American Demographics

Question 1

Discuss the Premise Statement below as to whether or not it is a valid statement. Briefly (a paragraph or less) agree or disagree with the statement using facts. Your statement or response to other students statements should be courteous and professional.

Premise Statement

The late 19^{th century industrial expansion in the aftermath of the Civil War established the foundation that set the United States on a course to become the dominant nation in world in the 20th and 21st centuries.}

Use your assigned readings and other credible sources to affirm or contradict one of the following comments as it relates to the Premise Statement above:

a. Did the rise of organized labor contributed to the rise of the American middle class by raising wages, increasing benefits and improving working conditions. If yes, explain, if no explain.

b. Did industrialization alter American demographics as more people left farms and rural areas and moved to large cities in order find work. If yes, explain. If no, explain.

c. Did industrialization and urbanization have unintended consequences such as segregated neighborhoods and poverty that linger today.

Question 2

Answer the following questions on Jainism:

1. Why do you suppose the story of religion is a story of dialogue (with what comes before it) and building blocks (providing a foundation for what follows)? In short, it’s clear that religion does NOT exist in a vacuum, nor does it develop ex nihilo (“out of nothing”). Give a few examples and explain.

2. What does it mean in Jainism to act as little as possible? Why is it important to a Jain? How is it related to the 3 ethical pillars?

3. Describe the heroic feat of self-liberation through extreme asceticism as espoused by Jainism.

4. In what way did Jainism influence both Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King, Jr.?