The Crusades Seen as a Whole Had Primarily Negative Consequences for Europe

The Crusades referred to the series of military campaigns that Western European Christians carried out in order to free the Holy Land from Muslim control. From 1096 to the late 13th century, these religious wars were waged against both internal and external opponents of Christianity. The Crusades, however, eventually became â€Å"any (form of) military effort by Europeans against non-Christians† (MSN Encarta, n. pag. ). Under the guise of militant Christianity, it was used as a means of European expansion (MSN Encarta, n. pag. ).Most of the effects of the Crusades in Europe proved to be very detrimental. For one, the power of the Papacy was increased. Crusaders who were either preparing for battle or returning home from combat gave vast tracts of land to the Roman Catholic Church in exchange for prayers and pious benedictions (Middle-Ages. org. uk, n. pag. ). Consequently, the Pope abruptly became more affluent and influential than most monarchies during this period. This sudd en increase in wealth, in turn, allowed him to institute both spiritual and secular supremacy over the royalty (Infoplease, n. pag. ).It is no longer surprising, therefore, if the Popes during the Crusades were always involved in power struggles and disputes with several European monarchs. Holy Roman Emperor Frederick I and King Henry II of England were embroiled in a squabble with Pope Alexander III. Despite strong opposition from Emperor Otto IV and Emperor Frederick II, Pope Innocent II declared himself as the virtual ruler of the West. The quarrels between the Popes and the monarchs in this period became so frequent that it ultimately became the basis for a papacy’s clout (Infoplease, n. pag. ).Another negative consequence of the Crusades in Europe was the senseless murder of non-Christian peoples both inside and outside the continent. The Crusaders’ decision to attack Constantinople, for instance, was motivated by the need to pay off their debt to Venice. The paym ent of the Crusaders to the Doge Enrico Donalo – 86,000 marks – ended up short of 34,000 marks. To compensate for the missing amount, he convinced them to assault Constantinople. Donalo had a hidden agenda – Constantinople â€Å"was the main obstacle to prevent Venice from rising to dominate the trade of the Mediterranean Sea† (Roman-Empire. net, n. pag. ).The Crusaders invaded Constatinople on April 13, 1204. They stripped Orthodox churches of their mosaics, vestments, religious scriptures and altar pieces. Thousands of innocent civilians were also killed. Moreover, Venice was able to occupy Greece shortly afterwards (Cooke, n. pag. ). The Roman Catholic Church used the Crusades within Europe to increase its membership and dominion. The Crusaders in the Baltic, for instance, were infamous for seizing the lands of Orthodox Christians in Russia and other parts of Eastern Europe.One of the Crusaders’ organizations in the Baltic, the Teutonic Knights, violently slaughtered pagan tribes such as the Letts, the Balts and the Livs. The Archbishop of Riga urged Pope Clement V in 1308 to put an end to the carnage, to no avail (Ekelund, Tollison, Hebert, Anderson and Davidson, 147). In Spain, paramilitary orders such as the Belchite and the Monreal sequestered lands for the nobles and the Roman Catholic Church. These groups were able to carry out their operations under the guise of â€Å"(opening) a new route to Jerusalem along the North African coast† (France, 145).But the truth was that they were merely pawns in the desire of the Roman Catholic Church and the nobles to acquire more land. Religion was used to get away with injustice. It would be fair to say, therefore, that the Crusades was one of the darkest chapters of human history. The original teachings of the Roman Catholic Church – charity, forgiveness, compassion – were distorted to suit secular and military interests. Consequently, other religions were vi olated and their followers killed. Religion became a means of enriching a selected few.Works Cited Cooke, Nicholas A. â€Å"The Sack of Constantinople. † 2000. St. Michael the Archangel Church. 14 November 2008 . â€Å"Crusades. † 2008. MSN Encarta. 9 December 2008 . â€Å"Effects of the Crusades. † n. d. Middle-Ages. org. uk. 9 December 2008 . Ekelund, Robert Burton, Robert D. Tollison, Robert F. Hebert, Gary M. Anderson, and Audrey B. Davidson.Sacred Trust: The Medieval Church as an Economic Firm. New York: Oxford University Press, 1996. France, John. The Crusades and the Expansion of Catholic Christendom, 1000-1714. New York: Routledge, 2005. â€Å"In the Middle Ages. † 2008. Infoplease. 9 December 2008 . â€Å"The Sack of Constantinople: The Conquest of Constantinople by the Crusaders in AD 1203/1204. † n. d. Roman-Empire. net. 9 December 2008 .

Whats the Relationship Between Communication and Identity

Communication and identity, many wonder if these words come together? Or wether or not they can work in accord ? Most people would testify different, but in all actuality they can and do more often than one expect, depending on which channels you use and in which context, the way you communicate along with your identity will undergo some modifications, and that without forgetting to include what a big role your gender, social, and cultural identities plays in that as well .As a source to reinforce my theory in this paper I will discuss what I've learned but not limited from Chapter one and two of Communication in a Changing World by Bethami A. Dobkin & Roger C. Pace but also will add one or two real life examples about the relationship between communication and identity, and also has a conclusion this paper will discuss the differences in when I communicate with gender, cultural and social identities in both a face-to-face and online environments.By definition to communicate is to cr eate and share meaning through the use of symbol (The words, images, gestures, and expressions that we use to represent our thoughts, ideas, beliefs, and feelings. ) through a distinctive process, whereas identity is the conception of yourself as a member of group or category (Dobkin & Pace, 2006). The relationship between communication and identity is normal when communicating is usually from a social standpoint. The things we mostly communicate about our identity are either but not limited to how we feel or the way we would like to come off to others.Communication is another form of representation. A lot of the times, we associate ourselves with either who we are or who we want to be. It is also what we go through or what we envision that determine the way we respond or what we say to others. For example, sex can very well determine your occupation and age can determine your hobbies or recreations. Sexual orientation can determine who your friends are and the places you will hang out and ethnicity can determine your opinions or the ethnicity of your peers.

Review of an Academic Research Paper Literature Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Of an Academic Research Paper - Literature review Example This entails the reasons behind wiring the paper, the thoughts of other writers and analysed that have contributed to the essay as well as the outcomes of the same. As seen in Harvard referencing, the abstract must be inclusive of all the thoughts that need to be included in the essay just as this paper has (Gustavii, 2003). The abstract of this article is one that is all inclusive of all the themes and ideas, just as expected of a sensible abstract. Johnson, Stainton & Borodzicz (2010; 705), clearly indicates that the article will propose a methodology structures for evaluations educational validity of business gaming simulation through comprehensive research and analysis of findings. INTRODUCTION: The introduction of a paper is one that needs to ensure that the reader has a clear understanding of the entire topic. The introduction of this paper evaluates the reasons for addressing the study, based on previous collected data from analysts and researchers. With Johnson, Stainton & Bo rodzicz (2010) stating clearly the aim of the paper, the introduction simply takes the reader through the entire paper without perusing the entire of it. THEORTICAL FRAMEWORK: This is yet another section of the layout of a good paper. As seen in the work of Johnson, Stainton & Borodzicz (2010) the title and the content in the article are correlated. The article deals with the effectiveness and educational validity in regard to the various designs and implementation processes. As seen in the conclusion of the theoretical background, the author clearly concluded by applying business gaming in validation of education (Johnson, Stainton & Borodzicz, 2010). The research methodology framework is very well prearranged, all for the reason of ensuring that the reader gets the message sent. The research designs and instruments have been clearly stated that support the validity of the research. Points for and against the design have been set out clearly thus enhance an underst6ndingh of the ar ticle (Johnson, Stainton & Borodzicz, 2010). However, it is vital to note the authors are wary of the shortcomings and confirm that further research needs to be done. FINDINGS: As a result of the research, Johnson, Stainton & Borodzicz (2010) come up with the findings as follows; The bottom line of assessment of business gaming imitation is the effectual product of learning The designer shapes the representational value of the simulation , and how well it will be understood Experiential learning can be defined as a learning process that involves encountering issues and implementing solutions to the problems Self-motivation is of essence in the case of business gaming simulation as it is crucial in motivating participants A proper set of guidelines should be present in the case of problem of design, and implementation of the evaluation process should be provided so as to authenticate the efficiency of business simulation Business gaming simulation greatly impacts the external educati onal validity in terms of understanding the actual world. The collected data should be well summarized so as to motivate the individuals who are willing to learn and shape their career The simulation ought to be keenly designed putting much emphasis on criteria such as complications, implementation methods of the representational validity. LIMITATIONS: Johnson, Stainton

Compare & Contrast Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 3

Compare & Contrast - Essay Example The former believes in one God, reflecting the monotheistic nature of Christianity while the latter pictures the polytheistic nature of the Mesopotamian religion. The Epic of Gilgamesh is a portrayal of the belief in many gods who have been actively participating in the life of one of the human characters who later was made a god, Utanapishtim. It mentions a similar experience of the main character, Gilgamesh where the gods did their part in making the tasks given, more difficult for him and making him unsuccessful in his attempt to attain the same success of Utanapishtim in becoming a god. Malthus’ essay on the other hand spoke about one God who also actively participates in what human beings do however, in contrast to Utanapishtim’s unhelping manner to Gilgamesh in his endeavors, the God the essayist speaks of is a helping God. Coming from human existence, the god Utanapishtim seemed to have humane characteristics remaining in him because he acted deceitfully towards Gilgamesh by giving task he was sure would not be attained by the man. The God of Malthus on the other hand extends help to men in their trials. The essay stands in defense to the essayist’s belief that there is a God who is after the good of men and not their destruction even though he is able to control the circumstances in a person’s life. The hardships God allows in the lives of people, he says, are meant to process him to becoming a better person and not for him to be consumed by his murmurings and complaints as he faces life’s trials. Conversely, Utanapishtim seemed to be a selfish god who looked forward to how he could use man for his benefit, as he sent Gilgamesh to the bottom of the sea to take hold of the boxthorn-like plant which could make him regain his youth, meaning to steal the plant from him in the future. This places a dividing lie between the gods presented in the literary pieces being examined in this paper. In the epic, Gilgamesh

Marketing Assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Marketing Assignment - Essay Example Compatibility refers to the degree to which innovation matches the values and experiences of the individuals. Iphone was highly compatible with the needs of the modern day phone user. Most people at the time of launch of this product were already using a laptop, a music player and a phone. The launch of iphone provided them with a new ease – they could now work on the internet and listen to music without carrying their laptops or music players. The function of three devices could now be performed by a single device. Complexity refers to the degree to which the product is difficult to use. Products which are complex and difficult to understand take a longer time to penetrate in the market. The iphone is very easy to use device. The single button operation of iphone is one of the reasons it is preferred over Samsung galaxy series. Divisibility means the degree to which the innovation can be tried on a limited basis. These limited trials as they are called help the company in finding out the reaction of the public towards the product and make changes if necessary. These trials are very common for iphone launches. Just before the launch the product is tested among college going youth , business executives etc. in order to know their input regarding the product. The main problem with divisibility is knowing if the sample group represents the feelings of the entire target population. This problem has to be solved by market research specialists for iphone. This refers to the degree to which the benefits of the innovation are visible or describable to others. The advantages of iphone are very easy for the user to show. There is visible difference in the features of an iphone as compared to other phones. The possession of an iphone has soon become a fashion statement among people soon after its launch. Globalization has helped on the convergence of civilizations. However, the differences between people of different

The Ancient Middle East Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

The Ancient Middle East - Essay Example Additionally, believers and followers of both the religions also strongly believe that God is an eternal being, and He has the power to reward and punish to righteous and sinner persons respectively. Furthermore, believe in Messiah means Jesus Christ, who is believed as the son of God incarnate by both the religions, and they believe that Messiah (Jesus Christ) is yet to come from the house of David to build up a God's precious home on the earth (Lundquist). Trinity is another common belief between these two religions according to which both of them believe in the existence of Holy Father, Son and Spirit within the same Godhead, but they are separated from each other. It can be clearly understood as that God is considered as a three person, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. These three are distinct, and yet all exist in a common person. If one of these were removed, there would be no God. Also, in Christianity and Judaism it is believe that the Trinity is involved in many othe r things. Such as, God had made this world via the Holy Son in Holy Spirit. The Holy Father sent forth His Son and Spirit to the Old Testament saints to let them know about the father (Lundquist). In both these religious, people follow guidelines of a Holy Book called as Bible, however, the only difference between their books is that Christian's Bible is consist of old and new testaments of Holy God while the Jewish Scripture is known as Hebrew Bible and it is arranged in three different sections (Lundquist). In addition, Covenant is another most important and common belief among Jews and Christians, which make them believe in actions during the last supper, and they religiously accept the fact that God will choose specific people, who will be reinforced by the Covenant at Mount Sinai. It should be noted here that this concept of the covenant is different from original covenant. It is basically an agreement between God and His followers (Jews and Christians) according to which they believe that through Moses, the followers will enter a covenant with God (Lundquist). "The Lord said to Moses, 'Write these words down because the covenant I make with you and with Israel is in these words.' So Moses...wrote down the words of the covenant, the Ten Words, on the tablets" (Think Quest 3). Last and an important common belief among these two religions and their followers is that they both strongly believe in the life here after. They have accepted the fact that after dying their souls will go up in heaven or hell based on the deeds they have done in the life here. Also, they believe that God will make the fairest judgment and that life will last forever. Christians and Jews have a very strong belief about life after death, which is based on the resurrection of Jesus (Lundquist). Although, these two religious were close to each other and they still are up to some extend in terms of their beliefs and rituals. However, the separation between these two religions undoubtedly has taken place, but that separation did not take place fast and easy. The whole separation took approximately more than hundred years and the crucial division did not happen all at once (Lundquist). Christianity started with Son of god (Jesus Christ) and his disciples

Stem Cells Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Stem Cells - Research Paper Example Stem Cells The most important characteristic of stem cells is the potential to transform into different types of cells. Besides, stem cells can perform the role of a repair system within human body. Within this scenario, Embryonic Stem Cells are generally used for regenerative medical purposes. On the other side, Adult Stem Cells are helpful for the treatment of deadly diseases generally noticed among human beings. The Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells are used for research purposes, aiming to develop proper medication for deadly diseases. So, one can see that the scientific research related to stem cells can solve some of the health problems faced by human beings in general. Thesis statement: The stem cells like Embryonic Stem Cells (ESC), Adult Stem Cells (ASC), and Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSC) are helpful to develop medicines and proper remedy for deadly diseases, especially like bone-marrow transplantation for blood cancer. Stem cell types This section is broadly divided in to: Embryonic Stem Cells, Adult Stem Cells, and The Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. Embryonic Stem Cells These stem cells are developed from human embryos, especially from the inner parts of embryos undergoing the process of growth. Crocker (2008) states that, â€Å"Stem cells, both embryonic and adult, could be used to replace damaged tissue in several ways† (p.6). To be specific, these cells within this stage of growth can be used for tissue transplantation and similar medical uses. But these cells cannot be simply injected into human bodies because the same may develop into unexpected tumors. Besides, some human bodies may reject this type of stem cells and scientists are working hard to find out an apt solution for this problem. Still, these stem cells can be used for regenerative medication purposes. On the other side, one can see that the research work related to these stem cells provide hope to humanity because the same was successfully used in the year 2010 among the victims of spinal injury. In short, further research within this field may prove importance of this stem cell because research work related to the same is undergoing gradual progress. Adult Stem Cells These stem cells are generally used for research and treatment purposes. In addition, the research on this type of stem cells attracts less criticism because it is not produced from embryos. Zyl (2009) states that, â€Å"Some physicians and scientists believe that adult stem cells are not as versatile or effective as embryonic stem cells, while others have shown that adult stem cells are highly effective against most major diseases† (p. xiii). As these stem cells are collected from adults, there is less risk because rejection related to human immunity is out of focus. Besides, medical treatment related to these stem cells proves to be successful because the same is used for the treatment of leukaemia and other diseases. Still, further research can unveil the future scope of this type of stem cells within the context of medical treatment. So, one can see that the research related to this type of stem cells show rapid progress and is helpful to fight some deadly diseases. The Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells The IP stem cells are developed by scientists by reprogramming the same to acquire the main characteristics of ES cells. To be specific, this stem cell is important within the scenario of stem cell research, especially in