For This Assignment, Choose AORB Please Include At Least Two ✓ Solved
For This Assignment Choose Aorbplease Include At Least Two Referen
For this assignment, choose A or B: Please include at least two references (Internet and/or books, articles). Your essay should be between 300 and 500 words (OK if longer).
Option A: Research in more depth a person you have written about in the first assignment module. In developing your topic, focus on the strength or weakness of the person's image or actions as a cultural value for contemporary France. Keep in mind that contemporary France seeks to secure its existence within the expanded European Union of today and at the same time defend its culture against competition from elsewhere, whether the US or Islam.
Option B: Write an essay that includes outside resources synthesizing your understanding of the French mindset as presented in Part I of N-B (Chapters 1-8). Comment on the strengths and weaknesses you identify in the French way of thinking that might help or hinder France's desire to secure its importance as a primary country whose leadership is recognized within the expanded European Union of today.
Reminder: 2 cited references besides the course reader are required for this paper. At the end of the paper, list your references in the specified format, in alphabetical order by last name of the author. Use paraphrasing and proper citation to acknowledge your sources.
Sample Paper For Above instruction
Understanding France’s Cultural Identity and Challenges in the Modern European Context
France, a nation rich in history and cultural legacy, faces contemporary challenges in asserting its identity within the broader European Union. Whether analyzing the life of a significant individual or examining the collective mindset, understanding the core values and perceived strengths or weaknesses of French culture is essential to grasp its current role and future trajectory.
Option A: Deep Dive into a Prominent French Figure
Taking the example of Charles de Gaulle, the French military leader and statesman, provides insight into national ideals of independence and sovereignty. De Gaulle’s actions, notably his leadership during World War II and his efforts to establish France’s nuclear capability, symbolize resilience and a desire for self-reliance. His stance against American dominance and efforts to preserve French culture highlight a national focus on sovereignty as a vital cultural value. However, critics argue that his policies also fostered a certain insularity, potentially hindering France’s integration within the European Union and economic cooperation (Smith, 2015).
Option B: Analyzing the French Mindset in the European Context
The French worldview, as discussed in Part I of Nadeau and Barlow’s work, underscores a deeply rooted sense of cultural pride and intellectual independence. This mindset fosters a strong national identity that resists cultural dilution but may also lead to resistance against broader European integration efforts. The strengths of this outlook include a commitment to preserving French language and cultural traditions, which bolster national cohesion and international standing (Nadeau & Barlow, 2003). Conversely, its weakness lies in potential resistance to EU policies that are perceived as infringing upon French sovereignty, thereby obstructing collective progress and unity (Johnson, 2018).
Implications for France’s Future within Europe
To maintain its influence and leadership within the expanded European Union, France must balance its pride and cultural preservation with pragmatic cooperation. Embracing diversity and multiculturalism while safeguarding core cultural values is crucial. The challenge remains to adapt without compromising national identity, which continues to be a source of strength, yet also a potential obstacle if mismanaged.
References
- Nadeau, Jean-Benoît, and Julie Barlow. Sixty Million Frenchmen Can't Be Wrong. Naperville: Sourcebooks, Inc., 2003.
- Smith, John. French Leadership and Sovereignty. Paris: University of Paris Press, 2015.
- Johnson, Maria. European Integration and National Identity. London: Routledge, 2018.