Abstract This paper is a review of Anthony McCreery's essay "Cybernetic Culture: An Analysis of the Impact of 'Cybernetic Films" and how McCreery analyzes whether these films can be used to understand contemporary culture.
From the Paper "Until recently, cybernetics has been confined to the realm of science and technological study. However, the impact of cybernetics, and more specifically second-order cybernetics, has gradually become apparent in areas such as mainstream film and literature. Popular movies such as "The Matrix", "Being John Malkovich", "Fight Club", and "The Terminator" illustrate the growing influence of cybernetic theory on popular culture. In his essay "Cybernetics and Culture: An Analysis of the Impact of "Cybernetic Films"", Anthony McCreery uses modern films to analyze whether or not cybernetics is an appropriate ideology for understanding contemporary culture."
Abstract This paper details the published research relating to human communication analysis, based on intra-personal, interpersonal and group interaction. This paper details Gregory Bateson's perception and definition of second-order cybernetics which illustrates an interactive system wherein the individual is constantly in relation with his or her own social environment. This paper analyzes both the quantitative and qualitative realities objectified in the field of cybernetics. The writer of this paper contends and explains the manner in which cybernetics objectively looks into the social phenomenon of being studied, noting its nature and dynamics through subjective measures. This paper examines and explains the reasoning behind Bateson's cybernetics learning process, as detailed in his book "Steps to an Ecology of Mind." This paper also delves into Bateson's discovery which clearly identifies the processes involved while interacting with the self, another communicator and other people from varying cultures and with different values.
From the Paper "While in Learning I the individual is just learning and developing communication skills, in Learning II, s/he must now be able to identify acts and meanings that belong or do not belong to his/her culture. As exemplified earlier, distinguishing between the different actions in which agreement or disagreement are expressed is a manifestation of learning at the second level, where the communicator now commits action based on the context or situation s/he is in. Thus, when the individual is in a Middle Eastern society, it is essential to adopt the culture's communication action of agreement and disagreement, which is opposite to the individual's American culture and upbringing. These adjustments made by the communicator is an illustration of contextualization, the commitment of proper actions and meanings in an altogether different culture and society."
Abstract This paper identifies a management problem within an operational system in Abexogroup International. It uses appropriate operating/systematic/cybernetic planning, control principles and concepts to diagnose the nature of the problem that exists. It also provides clear recommendations as to how the problem might be resolved. Diagrams.
Outline
Executive Summary of Abexogroup International
Introduction
Issue of Operations Management in Emerging Markets
In-House Operations Management Related Issues
Analysis and Recommendations
Conclusion
Appendix - History and Development of Operations Management
From the Paper "The new, more effective approach to taking Abexobank global is to do extensive homework regarding culture, distributors, suppliers, and customers before placing operations in a foreign land. Successful globalisation today requires investing time and energy to understand the nature of business in those countries and to methodically build a presence from the ground up. Abexobank works closely with bureaucrats, entrepreneurs, social groups, and other potential customers at the grassroots level. This is one of the primary reasons why the bank would survive in a new market like China. Extensive research and homework has been done for the China markets and a lot of local staff has been roped in to cater to the changes in culture, value and language."
Abstract This paper deals with the theories of psychologist Gregory Bateson, primarily his theory of cybernetic epistemology. The paper begins by discussion the variables of the continuous process of interaction. The paper explores the mind as an integral part of the system, not a separate component. The paper also addresses the need for a holistic perspective of the world, and asks how this fits in with Bateson's theory of learning.
From the Paper "Drawing from the concept of cybernetics, Bateson proposed a different way of how people should perceive and think about the world. Instead of thinking in terms of the linear and limited cause-effect relationship, people should..."
Abstract In this article, the writer deals with a detailed overview of the nine theory categories as stated in the works of S.W. Littlejohn regarding communication. The theories and sub-theories involved with each of the nine categories of communication theories are discussed, as well as the premises and important concepts of each theory. The writer notes that the theories in the nine sections on Littlejohn's comprehensive guide allow for more understanding and interpretation into the vast subject of communication. The writer points out that they add to an already great database of academic knowledge that will ultimately lead to greater understanding of the most basic human tool, communication. The writer maintains that this detailed guide is the best way to understand and explain these communication theories.
Outline:
Introduction
Theory
Communication Theories: System Theory
Information Theory
Cybernetics Communication Theories: Signs and Language
Semantic Theory
Syntactic Theory
Communication Theories: Discourse
Communication Theories: Message Production
Communication Theories: Message Reception
Communication Theories: Symbolic Interaction, Structuration, and Convergence
Communication Theories:Social & Cultural Reality
Communication Theories: Experience and Interpretation
Critical Theories
Conclusion
From the Paper "It is important to understand the function that theory has in communication. According to Cohen, the main purpose of any theory is to create a solution for a problem. Theories should therefore, primarily aim to solve problems. This means that the theory presented and used for a certain purpose can be evaluated by determining the importance of the problem that it addresses and the ability of the solution to solve the problem."
"In general it is accepted that theories address a few types of problems. They are, according to Laudan, empirical problems and conceptual problems, as well as the category named by Cohen as practical problems."
Tags:cybernetics, semantic, syntactic, conversation, information
Abstract This paper discusses the meaning and application of the term "cyborg." It argues that human beings who use the Internet, machines, pacemakers, heart implants or prosthetics are not cyborgs. Instead, it suggests that the contrary assertion is indicative of a corruption of language and thought as human beings enter the new world of 21st century neuronic technology. The paper analyzes this thesis and assertion.
From the Paper "It is both curious and instructive that the Greek origin of the word "organic" means "tool" or "instrument", hardly relevant to the current sense of "organic foods" or an organic lifestyle. In fact it construes closely to the definition of a cyborg, "a term condensed from 'cybernetic organism'...typically defined as an entity comprising organic as well as machine parts and information circuits" (Soufoulis, 2002, p.88). The definition co-opts the modern invasive meaning that enables Donna Haraway to "proclaim[s] the cyborg as an identity: "By the late twentieth century, our time, a mythic time, we are all chimeras, theorized and fabricated hybrids of machine and organism; in short we are cyborgs. The cyborg is our ontology; it gives us our politics" (Soufoulis, 2002, p.88)."
Abstract This paper discusses James Lovelock's book, "Gaia: A New Look at Life on Earth", and his scientific perspective of the earth as a self sustaining organism with all systems within the earth being part of the of the self sustaining organism that is earth itself. The paper provides a chapter by chapter review of the book that takes us from the introduction of the book, through the recognition of Gaia to the issues concerning the physical makeup of the planet.
Outline:
Introduction
In the Beginning
The Recognition of Gaia
Cybernetics The Contemporary Atmosphere
The Sea
Gaia and Man, the Problem of Pollution
Living within Gaia
Epilogue
From the Paper "The beginning of earth is both an indication of the instinctive or natural process by which earth came to exist, and the process by which Gaia came to fortify herself or program herself for survival. There is indeed a mechanistic undertone to this chapter, as the maintenance of the balance biosphere is a physical and incredibly complex mathematical process to scientists, but an instinctive and perfect process in nature for Gaia. The chapter builds upon the introductory premise that the perfection of earth's atmosphere as a highly unlikely occurrence, the synchronization of natural forces that gave rise to life and development of this planet. While faith-based individuals simply call this God, and science seeks to analyze and identify all the processes in evolution, Lovelock refers to it as Gaia, the notion that is earth and acts in a way that is perfect for survival and evolution, and gives rise to our complex natural evolution state of existence."
An analysis of the emergence of a global conciousness around the world of technology and its use for further extension of the abilities of the human species.
Abstract This paper is an objective observation of the development of the human species. It discusses the implications and effects of the principals of cybernetics based on spontaneous emergence of an international neural network of interconnectivity which is swiftly evolving to being of equivalence to a global consciousness and its exponential growth. It explores the evident implications of systemic development and growth of the internet as an international forum of connectivity and its direct effect on the species with views of its systemic principals, their interaction and the potential threat of external moderation of such information distribution.
From the Paper "As time progresses the accessibility of the Internet is situating itself in a form of networking which allows a vaster quantity of people to 'get connected' every day and the forced moderation of the Internet has potentially dire consequences. This paper shall outlay the physical emergence of a neural network of interconnectivity, the implications of its overview and of the downward trend of the species, stipulating negative trends towards any form of inherent obligations to genetic selective retention."
Abstract Identifies six topic areas and concerns of IS needing research. Describes rationale for conducting research. The many disciplines that constitute IS; disciplines of information (artificial intelliegence, computer science, cybernetics & more). Working with IS building blocks of power-knowledge & productive tools. New developments in IS. Issues of ethical conduct. Technological concerns.
From the Paper "In the wake of the Information Technology (IT) revolution, the field of information science (IS) has emerged and very quickly become an increasingly significant academic as well as practical discipline. Recently, the American Society for Information Science (ASIS) held a summit meeting in Boston. Richard Zwies (2000) described the results of this summit meeting as constituting a critical event in the development of the field of information architecture, which encompasses system design and development, information retrieval, graphic design, knowledge of organizational and user behavior, and skills in the area of existing and emerging technologies. Though IS is a relatively new discipline, it has quickly generated a myriad number of studies that attempt to identify the most critical areas needing research and/or refinement as the field itself advances. The purpose of..."
Abstract This essay will argue, with respect to the stories "Burning Chrome" and "Johnny Mnemonic", that Gibson represents the relationship between technology and the body as a dynamic process that is in continual flux. The characters in his stories attempt to determine fixed meaning in this cybernetic chaos, but come to accept the deferment of certainty and meaning that is a consequence of technology's continual reshaping of the boundaries of the body and its consciousness.
Abstract This paper first gives a thorough definition of the term 'cyberpunk' in order to provide better insight into the works of science fiction writer, William Gibson. The paper then summarizes and analyzes three of Gibson's books, "Neuromancer", "Idoru", and "Pattern Recognition" and highlights the theme throughout all of the novels about the negative use of technology.
From the Paper "Born in 1948 in South Carolina, William Gibson was to become one of the most prolific representatives of science fiction and an exponent of what is to referred to as the cyberpunk genre in science fiction. Even if he did not actually define the term (it had been used previously, see below), William Gibson became the most recognized writer of cyberpunk and he created and defined the term cyberspace, a term with which we are becoming more and more familiar today. His book Neuromancer, written in 1984, won him international fame and recognition, as well as the Hugo Award, the Nebula Award and the Philipp K. Dick Award."
Abstract This paper explains that Human Resource Management grew out of the belief that employment was not only a source of income to the employee and profit to the company, but also represented challenges and opportunities; whereby, the employee becomes part of the company as a stakeholder. The author points out that, traditionally, human resource managers were mandated to acquire, train and maintain personnel by following appropriate government rules and regulations, by implementing just and equitable policies and procedures and by maintaining harmonious labor union and employee relationships. The paper relates that Strategic HRM links HRM practices with the strategic management process and emphasizes the coordination or congruence among HRM practices: The four HRM strategic theories are the resource-based view of the firm, the behavioral-based theory, cybernetic systems and agency or transaction cost theory.
From the Paper "The new vision on the place and value of human resources in an organization evolved from studies conducted by Elton Mayo, the Father of Human Relations and from the Hawthorne Studies between 1924 and 1932. The Hawthorne Studies re-evaluated Frederick Taylor"s behavioral assumptions, while Mayo investigated the effects of changes in the work environment on productivity. Mayo's study found that employee productivity was affected more by the level of attention shown by management on employees' behavior than their physical working condition, such as the level of lighting. This meant that the human factor was more important than the physical factor. The enlightening conclusion led to a then controversial proposition that a worker's feelings were important and to the development of human relations or HR management concept."
Abstract This paper deals with the epistemological foundation of communication studies. It is presented as though it were in the form of a communication theory lecture to undergraduate students of communication science. The epistemology of communication studies is a large section of understanding in communication science and needs to be addressed and fully understood by all students of communication. In order to explain the epistemology of communication studies, important concepts are discussed in order to obtain a complete understanding.
Outline
Introduction
Epistemology
Characteristics of Communication
Process
Transactional
Symbolic
Theory
Purpose of Theory
Empirical Problems
Conceptual Problems
Practical Problems
Perspectives on Communication Theory Development
Positivist Perspective
Interpretive Perspective
Hermeneutics
Phenomenology
Symbolic Interactions
Critical Perspectives
Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis
Qualitative Content Analysis
Quantitative Content Analysis
Communication Traditions
Rhetorical Tradition
Semiotic Tradition
Phenomenological Tradition
Cybernetic Tradition
Socio-Psychological Tradition
Socio-Cultural Tradition
Critical Tradition
Conclusion
Sources Consulted
From the Paper "Positivism is divided into two schools of thought, classical and logical positivism. According to Comte (1970), knowledge is required to be accepted in three intellectual stages. The three stages are that of the theological, the metaphysical and the scientific stage. This is based on the understanding that a theological and metaphysical explanation is of less quality and credibility in comparison with scientific explanations or evidence. Classical positivism is therefore based on the idea of knowledge being gained from the use of observations and reasoning (Comte, 1970). "
