Resistant to Change

During my time in Scientific Revolutions I have come to realize that society, as a whole is significantly resistant to, if not downright afraid of new scientific ideas. As Philip Appleman states “A 19th century adage proposed that it is the fate of all great scientific discoveries to pass through three stages. In the first stage, people say, ‘It’s absurd’; in the second, ‘It’s contrary to the Bible’; and in the third, ‘Oh, we’ve known that all along.’” (Appleman 13) This is shown countless times in our past as with every proposed theory we know as truths today there has been direct opposition with gradual acceptance.
To us the struggle of acceptance with a new theory is most dramatically seen in recent years with the evolutionary theories proposed by Charles Darwin. In 1859, Darwin first published his Origin of Species; this caused mass hysteria amongst society as it directly refuted what was previously understood as truth. Less then a hundred years ago creationism was still being taught in schools, as in 1925 John Thomas Scopes was put on trial for teaching evolutionary theory to his students. (Appleman 16) And merely two decades ago, in 1987, did the Supreme Court finally rule that public schools couldn’t teach creationism.
It has taken a considerable amount of time for the populace to recover from Darwin’s initial evolutionary proposition. As we travel through the aforementioned stages of acceptance we seem to have gotten stuck in the second phase, ‘It’s contrary to the Bible’. Last year on CNN featured a debate on creationism vs. evolutionism.




Through the video one can see that the resistance to switch over to Darwinian thinking is still in full swing. The rise of new scientific developments sparks a fear in people as it fundamentally means a previous belief and understanding was incorrect. Therefore part of the resistance lies in admitting you were wrong or what you believe in is false.
I believe this resistance to new theories only lies within the scientific community. I have seen in the Graphic Design and Digital Media major that developmental ideas are seen mostly as advancements in the field and received with open arms. I think the stereotype of the mad scientist is still greatly affecting us, the general public, as science is still considered a dangerous art.

Works Cited and Course Readings:

Appleman, Philip, ed. Darwin. 3rd ed. New York: W.W.Norton, 2001.

Creationism debate on CNN's "Anderson Cooper 360" Perf. Rob Boston and Sharmane Yoest. You Tube. 16 Aug. 2007. 13 Dec. 2008 .

Darwin Revelation

Throughout the course of this year in our Scientific Revolutions class I’ve come across some very interesting ideas. Some of these ideas I’ve already known and was simply made more aware of, while others were completely alien to me. However, one concept stuck out. Charles Darwin postulated that all of mankind is descendant of a lower, baser form. I’ve known this since it was taught to me at a young age in school, but what I’ve recently came across is the concept of evolution leaping from purely natural settings to evolution of society and civilization.

This notion was not directly stated by Darwin, but rather a man following down the same path, a man named Herbert Spencer. Within Appelman’s book this particular section on Spencer is interpreted by another man named Richard Hofstadter, but in either case his contributions are in giving a living voice and context to Spencer’s ideals.

What Spencer puts forth in his philosophy on mankind is that the human race will adapt entirely to civilization, but to do so we must allow for Darwin’s concept of “survival of the fittest” to take hold within society. What Spencer is saying is that we must allow for the unfortunate to die off. No aid or humanitarian efforts of any kind can be allowed for to help would be to bolster up traits and ideals which are flawed or lead to subpar qualities. To quote Hofstadter, “Nature is as insistent upon fitness of mental character as she is upon physical character, (pg. 392)” so stating that being physically or mentally unfit ends with death in the natural world. And to emphasize Hofstadter’s point, Spencer says, “If they are sufficiently complete to live, they do live, and it is well they should live. If they are not sufficiently complete to live, they die, as it is best they do die. (pg. 392)”

However, how could we ever do this? The general masses of people are far too kind hearted to allow someone to perish on their very doorstep for the sake of the overall effect of evolution. Even if you were to take away this humanitarian aspect of helping those in need, we would still be left with the very basic survival instinct of safety in numbers. In some instances we save others to save ourselves. Yet even if you take away this base instinct you would find that this theory still doesn’t work. Just consider a world where we allowed the weak to die with impunity. We would stand to lose many great people along the way. Poets and authors who were too poor to get by without help, painters who had no money but that they acquired through begging. If we snuffed out or ignored those in need we would find ourselves in a much less wondrous environment, devoid of things which we take for granted.

I realized through reading about Spencer’s plan that our need to be humane trumps our evolutionary needs. Our society is far better off with those who need help than without them. While I reject Spencer’s notions in society I accept his consideration of evolution within it. Darwin’s belief was that evolution was a multi-pronged assault against extinction, that the myriad of species which inhabit this earth are a result of this assault. Both Spencer and Darwin rely on this notion of steps, that we start from a single point and grow out from it, changing along the way to better suit the needs for that time. However, Spencer’s notion fails to take into account that the civilized world cannot follow the same rules as a flesh and blood animal. Social aspects can be found in other species, but empires and civilizations cannot be, Spencer’s theory is placing biological concepts on abstract principles.

Works Cited

Hofstadter, Richard. Social Darwinism in American Though. Ch. 2. Boston, 1955

Darwin (appleman)



This video describes some of the basic feelings towards the notion of social darwinsim, though it is put into the scheme of the failing market.

Evolution of Race

Amanda Osborne

COR 210-05

Cyndi Brandenburg

11 December 2008

Darwin Revelation

            Over the course of Scientific Revolutions, I have studied the works of Charles Darwin and his theories of evolution.  Through these studies, I have come to the revelation that one should feel foolish to even begin to discriminate against another race.  To claim one race as being “better” than another is ludicrous based upon Darwin’s theory of evolution and how we came to be different from each other.

            Ernst Mayr writes that Darwin disapproved the theory of individual creationism and strongly believed that all humans descended from a common ancestor (Appleman, 23).  The National Academy of Sciences states that Darwin explained that when a species, such as humans, becomes geographically separated, they become genetically different through processes such as natural selection (Appleman, 292).  The findings of Darwin can be applied to the human race to explain why variations such as skin color are found amongst us. 

            It is thought to be that the first humans originated in Africa, an area of intense sun exposure.  Because of the brutality of the sun in this region, these humans had very dark skin, which acted as a means of protection from the sun’s rays.  As humans began to migrate to various regions in the world, such as Europe or Asia, their skin color began to change with each new generation.  As humans traveled further away from Africa, and the equator, it was unnecessary for them to pertain the dark skin complexion that was once needed.  The reason why skin color changed can be proven through Darwin’s studies of natural selection.         

            Natural selection is a term used to describe the genetic differences of a species from generation to generation.  These genetic differences from one generation to another are beneficial, and often times necessary, for the species and helps improve survival rates.  For humans, it can be applied to the explanation of why there are different races in existence today.  We all have different skin colors because it is what was most beneficial to our previous ancestors based upon their geographical inhabitance.

            Based on this knowledge of the evolution of human race, I have come to the revelation that it is indeed foolish for one to judge someone based upon his/her race.  Darwin has proved that we are all indeed from the same ancestor and therefore any qualities such as intelligence, beauty, and worth cannot directly correlate to race.

            Darwin’s theories of evolution and natural selection show that we are all different for a reason and therefore we shouldn’t judge one another for our differences in physical appearances such as skin color.  One race should not be claimed “smarter” than another.  One is not smarter than another based upon their skin color; one is smarter than another based upon their educational opportunities.  Therefore, it can be said that one race may have lesser opportunities for education in a specific region and therefore are not as of the same intellectual level as another race, but it is foolish to say that that group of individuals isn’t of the same intellectual level merely because of their skin color. 

            People in history, such as Martin Luther King, Jr., have tried to explain to those with discriminatory views that we are all indeed the same.  Darwin, however, has scientific reasons for people to consider.  If we all have originated from the same human ancestors then we should all be treated as equals, regardless of skin color.  Race evolved as a means to benefit individuals of different geographic regions and therefore should not be looked at negatively.  Darwin’s works show that it is truly beneficial for humans to be of different skin colors. 

  

Evolution of Skin Color.  Youtube Video.  11 December 2008.  .

            This video explains the evolution of race and why we are all different from one another.  It confirms my revelation that it is ridiculous for one to be judged on the color of their skin because we are all indeed very similar to one another due to the fact that all races have descended form a single ancestor.   

                       

 

Work Cited

 

National Academy of Sciences.  “Evolution and the Nature of Science.”  Darwin.  Ed. Philip Appleman.  New York: W.W. Norton &Company, 2001.  292.

Mayr, Ernst.  “Who Is Darwin?” Darwin.  Ed. Philip Appleman.  New York: W.W. Norton & Company, 2001. 23.       

Whats News in Science?A dvanced Tactical Laser (ATL)

The Advanced Tactical Laser is an innovative concept for airborne ultra precision strike mission that uses high energy laser weapon mounted on an Aircraft, usually the C-130 aircraft. On board are visible and infrared surveillance and acquisition sensors provide the weapon operator scene images of increasing resolution for finding and engaging targets. The ATL uses a close-cycle, chemical oxygen-iodine laser with an appropriate beam control. It can demonstrate its power from a moving platform by slicing a metal plate in half from about nine miles away. It can be so far away and still observe that it cannot be attacked by small arms fires keeping the soldiers at a safe range. The safe distance can be seen in this video.

The ATL does have other benefits besides killing. It can provide powerful capabilities for both lethal and non-lethal ultra-precision engagements of threats with little or no collateral damage. This weapon is very critical in Urban environments and congested areas that are vulnerable to terrorist activities or insurgent operations. It provides a laser weapon that can also be used for less than lethal engagements that can help control high risk purposes for both the military and the humanitarian purposes. Its high resolution can make observations and surveillance capabilities much more possible in highly density areas. In order to be used in the field however, it must pass some certain requirements. The ATL is required to be a sealed exhaust chemical oxygen iodine laser that eliminates the soldiers exposure to chemical materials. Boeing has met most of the requirements and is almost ready to be used. The ATL will be available around 2009. The prime contractor for the ATL is the Boeing Companies Rocketdyne Division. The ATL is expected to cost 180 million dollars. 

Sources

http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/systems/atl.htm                       

   Global Security. Org 

http://www.popsci.com/bown/2008/product/boeing-advanced-tactical-laser

Pop Sci.com

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.spacewar.com/images/advanced-tactical-laser-atl-sunset-bg.

  Space war.com

What's News in Science-Depression in Space

Currently Nasa is developing a computer program called "The Virtual Space Station" that will help astronauts deal with depression in space. Depression is a very common symptom for astronauts due to long missions, isolation, and altered sleep cycles. Other issues they often have are interpersonal conflict, anxiety, and stress. Astronauts cant simply speak to a psychiatrist due to limited time with communication links to Earth.

The Virtual Space Station itself is very interactive with video of real psychiatrists. The method it uses to relieve stress and help deal with depression is called the problem solving method. It is a multi-step method that helps the user figure out their problems one by one and deal with them individually. It is meant to isolate and simplify problems. For example one thing the program might have you do is physically list out all your problems or tasks and figure out the best approach for each one in an organized manner.

This program is going to help astronauts a great deal during long missions and make it easier for people to deal with stress. However, the plans for the program are not only for astronauts and space. The developers of the program, Dr. Jay Buckley and Dr. James Cartrine, have plans to implement it on Earth for everyday people. This would be a great psychiatric advancement and bring psychiatric help to people who don't have the time and or the money to see a real psychiatrist. Soon psychiatric help will be only a mouse click away.

Works Cited:

Original Article

Problem solving method
More Info

Space Elevator Development

In November Japan will be hosting a conference to discuss developments on “space elevator” concepts. According to CNN, the concept is achievable and the elevator may be a created within the century.Currently, the elevators design concept calls for a cable anchored to Earth that will reach over 25,000 miles high to a satellite docking station orbiting in space. On the opposite end there will be a counterweight added for balance.

The concept was developed following the physical theory of inertia--matter retains its velocity along a straight line so long as it is not acted upon by an external force. Therefore because of the elevators counterweight and the rotation of the earth, the elevator cable will stay taught (much like if you were attach a ball to the end of a string and swing it in a circle motion).

So far, some of the suggested uses for the elevator include:
- Transporting payloads to space stations.
- Transporting people into space.
- Disposing of nuclear waste.
- Placing solar panels in space to power homes on Earth.

Japanese and European engineering organizations have been working together with a U.S. organization called The Spaceward Foundation on the elevator design. They have been developing smaller 1 km high elevators since 2004.
According to these organizations, once the elevator cable built, electric cars can travel on it using designs similar those found on ski lifts and trains.

The fact that this project could become a reality says a lot about how far science has come. With so many promising uses, the elevator could be a revolutionary mechanism. Proposals for its uses in waste disposal and harnessing solar energy could further develop transformation into a ‘green’ environment.

WORKS CITED

Elevator developers website: **This website does not seem to be working anymore... It may be under construction**

SPACEWARD.COM

News article: CNN.COM

Reversing Alzheimer's Symptoms Using Enbrel - Dwight Stannard

Alzheimer’s is a brain disorder named after German physician, Alois Alzheimer. It is a PROGRESSIVE and FATAL form of dementia which is currently without a cure. Alzheimer’s destroys brain cells, causing severe memory problems. As cells die, they no longer support other areas of the brain, so these areas break down as well rapidly increasing loss of memory. As many as 5 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s. 

“Cytokines” are important soluble proteins in the brain. “Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha” (TNF) is a critical Cytokine that works in the brain’s immune system. TNF finely regulates the transmission of neural impulses in the brain. 

Elevated levels of TNF in Alzheimer’s interfere with the neural impulse regulation. Excess TNF-alpha have been documented in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with Alzheimer’s.

An experiment was performed in 2007, in which scientists injected an anti-TNF therapeutic called “etanercept”(trade name Enbrel) to reduce elevated TNF levels in patients. Enbrel is most commonly used for rheumatoid and arthritis. Results were documented as dramatic, unprecedented therapeutic effect: improvement within minutes of spinal injection. 

Many other patients with mild to severe Alzheimer’s have been treated with Enbrel and have all shown sustained and marked improvement. 

Visit www.alzheimer.ca to donate to Alzheimer’s Research!

VIDEO: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=76P6Xm3WsEM

Works Cited: 

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/01/080109091102.htm 

- Science Daily 

http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_what_is_alzheimers.asp#early 

- Alzheimer’s Association 

http://www.alzheimer.ca/english/help/intro.htm 

- Alzheimer’s Society