5-1-06
Here it is: HereGoesNothingFinalPaper

5-1-06
Cosmohopefulogy

While at the bar sipping on my drink
A drunk, old madman approached me screaming:
"The universe will expand forever!
That means matter will never realign
And therefore you truly live only once!
Upon a thoughtful mind, I had felt fear,
For but the mind is what matter makes it!
Could we be reborn again if only
That matter contracts and expands again
Forming what was lost to you back again!
But then a thought dawned upon me, I said:
"You may be correct, but answer me this,
For certain is there only this matter
Which you predict is in this universe
And even if so, can you be certain
That there is but one universe for us?"

5-1-06
This poem is overly harsh, but I still feel it represents how I sometimes feel when I read poetry:

The Definition of Poetry

Poetry is a mindless form of art,
Where complex, misunderstood imagery
Is senselessly used merely to impress
The elitists who remain superior
To the common man who does not even see
The “brilliant interpretations” of poets.
Poetry will only evolve when the
Message becomes paramount to the work,
Where imagery is used to enhance it.
Where an impression is made on readers
By replacing confusion with interest.

5-1-06
The Mouse and the Elephant

The Mouse decided one day to taunt the elephant for his amusement. The Mouse planned an intricate and brilliant trap throughout the day to thwart the Elephant from attacking him when he was angered. The Mouse approached the Elephant with complete confidence the following day.

“You are a big buffoon, said the Mouse, “and you are too cowardly to show me otherwise.”

Of course, the elephant was not too cowardly to show otherwise. Instead of answering with words, the elephant violently charged the diminutive Mouse. The Mouse started to run and smiled with glee.

“Oh this ‘ought to be fun,” chuckled the Mouse, “the trap will set off precisely when he crosses this point and then I will be able to taunt him some more.”

The Mouse started to skip in anticipation a moment before the angry Elephant crossed over the location of the trap. When the Elephant crossed the spot, to the Mouse’s utmost surprise, nothing happened. The Mouse stopped moving and began to cower in fear, realizing his trap did not work properly. Needless to say, the Mouse did not make fun of the Elephant ever again.

Overconfidence in a seemingly perfect plan may contain unexpected faults.

5-1-06
The Zebra and the Lion

The Lion was hunting the Zebra across the savannah on a hot summer day for his first meal. The Zebra was fatigued from a previous day of long and difficult traveling, and he found it impossible to outrun the Lion. As the Lion grew closer and closer to the Zebra, the Zebra suddenly changed its course. In a fit of desperation, the Zebra began to charge the Lion The Zebra quickly met his adversary and kicked the Lion with all his remaining strength. The Lion, although only temporarily injured by the Zebra’s best effort, was so surprised by the unexpected attack that he ran away in fear as quickly as possible.

Courage can be a great weapon.

4-10-06
Unfortunately, the citizens of the United States live in a world where undesirable circumstances such as conflict and poverty have become commonplace. Naturally, many well-intentioned but concerned parties feel that our federal government has to prioritize its substantial financial obligations to support more worthwhile endeavors. Many people are angered when they learn of increased investments into government programs that they believe are not addressing the immense problems that people deal with today. They may not comprehend, for instance, the reasons why the Bush Administration has increased spending for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) space programs while decreasing funds for other important areas, such as the funds for the nation’s public schooling system. If the public becomes more aware of the immense benefits of investing money into science, specifically astronomy, I believe that there will be more support.

I will try to give you a general idea about my paper in this proposal, although I will not delve into specifics as I am still researching info for the paper. A lot of what I write here is also subject to change, as I like to decide on my format and chosen info as I write, but I will tro to give a rough outline. I will do my best to explain throughout this paper the importance for investing into science, specifically astronomy, which may seem less suitable than other sciences for addressing mankind’s needs. This will include a proposal to provide an even greater increase for NASA’s budget in future years. The introduction will begin by addressing the counter-argument immediately, followed by a quick refutation. In my introduction, I hope to immediately establish that there is no correlation between funding for science and a decreased spending in other areas. I will also hopefully spark some interest into the potential of astronomy by naming some achievements it has allowed us to reach. My thesis statement will be two-fold: why astronomy is important and why we should increase funding for NASA. This paper will provide both an evaluation and a proposal agrument.

My first “chunk” of information, addressing the first part of the thesis, will detail the current and future benefits of astronomy. The following paragraphs will address the reasons. The first paragraph will focus on why science in general is useful for mankind, even in seemingly benign fields. This will gradually shift to reasons why astronomy is so important. The second paragraph will focus on spin-off technologies that have helped mankind in different ways despite being originally designed for purely goals related to astronomy. The third paragraph will detail why astronomy is necessary simply for the fact that it is interesting and deals with many of mankind’s fundamental questions of existence.

My second chunk of information, addressing the second part, will support why additional funding will allow for greater improvement in the field. It will detail what NASA has accomplished and why more funding will only help.

The conclusion will wrap up what inferences can be drawn from each paragraph while also posing several big questions to the audience about the current difficulties involved in astronomy and how we as American citizens can help and support NASA.

Sources (not in 'works cited' format yet):

<http://www.spacefoundation.org/policy/caseforspace.shtml>
- several articles within
<http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/exploration/main/index.html>
- several articles within

4-3-06
Here it is: HereGoesNothingProposalPaper

4-2-06
I remember reading “A Modest Proposal” when analyzing 18th century literature during high school and recalling how powerfully the “sense of humor” condemned how the Irish Catholics were disrespected by their Protestant and English oppressors. It’s funny how compelling and informative the argument is except for the fact that we should treat human beings with respect as opposed to simple animals meant for exploitation and food. The argument seemed so rational that from what I learned many Irish Catholics were appalled with Jonathan Swift and took him quite seriously, not understanding his brutal sarcasm. I really don’t believe the message could retain the same vivid brutality if it wasn’t expressed in this fashion. I think this is a biting, exceptionally well-crafted reply to the higher classes that abused the common people.

4-2-06
Ode to Time

An orchestra plays an eternal song
With a bizarre medley of sounds
That somehow manage to work perfectly.
The strings, the brass, and the woodwinds are each
Playing their unique tunes into the air.
Sometimes one seems to outshine all the rest
Only then to eventually die out
With the replacement of different sounds.
Amidst the musical remains a drum,
Ceaselessly beating during performance
Never yielding to any instrument,
And necessary to sustain the beat
That keeps the music endlessly playing.

4-2-06
This is an example of poetry in which I was constrained due to having to incorporate certain words to expand creativity. It worked, and I ended up with something that may seem confusing but I think the core of the message is very hopeful, I hope:

Seagulls

I spontaneously drove to the beach
With a bucket of freshly-popped popcorn.
I took a handful; threw it in the air.
A flock of seagulls swarmed the hapless food.
The amount I threw was bountiful, but
The seagulls fought ferociously for them.
Each piece an object of fierce struggle.
The aggressive ones unfortunately
Enjoyed abundance, while the weak ones
Appeared powerless to win anything.
Yet, I found that as I threw more handfuls
All of the seagulls had their fill in time.
I arrived at the beach in the evening
but I left the beach with the sun shining.

3-28-06
An Old Man on his Deathbed

I reside away from the heart of society
Within a rural retreat during a peaceful night.
A small light illuminates my single room.
Here I write my words amongst humble surroundings.
I know that this is it, but I am fine,
The conclusion of an old man on his deathbed.
The final meaningful breath in my last hours of life.
I have believed in several religions,
Studied and advocated different philosophies
With the intention of discovering the deeper meanings of life,
To answer my complex questions, to comprehend my fate.
I conclude my search not meaningless, but unnecessary,
The pursuit of the unattainable or useless.
There is only one true goal of our lives:
To achieve happiness.
Yet, given its subjectivity, understand that other unique individuals
Feel life as you do, the medley of passionate experiences,
Deserving the right to happiness equally.
So attempt to be basically good, share and not steal happiness.
Vanquish the worst of evils, do not appease them.
Seek and destroy the immoral souls that covet happiness,
So that the kind ones may cherish the life they have been granted.
I would write more, but I approach the end,
Prepared to take the untimely sleep, my hand weakens.
Perhaps elaboration would only belittle my simple message.
I will finish my last meal, drink my last glass of wine,
As I lie down anticipating the future, regardless...

3-28-06
Leviathan

I spoke with an old seafarer who said
In a most earnest and forthright nature:
“I swear by my own eyes I have witnessed
A monstrous, great creature of the sea
That spanned the length of twelve great battleships.
Its cruel visage appeared like a serpent.
It suddenly rose from the ocean depths
And merely laid alongside our vessel,
The emotions varied amongst each man.
Some began to tremble uncontrollably,
Some vehemently prayed to God for aid,
I smiled, for at that single moment,
I realized that I saw a miracle,
That life was as magical as I wished.”
With a wink, nod, and a pat on the back
The old man laughed, then calmly left the bar.

3-28-06
The Secrets of the Past

The old scholar peered with bright, lustful eyes
On the wrinkled and torn pages resting
On the small desk within the humble room.
The book before him detailed a legend
Of a man who discovered the Fountain,
Not located on Bimini islands
That misled the explorer Ponce de Leon.
No, this book led to the only correct spot
Of the free-flowing water that gives youth,
Pure eternal youth, for those that find it.
The old one had spent a lifetime for this,
Searching for the perfect discovery
That would make him powerful and peerless.
The man quickly traveled to the obscure spot,
Where he knew the lost secret existed.
The man went there only to find... nothing.

3-26-06
Stigmergy is the seemingly indirect communication that occurs between the individuals of insect societies. Originally it appears that a single insect is operating independently, according to its own initiative, to work toward any collective goal of the colony. The concept of stigmergy suggests that the insects utilize a form of communication that represents the goals of the colony as a single entity. The best example of this concept is that a single ant, instead of digging out a part of a new nest based on his own initiative, receives instructions through communication, such as by a pheromone (a scent that triggers an instinctive response for another of the same species), to work on a certain area based on the current configuration of the nest. The application of the concept would lead to a great increase in the efficiency of any team-based project, since the group would operate nearly as one without varying intentions.

3-26-06
I actually had problems coming up with a good idea for this proposal paper. I was tempted to take the easy route and advocate the legalization of marijuana (which I believe as generally beneficial to society, regardless of your status as a user), but I'm pretty sure that's a common topic, and that some other people would be much more qualified to deal with the issue. I decided once again to complete a paper regarding science due to a lack of any other decent, more exciting idea (wow, that was a surprise huh). I just find it more interesting to write and more bearable when trying to find good sources to back up my info, and it does help to use previously-researched info to formulate a new argument:

Nanotechnology, the science and technology involving the manipulation of objects with extremely small dimensions, will change the world, overwhelmingly in a positive fashion. The nanometer, the basic unit used with nanotechnology, is merely a billionth of a meter. In more understandable terms, it's about 1/80,000 of the diameter of a human hair. Nanotechnology is a general-purpose technology that will have a major impact on a large variety of fields. It will lead to revolutionary advances in medicine, manufacturing, high-performance materials, and information, energy, and environmental technologies; this will prove a lucrative asset, especially for the pioneers of the industry. Although the Bush administration recently approved a world-leading 1.2 billion dollars for the National Nanotechnology Initiative, a government organization dedicated to advancing humanity’s understanding of nanotechnology, the United States may lose its currently-advanced status as the leading developer of the technology. This is due to emerging problems that do not involve our financial capabilities but the possibly-mistaken fashion in which our country has pursued its goals regarding nanotechnology. The United States must take steps to solve these problems or potentially lose the current edge in this competitive field.

Bibliography

Harper, Tim. “What is Nanotechnology?” IoP Electronic Journals. 19 Mar. 2006. <http://www.iop.org/EJ/abstract/0957-4484/14/1/001/>

“Nanotechnology - What is it?” Institute of Nanotechnology. 19 Mar. 2006.
<http://www.nano.org.uk/nano.htm>

"National Nanotechnology Initiative." 20 Mar. 2006. National Nanotechnology Initiative. 20 Mar. 2006. <http://www.nano.gov>

"National Nanotechnology Initiative: Leading to the Next Industrial Revolution."
21 Jan. 2001. The White House. 19 Mar. 2006.
<http://clinton4.nara.gov/WH/New/html/20000121_4.html>

“Ready, Aim, Squirt.”Science News. 8 May 1999. Highbeam Research. 19 Mar. 2006.
<http://www.highbeam.com/library/docfree.asp?DOCID=1G1:54727660&num=1
&ctrlInfo=Round18%3AMode18c%3ASR%3AResult&ao=&FreePremium=BOTH>

Gonsalves, Antone "U.S. Risks Losing Nanotechnology Lead." 26 Mar. 2006.
<http://www.informationweek.com/story/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=164904098>

Treder, Mike. "Bridges to Safety, and Bridges to Progress." 19 Mar. 2006.
<http://www.crnano.org/Bridges.htm>

3-26-06
A Pirate’s First Day

On my first day we seized a small trade ship.
My crewmates boarded the hapless vessel,
And I witnessed violence no sober man
Of compassionate character could bear.
Those who with joy welcomed me earlier
With hearty handshakes and cordial greetings
Mercilessly slaughtered the frightened men
That awaited them. We acquired
Bountiful treasures and luscious cuisine.
The ship set ablaze as we sailed away.
Upon quiet reflection, I stared
At the gleeful crew with my distraught face.
Without warning, the pirates looked my way.
The captain approached then said
With his hand on my shoulder and smiling:
Praise to this one who saw his first battle
And did not fight but neither did he cower!
The victorious crew cheered and drank to my name.
They were dancing, singing, and merrymaking.
Soon I joined happily in the festivities.
I was dancing, singing, and merrymaking,
And promising myself I would fight next time.

3-23-06
I am hoping to make up for the missed blogs of the past. I am going to start sharing my poetry, which I usually try to use as an argument in a less conventional form. I usually attempt to focus more on the message of my poems, without the senseless, confusing imagery in most poetry that lead many readers to confusion instead of appreciation:

I met an old man in a bar who said
In an excited yet thoughtful nature:
‘On a small island in the distant sea
There is the most brilliant utopia
I have witnessed during my humble life.
There grows the greenest and lushest foliage
And the sky lights up with the brightest sun.
Gigantic mountains and great waterfalls
Fill the landscape and overpower me.
A great peace surrounds me when I am there.’
I beg to him where I may find this place
And he replies forlornly, but smiling:
‘I found this place in the dreams of my mind,
As a retreat from the mundane world
And as a place that eludes reality.’

3-23-06
Here is a fable I designed that is an argument, ableit in a different than usual form:

The Wolf and the Deer

A powerful Wolf had journeyed persistently throughout the mountainside in search of prey. The Wolf’s hunger had reached a state in which the Wolf grew impatient and quickened his pace. In the rush of finding food, the Wolf carelessly caught his paw within a crevasse of a rock. Several hours later, a Deer came across the Wolf, who was obviously frustrated that he could not remove his paw. The Deer, although distrustful of the Wolf, was a benevolent being who cared for all living things, regardless of their reputation. The Deer decided to help the Wolf remove his paw.

“Thank you for your help,” said the smiling Wolf, “and I thank you for leading me to a tasty meal also.”

Beware the consequences of misguided mercy.

3-20-06
Here it is: HereGoesNothingCausalPaper

3-19-06

I think the Communist Manifesto is long-winded but also very informative and compelling. Unfortunately, I think the Communist attempts to equalize the socioeconomic conditions of the common people contradictingly create another unfair class structure and provides even less resources for the people than a free market system. The leaders of the communist party become the new, even more powerful bourgeoisie class against an even more numerous proletariat class. The oppressor-oppressed relationship that is so condemned throughout the work perpetuates, albeit in a different and even more severe form. I support some of the basic ideals of the communist party, but I strongly disagree with the methods in which they try to achieve greater class equality. I always felt that a democratic, capitalist society should be successful enough to support the lower classes at a minimal cost to society as a whole. The utopian goals of Karl Marx could never be achieved, and his dream of eventually having no government to enforce his ideals would never happen. Unfortunately, I feel that class structures are a natural aspect of human existence, but there are certainly ways to make sure that everyone has basic necessities and access to a reasonable level of luxury. It is certainly possible for the only distinctions between social classes to be the level of luxury they receive, which really isn’t that big of a deal if everyone has food, shelter, and some ways (although not requiring great wealth) to entertain themselves.

3-19-06

I really have been procrastinating on these blogs, although I'll find a way to get them all finished. Long overdue as I have finished my rough draft and completed most of my final copy, I didn't think to include the causal paper proposal, so here it is:

The Bush administration recently approved over 1.2 billion dollars for the creation of the National Nanotechnology Initiative. Since 2001, the organization has received over 6 billion dollars dedicated to advancing humanity’s understanding of nanaotechnology, which will lead to revolutionary advances in medicine, manufacturing, high-performance materials, and information, energy, and environmental technologies. Nanotechnology is the science and technology involving the manipulation of objects with extremely small dimensions. A nanometer, the common unit used with nanotechnology is a billionth of a meter, in a better perspective, about 1/80,000 of the diameter of a human hair. The development of nanotechnology will lead to the next industrial revolution. This work will define an industrial revolution as a series of complex radical socioeconomic changes that brought about as the result of a major change in the way that product production takes place. This will happen because nanotechnology is a general-purpose technology that will have a major impact on a large variety of fields. It will have useful applications that will also prove lucrative for those involved in the industry.

Bibliography

Harper, Tim. “What is Nanotechnology?” IoP Electronic Journals. 19 Mar. 2006. <http://www.iop.org/EJ/abstract/0957-4484/14/1/001/>

"Industrial Revolution." The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition. Copyright © 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

“Nanotechnology - What is it?” Institute of Nanotechnology. 19 Mar. 2006.
<http://www.nano.org.uk/nano.htm>

"National Nanotechnology Initiative." 20 Mar. 2006. National Nanotechnology Initiative. 20 Mar. 2006. <http://www.nano.gov>

"National Nanotechnology Initiative: Leading to the Next Industrial Revolution."
21 Jan. 2001. The White House. 19 Mar. 2006.
<http://clinton4.nara.gov/WH/New/html/20000121_4.html>

“Ready, Aim, Squirt.”Science News. 8 May 1999. Highbeam Research. 19 Mar. 2006.
<http://www.highbeam.com/library/docfree.asp?DOCID=1G1:54727660&num=1
&ctrlInfo=Round18%3AMode18c%3ASR%3AResult&ao=&FreePremium=BOTH>

Treder, Mike. "Bridges to Safety, and Bridges to Progress." 19 Mar. 2006.
<http://www.crnano.org/Bridges.htm>

3-1-06 (again)
Sorry, this blog is long overdue, but while I have the time I want to respond to the short work assigned last week. After reading “My America” by Andrew Sullivan, I found myself agreeing with him on the pleasant contradictions that make America the best place to live in the world. I enjoyed the story he told about Henry Fairlie and the boy; I thought it did epitomize the general equality that all people who live here have and the great blend of informality and politeness. I view this as a great aspect of America, although I respect such values as deference to elders, it just isn’t indoctrinated in our culture the same way it may be in Eastern cultures. I also agree with his statement that we tend to look toward the future in an optimistic fashion, and only dwell on the past when we can learn from it or cherish it. I actually disagree when Sullivan states that our desire to ask and debate over the most complex and difficult questions and believe that our answers affect the entire world is naive. Our answers do have a major effect in the world, and we owe that to our great determination and power as a nation, although I can understand his bias as he lived originally from England. Overall, I agree with his most of his overt statements, but it is obvious through his writing that subtle complaints and disapprovals are contained within. As a proud U.S. citizen, I found that short criticisms were not only annoying but they also made me a bit angry, although in an attempt to think objectively I am sure the British would appreciate this aspect.

3-1-06
I believe I am a moderate on the political spectrum, although when I take different tests designed to interpret my opinions on political issues I usually seem to be considered more liberal. I presume this happens because I have a strong belief in providing for the poor, and I also believe that censorship should only exist in special cases. I usually answer questions regarding these topics with strong statements as opposed to simple agreements or disagreements. I still feel that moderation is the best stance in politics; I find I disagree more with a policy or statement the more extreme it is toward either side of the political spectrum. They usually are also more idealistic statements than providing any practical solutions and I am grateful that the general public seems to agree with me through the voting process. I have to admit I was disappointed with Mr. Lazere’s political terms and positions, I felt they expressed clear bias toward the leftist viewpoint, although there was some objective information. I wasn’t surprised when my conclusion was supported when I looked at his other works and discovered he certainly supported liberal policy.

2-27-06
Here it is: HereGoesNothingEvaluationPaper
(Sorry if the link didn't work it first, I wasn't sure if the link was working at all, or if my editing was affecting this link)

2-27-06
Sorry, I haven't been completing my blogs lately like I should, I've been really overwhelmed but its still mainly bad time management on my part, so I'll try to complete all my skipped and current blogs this week and during Spring Break also. I believe that without United Nations intervention, that conflicts between ethnic groups are inevitable. I think the genocides in the Sudan and in Rwanda's past are unfortunate, and unsurprisingly trace back to the exploitation committed by the European nations. During colonization, the European countries encouraged tension to further their interests while also using many of the resources and maintaining the factors of production. When these countries were given independence, the Europeans simply left a conflict waiting to happen and a fierce struggle over limited means to make money. I think the movie Hotel Rwanda really showcases the Rwandan genocide well, and I am still seeking knowledge about the Sudan. I understand that U.N. soldiers have loved ones who do not want them to die needlessly in combat, but sometimes I wish countries were more willing to send troops to ensure peace. Although I have not chose the path of a soldier, I feel that a soldier should be willing to risk his life for a greater good, although I also believe that decision is his or her choice alone.

2-16-06
The thesis statement for my evaluation paper will be this: The indie thriller Memento (underline or italicize movie titles. See WikiStyle to learn how!) is one of the best movies ever due to a unique, interesting, and exciting plot containing colorful characters that are expressed skillfully on film. My introductory paragraph would include some interesting facts about the film along with some dramatic quotes taken from popular film critics that support my thesis. I would also explain in the introductory paragraph the format that will be followed throughout my paper. The first paragraph will explain the details of the plot and the various themes that appear throughout the movie. The approval of these themes as exceptional will be supported by the critic’s quotes and my own personal opinion. The second paragraph talk about the excellent acting present in the movie and what these characters are meant to represent, which will also be supported by quotes and personal opinion. The final body paragraph will explain shortly what makes the filming of any movie great and why Memento fits into this elite status. The conclusionary paragraph will summarize the main objective of each body paragraph and how they helped to support my thesis. I will also make sure to include some other interesting facts about the movie in this concluding paragraph to end on a high note.

Bibliography

Arnold, William. “Memento is new, original, possibly even great.” 30 Mar 2001.
Seattle Post-Intelligencer. 16 Feb 2006.
<http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/movies/mementoq.shtml>

Ebert, Roger. “Memento.” 12 Apr 2001. Chicago Sun-Times. 16 Feb 2006.
<http://rogerebert.suntimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20010413/REVIEWS/104130303/>

Klein, Andy. “Everything you wanted to know about Memento.” 28 Jun 2001.
Salon.com. 16 Feb 2006.
<http://www.salon.com/ent/movies/feature/2001/06/28/memento_analysis/>

“Memento.” IMDb Earth’s Biggest Movie Database. 16 Feb 2006.
<http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0209144/>

“Memento.” Wikipedia. 16 Feb 2006
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Memento

Hoberman, J. “Persistence of Memory.” 12 Mar 2001. The Village Voice. 16 Feb 2006.
<http://www.villagevoice.com/film/0111,hoberman,23036,20.html>

2-16-06
I respect the Declaration of Independence not only for its thorough condemnation of the King of Great Britain George III’s policies, but also because the people were willing to fight for the rights guaranteed through independence. The Declaration of Independence follows a very simple yet clear format of declaring a new American government then justifying it by listing the wrongdoings against them by the previous British government. The document describes in a great detail the specific actions that Great Britain took that harmed the American colonies. I agree with the message that people have the right to rebel against a government that no longer suits the people it rules over, as the government ideally should defend and support the rights of the people. The Unalienable Rights of all humans are also worth fighting for, and it is the upholding of these rights that helped to allow the United States to be the best place to live in the world.

2-13-06
Here it is: HereGoesNothingDefinitionPaper

2-10-06
I am going to include a short explanation about why I feel atomic manipulation can be used to create any physcial object imaginable. I will probably end up using this in my essay, ableit in a slightly different form:

Atom manipulation, which includes the possibility of making any recognizable physical object, is possible by manipulating the protons, neutrons, and electrons that compose every atom. A progression of increasingly large physical objects can be created by starting at the beginning of a large chain of growing matter. Since all atoms are composed of varying amounts of protons, neutrons, and electrons, these parts could be added or subtracted from any atom to create new atoms. These new atoms would now be the smallest unit of its respective element, and many of these atoms could be combined to vary the size of the element necessary to create the physical object. These elements are combined to form compounds. Compounds and elements are used to create every physical object that humanity has ever used.

2-7-06
I completed a comment on the proposal for PonderingsOfLukePerry.

2-6-06
I came up with this bizarre idea in my head for the definition paper, and unfortunately nothing else quickly comes to mind when I try to brainstorm for other ideas, so I decided to go with this. The thesis statement for my definition paper will be this: the nature of atoms indicates that given sufficiently advanced technology, any physical object imaginable can be assembled by using the parts of other seemingly non-related materials. After giving a brief explanation, which will provide brief thesis statements for each subsequent paragraph, I will being with a first paragraph that will explain the definition of an atom. Following this definition, I will explain in another paragraph how the protons, neutrons, and electrons that compose atoms from one piece of matter could be used to create any element, and therefore these elements could be combined to create recognizable materials. I will support this idea by giving examples of recent discoveries and possibilities that have been proven by nanotechnology, a science that builds miniature electronic devices at the molecular level. If gains in the area have become more developed, then this can only lead to even greater atomic manipulation as mentioned throughout this paragraph. I will also support my opinion by citing how atom lasers are being used to manipulate and rearrange matter. I will conclude by giving several interesting future uses given the properties of atoms and summarize my paper according to my introduction and how I accomplished my thesis statement.

WORKS CITED

“Atom.” The Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition, 2005. Highbeam Research. 6 Feb. 2006.
<http://www.highbeam.com/library/docfree.asp?DOCID=1E1:atom&num=3&ctrlInfo=Round18%3AMode18c%3ASR%3AResult&ao=&FreePremium=BOTH>

Fowler, Michael. “Evolution of the Atomic Concept and the Beginnings of Modern Chemistry.” University of Virginia. 6 Feb. 2006.
<http://galileo.phys.virginia.edu/classes/252/atoms.html>

Freudenrich, Craig. “How Atoms Work.” Howstuffworks. 6 Feb. 2006.
<http://www.howstuffworks.com/atom.htm>

Harper, Tim. “What is Nanotechnology?” IoP Electronic Journals. 6 Feb. 2006.
<http://www.iop.org/EJ/abstract/0957-4484/14/1/001/>

“Nanotechnology - What is it?” Institute of Nanotechnology. 6 Feb. 2006.
<http://www.nano.org.uk/nano.htm>

“Ready, Aim, Squirt.”Science News. 8 May 1999. Highbeam Research. 6 Feb. 2006.
<http://www.highbeam.com/library/docfree.asp?DOCID=1G1:54727660&num=1
&ctrlInfo=Round18%3AMode18c%3ASR%3AResult&ao=&FreePremium=BOTH>

2-2-06

Although it was cancelled near the end of only a single season, the sci-fi, western-style show “Firefly” is one of the most entertaining TV series I have ever watched. It is about a diverse crew of brigands that travel throughout space conducting crime missions, although despite their status they show themselves to be good people in bad situations. After being released on DVD, it was successful enough that they created the movie “Serenity,” which also received great reviews, as a conclusion for the series. All of the characters are well-developed and complex, and it is enjoyable to watch them in different situations. They are placed in a variety of different circumstances, both humorous and serious, where the characters are just a blast to watch. The series is particularly fun to watch because of the witty, quick dialogue that is both humorous and interestingly truthful. Each episode is entertaining the entire way through, instead of boringly leading up to a single exciting event. The genre is naturalistic science fiction, similar to Star Wars, in which the future is flawed, with imperfect characters and equipment that seems more realistic than everything being perfectly represented. The best word to describe the series would be “fun” because of the aforementioned reasons. I suggest you give it a try.

1-31-06
I thought the majority of the issues that President Bush addressed were consistent with his previously established beliefs, so I am not going to address most of those issues as much. I believe that his continued resilience to win in Iraq is admirable, although I am still divided regarding the motives for that war. I agree with his explanation to support anti-terrorist surveillance practices, which I feel are necessary to ensure the safety of Americans. I highly agree with and support his energy policies, encouraging the United States to invest money into innovative technology that would decrease our reliance on oil. I believe anyone with a simple knowledge of science realizes the great potential of technology in making our lives better in so many ways. I also believe that the greatest edge of the United States economy is our human capital, and I believe that the greater funds provided for math and sciences education is great step in the right direction for our future. In general, I found his speech to be very well-constructed, although obviously the words are skillfully chosen to be purposely less combative while hiding strong divisive issues. Although somewhat unrelated to his speech, I truly feel that the general fashion in which he speaks shows a good, honest man who is confronted with very difficult, complex issues, and I respect that he is remaining staunch in the face of criticism, regardless of my personal opinions (which fluctuates quite often) on the various issues.

1-29-05
After reading the article on the “Definition on Terrorism,” I agree with the definition of terrorism provided by the U.N. expert A.P. Schmid, and I feel it covers how I personally view this act. I believe every terrorist act conforms to this definition, and the best proof for this definition is that every act of terrorism adheres to this comprehensive, though correct definition. To add my own personal input, I feel that the world is a complex place, where an objective morality is difficult to determine. When people fight wars, I think it primarily to defend their families and lifestyle from their perspective, and unfortunately powerful governments manipulate their people to support certain agendas at times. No, this does not apply to all wars, but really the point I am trying to make is that I believe you cannot blame someone for defending their country as a soldier. Despite this comment, to put it bluntly, terrorists are cowards (maybe not always in a self-preservation sense, but certainly by universal moral standards) who represent ideals that I believe any good person would know are inherently evil. There is no valid excuse. Their impractical goals contrast with the true messages of their religious beliefs. They kill innocent people to strike at an enemy and have radical goals that will never be accepted. They do not confront the enemy in a brave fashion and they prey on the weak.

1-27-05
I believe that this speech delivered by President George W. Bush on September 20, 2001 is nearly perfect. It effectively utilizes arguments from all the lines of appeal, utilizing emotions, facts, reasons, values, and establishing character to create a truly great speech. The speech is hopeful, honest, aggressive, realistic, factual, respectful, and so on; there are a plethora of positive adjectives to associate with this speech. There are many well-used facts backed with historical evidence and realistic predictions for the difficulties of the future. The speech also addresses many specific people and places, showing great respect. Regardless of your feelings for the Bush administration and for his public speaking skills, I do not believe it can be denied that this speech is among the very best of its kind.

1-24-06
Unfortunately, I believe that the Universal Declaration of Human Rights serves as a reminder to how difficult the great ideals contained within the document will be to achieve. The work itself is a plain, yet powerful series of statements that thoroughly cover the human rights that every person born in this world, regardless of the location, ought to have. On the other hand, it does not address how the world should enforce these rights, and there is no doubt that the world does not follow the lofty model set by the document. I feel that the most powerful words will never change anything unless they motivate people to create major changes in the world for the better. I do not feel in its present state that the United Nations has the power to change the world. I find it unlikely to believe that countries that differ so much in power and goals could achieve the preservation of human rights in all circumstances. They have allowed so many atrocities in countries occurring on the African continent and allowed many cruel dictators such as Kim Jong Il to reign in countries that mock the concept of human ethics. I think there is no easy decision. Increasing the power of the United Nations may simply allow the dominant countries to exercise more military influence, and lessening its power may allow greater world problems to flourish. Hopefully the world will naturally become a better place for human rights as I feel has happened as society and technology improved throughout time. Although I believe that peace should mostly be pursued if possible, I find it hard not to desire a strong military presence to force others to promote the human rights of innocent people who I feel the world lets down.

1-22-06
FDR’s “Four Freedoms” speech is simply awesome, damn awesome. I believe FDR presented the facts in a straightforward, clear manner. He appealed to common sense to explain the necessary changes needed to deal with the dictator nations that threatened the United States in the future and their European allies presently. Though simply stated, FDR gave his opinions and backed them up with sound logic that finished with reasonable and strong conclusions. FDR did not attempt to make the problems appear less severe and he was not afraid to show his disapproval with the war preparations. He balanced this critical approach by also inspiring the American people, reminding them of the great American values they were supporting and eventually going to fight to maintain. FDR is considered one of the best presidents ever, and I would agree, he supported and motivated the nation during two tumultuous occasions in modern American history, World War II and The Great Depression. In the same way that I respected Martin Luther King, I also admired FDR because of his great impact on the U.S. and the world, in which he didn’t watch the world pass by. He took a strong stance with his policies that ultimately benefited of the American people.

1-20-06
In a news article found on the USA Today website, this picture (refer to link at bottom) is utilized to demonstrate the claim that an increasing number of young people are attacking homeless people nationwide. It shows two youths using baseball bats to attack a homeless person. I am writing this blog somewhat late and I am tired, so hopefully my ideas make sense and/or make you laugh (or you can tell me you laughed, even if you didn’t, to make me happy). Nothing is ever intended to be offensive, so if something I stated bothers you, please just alert me and I will remove the content and apologize. I am just trying to entertain you or make a good point using humor every once in awhile, really I just want these blogs to hopefully be a little more interesting to read than they are typically. Here are three claims that I have created based on the picture:

1. The number of homeless people has become increasing severe, and inevitably they are involved in conflicts with the local populace as they intrude on other people’s property and take up valuable space below bridges.

2. Easy access to weapons for reckless young people is a growing problem as they use them against defenseless people.

3. Baseball bats should only be used on baseball fields, and there should be stiff legal penalties if they are used in brawls. I think people who wish to use baseball bats in fights should instead resort to hockey sticks or big branches, especially from fallen Oak trees.

Here is a link to view the picture...

http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2006-01-19-homeless-attacks_x.htm

1-18-06 Personal Narrative based on TheWayItShouldBe
If I could describe myself in one word, I’d be an interesting person. My name is Ryan and you can probably notice me because of my somewhat big appearance and my dirty blonde hair. I’m mostly of German heritage and I was born and raised in Pittsburgh, and State College feels very similar to the suburb I grew up in. I like to read and I also play sports, and I like to watch movies in my spare time. I would just as quickly pick up a football as I would a Michael Crichton book. I’m also shy at times, but if you get stuck sitting next to me, don’t hesitate to tell me to shut up and then to aggressively hit me a few times if I start rambling.

1-16-06
After reading Martin Luther King’s Letter from Birmingham Jail, I can empathize with his frustration regarding the slow progress of civil rights, although I would most likely find it a difficult decision to support or condemn him if I lived as a white moderate during the time period. I feel he tactfully used historical examples to support his views and he provided specific information about what he agreed and disagreed with. Given that, I can understand the position that Martin Luther King was an extremist. The risk that his aggressive civil rights movement could spur violence would seem realistic, and if the movement could be carried out in a longer, though more cooperative way it would seem as the better choice. In general when I examine moral issues, I see more shades of grey than simply viewing an issue as right or wrong. I think people with resolute opinions are generally ignorant and even sometimes dangerous unless they seem truly educated on the issue and are willing to thoughtfully consider and counter the facets of the contrasting arguments. I find that I agree with most moderate views on many subjects, although there are some exceptions. Although not officially released, there are allegations that Martin Luther King was a communist tied with Russia, an abuser of the money allocated to him, and a brutal womanizer. Although I can’t claim to know how honest these claims are, they have been confirmed by several people who worked closely with him and the information is supposedly supported by numerous audio recordings from the FBI. Could all of Martin Luther King’s intentions have been truly good given his questionable moral character? Nonetheless, I probably would have ultimately supported him, personally viewing his goals as moral and necessary to pursue quickly. I also personally do not respect people that maintain wrong practices because it fits into status quo, and I have always admired people who have made major impacts on the world and not watched the world idly as it passes them by.

Introduction:
Hey everyone, this is Ryan Lingenfelser speaking. I am the somewhat big, dirty blonde-haired guy who will almost always wear a leather jacket to class if that helps you identify me. I think the best way to describe myself is to state that I have a diverse set of interests. I can just as easily talk about movies, video games, chess, novels, philosophy, etc. as I can about sports and good party locations to hit up during the weekends. I tend to be shy originally, but I become talkative when I feel comfortable in my environment. Although I work hard during the weekdays to achieve good grades in my courses, I like to party and have fun on the weekends, although relaxing is great also. I have a lot of knowledge regarding drinks, such as beer (root), Sprite, Minute Maid, etc. so I'm sure we would have a good time drinking haha. Seriously though, anyone is welcome to hang out on the weekends and I would enjoy your company.

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