Abstract The paper describes the history of "Habitat for Humanity" and its role in communities and its future. The paper portrays how it can serve as a model for other community organizations.
From the Paper "Habitat for Humanity, A Synergistic Model for Community Organizations: As members of human communities individuals seek to contribute their time and energy in ways that in a synergistic way benefit both the individuals and other community members. Organizations that facilitate this type of exchange in a sustainable growth-oriented manner can be held up as examples for other organizations to use as guides. One such successful group is "Habitat for Humanity" a non profit, non-denominational Christian home-building project made famous by the involvement of former President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalyn Carter."
Abstract The paper discusses the affects of artificial intelligence on future businesses. The paper examines how the arrival of artificial intelligence ushers in an era of improved business efficiency and an era of heightened job insecurity and unemployment. The paper further reviews the background behind artificial intelligence and analyses some of the "every-day" consequences it has produced in this generation. The paper concludes with the pros and cons of this science and engineering of making intelligent machines.
From the Paper "Artificial Intelligence will affect the next generation of businesspeople even more so than it has affected this generation of businesspeople. In the pages that follow, this paper will examine how the arrival of artificial intelligence ushers in an era of improved business efficiency - and an era of heightened job insecurity and unemployment. In contextualizing the issue, the paper will review the modern history of artificial intelligence as well as some of the "every-day" consequences it has already produced. In the final analysis, what should emerge out of all of this is the recognition that technology giveth, but it also taketh away."
Abstract The paper explores seven components of artificial intelligence and provides an overview of the field itself. The paper considers the outlook for artificial intelligence and discusses the critical role A.I. plays in medicine and business.
From the Paper "Artificial intelligence has held considerable promise for enhancing the lives of humans for many years and has even taken hold of our imaginations. Movies such as "The Stepford Wives" and "A I" play on the fears of how humans would interact with intelligent machines and the television show "Star Trek The Next Generation" explored the issue of the relationship that humans and intelligent machines would have through the character of Data."
Abstract This paper examines why as computer technology continues to advance towards the development of artificial intelligence, it is inevitable that human society will ultimately find itself confronted with profound and unprecedented moral and ethical issues. The paper maintains that these issues, which have thus far been confined to the plots and themes of speculative science fiction films and novels, will no longer be abstract; they will be real. The paper explains that the philosophical implications of artificial intelligence will be impossible for society to ignore, for intelligence has always been equated with life.
From the Paper "As computer technology continues to advance towards the development of artificial intelligence, it is inevitable that human society will ultimately find itself confronted with profound and unprecedented moral and ethical issues. These issues, which have thus far been confined to the plots and themes of speculative science fiction films and novels will no longer be abstract; they will be real. The philosophical implications of artificial intelligence will be impossible for society to ignore, for intelligence has always been equated with life."
Abstract This paper examines Searle's original argument against the possibility of strong Artificial Intelligence, or what he calls intrinsically intelligent AI. This argument was presented in "Minds, Brains, and Programs" which contains his original formulation of the Chinese Room example and many others. This paper explains Searle's original view (which has been slightly modified in recent years) against the possibility of strong AI. It then examines the serious shortcomings in his argument, namely his flagrant assumption that intelligence is a bio-chemical property, something that he barely mentions in his text. Holfstadter later called this view "bio-chauvinist." The writer examines what it is Searle is trying to say, where his bio-chauvinism comes into play, and what the end result is.
From the Paper "In his paper "Minds, Brains, and Programs," John R. Searle attempts to establish the impossibility of strong artificial intelligence (AI), that an "appropriately programmed computer" can have genuine mental states. The validity of strong AI implies a direct correspondence between mental states and formal processes, and as such, insists that a properly defined program is sufficient for producing understanding and intentionality in the thing instantiating that program. Searle refutes this claim, arguing that a program could not be sufficient for producing intentionality because for any program it is possible to instantiate it in something without producing mental states in the thing. In elucidating this central point, Searle derives a distinction between "intrinsic" intentionality and "derived" intentionality. He defines intrinsic intentionality as the sort present in things that clearly have mental states, such as people. Searle distinguishes this from derived intentionality, which he claims is ascribed by those with intrinsic intentionality to things that "perform the sort of functions that we perform on the basis of our intentionality," but that do not actually possess mental states or a genuine intentionality. With this distinction, Searle's claim that programs are not sufficient, or even necessary, for producing intentionality becomes a claim that mere things - namely computers for our purposes - can only have derived intentionality and never can possess intrinsic intentionality. Searle's argument, pushed by his example of the Chinese room, at first seems to raise an alarming challenge to AI proponents, but on closer examination it becomes clear that the thrust of Searle's claim relies on some highly debatable intuitions and assumptions he makes a priori. In this paper I will argue that Searle's conclusion is entirely dependent these contestable assumptions and intuitions. I will then attempt to construct what Searle's response to this objection would likely be, and I will conclude by discussing the significance of this debate with regards to AI and all of cognitive science."
Abstract This paper examines the development of research into artificial intelligence. It traces the roots of the discipline back to the 1950s when the term was first coined. The author traces the development of AI research into the present where researchers are struggling to create software that emulates human cognition. The paper concludes with a brief discussion of the potential future implications of AI research.
From the Paper "Achieving artificial intelligence is an accomplishment in computing that has enticed and frightened people for decades. But just how likely is that achievement? Examining the history of artificial intelligence studies as well as its present course and future implications should serve as a useful stepping off point for understanding both the promises and perils of artificial intelligence. In short, artificial intelligence research has progressed through a series of period over the past fifty years, each building on the last to drive the discipline closer to the realization of computational thought. It is only in recent years that we have begun to apply what has been learned and develop more finely tuned forms of artificial intelligence. The future for the discipline is, of course, uncertain."
Abstract In this article, the writer discusses artificial hearts. While the paper explores the topic in general, there is an overall focus on healthcare management. The topics covered include a historical view of the topic, current assessment and conclusion including recommendations on how to maximize the effectiveness of the TAH program and make it more readily available and advantageous from a healthcare management viewpoint.
From the Paper "There are approximately 5 million American adults whose hearts are failing. Of those with an extremely poor prognosis, the current survival rates are only 50%. What can be done to change the odds? Artificial hearts designed by man, can be used instead of the one designed by God. These marvels of modern technology are a startling reality that began in theory back in the 1960s when Dr. Michael DeBakey designed and developed the roller pump used in the heart/lung machine used during heart transplants. The topic of whether or not to use artificial hearts to keep those on heart transplant lists alive until such time as a heart becomes available is now under debate for human use."
Abstract This paper explains that population growth is not only a problem of overgrowth but also of the intensified separation of the individual from the means of production and of the drive of profit over conservation. The author presents the writings of Malthus which forms the bases for this economical philosophy, which is now of ecological concern, too. The paper underscores that the modern separation from the means of production does not negate the fact that nearly everything humans need to sustain themselves is provided by the earth, either by natural or artificial means. However, it is possible that the growth of the human population can outstrip available resources.
From the Paper "Wetlands conservation is in fact one of the most hotly debated issues, with regard to the further development of the human race, as she struggles to sustain herself, artificially in the natural world, almost completely removed from the means of production. We as humans argue that wetlands, serve no logical purpose for production, despite countless evidence that the purpose of wetlands is to cleans the earth of the toxins, human and naturally borne that attempt to re-circulate every time it rains and runs off down a stream or canal."
Abstract This paper is on the topic of artificial intelligence. What is artificial intelligence? Computers use artificial intelligence. There are many ways that artificial intelligence has been used in many different fields ranging from farming to the President. Artificial intelligent is not a thought or philosophy, but it is something that makes a difference in people lives.
Abstract This paper describes what constitutes artificial intelligence and examines the history of the term, comparing the original goals scientists set for artificial intelligence with the goals that are being worked on today. The author discusses many of the achievements in the field, as well as the limitations of computers and how scientists are trying to build machines capable of dealing with non-quantifiable, non-logical data. The author raises many questions regarding the scientific, legal, and moral implications of creating artificial life forms and points out that until what exactly defines humanity in humans is agreed upon, there can be no concrete answer to whether or not it can be re-created in digital form. The author concludes that it will be necessary to look to the fields of theology, philosophy, and ethics in order to develop a responsible, balanced, and ethical use of artificial intelligence today and in the future.
From the Paper "Before one can even begin to discuss artificial intelligence in its future, fully realized form, one must examine the use of artificial intelligence in machines and programs today that show its potential for independence. For example, the evolution of artificial intelligence mirrors the development of organic life in that it starts out simply. These simple examples must be studied and understood, as they will form the basis of the behavior of the complex incarnations of artificial intelligence. In other words, we must establish the point at which we will begin to consider a computer alive."
Abstract This paper presents an examination of artificial intelligence, the ability of computers to 'think' like humans. The writer looks at the works of famed theorists Allen Turing and Sherry Turkle and using their ideas, beliefs and works, creates a viable belief that artificial intelligence is a possible and positive occurrence. It shows how although many argue that artificial intelligence is an impossible concept because it takes humans to program the computers, artificial intelligence is already here to stay and is being improved every day.
From the Paper "Turkle presents her belief that artificial intelligence is really nothing more than the marriage between biology and parenting. When those who do not believe in artificial intelligence capabilities debate the issue they argue that it will never been a reality because no matter how much a computer can do it still has to be programmed. Turkle and other advocates of the topic argue that even intelligent beings have to be programmed. Many times the example is brought up that the programming of children by the parents is similar to the programming that occurs with computers and their programmers."
Tags: humans, computers, brain, thought, program, julia
Abstract This paper examines the philosophical and scientific implications of artificial intelligence for humanity. The paper traces the original connection made between human thought and computer processes and then goes on to explain how the question of artificial intelligence then became not whether an advanced computer can be built, but rather what is intelligence. The paper also looks at the evolution of computer capabilities and how they are now more capable of intelligent thought than ever before, but are still not capable of common sense or an understanding of what they are for or the limits of their applicability. The paper concludes with the observation that, while newer and more advanced technology will bring major changes to the level of artificial intelligence, whether these changes will actually approximate human intelligence is still an unknown.
From the Paper "Not even a century ago?in fact, not even a half-century ago--few people could have imagined the present-day world with computers operating most of the government and business processes and the Internet running in millions of homes. Thus it would have been nearly impossible to comprehend artificial intelligence (AI) and that scientists would try to create a machine (AI) to learn, adapt, reason, correct or improve itself. Whether or not this will become a reality is still unknown. AI pioneer Chris Langton says that this "intelligent entity" will never be possible. He believes, ?when scientists are faced with the choice of either admitting that the computer process is alive, or moving the goalposts to exclude the computer from the exclusive club of living organisms, they will choose the latter.? Is this true? Will humans never admit that a computer can actually function as real life? Or will they instead decide there is nothing special about life, and humanity can therefore be designed, built and replicated? At least for the time being, there is no answer to this dilemma."
Abstract In this article the writer looks at same-sex marriage and at the artificial insemination of lesbians with an eye towards asserting that both are offensive on religious, moral, and sociological grounds. The paper first points out that the Holy Scriptures provide a number of compelling justifications for the elevation of heterosexual marriage. Proceeding further, the writer argues that there are moral reasons why artificial insemination (and gay marriages involving children) are unacceptable. Finally, the writer maintains that there is sufficient evidence decrying the effects of households headed by homosexual couples upon children for our society to re-examine its glib acceptance of the idea that homosexual couples (perhaps couples inseminated by artificial means) should automatically be given carte blanche to be parents.
From the Paper "The reasons why homosexual union appears to be frowned upon by the Church ties into the notion of complementarity; that is to say, pairs of men and pairs of women cannot conceive children via natural means. In short, the procreative process, at least if it involves natural means, is only possible if one man and one woman are involved. As May understands the matter, natural fertility is a blessing of God and demands the active participation of both genders. More than that, the ability to have progeny invests in human couples the creative power that would otherwise be limited to God alone; thus, the natural process of mating is an act that should not be trifled with inasmuch as man and woman - in their natural states as God designed them - have been rendered in God's image, or at least man has been rendered in God's image and have been given the responsibility of carrying out a procreative act sanctioned by the Almighty. Clearly, man and woman have been designed the way they have for a reason, and it would be unwise to alter this complementary state by allowing lesbians to become pregnant via artificial insemination."
Abstract This paper discusses the Feingold Program that offers a food regimen that avoids salicylates, artificial dyes and artificial flavorings for children with problems such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The paper then discusses the controversy surrounding this diet and the scientific evidence of the harmful effects of synthetic food additives on learning, behavior and health. The paper posits that this is an important matter to every consumer of food products because it not only affects children but adults as well and therefore the FDA should ban these artificial ingredients from being added to our foods.
From the Paper "The purpose of artificial coloring added to food is usually to make a low-nutrition item visually more appealing to children and even perhaps to mask the absence of nutrients. Can anyone really advise parents even those that have children without behavioral problems that the risk is really worth it? If the FDA would ban artificial food dyes this would be a less drastic step than medicating kids with stimulants such as Ritalin. At the very least, the FDA could require warning labels on foods with artificial dyes. The Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) urged the FDA to ban artificial food dyes linked to behavior problems. CSPI was founded by executive director Michael Jacobson, Ph.D. and 2 other scientists. CSPI has established itself as the organized voice of the American public on nutrition, food safety, health and other issues during a boom of consumer and environmental protection awareness in the early 1970s. CSPI's goals are to educate the public, advocate governmental policies that are consistent with scientific evidence on health and environmental issues, and counter industry's powerful influence on public opinion and public policies."
Abstract Discusses different kinds of Hermit Crabs, their habitats and their characteristics. Usefullness in research. Series of activities of Hermit Crabs value for research into decision-making. Importance of shells and skill selection behavior. Ability of researchers to observe the assessment procedure of the crabs. Variouis experiments on Hermit Crabs in reference to animal behavior; response to stimuli.
From the Paper "Hermit crabs usually are found in empty gastropod shells, seeking protection from predators, desiccation, and other hermit crabs. The hermit crab does not seem to select a place to stay at random but rather appears to have a selection process. Precisely what this process is and how the crab makes a decision as to what shell to select and what shell to reject is the subject of much research.
Hermit crabs are crustaceans that live in the wild in the western Atlantic. They mate on land near the sea, and once the eggs develop, the female carries the eggs on her abdomen to the sea and leaves them on wet sand or a wet rock for the tide to carry out to sea. There are usually 1,000 to 50,000 eggs at a time. At sea, the crabs are small larvae that molt several times in order to grow to adulthood. At the adult larvae stage..."
