Biomimicry free essay sample

Biophilia and biomimicry are very analogous and often confused, but they are not identical principles. Biophilia posits that â€Å"human health and well-being has a biologically based need to affiliate with nature†, applied to design and architecture it refers to incorporating natural elements into the design of buildings and other structures. Biomimicry is a big part of biophilic design in that it seeks to incorporate natural processes into the design features of buildings. The common misconception about biomimicry is that it seeks to design a building to mimic nature, e. g. designing a building to look like a pinecone. Instead, it would be designing the building’s skin to mimic the ability of the pinecone to open and close according to moisture levels, thereby managing the building’s moisture levels in a more efficient way. Designs that incorporate biomimicry are function-centric, however they usually change the form of the building, which can sometimes be an unintended benefit. We will write a custom essay sample on Biomimicry or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page 1 Although it is not the only part of biophilic design, biomimicry is an integral and important element of this design revolution. During the 20th century the prevailing architectural attitude imposed â€Å"artificial meaning on the built environment†, thereby ignoring the â€Å"natural and physical processes of human physiology†. 2 Buildings were seen as nothing more than hollow shells, independent of their interior inhabitants and their exterior environment. However, we know that this is not true. The built environment is an integral part of the natural landscapes, mostly due to the fact that its construction drastically alters it in some way. Biomimetic designs can help mitigate this, by improving the static function of a building. Biomimicry is first and foremost, a design process, not a style. It focuses on what the design will do for the building in question, rather than how that design will affect the aesthetics overall. However, the buildings aesthetics are usually improved because of the design, with features that are unique that stick out from conventional designs. Biomimicry is a very engineering-centric approach where the architect focuses on: â€Å"flexibility, strength under tension, wind resistance, sound protection, cooling, warming, etc. † Then try to find and copy the function in question from a local organism or ecosystem. That is the essence of biomimicry. 3 This graphic, outlines the design process for biomimicry, which was created by the firm â€Å"Biomimicry 3. 8† an innovator in biomimetic design. 4 However, even with all of the best explanations, the best way to explain biomimicry is through concrete examples. The first is the Eastgate Centre Tower in Harare, Zimbabwe. It is modeled after the termite mounds that are widespread in that area of Africa. The building’s skin mimics that of the termite mounds, which have thousands of small air passageways that open and close depending on the prevailing sun and precipitation. This adaptation keeps the termites and their food source at a warm and constant temperature. The architects copied this design by incorporating a passive cooling system, that cools during the day and warms at night. 56 The second great example is 30 St. Mary Axe in London, more commonly known as The Gherkin†. It’s innovative design adapts the way a glass sponge circulates water. The building’s main feature are six chimney-stack shafts that help distribute air evenly and also insulate the building’s exterior. This feature allows the Gherkin to operate at half the cost of an equivalent traditional building. 7 These two examples contain the essence of biomimicry, it is about integrating what nature has worked out through billions of years of evolution with what we as humans have discovered so far. It is to distill the essential function that allows other organisms on Earth to be successful and combine it with our technologies. The immense energy savings that these buildings have, combined with their innovative reputation allows for biomimetic designs to gain a greater foothold. It gives prospective architectural clients assurances that â€Å"‘biomimicry is a real entity with real benefits and not some scary new design approach’† that is temperamental and expensive. 8 If biomimicry continues to grow in popularity future buildings will have much lower costs and have a lower impact on the environment, as well as being unique and fun to look at and live in. Making biomimicry the most important component of the biophilic design principle.

Free Essays on Freedom of Being Undeclared

Freedom of Being Undeclared Attending college can broaden one’s views unlike many other experiences. There are so many different educational experiences, career paths, and life choices extended by going to college that everyone who attends should definitely get the most they possibly can out of it. After all, college lays down the foundation for a career, which you will perform for 40 hours a week for the rest of your life. Going to college is very expensive and time consuming. The decision between changing college majors and attending college for a couple of additional years, or working in a field of little interest or excitement to you is not one that many people wish to confront. But there is one way to avoid this situation while at the same time enjoying college to the fullest and receiving a very well-rounded education to prepare you for a happy life in your field. Do not declare a major until you are very comfortable with the area you have chosen. Investigate as many fields as possible unti l you find one that suits yourself well and that you can picture yourself working in for a long time to come. That is right, be undeclared until the right field for you has been found. Remaining undeclared until you are comfortable with your chosen area will assist you greatly in achieving a happy life through enjoying your job, broadened views of the world around you, and associating with people with similar interests. Many people are not sure as to what living a happy life consists of. It obviously differs from person to person depending on what they enjoy, what is important to them, and what their interests are. But, to most everyone, living a happy life consists of living freely and letting your true self come out. It does not matter so much what you enjoy or what is important to you. What truly matters is achieving your goals, doing what you enjoy, and therefore living a very fulfilling life. If someone has a passion for... Free Essays on Freedom of Being Undeclared Free Essays on Freedom of Being Undeclared Freedom of Being Undeclared Attending college can broaden one’s views unlike many other experiences. There are so many different educational experiences, career paths, and life choices extended by going to college that everyone who attends should definitely get the most they possibly can out of it. After all, college lays down the foundation for a career, which you will perform for 40 hours a week for the rest of your life. Going to college is very expensive and time consuming. The decision between changing college majors and attending college for a couple of additional years, or working in a field of little interest or excitement to you is not one that many people wish to confront. But there is one way to avoid this situation while at the same time enjoying college to the fullest and receiving a very well-rounded education to prepare you for a happy life in your field. Do not declare a major until you are very comfortable with the area you have chosen. Investigate as many fields as possible unti l you find one that suits yourself well and that you can picture yourself working in for a long time to come. That is right, be undeclared until the right field for you has been found. Remaining undeclared until you are comfortable with your chosen area will assist you greatly in achieving a happy life through enjoying your job, broadened views of the world around you, and associating with people with similar interests. Many people are not sure as to what living a happy life consists of. It obviously differs from person to person depending on what they enjoy, what is important to them, and what their interests are. But, to most everyone, living a happy life consists of living freely and letting your true self come out. It does not matter so much what you enjoy or what is important to you. What truly matters is achieving your goals, doing what you enjoy, and therefore living a very fulfilling life. If someone has a passion for...

Impacts of Globalization on the Cultural Aspects and heritage on Qatar Term Paper

Impacts of Globalization on the Cultural Aspects and heritage on Qatar - Term Paper Example This research will begin with the statement that culture and heritage forms the basic bedrock of Qatar’s modern society, which provides the foundation of the nation’s hospitality, music, and handicrafts as the inspiration of modern artists. The Qatar government has embarked on intensive approaches aimed at preserving the culture and heritage of the nation. Many buildings in Qatar though, still maintain their traditional architecture. In major towns such as Doha, you will find many handicrafts such as traditional foods, art, and fabrics displayed on shops and stalls. Even young Qataris are being encouraged to adopt businesses that promote traditions and old crafts. The government has set up a campaign dubbed Qatar Foundation (QF) that aims at promoting the cultural prosperity of the nation and preserving the country’s heritage. In the National Council for Culture, Heritage and the Arts as well as in the Qatar Museums authorities, there are various collections of A rabic writings, art, and calligraphy, which are all being made available for research as well as public appreciation through the Qatar Foundation. Qatar’s culture and heritage are evidenced in the following areas: music; poetry; heritage library; traditional architecture; Arabian horses and camels; globalization and culture; globalization and the state immigration; globalization and living standards; Doha cultural festivals; promotion of cultural heritage by Government.

Prevalence of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Post-Acute Assignment

Prevalence of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Post-Acute Myocardial Infraction - Assignment Example PTSD affects the quality of life that such patient population lead often making them susceptible to other lifestyle diseases (Goldberg & Williams, 1998). In a quantitative research, I seek to determine the suitability of a psychological discharge questionnaire in serving as a diagnostic tool to guide nursing practice and the handling of post-acute myocardial infraction patients. Key among the factors that make quantitative the most appropriate mode of research in this context is the fact that it provides observable evidence that helps formulate a hypothesis (Bamberger, 2000). The variables in a quantitative study are computed without coding them. As such, they provide practical evidence that makes it easy to observe thereby formulate functional hypothesis such as the suitability of the psychological discharge questionnaire. Another equally important factor is that quantitative research does not require a restrictive design plan a feature that allows the researcher to study the variables in their natural setup (Creswell, 2014). As state earlier, the lack of adequate studies in the topical issue makes it difficult to carry out the rese arch. As such, the researcher must let the research flow naturally a possibility that a quantitative design guarantees. The independent variable in the study is the psychological discharge questionnaire while dependent variable is the detection of PTSD. The dependent variable in the research will include the various types of PSTD such as depression and anxiety among others. With a research sample of ninety patients selected randomly, the researcher will issue the psychological discharge questionnaires to forty-five and fail to give out the questionnaire to the remaining forty-five. The study then begins as the nurses use the information provided in the questionnaire to carry out follow up treatment of the patients. Additionally, the researcher observes the behavioral changes of all the samples used in the research thus making appropriate conclusions on the suitability and functionality of using questionnaires as a diagnostic tool.

Enthanasia Pro And Cons Essay Example for Free

Enthanasia Pro And Cons Essay As Victor Fung Keung pointed out in the Observer column (A person has the right to a dignified death, August 18), most people object to euthanasia without thinking about the subject in a rational way. They ignore the fact that someone who is terminally ill will not get better. And they are indifferent to the suffering and mental anguish that these patients endure. It is cowardly to ignore the excruciating pain they suffer before dying. People opposed to euthanasia banish thoughts of their loved ones ever facing such pain. There are those who attempt to take the moral high ground, saying a life should not be ended in this way under any circumstances. We have to face the issue of euthanasia. We must address it now, not just because of the pleas of the quadriplegic Choi Wan-fung (Quadriplegic thinks about how to kill himself every day, August 16), but also because it is simply inhumane to stand idly by while people die in extreme pain. The government and legislators should have the courage to reform the law on euthanasia. Ko King-tim, Kowloon Tong I do not agree with Victor Fung Keungs article (A person has the right to a dignified death, August 18). I think a person has the right to a dignified life and that there is no dignity in death. I disagree with the promoters of euthanasia, because people choose to die, not through free will, but under pressure, mostly from family members. You reported on the plight of quadriplegic Choi Wan-fung. If I was in a situation where I felt I had become a financial burden to my wife or my children, I would want to opt to die. That is why the present law exists, to protect me, not to encourage me to commit suicide. At the same time, a civil society should provide the means for someone in that state to be able to lead a dignified life. Mr Fung says that dying with dignity is humane but how does he know? As Hamlet says, that is the undiscovered country. A friend of mine died last year of cancer at 53. He was in great pain, but just a few days before dying, and in spite of suffering, lying in his garden he explained to me how overwhelmed he was by the beauty of flowers.

The Philosophy of Cognitive Science Essay -- Neurology Psychology Pape

The Philosophy of Cognitive Science Psychophysical dualism — the distinction between mind and body — is the counterposition between essentially irreducible elements: the mind and body. Such a dualism implies the main ontological problem of the philosophy of cognitive science and philosophy of mind: the mind-body problem (MBP). The dualism and the referred-to problem has been insistently discussed in the philosophical tradition and several solutions have been proposed. Such solutions are properly philosophical or require a scientific approach. First, I will expound the philosophical solution to the MBP proposed by Descartes, to be followed by an exposition of Ryle's criticisms to the solution. Second, from Ryle's criticism, I will deduce a scientific solution to the MBP related to the neural framework model of mind in cognitive science by means of what I call 'the principle of the embodiment of the mind.' Finally, I shall point out the philosophical difficulties that are to be found in using such a princip le. If I've reason, then the philosophical problems must let dissolve themselves without any rest, differently from others... — Ludwig Wittgenstein But this very attraction should make us suspicious: in the history of philosophy, attempts at showing a problem to be "pseudo-problem" have often encountered the very same difficulties that have beset attempts to solve the problem. — Hilary Putnam I - INTRODUCTION The psychophysical dualism or mind-body distinction is the counterposition between two essentially irreducible elements: soul and body. Such dualism implies, as we will show, the more discussed issue of philosophy of cognitive science and philosophy of mind: the mind-body problem (MBP, henceforth) whose the en... ...r and Zopf, Pergamon, p. 255-78, 1962). Atlan, H. Entre le Cristal et la Fumà ©e. Essai sur l'organisation du vivant. Ed. du Seuil, Paris, France, 1979. Churchland, D. P. Theories of Brain Function. In : Neurophilosophy: Towards a Unified Science of Mind and Brain, MIT Press, 1986. Descartes, R. Les Meditations Metaphysiques. Ec. Tannery & Adam: Librairie Philosophique L. Vrin, vol. IX -1, 1982. Gardner, H. The Mind's New Science: A History of Cognitive Revolution. New York, Basic Books, 1987. Guà ©roult, M. Descartes Selon l' Ordre de Raisons. Ed. Aubier, vol 1, Paris, 1964. Gonzales, M. E. Q. Neural networks and Mental Representation: An essay on Harmony and Rationality. In: Trans/ Form/Aà §Ãƒ £o, Sà £o Paulo, v. 14, p.93-108, 1991. Nagel, E. The Structure of Science: Problems in the Logic of Scientific Explanation. Routhledge & Kegan Paul, London, 1961.

Compare how feelings are presented in two of the poems Harmonium and Brothers Essay

Everyone experiences feelings; they cannot be ignored as we have no control over them. In ‘Harmonium’, Simon Armitage explores the feelings of the relationship between himself and his father, using the extended metaphor he presents the instrument ‘harmonium’ to test his feelings that exists between the father and son. The name itself ‘harmonium’ immediately highlights the connection or ‘harmony’ between them. Armitage also underlines the feeling of regret throughout the poem, as the harmonium is â€Å"gathering dust†, which means by protecting the instrument, he can retain memories from his life. In ‘Brothers’ feelings are also explored by Andrew Forster, the poem underlines the childhood experiences, and the unbalanced relationship with siblings. Forster presents a nostalgic part of a childhood memory, which consists of emotional significance, where relationships change between two brothers. The little brother is considered inferior, as the older brother does not enjoy his â€Å"spouting† conversation, he takes advantage to neglect his little brother so that he can be with his friend doing â€Å"what grown-ups do†. In similar, this poem also identifies regret, the older brother expresses guilt that the ‘distance’ he has created between them, and the little boy with his ‘hand holding out’ showing desire for connection with his older brother. Feelings are presented differently throughout the poems. In ‘harmonium’, Armitage uses colloquialisms which shape the speech patterns of Yorkshire dialect, and also showing discomfort between the feelings of father and son. At the start of the poem, Armitage begins with ‘for a song’, which explores the idea of memories of the past ‘struck a chord’. Armitage also highlights his father’s vulnerability, as he is a ‘dead weight’ which may suggest that he is a burden to his son as he gets older, where they have formed feelings of regret. Similarly, in ‘Brothers’, Forster also uses colloquialisms ‘saddled with you’ or ‘me and Paul’ to represent the speaker’s voice as more realistic. Forster explores the feelings through using monosyllabic language such as ‘said you should go and ask Mum’ which is clearly suggesting childhood and an emotional tone, also showing regret in their feelings. In ‘Harmonium’, Armitage uses personification to identify the metaphorical link between his father and the harmonium, such as ‘the case is ‘aged’, its keys are ‘yellowed the fingernails’, it has ‘lost its tongue’. These suggest that Armitage is describing his father as old, no longer needed. Contrastingly, in ‘Brothers’, Forster uses verb forms to underline the feelings of the two brothers, as the older brothers are considered ‘ambled’ and ‘strolled’, whereas the younger brother ‘skipped’ and ‘windmilled’ which suggests that he is at ease. However, his brothers fear unassertiveness due to being in their teens. This suggests that they hold feelings for each other, but don’t want to expose them in front of their friends. Imagery is used to express the uselessness and vulnerability of the father in ‘Harmonium’. As the instrument itself is ‘gathering dust’, old and is rusty, the father is also ‘aged’, showing that he is no longer needed and is a burden. ‘Bundled off to the skip’ and ‘laid on its back’ suggest his uselessness. However, Armitage also emulates on the harmonium’s positive past, by describing it as ‘under the sunlight, through stained glass’, and the voices to be singing like ‘glided finches’. This positivity of his father’s is shown as the last words in the final stanza, where the use of sibilance, imagery and strong rhyme suggests whispering of the ‘phrase’ contained in rhyming couplet which creates regretful tone and feeling, which could suggest that Armitage cannot bring himself to speak. On the other hand, in ‘Brothers’, the tone becomes regretful as he describes his little brother from a distance when ‘holding out a coin’. This suggests that the brother is regretful for neglecting and abandoning his little brother for being with his friends and ignoring his existence, and this is shown at the end of the poem where the older brother realises the ‘distance’ he created between them both. Hence, the love for his little brother is a realisation of guilt through the description of his carefree playfulness and him ‘holding hand out’ for a coin. The repentance makes his feelings for his little brother come across and their relationship alter over time. Both poems present strong, feelings of emotional pain and regret. Harmonium’ where Armitage discovers the vulnerability of his father at the end and through the instrument itself, where he feels something has been lost which is unable to recapture. Which suggest that he later wanted his father to be a part of his life. ‘Brothers’ where the poet underlines the difficult relationships between siblings and how they chan ge overtime, as for the older brother feeling regretful for neglecting his younger brother who was ‘holding up a coin’. Both poems suggest and express regret for a missed opportunity to communicate the feelings with the close ones.