Create an original argument about the significance of “space-time compression” and “globalization,”
as we have discussed them in our class. In so doing, you must identify, define, and illustrate each of
those terms, as well as their relationship(s) and why they matter.
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 Significance of Space-Time Compression and Globalization
Introduction
In today’s interconnected world, the concepts of space-time compression and globalization have become fundamental factors shaping our daily lives. These concepts, although distinct, are closely related and have a significant impact on various aspects of our society. This essay aims to explore the significance of space-time compression and globalization, defining and illustrating each term, and discussing their relationship and importance in our modern world.
Understanding Space-Time Compression
Space-time compression refers to the reduction of the time and distance between places due to advances in technology, communication, and transportation. It is the idea that the world is shrinking, making it easier and faster to connect with people and access information across geographical boundaries. This compression of space and time has been made possible through the development of technologies such as the internet, mobile communication devices, and efficient transportation systems.
Understanding Globalization
Globalization, on the other hand, is a multifaceted phenomenon that encompasses the increasing interconnectedness and interdependence of economies, cultures, and societies worldwide. It involves the exchange of goods, services, ideas, and information on a global scale. Globalization has been driven by advancements in technology, particularly in the fields of communication and transportation, which have facilitated the flow of capital, goods, and knowledge across borders.
The Relationship Between Space-Time Compression and Globalization
Space-time compression and globalization are intricately linked. The advancements in technology that have led to space-time compression have also played a crucial role in enabling and accelerating the process of globalization. As the world becomes more connected, the compression of space and time has intensified the flow of goods, services, and information, leading to increased global interactions and interdependencies.
The reduction in physical distances through improved transportation and communication systems has made it easier for businesses to engage in international trade, resulting in the global integration of markets. Companies can now connect with suppliers, customers, and partners across the globe more efficiently, leading to the creation of global supply chains and the expansion of international trade.
Moreover, space-time compression has also facilitated the rapid dissemination of information and ideas across borders. The internet and social media platforms have revolutionized communication, enabling individuals to connect and share information instantaneously. This has led to the formation of global virtual communities, promoting the exchange of knowledge, cultural practices, and ideas.
The Importance of Space-Time Compression and Globalization
The significance of space-time compression and globalization cannot be underestimated in our contemporary world. These concepts have transformed various aspects of society, including economics, culture, politics, and social interactions.
Economic Significance
Space-time compression has revolutionized the global economy. It has facilitated the growth of multinational corporations, enabling them to access new markets, tap into global resources, and benefit from economies of scale. The increased interconnectedness of economies through globalization has led to the creation of job opportunities, increased productivity, and the transfer of technology and knowledge across borders.
Cultural Significance
Globalization and space-time compression have also had profound effects on culture. The exchange of cultural practices, ideas, and values has become more prevalent, leading to cultural hybridization and the emergence of a global culture. People from different parts of the world can now experience and engage with diverse cultures, fostering a sense of interconnectedness and shared humanity.
Political Significance
Globalization and space-time compression have influenced political dynamics. The interconnectedness of nations has led to the formation of regional and global organizations, such as the United Nations and the World Trade Organization, which aim to address global challenges and promote cooperation. Additionally, the ease of communication and flow of information has empowered individuals, leading to the rise of global activism and social movements.
Social Significance
Space-time compression has revolutionized social interactions, breaking down geographical barriers and bringing people closer together. Social media platforms have enabled individuals to connect, share experiences, and form relationships across borders. This has fostered a sense of global community and increased cross-cultural understanding.
Conclusion
In conclusion, space-time compression and globalization are two interrelated concepts that have transformed our world. The compression of space and time has facilitated the rapid exchange of goods, ideas, and information across borders, leading to increased connectivity and interdependence. These concepts are of immense significance, shaping our economies, cultures, politics, and social interactions. As we move forward in the 21st century, understanding and embracing these concepts will be essential for navigating the complexities of our increasingly interconnected global society.
