CHALLENGES IN CHINA, THE STORM BEFORE THE CALM: 1800–1912When Steven Pinker’s book, The Better Angels of Our Nature: Why Violence Has Declined was published in 2011, the public and academic reaction was cool. His assertion that violence has been on the decline for the last 10,000 years was radical to say the least. Still, as a renowned Harvard professor, Pinker couldn’t be summarily dismissed and his data drew attention. Since then it has become widely accepted that he was right. The world is in an era of unprecedented peace.As violent as our human societies can be today (and there certainly are many ongoing issues that should not be taken lightly) an analysis of history makes apparent that things used to be much worse. Just how much worse becomes clear when we look at past episodes such as the Taiping Rebellion that China suffered.Without the study of history we would have no access to the knowledge that we are living in a time that is very different than the past. Nor would we have the inclination to look for the factors that have precipitated this change. But understanding what brought about the decline in violence will be the key to continuing to make the world safer and more secure.Read the information in the following article:Pinker, S. (2011). Violence Vanquished. The Wall Street Journal. Sept. 24, 2011.http://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424053111904106704576583203589408180Answer the following questions:How does the condition of stability in China today compare with that of the 19th century (1800s)?How does the condition of stability in China today compare with that of the 20th century (1900s)?What is Pinker’s thesis about the change in violence over time?To what does Pinker attribute the decline in civil wars and civil unrest?SLP Assignment ExpectationsIn Module 2 SLP, you are expected to:Answer the questions clearly, using full sentences with correct grammar and spelling.Write one or two paragraphs on each question.

Many commentators/critics have written on the demise of Classical music in our society.In January 2014, two writers took opposite views on the state of Classical music in America.For this assignment, read both (short) articles and tell me what you think. Write a position paper with the following requirements:two full pages1-inch margins12-point fontdouble spacedI want to know whether you agree with Mark Vanhoenacker in Slate or William Robin in The New Yorker.The links to the articles are here:"Requiem: Classical music in America is dead" (Links to an external site.)"Classical music isn't dead"

Assignment InstructionsIssues of Sex and Gender in Society TodayIdentify an issue that is facing our society today that is in some way related to sex and/or gender and has opposing sides. Consider a law that was recently put into or taken out of effect or is being debated. You could also look to the statements or actions of a public figure or organization that has generated significant attention from the media. The issue you select should have ample material from which you may pull to gain insight into the details surrounding it. Feel free to email your instructor if you would like to verify that an issue is appropriate or if you would like some suggestions as to what you could cover.Explore multiple sides of the issue you have selected until you have a good understanding as to why each side believes it is right. Research the historical events that have caused the circumstances of this issue. Engage in discussions with others who have strong feelings about the issue to learn the reasons why they feel they way they do. Make sure you research both sides thoroughly as your goal with this paper will be to write it in a manner that does not allow the reader to know which side of the issue that you are on. You will not be condoning or condemning either side- your goal is to be as objective as possible in reviewing the issue you select.Construct a 1,000-1,250 word essay that demonstrates your understanding of the following:The issue that you have identified (a concise synopsis of what the issue is)Historical context (previous events in history that have contributed to the rise of the issue)Both sides of the current argument (provide an objective review- the reader should not know which side of the issue that you personally are on)At least two possible resolutions to the issue (include the potential ramifications of each resolution for both sides)Your paper should include an introduction and conclusion, at least 5 cited references (only 2 of which may be your discussions with others, excluding those identified as subject matter experts in your writing), and must adhere to APA formatting.Rubric:Potential PointsProvided adequate historical context to demonstrate understanding of how the issue came to be10Clearly and thoroughly explored the opposing arguments of the issue and demonstrated equally in-depth understanding of each25Used critical thought and analysis in proposing two resolutions and their logical ramifications20Instructor unable to determine reader’s position on the issue15APA formatting adhered to10Well-written (grammar, spelling, organization)10Word Count achieved10TOTAL100