An Influential Period Of Christian History - 1256 Words

One of the most influential periods of Christian History began in 1096, after Pope Urban II officially launched the First Crusade in an attempt to regain Jerusalem from its Muslim occupants. As with any other significant historical event, many people rallied in support of the war, while others demanded peace. Hadewijch of Brabant, a renowned thirteenth-century mystic and Beguine stood in opposition to the Crusades as a whole. Her status as a highly respected mystic, coupled with a unique voice and perspective, all gave Hadewijch a substantial platform on which to preach peace over war, love over violence, and forgiveness instead of revenge. Unlike her contemporary, Bernard of Clairvaux, Hadewijch used her opportunity to teach accurate†¦show more content†¦Bernard’s rhetoric relies heavily on persuasion though justification, especially in his calls to action for the Second Crusade. Though the official papal bull came from Pope Eugenius III, ultimate motivations to figh t came from the Cistercian (Allen and Amt 125). Bernard’s rallying speeches, known to be in the library at Brabant, urged crowds of would-be mercenaries and sympathetic laymen to turn their attention to the Latin East. As a literate Beguine with unlimited access to the library, Hadewijch would have read and understood the rhetorical strategies employed by Bernard in his messages urging Christianity to action. While Jerusalem teetered on the brink of collapse, Edessa and Antioch remained prisoners in the hands of heretical Muslims. Bernard’s words echoed through Europe, as he commanded those soldiers of God into a call to action: And now, for our sins, the enemies of the cross have raised blaspheming heads, ravaging with the edge of the sword the land of promise. For they are almost on the point, if there be not one to withstand them, of bursting into the very city of the living God, of overturning the sanctuaries of our redemption, of polluting the holy places of the spotless Lamb with purple blood. (Bernard of Clairvaux 126) Clearly, the rhetoric of the Cistercian rang true with Crusading soldiers, as thousands marched to the Holy Cities to defend and reconquer. As Joel Regnard points out in his

Health and Safety at Work Method and Results

Question: Discuss about theHealth and Safety at Work for Method and Results. Answer: Article to be critically analyzed: Zhuang, Z., Coffey, C.C., Jensen, P.A., Campbell, D.L., Lawrence, R.B. and Myers, W.R., 2003. Correlation between quantitative fit factors and workplace protection factors measured in actual workplace environments at a steel foundry. AIHA Journal, 64(6), pp.730-738. Title The title succinctly portrays the pivotal theme off the research (Zhuang et al. 2003). Abstract The abstract has comprehensively and in a precise manner summarized the key structure of the research encompassing the objective, method, results and conclusion. Background of the Study The main article does not contain any separate heading of introduction or background. However at the beginning of the article several findings pertaining to past research works have been provided to give an insight and overview on the topic of research. Information acquired from sources like that of published journal articles have been used to find out extensive evidences from previous findings and furthermore the gaps identified in those researches paved the way for the scopes and potentials pertinent to the study undertaken. The central idea for the research has been reported of generating out of the idea that quantitative fit factors (FFs) are reliable indicators of performance of the respirators in the context of a definite workplace. Various fit testing methods were examined by means of appropriate procedures to examine the efficacy of the protocols through comparative analysis (Coffey et al. 2002). The protection conferred by these respirators in the definite workplace setting has also been verified and cross-checked through several experiments. The extent of alignment to the guidelines as lay down by authorities like NIOSH and other have also been dealt with in these works to assess the level of respiratory protection contributed (Johnston et al. 1992). Moreover, research also have highlighted on simulated workplace protection factor (WPFs) for various class of respirators and the relative effectiveness of their use (Cohen et al. 2001). However, no concrete proof of research having focused on assessing the correlation between WPF and FF has been reported. Therefore the present study aimed to explore the impacts of good and poor fitting half face piece, air purifying respirators on protection in actual workplace setting in the context of a steel foundry apart from identifying the correlation between WPF and quantitative FF. Alongside these objectives, the factors influencing the correlation of two variables has also been recognized and discussed explicitl y. Thus the background for the study has been adequately addressed. Overview of Research Design The protocol set for the present study in keeping with the materials and methods are found to be amenable to the research methodology referred to in previous studies that satisfactorily catered to the research problems. The detailed description of the facility selection, worker selection, instruction and monitoring along with other detailed approaches such as that of measurements carried out with respect to the workers facial dimensions, respirator selection, further inspection and ultimate utilization of the tool have all been mentioned with enough clarity and fair explanations. Additionally the fit test procedures used to conduct the research has also been highlighted thereby making it easier for comprehension and reproducing the methods for future research purpose. Therefore the methodology adopted in undertaking the research study has been found to be valid, ethical, reliable and satisfactory. Rationale for the incorporation of definite study protocol has also been mentioned as w ell that rendered transparency and reliability to the work that was pursued (Kothari 2004). Sampling The sample size of the projected study was found to incorporate 15 participants in the study who were accustomed to doing diverse activities such as that of burning, welding and chipping. A total of six fit tests have been reportedly performed on the participants with two respirator models each with three sizes. The frequency of usage of the respirator by the subjects were also streamlined and regulated. The WPF sampling consisting of the ambient sampling, in-facepiece sampling and usage of personal sampling pumps, working blank and manufacturers blank have been sufficiently followed and stringently regulated throughout the entire duration of the study. The study protocol and the sampling procedure were compliant with the existing guidelines for procuring optimal outcomes out of the study. Thus the sampling is found to be convenient to carry out the study in a satisfactory fashion (Mugo 2002). Data Collection All the data that has been procured in the study has no clear-cut information regarding whether they have been collected in a manner that conforms to the ethical and legal frameworks as promulgated by appropriate authorities. Nothing has been mentioned regarding the ethical and legal considerations. Therefore it is not very much clear whether this study has adequately abided by the guidelines as proposed by the governing authorities and has the right to approve and formally direct the study (O'Leary 2013). Data Analysis The collected data from the study were analyzed and appraised by means of following the most suitable and rigorous statistical tools. Correlation analysis with WPF as the dependent variable and FF as the independent variable was done to infer about the strength of relationship between the two variables. Regression analyses were done by virtue of utilizing the log transformed table. The statistical Analyses System Software (SAS) was applied throughout for undertaking the robust and rigorous statistical calculations. Further novel techniques concerning the use of microcomputer spreadsheet technique was used for conducting the study for getting the picture about the relative distribution for fitting in a smooth curve (Kraemer and Blasey 2015). Evidence Utilization The results in connection to the research undertaken have been presented in a very elaborate and comprehensive way throughout the article. Findings have also been reported in the form of tables and statistical data and illustrations through regression and scatter plot to allow the readers to get a glimpse of the findings in a pictorial manner. The important finding of the study suggests that at instances of donning similar respirator, significant correlation exists between WPFs and FFs. Further the efficacy of performing the fit tests for the sake of identifying the workers who have poor respiratory fit is a vital revelation. Support for laboratory tests as surrogate tests for workplace tests in identifying the respiratory fits for the vulnerable individuals. The limitations of the study have also been suggested thereby adding to the reliability and authenticity of the research conducted. Therefore careful analysis and evaluation of the outcomes mentioned in course of the study rende r enough scope for future implications and investigations in the research of occupational health and safety. References Coffey, C.C., Lawrence, R.B., Zhuang, Z., Campbell, D.L., Jensen, P.A. and Myers, W.R., 2002. Comparison of five methods for fit-testing N95 filtering-facepiece respirators. Applied occupational and environmental hygiene, 17(10), pp.723-730. Cohen, H.J., Hecker, L.H., Mattheis, D.K., Johnson, J.S., Biermann, A.H. and Foote, K.L., 2001. Simulated workplace protection factor study of powered air-purifying and supplied air respirators. AIHAJ-American Industrial Hygiene Association, 62(5), pp.595-604. Johnston, A.R., Myers, W.R., Colton, C.E., Birkner, J.S. and Campbell, C.E., 1992. Review of respirator performance testing in the workplace: issues and concerns. The American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, 53(11), pp.705-712. Kothari, C.R., 2004. Research methodology: Methods and techniques. New Age International. Kraemer, H.C. and Blasey, C., 2015. How many subjects?: Statistical power analysis in research. Sage Publications. Mugo, F.W., 2002. Sampling in research. O'Leary, Z., 2013. The essential guide to doing your research project. Sage. Zhuang, Z., Coffey, C.C., Jensen, P.A., Campbell, D.L., Lawrence, R.B. and Myers, W.R., 2003. Correlation between quantitative fit factors and workplace protection factors measured in actual workplace environments at a steel foundry. AIHA Journal, 64(6), pp.730-738.

What Is An Earthquake (682 words) Essay Example For Students

What Is An Earthquake? (682 words) Essay What Is An Earthquake?EarthquakesWhat is an Earthquake? An Earthquake is the shaking of the earths surface caused by rapid movement of the earths rocky outer layer. The sudden shaking of the ground that occurs when masses of rock change position below the Earths surface is called an earthquake. The shifting masses send out shock waves that may be powerful enough to alter the surface of the Earth, thrusting up cliffs and opening great cracks in the ground. Earthquakes, called temblors by scientists, occur almost continuously. Fortunately, most of them can be detected only by sensitive instruments called seismographs. Others are felt as small tremors. Some of the rest, however, cause major catastrophes. They produce such tragic and dramatic effects as destroyed cities, broken dams, earth slides, giant sea waves called tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions. A very great earthquake usually occurs at least once a year in some part of the world. On the average about 10,000 people die each year as a result of earthquakes. According to a study carried out by the United Nations and covering the years 1926 to 1950, there were 350,000 deaths, and property damage losses exceeded 10 billion dollars. As cities expand to shelter a rapidly increasing world population, it is likely that there will be even greater losses of life and property in spite of improved methods of detection and better warning systems. Mankind has long been concerned about earthquake hazards. The oldest chronicle comes from the Chinese as early as the Shang Dynasty more than 3,000 years ago. Although it is certain that violent Earth tremors in themselves are destructive, there are often other kinds of Earth movements that are triggered by earthquake shock waves. Thus, the violent shaking that accompanies many earthquakes often causes rockslides, snow avalanches, and landslides. In some areas these events are frequently more devastating than the Earth tremor itself. Floods and fires are also caused by earthqua kes. Floods arise from tsunamis along coast lines, from large-scale seiches in enclosed bodies of water such as lakes and canals, and from the failure of dams. Fire produced the greatest property loss following the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, when 521 blocks in the city center burned uncontrollably for three days. Fire also followed the 1923 Tokyo earthquake, causing much damage and hardship for the citizens. Causes Most of the worst earthquakes are associated with changes in the shape of the Earths outermost shell, particularly the crust. These so called tectonic earthquakes are generated by the rapid release of strain energy that is stored within the rocks of the crust, which on continents is about 22 miles thick. A small proportion of earthquakes are associated with human activity. Dynamite or atomic explosions, for example, can sometimes cause mild quakes. The injection of liquid wastes deep into the Earth and the pressures resulting from holding vast amounts of water in rese rvoirs behind large dams can also trigger minor earthquakes. The strongest and most destructive quakes, however, are associated with ruptures of the Earths crust, which are known as faults. Although faults are present in most regions of the world, earthquakes are not associated with all of them. Pressures from within the Earth strain the great rock masses beneath the Earths surface. The strain builds until suddenly the masses move along faults, thereby releasing energy. The masses slip and slide in opposite directions along this fracture in the rock, shaking the ground above. The masses may move up and down, sideways, or vertically and horizontally. On the Earths surface displacement of the ground may vary from several centimeters to many meters. Some fault lines appear on the surface of the Earth. Shock Waves The shifting rock in an earthquake causes shock waves called seismic waves to spread through the rock in all directions. In a great earthquake shocks may be felt by people tho usands of kilometers away from the center . Detection and recording devices calleBibliographyThe shifting rock in an earthquake causes shock waves called seismic waves to spread through the rock in all directions. In a great earthquake shocks Music Essays .ufdca06dcf6c1c50c1bf6a3cb8d8ead22 , .ufdca06dcf6c1c50c1bf6a3cb8d8ead22 .postImageUrl , .ufdca06dcf6c1c50c1bf6a3cb8d8ead22 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .ufdca06dcf6c1c50c1bf6a3cb8d8ead22 , .ufdca06dcf6c1c50c1bf6a3cb8d8ead22:hover , .ufdca06dcf6c1c50c1bf6a3cb8d8ead22:visited , .ufdca06dcf6c1c50c1bf6a3cb8d8ead22:active { border:0!important; } .ufdca06dcf6c1c50c1bf6a3cb8d8ead22 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .ufdca06dcf6c1c50c1bf6a3cb8d8ead22 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .ufdca06dcf6c1c50c1bf6a3cb8d8ead22:active , .ufdca06dcf6c1c50c1bf6a3cb8d8ead22:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .ufdca06dcf6c1c50c1bf6a3cb8d8ead22 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .ufdca06dcf6c1c50c1bf6a3cb8d8ead22 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .ufdca06dcf6c1c50c1bf6a3cb8d8ead22 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .ufdca06dcf6c1c50c1bf6a3cb8d8ead22 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .ufdca06dcf6c1c50c1bf6a3cb8d8ead22:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .ufdca06dcf6c1c50c1bf6a3cb8d8ead22 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .ufdca06dcf6c1c50c1bf6a3cb8d8ead22 .ufdca06dcf6c1c50c1bf6a3cb8d8ead22-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .ufdca06dcf6c1c50c1bf6a3cb8d8ead22:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Does Sex Education Work Essay We will write a custom essay on What Is An Earthquake? 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How To Write A Research Proposal Guidelines And Advices - Paperell.com

How To Write A Research Proposal Guidelines And Advices How To Write A Research Proposal: Guidelines And Advices When students begin to work on a research proposal, they often do not understand what it exactly means. And sometimes, some of them cannot realize the importance of this paper. A research proposal is like a characterization of a study that is created to explore a given problem. Students usually write it to convince others that they have a big and relevant project and they also have enough knowledge and work-plan to finish it. What is its purpose? In most cases, this proposal has to be addressed the following questions: what do you plan to commit, why do you want to do it, and the way you are going to do it. You must answer these questions in your proposal regardless of what you are studying or chosen methodology. The main aim of this work is to show essential concepts.The Structure of The Research Proposal What Do You Need to KnowA general structure of such paper consists of seven sections and below we will give you a short description of each to help you see how your whole work sho uld look. Title. A title should be definitive and descriptive, and it also should give enough information about your article. You need to revisit the title after you have done the article to make sure that it is related to the topic you have chosen. Abstract. It is a short brief that is about 300 words long. It usually includes the main question of your research, the hypothesis, the background and the method of your study. You can describe the procedures, design and the instruments you are going to use and you can give some samples if you want to. Introduction. In the introduction, you need to give the background information and make a kind of framework for your investigation. With the help of it, your readers should understand the relationship between it and your research. Here you write about the purpose of your research, at this stage it can seem that it is quite similar to that in the research paper outline but keep in mind that it has some different features. While writing an i ntroduction, you need to begin with a statement. It is an essential of the construction of your proposal. You need to figure out your question or problem systematically, show the importance of your study, and you can also say something about the priority of this research in your country or a region if this problem needs to be solved. Here you provide the context for your research. Objectives. The objectives of your proposal are the main aims you need to achieve during your study, these objectives can be general and specific. A general objective is what you need to commit to your project and a specific objective usually relates to specific questions which you need to answer in your study. Variables. Now you should identify the key variables of your investigation. There can be independent, dependent, confounding, and background variables: independent variables are something like risk factor, input, characteristic or attribute. Dependent variables are the variables, which can change a result of a level of the independent variables, they are like an effect or an outcome. Confounding variables can mix the effect of the independent variables. And the background variables are about the investigations of particular groups or populations. The characteristics you use must be always clearly figured out for the main aim of your study. Questions and hypotheses. If you have enough information about the main topic you study, you can formulate the hypotheses – they can be described as a prediction or explanation about the relationship between the variables. What about a hypothesis? A hypothesis shows the prediction of the expected outcome and the depth of your knowledge, experience, and creativity. You can use a hypothesis or not use it – this matter depends on different factors like the main aim of your study, your methodology, and your audience. Methodology. The methodology is always important because it will inform the research Committee about your original p lan to handle the problem you work within your research. Like in a dissertation proposal, you should give the clear and concise information for understanding by the reader which methodology you have chosen. Thus, methodology is an important section of your work.These Tips Can Help You To Make Your Research Proposal SuccessfulHow to handle this task excellently? It won’t be simple. However, writing a brilliant proposal will not be a big problem if you follow these tips:Provide a proper context to figure out a study question;Limit the borders of your study to avoid giving excess information;Give some landmark studies examples;Present both theoretical and empirical additions by other scholars and their studies;Don’t forget to be focused on the main question of your research;Give a clear argument for your investigation;Do not give too much details, especially when you write about some minor issues and, on the contrary, give enough details about some major issues;Do not giv e too many citations and incorrect notes;Control the lengths of your article. It should not be too long or too short;Always follow the APA style.We hope these tips will be helpful for you when you prepare your research article. It is not easy, but quite real if you follow a proper structure and remember the main aim of your study.

Why My Brother Is My Best Friend Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Why My Brother Is My Best Friend - Essay Example I told him that Aljendro was there. The teacher called Aljendro in the classroom and showed him my blank page of class work. The teacher also showed Aljendro that I had been missing the classes on the attendance register. Alejandro told the teacher that he would take care of that. The teacher also placed confidence in Aljendro because Aljendro had been holding the first position throughout his education. Alejandro left the class. I was terrified that Aljendro would tell mom and dad, and they would be furious with me to know that I had been missing the classes as well as class work. I was very upset until I realized that Aljendro did not say a word to mom and dad. It so happened that he came to me in my room to talk to me about the teacher’s complaint. I had a beautiful and comfortable relationship with him, so I thought not to lie to him. I told him that I was having trouble gaining certain concepts. Aljendro identified those areas and personally taught me them with such detai l that I grasped those concepts. Aljendro also helped me organize my work by designing a schedule for me. As I had full confidence in Aljendro and wanted to be a position holder for him, I tried my best to follow his schedule, and it did work for me. A few days later, the teacher again called Aljendro in the classroom, but this time, it was not for a complaint, but for a reward. The teacher thanked Aljendro for helping me focus on the studies and told the class to clap and appreciate the efforts of an elder brother for a younger brother.... Aljendro also helped me organize my work by designing a schedule for me. As I had full confidence in Aljendro and wanted to be a position holder like him, I tried my best to follow his schedule, and it did work for me. Few days later, the teacher again called Aljendro in the classroom, but this time, it was not for a complaint, but for a reward. The teacher thanked Aljendro for helping me focus on the studies and told the class to clap and appreciate the efforts of an elder brother for a younger brother. Aljendro really helped me improve my academic performance. Had he told mom and dad all that the teacher had confided in him, that would have shattered my confidence as well as my trust upon him, but he kept that from happening. I believe that elder brother is always much more responsible for the type of relationship between two brothers, because he is wiser and is looked up to by the younger brother in all aspects. Younger brothers imitate elder brothers, so they naturally display ru de or nice behavior when they see elder brothers doing either of the two. Also, since elder brother has got more resources and authority than younger brother at any point in time, he is more able to affect the relationship for better or worse. For example, I remember my friend Bob whose elder brother would not let him touch his computer and that made Bob dislike him. My brother was never like that. Whatever he got, he shared it with me with a view to teaching me new things and inculcating new skills in me. From the books to his clothes, Aljendro has shared his every belonging with me, and has really fulfilled all responsibilities of an elder brother. Today, I fundamentally attribute my sense of

Drinking Water and Sanitation Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Drinking Water and Sanitation - Research Paper Example The lack of safe drinking water has led to a number of diseases and deaths, especially among infants. A number of goals have been set over the years with various ten year milestones. These milestones have been beset with various challenges. However, there has been some amount of success. Various strategies including the promotion of breast-feeding to reduce mortality in infants have been used as a means of dealing with the effects of the problem. Introduction Drinking water and sanitation are two important factors in the lives of human beings. Water is required not only to drink but also for personal hygiene, the preparation of meals and to ensure that our surroundings are clean. Some people do not have access to piped water and therefore depend on other sources such as rivers and streams. This water is not treated and in a number of cases is exposed to various factors in the environment. Among these factors are the way we carry out various activities including disposal of industrial and household wastes. In addition to that, there is the problem of inadequate and improper sanitary conveniences which also have implications for the supply of safe water. Over the years a number of goals have been set. However, they have not been fully realized due to various challenges that affect these efforts. Previous Goals and Achievements The period 1981 – 1990 was designated as ‘The International Drinking Water Supply and Sanitation Decade’ by the United Nations (Cairncross 1992). During that period the aim was to increase the supply of water and hygienic toilets so that more people especially the poor could have access to these necessities (Cairncross 1992). A number of organizations including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Bank were involved in this effort. Since then the drive for the improvement in the quality of life has continued as some of the targets were not achieved. In fact, Cairncross (1992) points out that a lot more needs to be done in order to facilitate efforts to make safe water and proper sanitation available to all people. Risk of Inadequate Drinking Water and Sanitation The problems that arise from inadequate drinking water and poor sanitation are far greater than the problems of war, terrorist attack and weapons of mass destruction but they receive less attention (Bartram et al, p. 810). The lack of proper sanitation and waste disposal facilities can lead to waterborne diseases including malaria, schistosomiasis and legionellosis (WHO). This is a serious problem as it results in the death of approximately 3900 children everyday and therefore threatens the achievement of the millennium development goals (MDGs) (Bartram et al 2005). The developing countries are more at risk as microbial organisms which cause diseases are normally found in drinking water in these areas (Ashbolt 2004). The situation is worst in places like Africa and Asia where a substantial portion of their people live in condit ions of extreme poverty. Sequelae and mortality are the result as the body becomes less capable of providing immunity against diseases that are endemic (Pond 2005). Diseases associated with the intestines are generally more severe because of the high levels of mal-nutrition as well as the non-existence of strategies in these countries to deal with these types of problems. The traditional methods of filtration and chlorination continue to be used. However, these are not 100% effective as there are some chlorine resistant pathogens (Ashbolt 2004). The Millennium Development Goals According to Bartram et al (2005) 40% of the world population does not have access to a pit latrine and almost 20% do not have access to

Enlightenment virtue Essay Example for Free

Enlightenment virtue Essay The advances in robotics have also been staggering. Todays robots, in addition to doing the menial tasks once performed by unskilled laborers, are considered vital contributing participants in such diverse environments as hospitals, factories, universities, offices, and banking institutions. The level of artificial intelligence attained is not quite at human levels, but is approaching those levels at an unprecedented pace. Machines already are in charge of making complicated decisions for the government and military; its only a matter of time before these types of robots are also helping direct the economy and aspects of private life. Despite fears that robotic technology would displace their human counterpart workers and cause massive unemployment, that has not yet been the case, with the employment rate actually increasing, albeit in areas that require highly skilled personnel. The mass-production of household robotic technology has made it possible for many consumers to purchase machines that take care of domestic tasks like preparing food and cleaning, allowing parents to have more leisure time, or to spend time with their children. In fact, the amount of newly available leisure time has been a dominant factor in the recent recreational activity and entertainment industry boom. (Last Name) 4 There is still a large measure of economic disparity between society in the post-industrial West verses the industrializing countries of Africa, Asia, and South America. While the AIDS virus was pronounced curable by doctors at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine two years ago, there are still people who are dying of the disease in the world simply because the medicine needed to cure people is being given to wealthy countries very disproportionately. Biotechnology has impacted both of our lives in a very significant way. The Human Genome Project, made it possible to unravel hereditary genetic disorders like Alzheimers and Huntingtons disease which have devastated families like ours for centuries. Despite your acquisition of Huntingtons at birth, scientists were able to identify the damaged genes in your DNA and correct them accordingly. Similarly, other diseases once thought incurable (e. g. AIDS, cancer) have been remedied by biotechnology and reputable scientists are seriously proposing that practical immortality could be possible. Progress in biotechnology has also come to help economically disadvantaged countries cultivate previously barren regions with genetically enhanced crops that thrive despite hostile conditions. War among nations still exists. Ian Buruma said that â€Å"Koran itself was the source violent abuse†. (p. 5) I agree with this statement. While it is undoubtedly true that Muslims like Bouyeri with their fundamentalist, misogynistic and murderous interpretation of religious text surely represent a threat to the Enlightenment virtues of freedom and reason, do public personas like Theo Van Gogh indeed represent a personification of those same Enlightenment virtues. This persistent refrain that echoes through the book forces the reader to question the illiberal and often intolerant practices of the Dutch Muslims amid whom Bouyeri was reared as well as the Dutch (Last Name) 5 who have managed to delude themselves into believing that hatred is somehow an Enlightenment virtue. Our global impact is finally receiving the scientific attention it deserves. The outcome will largely determine the future course of evolution. Human-modified ecosystems are shaped by our activities and their side effects. They share a common set of traits including simplified food webs, landscape homogenization, and high nutrient and energy inputs. Ecosystem simplification is the ecological hallmark of humanity and the reason for our evolutionary success. However, the side effects of our profligacy and poor resource practices are now so pervasive as to threaten our future no less than that of biological diversity itself. This looks at human impact on ecosystems and the consequences for evolution. It concludes that future evolution will be shaped by our awareness of the global threats, our willingness to take action, and our ability to do so. Our ability is presently hampered by several factors, including the poor state of ecosystem and planetary knowledge, ignorance of human impact, lack of guidelines for sustainability, and a paucity of good policies, practices, and incentives for adopting those guidelines in daily life. Conservation philosophy, science, and practice must be framed against the reality of human-dominated ecosystems, rather than the separation of humanity and nature underlying the modern conservation movement. The steps scientists can take to imbed science in conservation and conservation in the societal process affecting the future of ecosystems and human well-being are discussed. Assessing the implications for our own future is no simpler than it is for ecosystems. The future can be gauged from several points of view from human carrying capacity, capacity for a given standard of living, or for the diversity of future options, for example. Should (Last Name) 6 our horizon be measured in ecological or evolutionary time in decades and centuries, or in millennia and millions of years? One could well argue that our very success evolutionarily is proof of our ability to modify ecosystems to our advantage and that we can take care of the environment in due course, when we can afford it. The challenge for ecology and environmental studies is to gauge the outcome of human action on ecosystem processes and on our own future. If there is no link between biodiversity and human well-being, then the future may be bleak for diversity but not necessarily for humanity. If that is the case, the fate of diversity will depend on human compassion, esthetics, and emotions rather than on human welfare. How do I see myself fit into it? Because of my knowledge and faith in God, I am well fit to the future. Future means reality and reality is not independently given but is contingent upon our decisions. (George Soros p. 4) Future is just like today that if we neglect and forget will just become nonsense past. â€Å"To see the earth as it truly is, small and blue and beautiful in that eternal silence where it floats, is to see ourselves as riders on the earth together†¦, written by Archibald Macleish. (Al Gore p. 12) The earth is truly a masterpiece so let’s protect our endangered environment. (Last Name) Bibliography Buruma, Ian. Murder in Amsterdam: The Death of Theo Van Gogh and the Limits of Tolerance. New York: Penguin Press, 2006 Gore, Al. An Inconvenient Truth: The Planetary Emergency of Global Warming and What We Can Do About It . Rodale, 2006 Soros, George. The Age of Fallibility: Consequences of the War on Terror. Public Affairs, 2006.