1. What factors contribute to a sustainable relationship?
2. How have the Internet and dating apps changed the way people connect and meet? What are the pros and cons of forging new relationships in this manner? What are some online dating tips?
3. Define the different marital styles found in the world including monogamy, polygamy, polyandry, non-monogamy, and polyamory. Is “pair-bonding” the most efficient way to raise a family?
4. Describe the changes in laws and attitudes about same-sex marriage in the United States.
5. What are the pros and cons of each of the following: staying single, cohabiting, marriage?
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/polyamory-relationships-how-common-is-non-monogamy-cbsn-originals/
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/polyamory-relationships-how-common-is-non-monogamy-cbsn-originals/
Sample solution
Dante Alighieri played a critical role in the literature world through his poem Divine Comedy that was written in the 14th century. The poem contains Inferno, Purgatorio, and Paradiso. The Inferno is a description of the nine circles of torment that are found on the earth. It depicts the realms of the people that have gone against the spiritual values and who, instead, have chosen bestial appetite, violence, or fraud and malice. The nine circles of hell are limbo, lust, gluttony, greed and wrath. Others are heresy, violence, fraud, and treachery. The purpose of this paper is to examine the Dante’s Inferno in the perspective of its portrayal of God’s image and the justification of hell.
In this epic poem, God is portrayed as a super being guilty of multiple weaknesses including being egotistic, unjust, and hypocritical. Dante, in this poem, depicts God as being more human than divine by challenging God’s omnipotence. Additionally, the manner in which Dante describes Hell is in full contradiction to the morals of God as written in the Bible. When god arranges Hell to flatter Himself, He commits egotism, a sin that is common among human beings (Cheney, 2016). The weakness is depicted in Limbo and on the Gate of Hell where, for instance, God sends those who do not worship Him to Hell. This implies that failure to worship Him is a sin.
God is also depicted as lacking justice in His actions thus removing the godly image. The injustice is portrayed by the manner in which the sodomites and opportunists are treated. The opportunists are subjected to banner chasing in their lives after death followed by being stung by insects and maggots. They are known to having done neither good nor bad during their lifetimes and, therefore, justice could have demanded that they be granted a neutral punishment having lived a neutral life. The sodomites are also punished unfairly by God when Brunetto Lattini is condemned to hell despite being a good leader (Babor, T. F., McGovern, T., & Robaina, K. (2017). While he commited sodomy, God chooses to ignore all the other good deeds that Brunetto did.
Finally, God is also portrayed as being hypocritical in His actions, a sin that further diminishes His godliness and makes Him more human. A case in point is when God condemns the sin of egotism and goes ahead to commit it repeatedly. Proverbs 29:23 states that “arrogance will bring your downfall, but if you are humble, you will be respected.” When Slattery condemns Dante’s human state as being weak, doubtful, and limited, he is proving God’s hypocrisy because He is also human (Verdicchio, 2015). The actions of God in Hell as portrayed by Dante are inconsistent with the Biblical literature. Both Dante and God are prone to making mistakes, something common among human beings thus making God more human.
To wrap it up, Dante portrays God is more human since He commits the same sins that humans commit: egotism, hypocrisy, and injustice. Hell is justified as being a destination for victims of the mistakes committed by God. The Hell is presented as being a totally different place as compared to what is written about it in the Bible. As a result, reading through the text gives an image of God who is prone to the very mistakes common to humans thus ripping Him off His lofty status of divine and, instead, making Him a mere human. Whether or not Dante did it intentionally is subject to debate but one thing is clear in the poem: the misconstrued notion of God is revealed to future generations.
References
Babor, T. F., McGovern, T., & Robaina, K. (2017). Dante’s inferno: Seven deadly sins in scientific publishing and how to avoid them. Addiction Science: A Guide for the Perplexed, 267.
Cheney, L. D. G. (2016). Illustrations for Dante’s Inferno: A Comparative Study of Sandro Botticelli, Giovanni Stradano, and Federico Zuccaro. Cultural and Religious Studies, 4(8), 487.
Verdicchio, M. (2015). Irony and Desire in Dante’s” Inferno” 27. Italica, 285-297.
Sample Answer
Sample Answer
The Changing Landscape of Relationships: Navigating Modern Dynamics
In today’s rapidly evolving social landscape, the dynamics of relationships have undergone significant transformation. From the advent of dating apps to the shifting attitudes towards marriage and the exploration of non-traditional relationship styles, various factors contribute to the complex web of connections that individuals forge. This essay aims to delve into the multifaceted nature of modern relationships, addressing the impacts of the internet and dating apps, exploring diverse marital styles, and evaluating the pros and cons of different relationship choices.
The Evolution of Relationships: Impact of the Internet and Dating Apps
The rise of the internet and dating apps has revolutionized the way people connect and meet. With a plethora of platforms available, individuals have unprecedented access to a wide array of potential partners. This has led to greater inclusivity and the breaking down of geographical barriers, enabling individuals to connect with like-minded people from diverse backgrounds. However, this shift has also brought forth concerns about superficial interactions, misleading representations, and the commodification of relationships.
In navigating this new terrain, it is essential for individuals to approach online dating with caution and mindfulness. Setting clear intentions, engaging in meaningful conversations, and prioritizing genuine connections over fleeting encounters are crucial aspects to consider. Additionally, maintaining a healthy balance between online interactions and real-life connections is vital for fostering sustainable relationships.
The Spectrum of Marital Styles: Embracing Diversity in Relationships
Within the realm of relationships, diverse marital styles encompass a spectrum that includes monogamy, polygamy, polyandry, non-monogamy, and polyamory. Each style reflects unique cultural, social, and personal contexts, offering individuals a range of choices in structuring their relationships. It is imperative to recognize that no single marital style is inherently superior to others; rather, the efficacy of each style is contingent upon the individuals involved and their mutual consent.
While pair-bonding has traditionally been upheld as the standard for raising a family, contemporary perspectives acknowledge the validity of diverse family structures. By embracing inclusivity and respecting individual choices, societies can create environments where families thrive based on love and support rather than conforming to rigid norms.
Shifting Legal and Social Paradigms: The Journey of Same-Sex Marriage
The landscape of marriage has witnessed monumental shifts in laws and attitudes toward same-sex unions. The United States has experienced a profound transformation, marked by the legalization of same-sex marriage in 2015. This landmark decision not only granted legal recognition to LGBTQ+ relationships but also symbolized a momentous stride towards equality and social acceptance.
The journey towards marriage equality has been a testament to the resilience and advocacy of marginalized communities. It has paved the way for greater inclusivity and representation within the institution of marriage, affirming the fundamental right of all individuals to love and commit to their chosen partners.
Evaluating Relationship Choices: Navigating Pros and Cons
When considering relationship choices, individuals are presented with various options, each accompanied by its own set of pros and cons. Staying single offers independence and self-discovery but may lack the emotional support found in committed partnerships. Cohabiting allows for shared experiences and financial benefits but can also entail uncertainties about long-term commitment. Marriage embodies a deep emotional bond and legal security but may necessitate compromise and adaptation to changing circumstances.
Ultimately, the decision regarding relationship choices should be guided by individual preferences, values, and aspirations. By critically evaluating the advantages and drawbacks of each option, individuals can make informed choices that align with their personal fulfillment and well-being.
In conclusion, the modern landscape of relationships is marked by diversity, inclusivity, and evolving dynamics. As individuals navigate this complex terrain, it is crucial to prioritize authenticity, mutual respect, and open communication in fostering sustainable connections. By embracing the spectrum of relationship styles, advocating for equality in marriage laws, and critically evaluating relationship choices, societies can nurture an environment where all individuals have the freedom to pursue fulfilling and meaningful relationships.
References:
“The Marriage Decline in America” – The New York Times
“Rising Share of U.S. Adults are Living Without a Spouse or Partner” – Pew Research Center
“Polyamory Relationships: How Common is Non-Monogamy?” – CBS News
