Prior to this course, I was a fair balance between the modern techonology, the sciences, and the humanistic perspective. I do agree I probably maybe have leaned towards humanism, but instead of being mroe embrasive of the new developing technologies, I have become more cautious. This course has challenged me to question more of the devloping projects and products come up with instead of how I usually simply accept Apple has come out wth a new product or whatnot. I am able to draw more connections between the different types of sciences and technologies. It was also interesting to learn about the history of how the idea of living in the suburbia and working in the city came to be. I am born into the rush of developing techonology and do not know what is is like prior to this who period of mechanics. Learning about where the rush had come from open my eyes to a new perspective as to not only to observe human culture and their roots but the roots of the sciences and technological advancements as well that effects humans so strongly. The amount of development is more impressive than I knew, especially with the robotics and genes mutation, but I am also cautious about how they use such technologies and how they get there.
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
Blog #7 Critical Thinking About a Scientists Life and Work
Rosalind Franklin was the real discoverer of the
double helix DNA structure. Unfortunately due to her nature as a woman, she was
looked down upon the scientific community and credits went to James Watson and Francis
Crick. Their work was actually based off of hers. The office politics had
hidden her talents away and ignored an award she deserved. Unfortunately,
the Nobel Peace prize is only giving to those who are living. There should be
exceptions. In the comic strip from the coursepack, Rosalind was portrayed as a
very intellectual woman who did not have time for petty drama
or irrelevant cases. There was a frame where, Watson and Crick had
thought they discovered how the DNA structure would look like and made a model,
while in face they actually heard it at one of her conferences. However even
when they tried to reconstruct the idea, it was still wrong. Rosalind yells at
them saying they have to quit with wasting her time and they should stop
messing around.
Even after several decades,
many people still believe Rosalind should’ve been credited with eh discovery.
In one of the documentaries shown in class, it shows a lab report where Watson and
Crick had added their names to her report by hand. Lab associates knew she was
the brighter one but was not credited for her work. Most of the time, she was
looked down upon because she was one of the first women scientists to make such
a breakthrough. In the beginning of the comic strip from the reading, the
scientists at the lab were surprised their new associate was a woman and that
she even understood anything they were saying. But she eventually proved them
wrong and even though Watson and Crick stole her work, she acted honorably
shaking their hands to congratulate them on the award they got for it.
Blog#6 Sharing and Reflecting on Two Resources
I have decided to go with the perils and promises of AI and robotics.
1st source:
Reporting., Michael M. Grynbaum; Robert Gebeloff Contributed. "$239,000 Conductor Among
M.T.A.'s 8,000 Six-Figure Workers." The New York Times. The New York Times, 03 June 2010. Web. 20 May 2013.
Some workers are paid more than expected. This article can help in support of reducing employees for robots to save money and debt by the MTA. It seems as though replacing humans with robots are cost effective. however, with their budget margins being so far, how could they risk spending that much more on the programs? The MTA needs to regulate the overtime requests by the employees to give a fair employment to the other employees who need more hours. Surprisingly some of their workers are being paid six figures when their base pay are usually under $100,000. Condustors seem to reject the one person operating the trai idea, but are giving the MTA no alternative to turn to to save money all the while building the 2nd ave line.
2nd Source:
Belford, Aubrey. "That's Not A Droid, That's My Girlfriend." The Global Mail. The Global
Mail, 21 Feb. 2013. Web. 19 May 2013.
There is a large gap between the acceptances of robotics in the Japanese culture versus the Western Civilization. Japan is more accepting and has become more open to developing more advanced robots as in America people fear the worst from them. This article puts into perspective the romanticism toward robotics because of cultural differences. some people have displayed a strong sentimental attachment to their devices with AI programming. The government has displayed a strong interest in developing geriatric assisting robots. Some of the robots are already in progress but parts of ti still need tweaks because it needs more of a environmental sensory. One of the things Japan fears with these robots is that it goes haywire and isnt cautious enough with the senior citizens.
1st source:
Reporting., Michael M. Grynbaum; Robert Gebeloff Contributed. "$239,000 Conductor Among
M.T.A.'s 8,000 Six-Figure Workers." The New York Times. The New York Times, 03 June 2010. Web. 20 May 2013.
Some workers are paid more than expected. This article can help in support of reducing employees for robots to save money and debt by the MTA. It seems as though replacing humans with robots are cost effective. however, with their budget margins being so far, how could they risk spending that much more on the programs? The MTA needs to regulate the overtime requests by the employees to give a fair employment to the other employees who need more hours. Surprisingly some of their workers are being paid six figures when their base pay are usually under $100,000. Condustors seem to reject the one person operating the trai idea, but are giving the MTA no alternative to turn to to save money all the while building the 2nd ave line.
2nd Source:
Belford, Aubrey. "That's Not A Droid, That's My Girlfriend." The Global Mail. The Global
Mail, 21 Feb. 2013. Web. 19 May 2013.
There is a large gap between the acceptances of robotics in the Japanese culture versus the Western Civilization. Japan is more accepting and has become more open to developing more advanced robots as in America people fear the worst from them. This article puts into perspective the romanticism toward robotics because of cultural differences. some people have displayed a strong sentimental attachment to their devices with AI programming. The government has displayed a strong interest in developing geriatric assisting robots. Some of the robots are already in progress but parts of ti still need tweaks because it needs more of a environmental sensory. One of the things Japan fears with these robots is that it goes haywire and isnt cautious enough with the senior citizens.
Blog#5 Midterm Practice
The concept of creating an advanced future through the use of technology is influential, but i do not agree with General Motors' "Futurama" exhibit portraying the perfect utopia. "Futurama" contains many displays of the super highways and advanced technology that any normal being in 1939 could get excited for. However, General Motors could not have foreseen the dire effects such a progress it has made on Earth. Gavin Schmidt and Joshua Wolfe, the authors of, "Climate Change: Picturing The Science" brings attention to the effects of such industrial development.
In the "Futurama" pamphlet, the General Motors chairnamin introduces the exhibit as a,"realization of the fact that 'the world of tomorrow'...serve as a constructive 'investment in the future' for everyone, everywhere" (Futurama, 13). The chairman builds up the excitement as if this event is the proper way to go to invest in our future. Continuing o with the pamphlet, it would use phrases such as, "Futurama the most breath taking achievement" (14). and "This vision of the 1960 dramatizes possible highway progress-higways to new horizons of aocuntry's welfare and happiness"(19). The initial quote about "Futurama" is very enthusiastic and the second quote seems to reassure the public that this is the answer to the improvement of mankind's welfare and happineness. All of this is nothing but hype and marketing not simply to invest in the future but the future of General Motors because GM would be the producer of the products.
Although GM continuously became suscessful, the environment around us is deteroiratinfg because of such development. The chairman of GM states, "history shows that the progress of civilization has run parallel to advancement in transportation" (Sloan 13). He tries to connect society's imporantce of transportaion into society's development. However, in the words of Schmidt and Wolfe, "We take for granted the ways in which we have adapted to the current climate" (schmidt and wolfe, 45). Without conciousness of society's actions, the climate changes because of us and we continue to adopt accordingly to the climate. The concept of "Futurama" has become so blind to the possible outcomes of its effects because all they focused on were the convenience to the people and the progress towards their version of "utopia", a place where everyone uses their products.
In the "Futurama" pamphlet, the General Motors chairnamin introduces the exhibit as a,"realization of the fact that 'the world of tomorrow'...serve as a constructive 'investment in the future' for everyone, everywhere" (Futurama, 13). The chairman builds up the excitement as if this event is the proper way to go to invest in our future. Continuing o with the pamphlet, it would use phrases such as, "Futurama the most breath taking achievement" (14). and "This vision of the 1960 dramatizes possible highway progress-higways to new horizons of aocuntry's welfare and happiness"(19). The initial quote about "Futurama" is very enthusiastic and the second quote seems to reassure the public that this is the answer to the improvement of mankind's welfare and happineness. All of this is nothing but hype and marketing not simply to invest in the future but the future of General Motors because GM would be the producer of the products.
Although GM continuously became suscessful, the environment around us is deteroiratinfg because of such development. The chairman of GM states, "history shows that the progress of civilization has run parallel to advancement in transportation" (Sloan 13). He tries to connect society's imporantce of transportaion into society's development. However, in the words of Schmidt and Wolfe, "We take for granted the ways in which we have adapted to the current climate" (schmidt and wolfe, 45). Without conciousness of society's actions, the climate changes because of us and we continue to adopt accordingly to the climate. The concept of "Futurama" has become so blind to the possible outcomes of its effects because all they focused on were the convenience to the people and the progress towards their version of "utopia", a place where everyone uses their products.
Sunday, May 12, 2013
Blog#4 The Promise and Perils of Robots in Film, TV and Real Life
The first video clip I found to posses a positive outlook on robots is the Industrial Robots. clip. The KUKA robots are able to be calibrated to lift and produce other heavy machinery such as cars. It moves much faster than a human being and can be more accurate when it comes to production. This is a very practical creation and can be very separable from the robots and humans.
However, the second clip begs to differ.
The second clip I chose I found to be slightly concerning is the Japan's Robots with Human Faces clip. To some extent it is impressive but yet eerie, especially with the robotic baby. Its laughter was completely abnormal and it's eyes resemble the movie Chuckie (whether or not the robot will become murderous is debatable at the moment, especially with the engineer's work in progress) The idea of the robotic secretary is convenient and similar to an automatic answering machine, except for the fact that it's a larger piece of machinery with a face to it.
But like David Gerlernter said in his writing "Dream Logic", "...an artificially intelligent computer will experience nothing and be aware of nothing. It will say 'that makes me happy,' but it won't feel happy" (236). Robots can be systematically programmed to act a certain way and respond to verbal/motion sensory cues but they will never actually feel anything; they lack the ability to experience genuine emotion.
Some people today are more accepting to the development of robotics because it has had its positive sides when it comes to convenience, especially. Transportation, communication, and other assistance have played an important impact on society. But I still believe there are some skeptics out there about robots being the answer to our problems.
For example, a few years ago I heard about the idea of MTA trains being operated by robots instead of human conductors. Some were supportive of the idea to reduce the cost of labor, but others realize the possible hazards of having them. We need human conductors to run the trains, because there are too many unpredictable factors when it comes to dealing with over 5 million riderships weekly. (Source: MTA: Facts and Figures) Think of the little incidences of confused travelers about directions to emergency evacuations due to a fire or flood. In such cases, mechanical products is never the first thing we turn to for guidance and assistance. It is the person in charge that gives reassurance to the travelers.
However, the second clip begs to differ.
The second clip I chose I found to be slightly concerning is the Japan's Robots with Human Faces clip. To some extent it is impressive but yet eerie, especially with the robotic baby. Its laughter was completely abnormal and it's eyes resemble the movie Chuckie (whether or not the robot will become murderous is debatable at the moment, especially with the engineer's work in progress) The idea of the robotic secretary is convenient and similar to an automatic answering machine, except for the fact that it's a larger piece of machinery with a face to it.
But like David Gerlernter said in his writing "Dream Logic", "...an artificially intelligent computer will experience nothing and be aware of nothing. It will say 'that makes me happy,' but it won't feel happy" (236). Robots can be systematically programmed to act a certain way and respond to verbal/motion sensory cues but they will never actually feel anything; they lack the ability to experience genuine emotion.
Some people today are more accepting to the development of robotics because it has had its positive sides when it comes to convenience, especially. Transportation, communication, and other assistance have played an important impact on society. But I still believe there are some skeptics out there about robots being the answer to our problems.
For example, a few years ago I heard about the idea of MTA trains being operated by robots instead of human conductors. Some were supportive of the idea to reduce the cost of labor, but others realize the possible hazards of having them. We need human conductors to run the trains, because there are too many unpredictable factors when it comes to dealing with over 5 million riderships weekly. (Source: MTA: Facts and Figures) Think of the little incidences of confused travelers about directions to emergency evacuations due to a fire or flood. In such cases, mechanical products is never the first thing we turn to for guidance and assistance. It is the person in charge that gives reassurance to the travelers.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Blog#3 Research Paper Topic Brainstorming
One of the topics I am interested in is the Close reading and analysis of a work or film that uses science or technology. I can use previous knowledge on certain films such as iRobot or one of the Resident Evil movies. iRobot has tons of technology references and can be collaborated with Philip K Dick's Do Androids dream of Electric Sheep?The novel examines the nature of human identity and the possibility of intelligent robots. In iRobot, if i remember correctly, has an evil robot that develops its on conscience to destroy humans with its own kind. Ironically, as much as Will Smith hated and distrusted robots, he was part machine.
With the movie Resident Evil, it covers the negative science/technology side effects. Scientists had done multiple experiments that caused a widespread disease. People become infected with the disease that turns others vicious, including animals. Science here is portrayed negatively because of all the experiments and the development of the virus man made. The technological aspect of this movie is portrayed in the Red and white queens because they are actual holograms and are the artificial intelligence of the movie.
I may be able to compare Resident Evil to Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. In some ways, both pieces of work involve the creation by man-kind that has gone awry.
Another topic I was interested in was the study of Evolutionary Psychology and Everyday Life. A particular question would be the parallels of human aggression/violence in comparison with animals. I think a long time ago, people did not want to associate themselves as an animal because they felt they composed moral values and animals didn't. But over time Darwin came up with the idea that it is the survival of the fittest in any species, causing us to reflect on our actions and how similar we are to animals from a general aspect. Many times, animals attack on instinct/fear or out of defense. Humans do just about the same when they feel they are afraid and have no way out of a dangerous situation. Sometimes, when it comes to the idea of territory, just like some animals that fight to be in charge of a pack or land, people also create wars or use other methods of violence to claim what they feel belongs to them or to assert dominance. humans by nature are aggressive/ violent creatures. We just happen to live in a specific society that does not condone such extreme violence because we are governed. Other countries however have violent people and are looked upon as a leader because they are feared or are aggressive in taking action.
With the movie Resident Evil, it covers the negative science/technology side effects. Scientists had done multiple experiments that caused a widespread disease. People become infected with the disease that turns others vicious, including animals. Science here is portrayed negatively because of all the experiments and the development of the virus man made. The technological aspect of this movie is portrayed in the Red and white queens because they are actual holograms and are the artificial intelligence of the movie.
I may be able to compare Resident Evil to Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. In some ways, both pieces of work involve the creation by man-kind that has gone awry.
Another topic I was interested in was the study of Evolutionary Psychology and Everyday Life. A particular question would be the parallels of human aggression/violence in comparison with animals. I think a long time ago, people did not want to associate themselves as an animal because they felt they composed moral values and animals didn't. But over time Darwin came up with the idea that it is the survival of the fittest in any species, causing us to reflect on our actions and how similar we are to animals from a general aspect. Many times, animals attack on instinct/fear or out of defense. Humans do just about the same when they feel they are afraid and have no way out of a dangerous situation. Sometimes, when it comes to the idea of territory, just like some animals that fight to be in charge of a pack or land, people also create wars or use other methods of violence to claim what they feel belongs to them or to assert dominance. humans by nature are aggressive/ violent creatures. We just happen to live in a specific society that does not condone such extreme violence because we are governed. Other countries however have violent people and are looked upon as a leader because they are feared or are aggressive in taking action.
Monday, March 25, 2013
Blog #2 - Popular Science: Yay or Nay?
Let's face it. Science and technology is advancing faster than the average person can keep up with. We will probably end up being like some of our older generation parents who seem to ask endless questions how to use their new phone, computer, etc. With new improvements every day, I wouldn't blame you. But that's not always a bad thing, is it?
Nowadays, there are a lot of shows on television that portray all forms of modern science. Some of the forensic science equipment used in shows such as CSI are not real but the concept never cease to amaze us. Many great inventions begin with a concept. Many in which help us progress in scientific fields. We may not be able to name all the new methods of solving a crime, medicines that cures illness, or even job careers that seem to branch off from existing ones. But we are sure glad we have it.
As much as shows such as Numb3rs, The Big Bang Theory, and more emphasize the uses and comedic perspectives of science. Many people still seem to question the authenticity of it because, after all, it is just a show. Popular shows revolved around science can be helpful to build a positive image in that field but many times, these shows are aiming for ratings as well. Sometimes, the drama is what makes the viewer continue to watch these shows and not necessarily "absorbing" the science behind it.
In the end, popular science can help build intrigue whether we believe it or not. The whole process of studying science is to first, observe and question. By watching shows like these, viewers are already on their way. Hopefully many others agree with this perspective and do not misconstrue the support for television shows. I do not believe all shows such as Breaking Bad is the best show to follow by example, but it does give a different tone to a field many people view as "boring".
Ruling: Yay! Popular Science!
Nowadays, there are a lot of shows on television that portray all forms of modern science. Some of the forensic science equipment used in shows such as CSI are not real but the concept never cease to amaze us. Many great inventions begin with a concept. Many in which help us progress in scientific fields. We may not be able to name all the new methods of solving a crime, medicines that cures illness, or even job careers that seem to branch off from existing ones. But we are sure glad we have it.
As much as shows such as Numb3rs, The Big Bang Theory, and more emphasize the uses and comedic perspectives of science. Many people still seem to question the authenticity of it because, after all, it is just a show. Popular shows revolved around science can be helpful to build a positive image in that field but many times, these shows are aiming for ratings as well. Sometimes, the drama is what makes the viewer continue to watch these shows and not necessarily "absorbing" the science behind it.
In the end, popular science can help build intrigue whether we believe it or not. The whole process of studying science is to first, observe and question. By watching shows like these, viewers are already on their way. Hopefully many others agree with this perspective and do not misconstrue the support for television shows. I do not believe all shows such as Breaking Bad is the best show to follow by example, but it does give a different tone to a field many people view as "boring".
Ruling: Yay! Popular Science!
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