is hindering international aid from UNDP. Citizens will lack fundamental human resources such as food shelter and water and life goes back to what Thomas Hobbes described as short, nasty and brutish. High violence and crime rates will be in the country as access to energy and poor development will remain to be a common experience within the country. The dominant argument here is that countries that profess to be sovereign so as to avoid international duty and obligation imposed by the UNDP and other related organizations will not only be referred to as failed states but they will also face inadequate economic cooperation from developed states. The UNDP also faces the risk of falling short of functions to perform as an organization because the personnel that is involved in the field activities will, in the long run, be inadequate. This could likely be because of the deterrent effect of the actions of the hostile states. Very few individuals will be will to work in such areas that pose a threat to their lives. The abduction cases by the hostile citizens of such nations where the terrorists demand huge sums of money as ransom, kills the spirit of devoted staff of the UNDP. Strategic options of the legal risk and recommendations The Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties (VCLT) is a strategic option that states should become parties to. The convention states in its article 27 that states should not invoke their domestic law for the breach on an international obligation required by an international organization such as the UNDP. (Vienna Convention,1969) Additionally, it states that treaties that are entered by states should be signed in good faith. This is an overarching principle in international law referred to as Puctus sunt servanda that obligates treaties to habitually obey international treaties and their subsequent organizations because they entered into the agreement in good faith. (OFlaherty, 2011) The UNDP should arrange with the civil society in various countries who will play a major role in increasing awareness and the importance role played by the UNDP. (Jolly, Emmerij and Ghai, 2004) The civil society will also explain the objective of the UNDP of eradicating poverty, increasing access to energy and development of quality life. This will give the organization a wide acceptance among citizens and the opportunity to propagate its objectives. The civil society can also create awareness among the youth of a country so that they can exert pressure on their political leadership to apply the principles that the UNDP is imposing on them. The UNDP should also build a strong relationship with the private sector of a country because, for the eradication of extreme poverty, a strong private sector is needed. (Gilbert, Hampson, and Sandoval, 2011) It is the private sector that will assist and fuel the fast attainment of sustainable economic development. The international private sector should also play a major role in terms of monetary donations to civil societies in countries and to poverty trapped families. The international business organizations through the UNDP can also assist in donations that will go far to help in sanitation water, food and upgrading of slums. (Keyes, 2012) The International Criminal Court (ICC) has been ridiculed to be toothless and chasing the wind. These sentiments have some elements of reality because the court has a weak enforcement mechanism. It is strongly recommended that a strong enforcement mechanism of the court orders issued will create an appealing path for organizations such as UNDP to realize their full potential. (Elizabeth, 2010) Conclusion The UNDP should be applauded for its activities that have had a positive impact on the lives of many people in the world at large. It is however submitted that the UNDP should seek to improve the enforcement mechanism of its legislations so that its developing programs can have a far-reaching effect. It is imperative to note that the importance of the UNDP should not be undermined and the civil society and the private sector in various countries should peacefully welcome their ideas and funding. On the other hand, governments are highly encouraged to give full effect of the policies by ensuring the domestication of the treaties and policies as laws in their countries. If the precepts supplied provided in this research are applied fully the UNDP will easily manage its legal environment that is mostly comprised of the legislations and the various policies that it has developed. The legal environment of any organization is not one easy to manage and requires tact and high level competence that this report has displayed. Reference Booth C, (2013) All Necessary Measures: The United Nations and Humanitarian Intervention; Walling University of Pennsylvania Press, Brett, R (2009) A Curates Egg: UN Human Rights Council: Year 3, Quaker United Nations Office Cortright D, Lopez G and Gerber L, (2002) Sanctions and the Search for Security: Challenges to UN Action Donnelly J, (2014) State Sovereignty and International Human Rights: Ethics International Affairs, Volume 28, Issue 2 Edward C., (2003) Reforming the United Nations: Lessons from a History in Progress, International Relations Studies and the United Nations Elizabeth R, (2010) Can the United Nations Do Anything? International Journal, Vol. 65, No. 2 Gilbert, G, Hampson, F and Sandoval, C (2011) The Delivery of Human Rights: Essays in Honour of Professor Sir Nigel Rodley. Goodman R and Jinks D (2004) How to Influence States: Socialization and International Human Rights Law, Duke Law Journal, Vol. 54 (3) Hambro E and Leland M. Goodrich, (1946) Charter of the United Nations: Commentary and Documents, World Peace Foundation Harrison T, (2015) Doing development differently: Partnership brokering in a programme addressing urban poverty in Bangladesh; Based on a report commissioned by Urban Partnerships for Poverty Reduction Project(UPPR), UNDP Bangladesh Jolly, R., Emmerij. L. and Ghai, D., (2004) UN Contributions to Development Thinking and Practice, Bloomington and Indianapolis: Indiana University Press Keyes, N. (2012). A Global Coalition Can Tap Geothermal Power and Drive Development. World Bank blog Kristen H, (2009) State Sovereignty as an Obstacle to International Criminal Law Cambridge University Press Larry, M and Zachary, H (2010) International Criminal Law and Philosophy Cambridge University Press Lekha S and Wermester K (2003) From Promise to Practice: Strengthening UN Capacities for the Prevention of Violent Conflict Stokke, O., (2009) The UN and Development: From Aid to Cooperation, Bloomington and Indianapolis: Indiana University Press Murphy, C.N. (2006), The United Nations Development Programme: A Better Way? Cambridge: Cambridge University Press OFlaherty, M (2011) Reform of the UN Human Rights Treaty Body System: Locating the Dublin Statement in Gilbert, G, Hampson, F and Sandoval C (eds) The Delivery of Human Rights: Essays in Honour of Professor Sir Nigel Rodley United Nations (1945) The Charter of the United Nations Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties (VCLT) 1969.

The Governments Response to Osama Bin Laden and Al-Qaeda free essay sample

A political creative writing paper on Osama Bin Laden/Al-Qaeda written from the point of view of a fictitious governmental agency. The following paper is a fictitious response to Osama Bin Ladens terrorist arguments, which describes and justifies the actions a government would have to undertake to combat terrorists. Osama Bin Laden and his terrorist Al-Qaeda organization have committed a number of atrocities in recent years, culminating in the horrific attacks of September 11th 2001. They continue to postulate justifications for their actions, and present arguments in support of their continuing jihad, or `holy war` against the non-Islamic West, and the United States of America in particular. Following the recent Al-Qaeda terrorist activity, this Government has resolved both to address the terrorists arguments and explain the number of wide-ranging actions and initiatives that have been implemented in order to combat this grave terrorist threat.

Correlation between Resistivity and dopant concentration essays

Correlation between Resistivity and dopant concentration essays From observation alone, we can notice that the higher the concentration, the lower the resistivity. This is consistent with the Drude model, which states that the higher the concentration of conducting charges is, the higher conductivity would result. In this case, where the dopant is boron which has only three electrons in its outmost shell, the conducting would be predominantly holes, while electron conduction could only account for small part of conductivity. So theoretically, we can just consider the contribution of holes. However, we would expect some deviation due to this approximation. Among all the samples, the ones with lower dopant concentration would be expected to have more contribution from electrons, which means the resistivity would be lower than the theoretical result. Moreover, according to formula for calculation of resistivity , the tips of probes would have large resistivity, which in return depends on the extend to which the probe contact with the wafer. For different wafer, errors exist. In this sense, we would not expect the logarithm graph of the experiment to be perfect linear. Impurities and the scratches on the surface may also contribute to the errors. As we stated before, the higher the concentration, the lower the resistivity. For high concentration samples, the resistivity would be small so that the small change in current does not result in much change in voltage determined, according to the formula V=IR. We would expect the voltage readings to be quite stable. In contrast, for lower concentration samples, resistivity would be larger, and the voltage would be easily affected. So we would expect it fluctuate from time to time, as we observed in the experiment. Furthermore, because the lab has a lot of electronic appliances, such as handphones and computers, which would exert an electromagnetic field to their ambience (in fact the apparatus is just beside a computer), the Hall effect would occur ...

International Business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words - 12

International Business - Essay Example Additionally, this part will attempt to explain why comprehending the local religious practices and beliefs are significant to the success of a business. Dreher (46) defined globalization as both a process and worldwide condition in which the globe is becoming more interconnected while communication has become instantaneous as each day passes. Technology is the key driver to globalization. On the other hand, cultural individuality is the opposite of collectivism. Therefore, in an individualistic culture, concepts and views are based on the self and thus they are independent instead of relying on the group. As a result, they often value their personal goals more than the group’s goals. In most instances, cultural individualistic societies are made up of a diverse population exhibiting low communication and low power distance characteristics. Countries such as Canada, Australia ,and New Zealand are said to possess a highly individualistic culture. People in countries such as Singapore used to eat fried rice at the time McDonalds was opening in America. That is in 1955. During this period, most people had not heard of the term cheeseburger. Little people from Singapore expected that McDonald would soon be a big hit there within a very short time. Currently, McDonald is an enterprise operating in many countries worldwide. A recent survey conducted in about six countries revealed that many more people are familiar with the McDonald symbol than they are with the Christian cross. This example signifies the importance of globalization in enhancing or promoting cultural sameness. Thus, through globalization, multinational corporations and companies have promoted and designed a specific type of consumerist culture where standard commodities which are often promoted by worldwide marketing campaigns create same lifestyles globally. Through globalization, multinational corporations influence the values of its employees and customers.

Works of Art Comparison and Contrast Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Works of Art Comparison and Contrast - Essay Example The essay "Works of Art Comparison and Contrast" incorporates several works of art placed side by side for comparison and contrast purposes. Matisse Henry paints â€Å"Nasturtiums with the Painting Dance† within the 1900 AD timeline. This artwork emphasizes on illustrating the theme of dancing based on the artist’s version of this subject. Using painting oil, he depicts a tall image consisted of a picture within a picture on canvas. The image depicts the subject matter of dance and dancing, as the two human images seem to dance around the jar sited on the turning table and overflowing with nasturtiums. This image shows fauvism existent the twentieth-century in the European Art. Similarly, O’Keeffe utilizes painting oil on canvas in the artwork, â€Å"From the Faraway, Nearby† in the 1900 AD intended to bring forth the themes of precisionism in modern and contemporary art. Furthermore, to illustrate the same in the twentieth-century American art, the artist shows an animal skull sitting on mountainous landscapes. This art means to represent the women artists in North America through suggestions of physical and emotional realisms of the Southwest. Moreover, O’Keeffe’s â€Å"Cow’s Skull: Red, White and Blue† painted in 1931 precedes â€Å"From the Faraway, Nearby.† Both artworks reveal the artist’s love for use of skulls to pass messages. The â€Å"Cow’s Skull: Red, White and Blue† displays the prominent three colors of the American flag. This use of the distinctive colors illustrates how images symbolized America. ... On the other hand, American scene painters utilized this opportunity to unravel the existent urban problems during that time. Nonetheless, the weathered cow’s skull used by O’Keeffe represented America’s enduring spirit, thus, making the artwork a quintessential West American icon. Pippin, on the other hand, aims at illustrating historical themes in his artwork as the key subject matter. These historical settings mostly rest on his fighting experience in the Infantry regiment wars. Through these artwork pippin also enhances religious and political symbols. In this regard, Pippin’s â€Å"Lady of the Lake† distinctively shows the literary subject matter acquired from the past Arthurian legends through the portraits landscape setting. The personified naked sunbather stretched out on a blanket at the water’s edge demonstrates the exaggeration of scale to give a certain perspective. Most importantly, the use of bright and intense blends of red and green typically illustrates the use of palette during the period of 1900 AD4. Additionally, Hopper in 1930 draws an art piece named â€Å"Tables for Ladies† that most importantly illustrates his personal existence during the Great Depression in America. All through the period, very few Americans afforded to dine in restaurants as illustrated by the restaurant’s emptiness. The artwork positions the viewer directly outside an ordinary restaurant in New York allowing them a clear view through the front window. The artist focuses the viewer past the menu cards placed in order on the table and the mouth-watering foods and the waitress trying to adjust them5. The view presents wooden polished interior characterized by a tiled floor and mirrored walls. In the

Ethics and Legal Environment Essay Example for Free

Ethics and Legal Environment Essay Something’s Rotten in Hondo is a case wherein a plant manager, George Mackee, needs to decide whether to get rid of the charges inflicted by the Environmental Protection Agency or EPA or to move in Mexico. He is in a dilemma because if he would choose the former, he has very little chance of eliminating the problem since Bill, George boss, refuses to finance the cleaning of the smokestack. On the other hand, if he would choose the latter, he has to lay off his current employees and hire Mexican workers as a trade-off for not being reprimanded about the EPA standards. His boss leaves the decision up to him. The most obvious ethical concerns in this case are two-fold. The first one is that if George would choose the first option – that is to devise a strategy or a technique that would eradicate the problem with the fines imposed by EPA, he would have to follow what his contemporaries are doing – that is by scheduling the heavy emissions of smokestack during nighttime when the EPA is not in patrol. This entails that he would allow the severance of the environmental pollution (particularly air pollution) for the exchange of not paying any fines to EPA. On the contrary, if George would choose the second option – that is to relocate in Mexico, he would have to dismiss most of his current employees in place of the Mexican workers. And such would include the laying off of his friends and extended families. Furthermore, if he would choose the second option, he would be tolerant of the air pollution caused by the plant’s incapacity to reduce air pollutants. In effect, George has also eliminated the problem of the company on fines issued by EPA. Application of Ethical Theories The case presented in this paper suggests particular ethical problems. For this matter, the author presents two distinct ethical dilemmas for George to decide on: Should he decide to relocate the plant to Mexico or should he just follow the strategy used by his contemporaries? But before he could arrive to a decision, he must first analyze the pros and cons of his decision. If he would choose the former, he could really eliminate the problem with the imposition of fines by the EPA since Mexico assure him that it would not reprimand the plant whatever it does. The only thing is that he has to hire Mexican workers that which implies laying off of his present employees including his friends and extended families. Conversely, if he would agree with that proposal he would also have to bear the dreadful effects of the plant’s operations on the environment, particularly on U. S. Nonetheless, if he would choose the latter, he could also get rid of the problem with the fines imposed by EPA because of failure to meet its guidelines. However, he has to take so much risk by doing the same strategy being used by his contemporaries. In addition, he also has to endure the environmental effects of such strategy just to avoid being reprimanded again by EPA and his boss. Kantian Categorical Imperative If he would apply Kantian’s Categorical Imperative that is by doing his duty, he ought not to do the strategy utilized by his contemporaries (his first option). This is for the reason that he has a duty to protect the environment for both the present and future generations. Plus the fact that his workers have to suffer if he would fire them out of their works. Kant’s Categorical Imperative suggests two maxims in which a person could use to examine the morality of his action. The first maxim states that an action is morally right if one could make such action a universal law. This means that if one could make his action universal or applicable to all others by making it a rule then such action is morally accepted thus it is right. The second maxim, in contrast, focuses on the idea of always treating all human persons as ends and never as means to an end. This maxim argues that every human person has dignity to be respected and has rights as a human thus everyone must act in promoting others rights and not promoting harm to them On the other hand, Kant would not also choose the second option because it also implies environmental degradation. Though he avoids being fined by EPA as well as not even being reprimanded by EPA whatever their operation is, for Kant, he would fail to do the maxims under the Categorical Imperative. He could never make his action or decision as a universal law. Likewise, he would treat other people as mere instruments to achieve his goal by inflicting heath hazards due to smokestack emissions. Kant would suggest that George must never make a decision that would tend to harm the environment because such would also cause severe consequences to the people. As evident in the two options, both would result to the degradation of the environment. Thus, Kant would say that George decision, whichever of the two, would be unethical and morally wrong. Kant would recommend that George must be able to find ways that would not lead to the toleration of environmental pollution. For example, George could instead convince his boss that the only way to solve the problem that would not require him to sacrifice the welfare of the environment is to invest for new technologies that would lessen the emission of smokestack. And such would not even require new scrubbers. Such action is a long-term advantage for the company as well as for the environment. Mill’s Utilitarianism JS Mill’s Utilitarianism would even strengthen the position of not deciding on either of the two options since both would result to environmental pollution. Mill’s Utilitarianism is premised on the idea that an action is right if it promotes the greatest happiness for the greatest number. In other words, Utilitarian principle is mainly directed towards the social utility of an act. This means that if an action can benefit or inflict advantages to more people then such action is morally right. In the case of George, either of the two options would make him tolerate the harm done against the environment. Environment is an essential mechanism that is necessary for human survival. If he would choose the first or the latter option as his decision, he could save the company but inflict great harm to more number of people. Mill would say that George must devise a way in which he could settle the crisis in the company without sacrificing the environment because lots people, including him and his family, depend on the environment’s gifts. Thus, Mill would also recommend the same thing as Kant. Convince his boss by arguing that it is risky and detrimental to the environment if he would follow what his contemporaries are doing. If EPA would find out such underground activities, the company could even be sanctioned more than the imposition of fines. The same thing goes with the second option. If the government of U. S. would find out that the company’s operation cause harsh effects to their environment then there is a big possibility that U. S. would inflict undesirable measures against the company. Rights-based Theory on Decision-making The rights-based theories suggest that it is not always the case that the morality of an action is based on the great benefit that it can produce. At the same time, the rights-based theories do not solely advocate the respect of rights of human persons. These theories suggest that while everyone has a duty to recognize and value the rights of other people (negative rights); it is also everyone’s duty to promote for other’s goals (positive rights). In such manner, the contending ethical theories of Kantianism and Utilitarianism are reconciled in a way that both their concerns are being considered. In the first place, rights are inviolable. They are inalienable or cannot be taken away from human persons no matter what the situation is. Thus, there is no sufficient and rational reason to go against their rights without their consent. The rights-based theories are premised on the idea that every person has the right to choose on how he would like to live his own life. It is not only a person’s duty to respect these rights but also to promote the accomplishment of the goals of other people. By doing so, the rights defined earlier are more strengthen and more realized. In the case of Hondo, George, as a manager, has a duty towards the company. Still, he has duty towards other people. Choosing either of the two decisions would disrespect the rights and disregard the goals of these people. For the rights-based theories, such decision is unethical. The more appropriate way to solve the problem is for George to lend money from a bank so as to install new technology that would lessen the emission of smokestack. He does not really need to hire new scrubbers. By having new technology, for instance machines that clean smokestack, he would not have to result to environmental pollution. It is costly in the beginning but its benefits would be greatly appreciated in the long run. Justice-based Theories in Decision-making In justice-based theories, the overriding principle is focus on the idea of fair. According to John Rawls, the morality of an action can only be measured by appealing to the principle of justice. In his A Theory of Justice, he suggests two principles: liberty and wealth. The former is expressed to explain justice by saying that all must have an equal extent in which they can enjoy and practice their liberties. A least extensive curtailment of liberty is advocated on the condition that such would be shared by all. This entails that an act is right is the product of such act is amenable to all. Hence, justice, in such context, is morally right. In resolving the ethical dilemma faced by George, Justice-based theories would advice him to consider if his decision would be fair to all. Obviously, both options are not beneficial to all. And at the same time, these two options are not the only available options which George has. If he would employ either one of the two options, he would not be just; knowing that if he would be in the place of other people who depend on and survive through environment he would not also endure such nor be willing to agree with such idea. It could be the case that the he and the company are amenable to either of the two options. Nevertheless, others are not really disposed to accept such. Hence, George must not employ such decisions. For George, he could, instead, make control-strategies that would monitor and regulate the emission of smokestack before, during, and even after the plant’s operation in order to examine well the problems concerning the smokestack. Furthermore he could meet with his workers and discuss the problem. He may solicit suggestions on how they could lessen the pollution secreted by their plant onto the environment. After that, he may ask for support from banks by lending or getting loan. Kohlberg’s Moral Development Lawrence Kohlberg was from the line of Piaget who used moral framework to discuss the psychological development of a human person. His thesis on Moral Development suggests that there are six stages wherein a person passes through before he reaches the ultimate state of being a moral person. This theory will be used to show how Kohlberg’s method would help George in resolving his faced ethical dilemma. The first stage is focus on the idea that one person is initially instructed to obey laws such that he could avoid punishment. This is the primary conception on morality that a person has during his early years. With regards to the case presented in this paper, the appeal to laws and rules concerning environmental protection is the most obvious consideration for George’s decision. He would not decide either of the two options since both would make him violate the law regarding the protection of the environment. On the other hand, if he fails to solve the problem immediately, he might receive punishment from his boss (i. e. termination or demotion). The point is that which of the two punishments could George endure more? More likely than not, he would choose not be imprisoned than being demoted or terminated by his boss. The second stage suggests that every person has his own way of thinking which makes every topic or matter subjective to each person. The thing that works for someone or the thing that is considered right by someone may not be the same for another person. Thus, morality in this stage is relative. George could say that the least that he could that would benefit him and put him out of the dilemma that he is in is by either doing the first option or the second option. Both would mean resolution of his problem yet would cause damage to the environment. If he is a nature-lover he would not go for such decision. But if he is a money-lover, he would employ one of the two alternatives. The third stage is concern on the character in which a person thinks of ways on how he can do good things to the persons close to him (e. . family and friends). This means that his initial moral outlook is directed towards the things that he can do for the sake of his loved ones. In the case, if George is at this stage, he would be more inclined to decide and act so as to promote his family and friends’ welfare. Thus, if he would decide on his problem, he would not choose to relocate since his wife is not in favor of this idea and such will inflict great personal unhappiness to his friends who work in the plant.