Ingredients:
1 pound ground meat (hamburger or chicken)
1 onion diced
2 pieces celery cut up small
handful of mushrooms sliced
2 carrots cleaned and cut up small
broccoli cut up small
1 tbs vegetable oil
2 cloves crushed garlic
2 small zucchini cut up in coins
2 cans tomatoes
salt to taste
pepper to taste
1/2 tsp chili pepper spice
1 tbsp chili powder
2 tbsp brown sugar
Cook ground meat in oil add all but the mushrooms and zucchini. Cook for a few mins then add rest of ingredients. Simmer for at least half hour. This makes a large pot of sauce. Feel free to put some in the freezer for another day. I also like to use leftover sauce to make lasagna.
If you prefer chili simply add a can of red kidney beans and enjoy.
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Making Pizza
Yes that's right homemade pizza. Believe it or not pizza is not difficult to make. Here is how I make my whole wheat pizza...
Crust Ingredients: yeast, dissolved in 1 & 1/4 cups warm water, add 2 tbs oil, 1 & 1/2 cups whole wheat flour, 2 tbs sugar, 1/2 tsp salt and 2 cups of all purpose flour. Mix and knead the dough for roughly 6 min until the dough is smooth and elastic. Put dough in a covered bowl leave in a warm place for 20-30 mins.
While the dough sits is the perfect time to prepare your toppings. I like to cut up tomatoes, zucchini, broccoli and or other vegetables it is your choice. I also like to add some meat to my pizzas. I saute finely chopped bacon and chicken pieces together and sometimes some ground beef. Every pizza can be different.
To make it easier I mix all of the chopped vegetables together in a bowl and add 2 tbs of olive oil with some spices. Italian spice works well but you can add whatever flavours you like.
I use tomato sauce with some brown sugar mixed in as the first layer on the pizza. I then add the seasoned vegetables followed by the sauteed meat and finally some grated cheese.
For the cheese I like to use various types of cheeses blended together.
20 mins in a 420 degree oven and the pizza is ready to be devoured.
Crust Ingredients: yeast, dissolved in 1 & 1/4 cups warm water, add 2 tbs oil, 1 & 1/2 cups whole wheat flour, 2 tbs sugar, 1/2 tsp salt and 2 cups of all purpose flour. Mix and knead the dough for roughly 6 min until the dough is smooth and elastic. Put dough in a covered bowl leave in a warm place for 20-30 mins.
While the dough sits is the perfect time to prepare your toppings. I like to cut up tomatoes, zucchini, broccoli and or other vegetables it is your choice. I also like to add some meat to my pizzas. I saute finely chopped bacon and chicken pieces together and sometimes some ground beef. Every pizza can be different.
To make it easier I mix all of the chopped vegetables together in a bowl and add 2 tbs of olive oil with some spices. Italian spice works well but you can add whatever flavours you like.
I use tomato sauce with some brown sugar mixed in as the first layer on the pizza. I then add the seasoned vegetables followed by the sauteed meat and finally some grated cheese.
For the cheese I like to use various types of cheeses blended together.
20 mins in a 420 degree oven and the pizza is ready to be devoured.
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Begining a nursing career
The process of becoming a register nurse seems straight forward. If there is a way to make something difficult I seem to find it.
I decided to enter into the degree program offered by the University of Ottawa. I was working in Pembroke an hour and a half drive from Ottawa and decided to not quit my job as school is expensive. I also decided to live in Pembroke instead of moving to the city. Choosing not to move I drove approximately 130 km to school each day and then back again. I did this and still worked every weekend, holiday and day off to pay for tuition.
I am happy to say that I made it through the entire four years driving back and forth and I still don't mind to drive. I used the same car throughout however I did trade it in for a new Toyota after my last year.
Now a degree in nursing does not make a person a nurse. The definition of nurse legally is a registered nurse (RN) or registered practical nurse (RPN). In order to be registered a nurse requires certain qualifications outlined by the governing body. In Ontario the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) is the governing body for both RN's and RPN's. www.cno.org
I am currently waiting for my results from writing the CRNE which is the exam. Once I pass this exam and pay membership fees I will qualify to be called a nurse.
Unfortunately it takes months for this eight hour exam to be marked therefore I will be waiting for a while.
I would like to get a job in health care in the meantime to help out financially however I have not found one so far. I thought with my degree in nursing I would be able to work as an unregulated health care aide or personal support worker however I have sent many resumes out and the two places I have heard from have both said that they cannot hire graduate nurses. A bit of a road block for me but I am sure I will eventually find something that I will be hired for.
I decided to enter into the degree program offered by the University of Ottawa. I was working in Pembroke an hour and a half drive from Ottawa and decided to not quit my job as school is expensive. I also decided to live in Pembroke instead of moving to the city. Choosing not to move I drove approximately 130 km to school each day and then back again. I did this and still worked every weekend, holiday and day off to pay for tuition.
I am happy to say that I made it through the entire four years driving back and forth and I still don't mind to drive. I used the same car throughout however I did trade it in for a new Toyota after my last year.
Now a degree in nursing does not make a person a nurse. The definition of nurse legally is a registered nurse (RN) or registered practical nurse (RPN). In order to be registered a nurse requires certain qualifications outlined by the governing body. In Ontario the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) is the governing body for both RN's and RPN's. www.cno.org
I am currently waiting for my results from writing the CRNE which is the exam. Once I pass this exam and pay membership fees I will qualify to be called a nurse.
Unfortunately it takes months for this eight hour exam to be marked therefore I will be waiting for a while.
I would like to get a job in health care in the meantime to help out financially however I have not found one so far. I thought with my degree in nursing I would be able to work as an unregulated health care aide or personal support worker however I have sent many resumes out and the two places I have heard from have both said that they cannot hire graduate nurses. A bit of a road block for me but I am sure I will eventually find something that I will be hired for.
AI and Robotics Today vs. in Lem’s The Hunt
Assignment One
AI and Robotics Today vs. in Lem’s The Hunt
Computers and Human Experience
February 4, 2006
AI and Robotics Today vs. in Lem’s The Hunt
The robots in the story of The Hunt are described to be huge machines with humanistic characteristics. Lem describes the ‘Setaur’ as though it is conscious suggesting it has emotions. The current level of understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics is far from reaching the point of mechanical beings having and or recognizing emotions if ever. There are many elements of The Hunt that strain the sense of credulity. Definitions of consciousness, intelligence, and human nature all contribute to discredit the realism. The description of the Setaurs capabilities is far from believable at this time if ever. Realities outlined in physics and current accomplishments discredit the description of such feats. In science fiction works there are often robots in various roles that in some way mimic human life and or have conflict with humans. All of these robots are created with computer animation technology these robots are not real. We are not that advanced with artificial intelligence, computers or robotics. We may emerge with further understanding of consciousness within the next century but we are far from AI mimicking life.
AI is defined by TechWEB as “devices and applications that exhibit human intelligence and behaviour including robots, expert systems, voice recognition, natural and foreign language processing. It also implies the ability to learn or adapt through experience”. Robotics is defined by Tyco Electronics as; the theory and application of robots, a completely self-contained electronic, electric, or mechanical device, to such activities as manufacturing. Therefore combining the two AI and robotics would result with a machine with equal intelligence to that of a human. The test for AI was defined in the 1940 by Alan Turing. Known as the Turing test this indicator of artificial intelligence requires that when a machine is conversing with an intelligent human there are no discernible differences. A machine passing the Turing test would assume that the machine is conscious and has equal intelligence. This definition of AI concerns imitating human intelligence.
Consciousness is defined as being the properties of the mind. Being able to perceive, sense, dream, create etc. A loss of consciousness is resulted with the inability to respond to stimuli. Communication is linked to consciousness. Intelligence is defined as a “mental qualities consisting of the ability to learn from experience, solve problems, and use knowledge to adapt to new situations” (Myers, 2001, p 394). There are three aspects of intelligence, analytical, creative, and practical. Analytical intelligence is the academic problem solving attributes. Creative intelligence is reacting to novel situations and creating. Practical intelligence is required for everyday tasks. Picard states that “the hallmark of an intelligent computer will be its ability to recognize emotions” (Picard, 1997, p 50). Emotions are displays of subjective perceptions. Experiencing a perceived horrific event would cause a human to become emotionally upset. Emotions and intelligence are individual meaning each human being thinks differently and reacts differently. The workings of the human brain remain a mystery. There are many more questions in psychology than answers. As such since we do not fully understand how our control center, the brain, works how can we develop an artificial one? At this time a machine passing the Turing test is not realistic. We are far from developing such technology being limited by our current knowledge. Lem’s philosophy seems to be about the limitations of humanity not the limitations of technology and science.
Fictional stories of robots mimicking life are common; stories involving humans, robots and mortality. The father of such writings is Dr. Isaac Asimov who is the first writer to use the term robotics and creator of the Three Laws. The Three Laws of robotics were defined by Dr. Isaac Asimov in his science fiction stories. The Three Laws are as follows. A robot may not harm a human being, or, through inaction, allow a human being to come to harm. A robot must obey the orders given to it by human beings, except where such orders would conflict with the First Law. A robot must protect its own existence, as long as such protection does not conflict with the First or Second Law. There are many fictional films and writings in which the Three Laws of robotics are used in some way. Technologists in the field of AI have speculated upon the role the Three Laws play in research involving real machines. Asimov’s fictional writings have made a huge impact on the view of robots real and imaginary.
Movies such as I, Robot, Bicentennial Man, and Star Wars are some recent examples of the human imagination; tales of machines, human behaviour and mortality. In the movie I, Robot the world thrives on the assistance of humanlike slave robots. The Three Laws are manipulated with the plot however they exist and the result is the ultimate destruction of the computer controlling all of the robots as it had evolved to an extent that it was destroying human life. The conclusion was that robots physically superior to any human would eventually think its creators (humans) to be inferior. In Bicentennial Man the robot is ound to possess creativity and falls in love with a human. He begins to trade in his parts for organic parts and eventually allows his positronic brain to decay wilfully becoming mortal. The thought of eternal life has been introduced in films with controversial opinions. The basic part of being human means that we all live and we all die. Being immortal would change everything. The robot in this story above all wanted to be human. He wanted to live love and die with the love of his life. In Star Wars the robots are portrayed in a comical role. The robots are portrayed with human like personalities but limited to their programming at times. In Star Wars the roles of humans and machines are almost reversed. Humans or at least the Jedi are portrayed with powers and enormous strength; whereas the robots are inferior and act as support. Traditionally the roles played by robots tend to be superior with the enormous strength and abilities. The Setaur is described to be superior in strength but questionably intelligent. Lem alludes to the fact that the machine has thought but does not outright declare superior or even equal intelligence. This leads to the philosophical view of AI, and humans. Interpretations would vary from reading The Hunt. One view is that the Setaur is intelligent and did save Pirx creating sympathy and remorse for killing the Setaur. Another view is that Pirx was lucky that the Setaur was destroyed as he could have easily been killed being so close to it. This theme of robots against humans has been played out in many fictional stories. The unknown of such AI creates ethical dilemmas suggesting that care be taken when creating ‘life’. Would a robot that mimics human being be alive?
Mimicking life is an ethically controversial proposal. Certainly cloning human beings has been condoned within our society. Laws have been implemented since the successful cloning of mammals in recent years. Even with laws in place the ethical view of cloning is much more persuasive in deterring the cloning of humans. Cloning is not an exact science; there are potential side effects as with all scientific experimentation. The possibility of making deformed human clones is likely and therefore ethically wrong. Human cloning is not ethically plausible. McGee asks; if humans “make” babies rather that “have” babies, are they playing God? This ethical dilemma was raised in context to genetic cloning. However, if humans are built by humans rather than born also applies to using AI and robotics. When it comes to building machines to ‘clone’ humans the ethical dilemmas are similar. If this technology is possible is it reasonable? Lem built the theme of Pirx questioning whether the Setaur actually possessed human qualities. He suggested that the Setaur saved Prix’s life in the end. This suggests that this mechanical machine which was built to mine on the moon had evolved or learned very much like a human. Lem creates sympathy for the Setaur by describing him as human. The reader automatically then would think it inhumane to execute a human and thus inhumane to kill the Setaur. Lem skilfully weaves an intricate ethical dilemma; the underlying theme that technology will not better the human condition. This definition of AI is unrealistic yet well known within society.
With both cloning and creating human-like robots we are making individuals. The question here would be do we need to build humans? Our world population is growing in both numbers and age. With the increase in knowledge and technology life expectancy in the western world has increased over fifty percent in the last century. The use of cloning technology could theoretically be used for other purposes such as growing replacement organs rather than making more lives. What purpose does a human like robot serve? An example is researchers are working on developing humanoid robots at Perdue University. These researchers are working to develop robots that could function as aids for people with disabilities. Similar to the use of Seeing Eye dogs these robots would function to help people not replace people. ASIMO is an example of the first such robot. Built by Honda ASIMO currently is used as a tour guide. The development of ASIMO started in 1986. ASIMO has evolved into a humanoid robot capable of walking on various surfaces, opening doors and comprehending and responding to simple voice commands. ASIMO’s top speed is six kilometres and hour on Earth. The goal of ASIMO in the future is to be another set of hands, ears, eyes or legs for people in need. The uses of robots for dangerous and monotamous tasks are realistic however do they need to function autonomously and capable of evolving? Current technology uses robots controlled by humans to perform dangerous and or monotamous tasks.
Perhaps a more realistic definition of AI consist of developing machines to make what people do easier and better. In other words tools for people to simplify tasks instead of mimicking humans. Society thrives on such technology; by this definition AI is a big part of every day life. Current technology has seen a huge increase in the use of computers for everyday tasks. For example computers are used to control the various systems built into vehicles. All vehicles built today have various sensors with computers which sense and indicate problems to the driver; door open lights or tire pressure low indicators. The communications industry is currently thriving on handheld devices that are multifunctional. It is now possible to buy a cell phone that also functions as a text massager, a camera, a television and a day planner. The Setaur was built as a tool that mined the moon. Obviously such a job would be very dangerous for any human to perform therefore logical to build a machine for the task. This definition of AI also applies to The Hunt as the Setaur was built to make mining easier as no humans were required.
Another obstacle facing the development of a humanoid robot and AI is financial restraints. Research and the development of robots are expensive. Millions of dollars has been spent and millions probably billions more will be spent in the future. Research is focused mainly on economically sound foundations. There is no need for artificial human beings economically at this time. The research focus is on smart machinery that is able to perform tasks more efficiently than humans. Robots are used by military to perform dangerous tasks such as clearing of mines and disarming bombs. These robots are controlled by remote and therefore do not possess true AI. The robot in The Hunt is realistic in a way that it was built to work in a mine on the moon which is a task not realistic at all for humans. Using technology to promote health and safety is also true today. Dangerous tasks by health and safety regulations coincide with higher wages for workers. As for building a robot that mimics human life; this is limited to a few funded universities and larger corporations that have a lot of money.
The Setaur described by Lem would be classified as a super human if it were to mimic human life. The Setaur fits under both of the definitions of AI described above. The Setaur is described a mining tool as well as being capable of evolving or learning suggesting human characteristics. Lem describes the Setaur as being not well known being a new design. Alluding to the intelligence of the Setaur being unknown therefore not knowing the reaction it would have when approached. An American model equipped with a limit less 45000 KW per hour laser; capable of fifty kilometres an hour speeds; with no lubricating points and magnetic suspension. The first realism issue is the use of lasers for the actual mining. We do not use lasers for mining today other than for alignment purposes. Laser levels are common. Fifty kilometres an hour is very fast for anything on two legs. ASIMO our current humanoid robot is only capable of six kilometres an hour. With the moon having less gravity and no atmosphere motions appear to be in slow motion. Is a fity kilometre an hour machine possible on the moon? Such capabilities would require enormous amounts of energy. A robot built by Disney in 2003 for a parade was pulling a cart of what appeared to be flowers but was actually the power source for the robot. The Setaur was described to use a power sources called cold chain reaction that is limitless. This technology is fictional and not realistic. The Setaur was unable to communicate. The purpose of the Setaur is to mine on the moon and therefore assumed that it was not meant to be human like at all yet it is described as though it has human characteristics. It has is described to have head trauma resulting in damage that has caused it to destroy objects. Similarly humans with brain damage do not function properly and could suffer from seizures. The Setaur is described to be humanoid with extraordinary capabilities. Such a feat is not currently possible perhaps a machine similar to the Setaur could be developed sometime in the future or not.
Human behaviour is such that the fear of change and unnatural thoughts are strong. The possibility of a computer capable of passing the Turing test is for some unnatural. In the movie X-MEN assume that mutants are equivalent to that of a humanoid robot that passes the Turing test. Society sought out the mutants who largely wished to live out their lives as normal people. Mutants were unknown and thought to be unnatural, not normal potentially dangerous and therefore ostracized. Would society accept humanoid robots? Conflict evolving between humans and robots is evident.
There are many more questions than answers in the world of AI and Robotics. Lem philosophy is the limitations of humanity not the limitations of technology and science. Humans are flawed not perfect. The introduction of robotics and the Three Laws built the foundations for fictitious stories and the dream of what could become reality. The human imagination has created many versions of robots in movies. None of which have actually been built, all of the robots have been computer generated animation. The concept of a robot mining the moon autonomously is farfetched at this time but possible in the future with advances in knowledge and technology.
Ethically the development of humanoid robots is questionable. A humanoid robot built, similarly to a human clone; to simply exist with no other purpose is not ideal. Society would not necessarily accept humanoid robots living amongst people. A realistic reason for the development of robots is to help those requiring need. This is a current topic of interest for researchers such as the American Honda Motor Co and their prototype robot ASIMO. The technology is far from becoming a commonality.
Creation of a robot capable of thought, intelligence, and emotions is not yet thought to be possible. The unknown of how the brain works is a limitation to the creation of an affective AI. Current knowledge of the human brain is in its infant stage for understanding. The Hunt is a wonderful fictitious story but is not realistic related to current technology.
Bibliography
American Honda Motor Co. (2005). ASIMO; Worlds most advanced humanoid robot. Retrieved February 2, 2006 from http://asimo.honda.com/asimos_origin.asp?bhcp=1.
CNN.com. (2000). Dr. James Hendler: A chat about the future of artificial intelligence. Retrieved February 2, 2006 from http://www.cnn.com/chat/transcripts/1999/12/hendler/index.html.
Hooper, R. (nd). Learn About Robotis: Robotic Glassary. Retrieved February 2, 2006 from http://www.learnaboutrobots.com/glossary.htm.
McGee, G. (2006). Primer on Ethics and Human Cloning. Retrieved Febrary 2, 2006 from http://www.actionbioscience.org/biotech/mcgee.html.
Myers, D. (2001). Psychology (6th ed.) New York: Worth Publishers.
Picard, R. (1997). Affective Computing. Cambridge, Massachusetts: Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
ScienceDaily. (2004). Purdue, Japanese researchers to create human like robots. Retrieved February 2, 2006 from http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2004/11/041109235501.htm.
TechWeb. (2006). Tech Encyclopaedia. Retrieved February 1, 2006 from http://www.techweb.com/encyclopedia/defineterm.jhtml?term=AI.
Tyco Electronics. (2006). Glossary. Retrieved February 1, 2006 from http://connectors.tycoelectronics.com/glossary/glossary-r.stm.
Wikipedia. (2006). Life expectancy. Retrieved February 2, 2006 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Life_expectancy.
Wikipedia. (2006). The Bicentennial Man. Retrieved February 2, 2006 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bicentennial_Man.
Wikipedia. (2006). Three Laws of Robotics. Retrieved February 2, 2006 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Three_Laws_of_Robotics#Resolving_conflicts_among_the_laws.
AI and Robotics Today vs. in Lem’s The Hunt
Computers and Human Experience
February 4, 2006
AI and Robotics Today vs. in Lem’s The Hunt
The robots in the story of The Hunt are described to be huge machines with humanistic characteristics. Lem describes the ‘Setaur’ as though it is conscious suggesting it has emotions. The current level of understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics is far from reaching the point of mechanical beings having and or recognizing emotions if ever. There are many elements of The Hunt that strain the sense of credulity. Definitions of consciousness, intelligence, and human nature all contribute to discredit the realism. The description of the Setaurs capabilities is far from believable at this time if ever. Realities outlined in physics and current accomplishments discredit the description of such feats. In science fiction works there are often robots in various roles that in some way mimic human life and or have conflict with humans. All of these robots are created with computer animation technology these robots are not real. We are not that advanced with artificial intelligence, computers or robotics. We may emerge with further understanding of consciousness within the next century but we are far from AI mimicking life.
AI is defined by TechWEB as “devices and applications that exhibit human intelligence and behaviour including robots, expert systems, voice recognition, natural and foreign language processing. It also implies the ability to learn or adapt through experience”. Robotics is defined by Tyco Electronics as; the theory and application of robots, a completely self-contained electronic, electric, or mechanical device, to such activities as manufacturing. Therefore combining the two AI and robotics would result with a machine with equal intelligence to that of a human. The test for AI was defined in the 1940 by Alan Turing. Known as the Turing test this indicator of artificial intelligence requires that when a machine is conversing with an intelligent human there are no discernible differences. A machine passing the Turing test would assume that the machine is conscious and has equal intelligence. This definition of AI concerns imitating human intelligence.
Consciousness is defined as being the properties of the mind. Being able to perceive, sense, dream, create etc. A loss of consciousness is resulted with the inability to respond to stimuli. Communication is linked to consciousness. Intelligence is defined as a “mental qualities consisting of the ability to learn from experience, solve problems, and use knowledge to adapt to new situations” (Myers, 2001, p 394). There are three aspects of intelligence, analytical, creative, and practical. Analytical intelligence is the academic problem solving attributes. Creative intelligence is reacting to novel situations and creating. Practical intelligence is required for everyday tasks. Picard states that “the hallmark of an intelligent computer will be its ability to recognize emotions” (Picard, 1997, p 50). Emotions are displays of subjective perceptions. Experiencing a perceived horrific event would cause a human to become emotionally upset. Emotions and intelligence are individual meaning each human being thinks differently and reacts differently. The workings of the human brain remain a mystery. There are many more questions in psychology than answers. As such since we do not fully understand how our control center, the brain, works how can we develop an artificial one? At this time a machine passing the Turing test is not realistic. We are far from developing such technology being limited by our current knowledge. Lem’s philosophy seems to be about the limitations of humanity not the limitations of technology and science.
Fictional stories of robots mimicking life are common; stories involving humans, robots and mortality. The father of such writings is Dr. Isaac Asimov who is the first writer to use the term robotics and creator of the Three Laws. The Three Laws of robotics were defined by Dr. Isaac Asimov in his science fiction stories. The Three Laws are as follows. A robot may not harm a human being, or, through inaction, allow a human being to come to harm. A robot must obey the orders given to it by human beings, except where such orders would conflict with the First Law. A robot must protect its own existence, as long as such protection does not conflict with the First or Second Law. There are many fictional films and writings in which the Three Laws of robotics are used in some way. Technologists in the field of AI have speculated upon the role the Three Laws play in research involving real machines. Asimov’s fictional writings have made a huge impact on the view of robots real and imaginary.
Movies such as I, Robot, Bicentennial Man, and Star Wars are some recent examples of the human imagination; tales of machines, human behaviour and mortality. In the movie I, Robot the world thrives on the assistance of humanlike slave robots. The Three Laws are manipulated with the plot however they exist and the result is the ultimate destruction of the computer controlling all of the robots as it had evolved to an extent that it was destroying human life. The conclusion was that robots physically superior to any human would eventually think its creators (humans) to be inferior. In Bicentennial Man the robot is ound to possess creativity and falls in love with a human. He begins to trade in his parts for organic parts and eventually allows his positronic brain to decay wilfully becoming mortal. The thought of eternal life has been introduced in films with controversial opinions. The basic part of being human means that we all live and we all die. Being immortal would change everything. The robot in this story above all wanted to be human. He wanted to live love and die with the love of his life. In Star Wars the robots are portrayed in a comical role. The robots are portrayed with human like personalities but limited to their programming at times. In Star Wars the roles of humans and machines are almost reversed. Humans or at least the Jedi are portrayed with powers and enormous strength; whereas the robots are inferior and act as support. Traditionally the roles played by robots tend to be superior with the enormous strength and abilities. The Setaur is described to be superior in strength but questionably intelligent. Lem alludes to the fact that the machine has thought but does not outright declare superior or even equal intelligence. This leads to the philosophical view of AI, and humans. Interpretations would vary from reading The Hunt. One view is that the Setaur is intelligent and did save Pirx creating sympathy and remorse for killing the Setaur. Another view is that Pirx was lucky that the Setaur was destroyed as he could have easily been killed being so close to it. This theme of robots against humans has been played out in many fictional stories. The unknown of such AI creates ethical dilemmas suggesting that care be taken when creating ‘life’. Would a robot that mimics human being be alive?
Mimicking life is an ethically controversial proposal. Certainly cloning human beings has been condoned within our society. Laws have been implemented since the successful cloning of mammals in recent years. Even with laws in place the ethical view of cloning is much more persuasive in deterring the cloning of humans. Cloning is not an exact science; there are potential side effects as with all scientific experimentation. The possibility of making deformed human clones is likely and therefore ethically wrong. Human cloning is not ethically plausible. McGee asks; if humans “make” babies rather that “have” babies, are they playing God? This ethical dilemma was raised in context to genetic cloning. However, if humans are built by humans rather than born also applies to using AI and robotics. When it comes to building machines to ‘clone’ humans the ethical dilemmas are similar. If this technology is possible is it reasonable? Lem built the theme of Pirx questioning whether the Setaur actually possessed human qualities. He suggested that the Setaur saved Prix’s life in the end. This suggests that this mechanical machine which was built to mine on the moon had evolved or learned very much like a human. Lem creates sympathy for the Setaur by describing him as human. The reader automatically then would think it inhumane to execute a human and thus inhumane to kill the Setaur. Lem skilfully weaves an intricate ethical dilemma; the underlying theme that technology will not better the human condition. This definition of AI is unrealistic yet well known within society.
With both cloning and creating human-like robots we are making individuals. The question here would be do we need to build humans? Our world population is growing in both numbers and age. With the increase in knowledge and technology life expectancy in the western world has increased over fifty percent in the last century. The use of cloning technology could theoretically be used for other purposes such as growing replacement organs rather than making more lives. What purpose does a human like robot serve? An example is researchers are working on developing humanoid robots at Perdue University. These researchers are working to develop robots that could function as aids for people with disabilities. Similar to the use of Seeing Eye dogs these robots would function to help people not replace people. ASIMO is an example of the first such robot. Built by Honda ASIMO currently is used as a tour guide. The development of ASIMO started in 1986. ASIMO has evolved into a humanoid robot capable of walking on various surfaces, opening doors and comprehending and responding to simple voice commands. ASIMO’s top speed is six kilometres and hour on Earth. The goal of ASIMO in the future is to be another set of hands, ears, eyes or legs for people in need. The uses of robots for dangerous and monotamous tasks are realistic however do they need to function autonomously and capable of evolving? Current technology uses robots controlled by humans to perform dangerous and or monotamous tasks.
Perhaps a more realistic definition of AI consist of developing machines to make what people do easier and better. In other words tools for people to simplify tasks instead of mimicking humans. Society thrives on such technology; by this definition AI is a big part of every day life. Current technology has seen a huge increase in the use of computers for everyday tasks. For example computers are used to control the various systems built into vehicles. All vehicles built today have various sensors with computers which sense and indicate problems to the driver; door open lights or tire pressure low indicators. The communications industry is currently thriving on handheld devices that are multifunctional. It is now possible to buy a cell phone that also functions as a text massager, a camera, a television and a day planner. The Setaur was built as a tool that mined the moon. Obviously such a job would be very dangerous for any human to perform therefore logical to build a machine for the task. This definition of AI also applies to The Hunt as the Setaur was built to make mining easier as no humans were required.
Another obstacle facing the development of a humanoid robot and AI is financial restraints. Research and the development of robots are expensive. Millions of dollars has been spent and millions probably billions more will be spent in the future. Research is focused mainly on economically sound foundations. There is no need for artificial human beings economically at this time. The research focus is on smart machinery that is able to perform tasks more efficiently than humans. Robots are used by military to perform dangerous tasks such as clearing of mines and disarming bombs. These robots are controlled by remote and therefore do not possess true AI. The robot in The Hunt is realistic in a way that it was built to work in a mine on the moon which is a task not realistic at all for humans. Using technology to promote health and safety is also true today. Dangerous tasks by health and safety regulations coincide with higher wages for workers. As for building a robot that mimics human life; this is limited to a few funded universities and larger corporations that have a lot of money.
The Setaur described by Lem would be classified as a super human if it were to mimic human life. The Setaur fits under both of the definitions of AI described above. The Setaur is described a mining tool as well as being capable of evolving or learning suggesting human characteristics. Lem describes the Setaur as being not well known being a new design. Alluding to the intelligence of the Setaur being unknown therefore not knowing the reaction it would have when approached. An American model equipped with a limit less 45000 KW per hour laser; capable of fifty kilometres an hour speeds; with no lubricating points and magnetic suspension. The first realism issue is the use of lasers for the actual mining. We do not use lasers for mining today other than for alignment purposes. Laser levels are common. Fifty kilometres an hour is very fast for anything on two legs. ASIMO our current humanoid robot is only capable of six kilometres an hour. With the moon having less gravity and no atmosphere motions appear to be in slow motion. Is a fity kilometre an hour machine possible on the moon? Such capabilities would require enormous amounts of energy. A robot built by Disney in 2003 for a parade was pulling a cart of what appeared to be flowers but was actually the power source for the robot. The Setaur was described to use a power sources called cold chain reaction that is limitless. This technology is fictional and not realistic. The Setaur was unable to communicate. The purpose of the Setaur is to mine on the moon and therefore assumed that it was not meant to be human like at all yet it is described as though it has human characteristics. It has is described to have head trauma resulting in damage that has caused it to destroy objects. Similarly humans with brain damage do not function properly and could suffer from seizures. The Setaur is described to be humanoid with extraordinary capabilities. Such a feat is not currently possible perhaps a machine similar to the Setaur could be developed sometime in the future or not.
Human behaviour is such that the fear of change and unnatural thoughts are strong. The possibility of a computer capable of passing the Turing test is for some unnatural. In the movie X-MEN assume that mutants are equivalent to that of a humanoid robot that passes the Turing test. Society sought out the mutants who largely wished to live out their lives as normal people. Mutants were unknown and thought to be unnatural, not normal potentially dangerous and therefore ostracized. Would society accept humanoid robots? Conflict evolving between humans and robots is evident.
There are many more questions than answers in the world of AI and Robotics. Lem philosophy is the limitations of humanity not the limitations of technology and science. Humans are flawed not perfect. The introduction of robotics and the Three Laws built the foundations for fictitious stories and the dream of what could become reality. The human imagination has created many versions of robots in movies. None of which have actually been built, all of the robots have been computer generated animation. The concept of a robot mining the moon autonomously is farfetched at this time but possible in the future with advances in knowledge and technology.
Ethically the development of humanoid robots is questionable. A humanoid robot built, similarly to a human clone; to simply exist with no other purpose is not ideal. Society would not necessarily accept humanoid robots living amongst people. A realistic reason for the development of robots is to help those requiring need. This is a current topic of interest for researchers such as the American Honda Motor Co and their prototype robot ASIMO. The technology is far from becoming a commonality.
Creation of a robot capable of thought, intelligence, and emotions is not yet thought to be possible. The unknown of how the brain works is a limitation to the creation of an affective AI. Current knowledge of the human brain is in its infant stage for understanding. The Hunt is a wonderful fictitious story but is not realistic related to current technology.
Bibliography
American Honda Motor Co. (2005). ASIMO; Worlds most advanced humanoid robot. Retrieved February 2, 2006 from http://asimo.honda.com/asimos_origin.asp?bhcp=1.
CNN.com. (2000). Dr. James Hendler: A chat about the future of artificial intelligence. Retrieved February 2, 2006 from http://www.cnn.com/chat/transcripts/1999/12/hendler/index.html.
Hooper, R. (nd). Learn About Robotis: Robotic Glassary. Retrieved February 2, 2006 from http://www.learnaboutrobots.com/glossary.htm.
McGee, G. (2006). Primer on Ethics and Human Cloning. Retrieved Febrary 2, 2006 from http://www.actionbioscience.org/biotech/mcgee.html.
Myers, D. (2001). Psychology (6th ed.) New York: Worth Publishers.
Picard, R. (1997). Affective Computing. Cambridge, Massachusetts: Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
ScienceDaily. (2004). Purdue, Japanese researchers to create human like robots. Retrieved February 2, 2006 from http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2004/11/041109235501.htm.
TechWeb. (2006). Tech Encyclopaedia. Retrieved February 1, 2006 from http://www.techweb.com/encyclopedia/defineterm.jhtml?term=AI.
Tyco Electronics. (2006). Glossary. Retrieved February 1, 2006 from http://connectors.tycoelectronics.com/glossary/glossary-r.stm.
Wikipedia. (2006). Life expectancy. Retrieved February 2, 2006 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Life_expectancy.
Wikipedia. (2006). The Bicentennial Man. Retrieved February 2, 2006 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bicentennial_Man.
Wikipedia. (2006). Three Laws of Robotics. Retrieved February 2, 2006 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Three_Laws_of_Robotics#Resolving_conflicts_among_the_laws.
Censorship on the Internet
Assignment Two
Censorship on the Internet
Computers and Human Experience
February 27, 2006
Censorship on the Internet
The Internet is a decentralized worldwide networking infrastructure. In the beginning the internet was relatively simple to control but has since grown to such an extent that policing or controlling the content is impossible. The internet provides easy access to material or information of all types from educational to harmful. As such there is a need for protection. In addition to the offensive material, and illegal content such as child pornography, criminally obscene and criminally racist there is also spy ware, viruses, worms etc which are problematic for internet users. All of the above are common reasons for seeking internet filters and protection. As such there are initiatives to censor material on the internet. There are initiatives to restrict access to various websites within libraries and schools. As a huge community open to all who have a connection, the internet is virtually impossible to censor or control. The question is who controls knowledge, why and to what effect?
Censorship is the control of the circulation of information and ideas. The act of restricting material deemed unsuitable for public consumption. The term “censorship” is a Latin term censere meaning to give as one’s opinion, to assess. Restriction and control of content is censorship on the internet. Censorship is society’s way to build security, freedom from fear, order, civility, racial and religious tolerance, as well as the well-being of our children. Often censorship coincides with restriction of materials of negative connotation by society’s opinion. There are government initiatives for filtering the content on the internet as well as informing parents and children about the internet. There are two arguments concerning censorship of the internet. Those for censorship are interested in protected children from things such as pornography and obscene materials and those against censorship are concerned with freedom of expression and personal rights.
According to Michael Landier “any law advocating censorship of the Internet is too broad and unenforceable on this global information medium” (Landier, 1997). He poses a strong opposition to censorship of the internet for this reason as well as being against freedom of speech. This point of view is well supported comparing restrictions of print media to the internet. Some of the common debates over censorship on the internet are perfectly legal to print media. The opinion is that the internet should be treated similarly to print media.
The most common example when speaking of the internet and censorship revolves around parental control. The media is full of stories in a negative light regarding children using chat rooms, accessing rated websites, etc. From this point of view censorship is important. Children are impressionable and innocent and need protection. Often parents are unaware of exactly what their children are accessing on the internet. Parents tend to think that the computer and internet is being used for educational purposes only. Being able to censor the materials accessed by children is important for their protection. This example could be compared to the well known “never talk to strangers” lesson taught to children. Parents need to know how to protect their children on the internet.
Unfortunately at this point in time the younger generations know a lot more about computers and the internet than their parents. This has been brought about since the internet and computer technology is newly developed. The original internet ARPAnet was first introduced in 1969. The ARPAnet was complex and only used by computer experts, scientists, engineers and librarians. The internet has only been used by non technical people in the eighties and nineties with the creation of email, ftp and telnet. The internet was a government initiative and was not used by independent organizations until 1995. It was developed for communication and sharing of files. Computers and the internet have only been around for 37 years and easily accessible for the general population for much less time. The technology has been developed at a rapid pace and been present within the school systems for about the past ten years or so. As such the younger generations have had the luxury of developing with the technology and learning how computers and the internet work whereas their parents tend to have a knowledge deficit. With the development of the internet there have also been interest groups formed regarding new technologies and public interest. In Canada there is The Canadian Internet Policy and Public Interest Clinic (CIPPIC) which is involved with policy and law making regarding new technologies.
Traditionally censorship has been the regulation of moral and political life. Throughout history censorship has led to destruction and death or burning and banning. Perhaps the most famous and earliest recorded was Socrates who in 399 BC was sentenced to death by poison for corrupting youth and not acknowledging the gods. Censorship has also lead to the destruction of libraries throughout history. One example being the University of Oxford library destroyed in 1663 by orders from the king. Today there continues to be censorship of literary works. Examples of well known works that have been banned or almost banned include To Kill A Mockingbird, Of Mice and Men, Anne Frank’s Diary, Huck Finn, The Grapes of Wrath, An Ideal Husband, The Canterbury Tales, Catcher in the Rye, and the Harry Potter series.
Freedom of speech has throughout history been the counter to censorship. Defined as being a civil liberty, freedom of speech is one of the basic rights in a democracy. Free speech facilitates majority rule. It is through talking that we encourage consensus, that we form a collective speech is a means of participation. Freedom of speech is self-expression. In the United States of America the First Amendment declares freedom of speech as a civil right. As Justice Thurgood Marshall stated "The First Amendment serves not only the needs of the polity but also those of the human spirit — a spirit that demands self-expression." The theory of free speech, the freedom of expression is not a perfect probability. Free expression in certain circumstances leads to consequences. A recent example of resulting with devastating negative affects concerns the publishing of the cartoons of the prophet Mohammed. Demonstrations and riots resulted with the destruction of businesses, cars, and the Danish Consulate.
Blogs are websites that are written diary like. A means of expressing thoughts published on the internet. Blogs have been known as a means of media in restricted countries where the mainstream media is censored. There is a global issue of blog censorship and freedom of speech. In some countries bloggers have recently been jailed. In China blogs are to be registered and have begun to be censored by Microsoft in conjunction with the laws and norms of the country. Freedom of speech is non existent on blogs for many reasons. Typically there are words, phrases, names etc that are censored out automatically by the blog software in most countries. Politics and religion are two topics that are controversial and therefore censored. People do tend to censor themselves especially knowing that there have been consequences for some using blogs for publishing their thoughts freely. An example of a group of professionals working towards freedom from censorship and free speech on the internet is Electronic Frontier Foundation. This non profit organization works for blogger’s rights and freedom of expression in general on the internet.
Obscene material, child pornography and racism are illegal. Unfortunately such things do exist on the internet and are difficult to control. In attempts to censor material available to children filtering programs have been developed. However these filters have been proven to be faulty, allowing inappropriate material to be viewed and inadvertently blocking appropriate general interest material. Using a filtering program is not a solution for parents as it is not a hundred percent effective. One obvious difficulty with inappropriate material is the file names and tags used for these sites. Such problems increase the difficulty of censorship and restriction.
Spy ware is a problem within society related to privacy. A basic description of spy ware is that it is software that covertly gathers information using the internet similar to a Trojan horse. Within Canada there is no specific legislation stating that the use of spy ware is illegal. The use of laws protecting personal privacy and fraud are used to counteract spy ware. The best solution for spy ware is to be cautious and avoid suspicious downloads. However it is sometimes unavoidable to come in contact with spy ware programs attempting to get onto you computer and that are when being able to detect and delete such programs is important. There are anti spy ware programs that will detect and delete spy ware programs.
Pornography on the internet is restricted in public computers such as libraries and schools. There have been laws written specifically to block access to rated websites in libraries and schools. This is a form of censorship in itself. However this sort of censorship has been accepted as it serves to protect a fragile population, our children. The unfortunate problem with this censorship is that the software used is not perfect there are problems sifting through the content of the internet and therefore sometimes rated websites are accessed still. Another issue is the fact that some well written websites are inadvertently blocked by the programs thus limiting the research capabilities for children in schools and libraries.
There seems to be a need to restrict material on the internet for various reasons however it seems like an impossible feat at this point in time. The most apparent reason for censorship is to protect vulnerable populations such as children under the age of eighteen from things such as pornography and profanity. The shear amount of information on the internet today is overwhelming and still growing.
Restriction is censorship and is in place for libraries and schools connected to the internet. Freedom of speech by the true definition does not exist within many societies for example China where there are strict laws and regulations prohibiting certain topics. There has always been and always will be a sort of censorship of unsuitable material for the population. There are various initiatives for freedom of speech on the internet. As much as we advocate for freedom of speech there is no such thing. True freedom would include freedom from prosecution. There have been cases in the world where people have gone to jail for the content of their website. Governments have taken initiatives to censor material on the internet with laws and policies. Blogs are censored. Overall website content is censored to some extent in which illegal information and pictures are enforced as well as political and religious discussions. Censorship continues to counter freedom of expression and freedom of speech. Is freedom of speech possible with the laws and policies in our societies? The debate between censorship and freedom of speech has been and will be around for many more years to come. The only change is now there is a new medium for expression, the internet.
Bibliography
Canadian Internet and Public Policy Interest Clinic. (2006). Spy ware FAQ. Retrieved February 18, 2006 from http://www.cippic.ca/en/faqs-resources/spyware/.
Canadian Internet and Public Policy Interest Clinic. (2005). Internet Censorship in Public Libraries. Retrieved February 17, 2006 from http://www.cippic.ca/en/faqs-resources/internet-censorship-public-libraries/.
BBC News. (2005). Blog Censorship Handbook Released. Retrieved February 23, 2006 from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/4271062.stm.
Bellis, M. (2006). The History of Computers. Retrieved February 18, 2006 from http://inventors.about.com/library/blcoindex.htm.
Cutugno, F. (1999). Censorship of the Internet: The Job of Parents, Not Government. Retrieved February 18, 2006 from http://www.iusb.edu/~journal/2000/cutugno.html.
Electronic Frontier Foundation. (2006). About EFF. Retrieved February 23, 2006 from http://www.eff.org/about/.
Electronic Privacy Information Center. (1997). Faulty Filters: How Content Filters Block Access to Kid-Friendly Information on the Internet. Retrieved February 23, 2006 from http://www2.epic.org/reports/filter-report.html.
Free Expression Network. (2002). Internet. Retrieved February 18, 2006 from http://www.freeexpression.org/internet/internet-index.htm.
Government of Canada. (2003). Illegal and Offensive Content on the Internet. Retrieved February 18, 2006 from http://cyberwise.gc.ca/english/home.html.
Internet Free Expression Alliance. (2001). Childrens Internet Protection Act. Retrieved February 23, 2006 from http://www.ifea.net/cipa.html.
Internet Watch Foundation. (2005). The Hotline and the Law. Retrieved February 18, 2006 from http://www.iwf.org.uk/public/page.31.htm.
Landier, M. (1997). Internet Censorship is Absurd and Unconstitutional. Retrieved February 24, 2006 from http://www.landier.com/michael/essays/censorship/fulltext.htm.
Newth, M. (2001). The long history of censorship. Retrieved February 18, 2006 from http://www.beaconforfreedom.org/about_project/history.html.
Public Broadcasting Service. (2005). Definitions of Censorship. Retrieved February 18, 2006 from http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/cultureshock/whodecides/definitions.html.
Smolla, R. (2006). Speech. Retrieved February 18, 2006 from http://www.firstamendmentcenter.org/Speech/overview.aspx.
Censorship on the Internet
Computers and Human Experience
February 27, 2006
Censorship on the Internet
The Internet is a decentralized worldwide networking infrastructure. In the beginning the internet was relatively simple to control but has since grown to such an extent that policing or controlling the content is impossible. The internet provides easy access to material or information of all types from educational to harmful. As such there is a need for protection. In addition to the offensive material, and illegal content such as child pornography, criminally obscene and criminally racist there is also spy ware, viruses, worms etc which are problematic for internet users. All of the above are common reasons for seeking internet filters and protection. As such there are initiatives to censor material on the internet. There are initiatives to restrict access to various websites within libraries and schools. As a huge community open to all who have a connection, the internet is virtually impossible to censor or control. The question is who controls knowledge, why and to what effect?
Censorship is the control of the circulation of information and ideas. The act of restricting material deemed unsuitable for public consumption. The term “censorship” is a Latin term censere meaning to give as one’s opinion, to assess. Restriction and control of content is censorship on the internet. Censorship is society’s way to build security, freedom from fear, order, civility, racial and religious tolerance, as well as the well-being of our children. Often censorship coincides with restriction of materials of negative connotation by society’s opinion. There are government initiatives for filtering the content on the internet as well as informing parents and children about the internet. There are two arguments concerning censorship of the internet. Those for censorship are interested in protected children from things such as pornography and obscene materials and those against censorship are concerned with freedom of expression and personal rights.
According to Michael Landier “any law advocating censorship of the Internet is too broad and unenforceable on this global information medium” (Landier, 1997). He poses a strong opposition to censorship of the internet for this reason as well as being against freedom of speech. This point of view is well supported comparing restrictions of print media to the internet. Some of the common debates over censorship on the internet are perfectly legal to print media. The opinion is that the internet should be treated similarly to print media.
The most common example when speaking of the internet and censorship revolves around parental control. The media is full of stories in a negative light regarding children using chat rooms, accessing rated websites, etc. From this point of view censorship is important. Children are impressionable and innocent and need protection. Often parents are unaware of exactly what their children are accessing on the internet. Parents tend to think that the computer and internet is being used for educational purposes only. Being able to censor the materials accessed by children is important for their protection. This example could be compared to the well known “never talk to strangers” lesson taught to children. Parents need to know how to protect their children on the internet.
Unfortunately at this point in time the younger generations know a lot more about computers and the internet than their parents. This has been brought about since the internet and computer technology is newly developed. The original internet ARPAnet was first introduced in 1969. The ARPAnet was complex and only used by computer experts, scientists, engineers and librarians. The internet has only been used by non technical people in the eighties and nineties with the creation of email, ftp and telnet. The internet was a government initiative and was not used by independent organizations until 1995. It was developed for communication and sharing of files. Computers and the internet have only been around for 37 years and easily accessible for the general population for much less time. The technology has been developed at a rapid pace and been present within the school systems for about the past ten years or so. As such the younger generations have had the luxury of developing with the technology and learning how computers and the internet work whereas their parents tend to have a knowledge deficit. With the development of the internet there have also been interest groups formed regarding new technologies and public interest. In Canada there is The Canadian Internet Policy and Public Interest Clinic (CIPPIC) which is involved with policy and law making regarding new technologies.
Traditionally censorship has been the regulation of moral and political life. Throughout history censorship has led to destruction and death or burning and banning. Perhaps the most famous and earliest recorded was Socrates who in 399 BC was sentenced to death by poison for corrupting youth and not acknowledging the gods. Censorship has also lead to the destruction of libraries throughout history. One example being the University of Oxford library destroyed in 1663 by orders from the king. Today there continues to be censorship of literary works. Examples of well known works that have been banned or almost banned include To Kill A Mockingbird, Of Mice and Men, Anne Frank’s Diary, Huck Finn, The Grapes of Wrath, An Ideal Husband, The Canterbury Tales, Catcher in the Rye, and the Harry Potter series.
Freedom of speech has throughout history been the counter to censorship. Defined as being a civil liberty, freedom of speech is one of the basic rights in a democracy. Free speech facilitates majority rule. It is through talking that we encourage consensus, that we form a collective speech is a means of participation. Freedom of speech is self-expression. In the United States of America the First Amendment declares freedom of speech as a civil right. As Justice Thurgood Marshall stated "The First Amendment serves not only the needs of the polity but also those of the human spirit — a spirit that demands self-expression." The theory of free speech, the freedom of expression is not a perfect probability. Free expression in certain circumstances leads to consequences. A recent example of resulting with devastating negative affects concerns the publishing of the cartoons of the prophet Mohammed. Demonstrations and riots resulted with the destruction of businesses, cars, and the Danish Consulate.
Blogs are websites that are written diary like. A means of expressing thoughts published on the internet. Blogs have been known as a means of media in restricted countries where the mainstream media is censored. There is a global issue of blog censorship and freedom of speech. In some countries bloggers have recently been jailed. In China blogs are to be registered and have begun to be censored by Microsoft in conjunction with the laws and norms of the country. Freedom of speech is non existent on blogs for many reasons. Typically there are words, phrases, names etc that are censored out automatically by the blog software in most countries. Politics and religion are two topics that are controversial and therefore censored. People do tend to censor themselves especially knowing that there have been consequences for some using blogs for publishing their thoughts freely. An example of a group of professionals working towards freedom from censorship and free speech on the internet is Electronic Frontier Foundation. This non profit organization works for blogger’s rights and freedom of expression in general on the internet.
Obscene material, child pornography and racism are illegal. Unfortunately such things do exist on the internet and are difficult to control. In attempts to censor material available to children filtering programs have been developed. However these filters have been proven to be faulty, allowing inappropriate material to be viewed and inadvertently blocking appropriate general interest material. Using a filtering program is not a solution for parents as it is not a hundred percent effective. One obvious difficulty with inappropriate material is the file names and tags used for these sites. Such problems increase the difficulty of censorship and restriction.
Spy ware is a problem within society related to privacy. A basic description of spy ware is that it is software that covertly gathers information using the internet similar to a Trojan horse. Within Canada there is no specific legislation stating that the use of spy ware is illegal. The use of laws protecting personal privacy and fraud are used to counteract spy ware. The best solution for spy ware is to be cautious and avoid suspicious downloads. However it is sometimes unavoidable to come in contact with spy ware programs attempting to get onto you computer and that are when being able to detect and delete such programs is important. There are anti spy ware programs that will detect and delete spy ware programs.
Pornography on the internet is restricted in public computers such as libraries and schools. There have been laws written specifically to block access to rated websites in libraries and schools. This is a form of censorship in itself. However this sort of censorship has been accepted as it serves to protect a fragile population, our children. The unfortunate problem with this censorship is that the software used is not perfect there are problems sifting through the content of the internet and therefore sometimes rated websites are accessed still. Another issue is the fact that some well written websites are inadvertently blocked by the programs thus limiting the research capabilities for children in schools and libraries.
There seems to be a need to restrict material on the internet for various reasons however it seems like an impossible feat at this point in time. The most apparent reason for censorship is to protect vulnerable populations such as children under the age of eighteen from things such as pornography and profanity. The shear amount of information on the internet today is overwhelming and still growing.
Restriction is censorship and is in place for libraries and schools connected to the internet. Freedom of speech by the true definition does not exist within many societies for example China where there are strict laws and regulations prohibiting certain topics. There has always been and always will be a sort of censorship of unsuitable material for the population. There are various initiatives for freedom of speech on the internet. As much as we advocate for freedom of speech there is no such thing. True freedom would include freedom from prosecution. There have been cases in the world where people have gone to jail for the content of their website. Governments have taken initiatives to censor material on the internet with laws and policies. Blogs are censored. Overall website content is censored to some extent in which illegal information and pictures are enforced as well as political and religious discussions. Censorship continues to counter freedom of expression and freedom of speech. Is freedom of speech possible with the laws and policies in our societies? The debate between censorship and freedom of speech has been and will be around for many more years to come. The only change is now there is a new medium for expression, the internet.
Bibliography
Canadian Internet and Public Policy Interest Clinic. (2006). Spy ware FAQ. Retrieved February 18, 2006 from http://www.cippic.ca/en/faqs-resources/spyware/.
Canadian Internet and Public Policy Interest Clinic. (2005). Internet Censorship in Public Libraries. Retrieved February 17, 2006 from http://www.cippic.ca/en/faqs-resources/internet-censorship-public-libraries/.
BBC News. (2005). Blog Censorship Handbook Released. Retrieved February 23, 2006 from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/4271062.stm.
Bellis, M. (2006). The History of Computers. Retrieved February 18, 2006 from http://inventors.about.com/library/blcoindex.htm.
Cutugno, F. (1999). Censorship of the Internet: The Job of Parents, Not Government. Retrieved February 18, 2006 from http://www.iusb.edu/~journal/2000/cutugno.html.
Electronic Frontier Foundation. (2006). About EFF. Retrieved February 23, 2006 from http://www.eff.org/about/.
Electronic Privacy Information Center. (1997). Faulty Filters: How Content Filters Block Access to Kid-Friendly Information on the Internet. Retrieved February 23, 2006 from http://www2.epic.org/reports/filter-report.html.
Free Expression Network. (2002). Internet. Retrieved February 18, 2006 from http://www.freeexpression.org/internet/internet-index.htm.
Government of Canada. (2003). Illegal and Offensive Content on the Internet. Retrieved February 18, 2006 from http://cyberwise.gc.ca/english/home.html.
Internet Free Expression Alliance. (2001). Childrens Internet Protection Act. Retrieved February 23, 2006 from http://www.ifea.net/cipa.html.
Internet Watch Foundation. (2005). The Hotline and the Law. Retrieved February 18, 2006 from http://www.iwf.org.uk/public/page.31.htm.
Landier, M. (1997). Internet Censorship is Absurd and Unconstitutional. Retrieved February 24, 2006 from http://www.landier.com/michael/essays/censorship/fulltext.htm.
Newth, M. (2001). The long history of censorship. Retrieved February 18, 2006 from http://www.beaconforfreedom.org/about_project/history.html.
Public Broadcasting Service. (2005). Definitions of Censorship. Retrieved February 18, 2006 from http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/cultureshock/whodecides/definitions.html.
Smolla, R. (2006). Speech. Retrieved February 18, 2006 from http://www.firstamendmentcenter.org/Speech/overview.aspx.
Optimal Workplace Safety
Assignment Three
Industrial Relations (308)
Occupational Health and Safety
Sept 21, 2005
Optimal Workplace Safety
Occupational safety and health has evolved from contracted employer liability in the mid-nineteenth century to the development of legislature in the last decades of the nineteenth century. Schneiderman and Viscusi share conflicting views with regards to how occupational health and safety should be regulated. The following discussion explores both of these approaches to the procedures used for the setting of occupational health and safety standards.
Viscusi supports a cost benefit approach with no government involvement. “We cannot provide jobs of equal safety for all any more easily than we can ensure that all individuals will be productive on a particular job irrespective of their strength, diligence or intelligence. Indeed, attempts to promote such equalization undermine a beneficial feature of all market allocations” (Viscusi, 1982). Viscusi believes that the onus of safety is on the individual worker with little government involvement. The cost benefit process is based primarily on value of safety. The question of whether it is beneficial or profitable to increase safety in the workplace versus paying for the healthcare of those affected by the hazards.
Conversely, Schneiderman supports government influence for the setting of standards focusing on workplace safety. “I suggest that we attempt to set as our standard for all male workers the level of survival reached by school teachers. After all, if teachers can achieve that perhaps we ought to do as well for all occupations” (Schneiderman, 1982). With the use of a third party, the government, a less biased view and analysis of occupational health and safety legislation is possible. Schneiderman’s goal is to equalize the health and safety risks among all occupations for all individuals. The government in Canada is elected by the people and therefore representative of the working / voting population. The government is challenged with creating legislation that pleases both the employers and the employees.
Schneiderman is not alone; there are others that are apposed to the cost benefit analysis method. Heinzerling & Frank refer to the cost-benefit analysis as being “…a deeply flawed method that repeatedly leads to biased and misleading results”. Tucker describes the use of a cost-benefit basis for “…occupational health and safety standards in Ontario would be a serious mistake which could leave thousands of workers legally exposed to hazardous conditions” Tucker, 1984, p 263). The main issue with the cost benefit method is that of assigning value to the benefits versus cost. If it is financially beneficial to pay for the healthcare of affected workers rather than fixing a workplace hazard the cost benefit process would allow employers to leave the risk and the potential for workplace mishaps or illnesses.
The cost benefit method requires that all elements have monetary values in order to be analysed. This in itself is very biased and produces ethical dilemmas such as deciding on the value of life and health. The ”…cost-benefit analysis cannot produce more efficient decisions because the process of reducing life, health, and the natural world to monetary values is inherently flawed” (Heinzerling & Frank, 2002, p 3). When monetary values are in use there are many possible problems. The value of life cannot be ethically defined monetarily. As well as the cost estimates the benefits are estimated with the cost benefit method. With the cost benefit analysis “…we are required to quantify the value of lives saved and health improved” (Tucker, 1984, p 298). Tucker further describes how this allows for biased results, as misrepresentation is common with the process of measuring the value of benefits. All of these elements given values are subjective. To one person an injury will heal to another an injury is very damaging both physically and mentally.
Risk itself is subjective. “Risk perception is the subjective assessment of the probability of a specified type of accident happening and how concerned we are with the consequences. To perceive risk includes evaluations of the probability as well as the consequences of a negative outcome.” (Sjöberg & Moen & Rundmo, 2004, p.8). Virtually every element of occupational health and safety is subjective. How do we ethically assign monetary values for subjective perceptions? Risks in the workplace are not only subjective but also unknown. The long-term risks of many chemicals and other workplace elements are still unknown. There is “incomplete information on the impact of work-related contaminants on human health” (Law Reform Commission of Canada, 2002, p 12). Workplace pollution is impossible to eliminate and the impact is unknown therefore what value would workplace pollution have with the cost benefit process. Would workplace pollution be written off because of the high prices associated with improving the environment?
Schneiderman’s goal is to equalize the health and safety risks among all occupations by setting a standard for all men and women. This standard setting process with the goal of universal equality would be ideal. Unfortunately reality dictates that such a high universal safety standard is unattainable because of the variable unknowns and variations in workplaces. Perfect safety is unattainable. The multiple variables contributing to worker risk is vastly different from workplace to workplace. There is no similarity of the atmosphere in which a teacher or politician works to that of a factory worker or miner. There is also workplace pollution of which the ill effects are not yet known. Even the office worker is affected by air and noise pollution.
The standard setting process is as Tucker describes a political one, but “it operates under the influence of a legally sanctioned, but largely uncontrolled, exercise of economic power” (Tucker, 1984, p 310). There is no perfect process in determining occupational health and safety standards. Tucker states that “trade offs between productivity and safety will still be necessary” (Tucker, 1984, p 311) even with the implementation of a socialist approach to risk with those directly affected given the democratic ability to decide on what levels of risk they are willing to incur. The main difference is in who makes the decisions between increased productivity and occupational risks. With the standard setting process the individuals directly affected have the ability to sway the decisions whereas with the cost benefit process they do not. The people elect the government officials. With the cost benefit process the decision lies with the values associated with lives and the value of improved health.
The ultimate goal of universal safety is not realistic; the goal may never be achieved however working towards such a goal would gradually improve safety and decrease the risk of injury or death in the workplace. Tossing the ideal because the goal is out of reach should not be an option; the overall improvements of occupational conditions are possible. The standard setting process is also dependant on politics and that in itself is flawed, however the political world is ultimately controlled by the voting population and therefore in my opinion has a more ethical voice compared to that of the cost benefit approach.
Given the choice between these two views the most persuasive in my opinion is that of Schneiderman. Neither view is flawless, however from an ethical point of view the standard setting process is favoured over the cost benefit process. The cost-benefit view does not fit into my set of morals and ethically I could never choose a view that requires quantifying life or risk or workplace pollution. The standard setting method is preferred since it has a positive outlook. It requires positive changes to occupational health and safety. There is no ethical flaw in striving to make health and safety equal for all.
Bibliography
Heinzerling, L., Frank, A. (2002) Pricing the priceless: Cost-benefit Analysis of Environmental Protection. Retrieved September 05 2005 from http://www.law.georgetown.edu/gelpi/papers/pricefnl.pdf
Law Reform Commision of Canada. (2002). Excerpt 1 of Workplace Pollution. Working Paper 53-Protection of Life, 6-15. Ottawa: Law Reform Commission of Canada.
Schneiderman, M. (1982). Cost-Benefit, Social Values and the Setting of Occupational Health Standards, Legal and Ethical Dilemmas in Occupational Health, 191-206
Sjöberg, L., Moen, B., Rundmo, T. (2004). Explaining risk perception. An evaluation of the sychometric paradigm in risk perception research. Retreived August 15, 2005 from http://www.svt.ntnu.no/psy/Torbjorn.Rundmo/
Psychometric_paradigm.pdf
Tucker, E. (1990). Administering Danger in the Workplace: The Law and Politics of Occupational Health and Safety Regulation in Ontario, 1859-1914, 13-32, 237-246. Toronto: University of Toronto Press.
Tucker, E. (1984). The Determination of Occupational Health and Safety Standards in Ontario, 1860-1982: From the Market to Politics to…? McGill Law Journal 29: 260-311.
Viscusi, W. (1982). Setting Efficient Standards for Occupational Hazards, Journal of Occupational Medicine 24: 967-976.
Industrial Relations (308)
Occupational Health and Safety
Sept 21, 2005
Optimal Workplace Safety
Occupational safety and health has evolved from contracted employer liability in the mid-nineteenth century to the development of legislature in the last decades of the nineteenth century. Schneiderman and Viscusi share conflicting views with regards to how occupational health and safety should be regulated. The following discussion explores both of these approaches to the procedures used for the setting of occupational health and safety standards.
Viscusi supports a cost benefit approach with no government involvement. “We cannot provide jobs of equal safety for all any more easily than we can ensure that all individuals will be productive on a particular job irrespective of their strength, diligence or intelligence. Indeed, attempts to promote such equalization undermine a beneficial feature of all market allocations” (Viscusi, 1982). Viscusi believes that the onus of safety is on the individual worker with little government involvement. The cost benefit process is based primarily on value of safety. The question of whether it is beneficial or profitable to increase safety in the workplace versus paying for the healthcare of those affected by the hazards.
Conversely, Schneiderman supports government influence for the setting of standards focusing on workplace safety. “I suggest that we attempt to set as our standard for all male workers the level of survival reached by school teachers. After all, if teachers can achieve that perhaps we ought to do as well for all occupations” (Schneiderman, 1982). With the use of a third party, the government, a less biased view and analysis of occupational health and safety legislation is possible. Schneiderman’s goal is to equalize the health and safety risks among all occupations for all individuals. The government in Canada is elected by the people and therefore representative of the working / voting population. The government is challenged with creating legislation that pleases both the employers and the employees.
Schneiderman is not alone; there are others that are apposed to the cost benefit analysis method. Heinzerling & Frank refer to the cost-benefit analysis as being “…a deeply flawed method that repeatedly leads to biased and misleading results”. Tucker describes the use of a cost-benefit basis for “…occupational health and safety standards in Ontario would be a serious mistake which could leave thousands of workers legally exposed to hazardous conditions” Tucker, 1984, p 263). The main issue with the cost benefit method is that of assigning value to the benefits versus cost. If it is financially beneficial to pay for the healthcare of affected workers rather than fixing a workplace hazard the cost benefit process would allow employers to leave the risk and the potential for workplace mishaps or illnesses.
The cost benefit method requires that all elements have monetary values in order to be analysed. This in itself is very biased and produces ethical dilemmas such as deciding on the value of life and health. The ”…cost-benefit analysis cannot produce more efficient decisions because the process of reducing life, health, and the natural world to monetary values is inherently flawed” (Heinzerling & Frank, 2002, p 3). When monetary values are in use there are many possible problems. The value of life cannot be ethically defined monetarily. As well as the cost estimates the benefits are estimated with the cost benefit method. With the cost benefit analysis “…we are required to quantify the value of lives saved and health improved” (Tucker, 1984, p 298). Tucker further describes how this allows for biased results, as misrepresentation is common with the process of measuring the value of benefits. All of these elements given values are subjective. To one person an injury will heal to another an injury is very damaging both physically and mentally.
Risk itself is subjective. “Risk perception is the subjective assessment of the probability of a specified type of accident happening and how concerned we are with the consequences. To perceive risk includes evaluations of the probability as well as the consequences of a negative outcome.” (Sjöberg & Moen & Rundmo, 2004, p.8). Virtually every element of occupational health and safety is subjective. How do we ethically assign monetary values for subjective perceptions? Risks in the workplace are not only subjective but also unknown. The long-term risks of many chemicals and other workplace elements are still unknown. There is “incomplete information on the impact of work-related contaminants on human health” (Law Reform Commission of Canada, 2002, p 12). Workplace pollution is impossible to eliminate and the impact is unknown therefore what value would workplace pollution have with the cost benefit process. Would workplace pollution be written off because of the high prices associated with improving the environment?
Schneiderman’s goal is to equalize the health and safety risks among all occupations by setting a standard for all men and women. This standard setting process with the goal of universal equality would be ideal. Unfortunately reality dictates that such a high universal safety standard is unattainable because of the variable unknowns and variations in workplaces. Perfect safety is unattainable. The multiple variables contributing to worker risk is vastly different from workplace to workplace. There is no similarity of the atmosphere in which a teacher or politician works to that of a factory worker or miner. There is also workplace pollution of which the ill effects are not yet known. Even the office worker is affected by air and noise pollution.
The standard setting process is as Tucker describes a political one, but “it operates under the influence of a legally sanctioned, but largely uncontrolled, exercise of economic power” (Tucker, 1984, p 310). There is no perfect process in determining occupational health and safety standards. Tucker states that “trade offs between productivity and safety will still be necessary” (Tucker, 1984, p 311) even with the implementation of a socialist approach to risk with those directly affected given the democratic ability to decide on what levels of risk they are willing to incur. The main difference is in who makes the decisions between increased productivity and occupational risks. With the standard setting process the individuals directly affected have the ability to sway the decisions whereas with the cost benefit process they do not. The people elect the government officials. With the cost benefit process the decision lies with the values associated with lives and the value of improved health.
The ultimate goal of universal safety is not realistic; the goal may never be achieved however working towards such a goal would gradually improve safety and decrease the risk of injury or death in the workplace. Tossing the ideal because the goal is out of reach should not be an option; the overall improvements of occupational conditions are possible. The standard setting process is also dependant on politics and that in itself is flawed, however the political world is ultimately controlled by the voting population and therefore in my opinion has a more ethical voice compared to that of the cost benefit approach.
Given the choice between these two views the most persuasive in my opinion is that of Schneiderman. Neither view is flawless, however from an ethical point of view the standard setting process is favoured over the cost benefit process. The cost-benefit view does not fit into my set of morals and ethically I could never choose a view that requires quantifying life or risk or workplace pollution. The standard setting method is preferred since it has a positive outlook. It requires positive changes to occupational health and safety. There is no ethical flaw in striving to make health and safety equal for all.
Bibliography
Heinzerling, L., Frank, A. (2002) Pricing the priceless: Cost-benefit Analysis of Environmental Protection. Retrieved September 05 2005 from http://www.law.georgetown.edu/gelpi/papers/pricefnl.pdf
Law Reform Commision of Canada. (2002). Excerpt 1 of Workplace Pollution. Working Paper 53-Protection of Life, 6-15. Ottawa: Law Reform Commission of Canada.
Schneiderman, M. (1982). Cost-Benefit, Social Values and the Setting of Occupational Health Standards, Legal and Ethical Dilemmas in Occupational Health, 191-206
Sjöberg, L., Moen, B., Rundmo, T. (2004). Explaining risk perception. An evaluation of the sychometric paradigm in risk perception research. Retreived August 15, 2005 from http://www.svt.ntnu.no/psy/Torbjorn.Rundmo/
Psychometric_paradigm.pdf
Tucker, E. (1990). Administering Danger in the Workplace: The Law and Politics of Occupational Health and Safety Regulation in Ontario, 1859-1914, 13-32, 237-246. Toronto: University of Toronto Press.
Tucker, E. (1984). The Determination of Occupational Health and Safety Standards in Ontario, 1860-1982: From the Market to Politics to…? McGill Law Journal 29: 260-311.
Viscusi, W. (1982). Setting Efficient Standards for Occupational Hazards, Journal of Occupational Medicine 24: 967-976.
CHEO Placement Care Plan
NSG 3135; Practicum Acute Care
CHEO Placement Care Plan
November 24, 2004
Care Plan
About the Patient
Patient is a nine year old African American girl previously diagnoses with sickle cell anemia. Patient admitted for a laparoscopic spleenectomy at CHEO. Patient deals with pain and procedures best with distraction and adequate medication. Patient requires lots of encouragement to move in bed and for use of the incentive spiro meter. When receiving this patient post operative, she had a nasogastric tube and a peripheral intravenous in each hand; one for replacing NG losses and the other for fluid maintenance. She also had 5 small dressings on her abdomen. She was on bedrest and NPO. Parents were both present and supportive at the bedside post operation.
Medical Diagnosis
Hyperspleenism (spleen destroys, in excessive numbers, blood cells) secondary to sickle cell anemia. She was at CHEO for a laparoscopic spleenectomy.
Nursing Diagnosis (A)
Acute pain related to surgical procedure.
Nursing Interventions
Rationales
(i) Assess pain level using a self-report measurement tool (scale from 1-10).
(i) Use of tool promotes communication and evaluation of pain control.
(ii) Administer pain medication as ordered, and assess effectiveness. (acetaminophen)
(ii) Use of opioids which bind to opiate receptors to decrease sensations of pain.
(iii) Instruct patient about the importance of pain control prior to pain becoming severe (re use of PCA Morphine).
(iii) A preventative approach to pain control reduces anxiety and promotes a consistent level of relief and overall comfort.
(iv) Use nonpharmacologic pain reduction measures.
(iv) Distraction (movies, etc), proper positioning can increase the effects of pain medication therefore increasing comfort level.
Outcomes
The patient will be more comfortable, as evidence by verbalizing that discomfort is reduced, and moving in bed with less pain.
Nursing Diagnosis (B)
Risk for infection related to surgical wounds, increased environmental exposure to pathogens in hospital, immobility and inadequate secondary defenses.
Nursing Interventions
Rationales
(i) Administer antibiotics as ordered and monitor effectiveness. Monitor vital signs especially temperature and surgical wound sites.
(i) Use of antibiotics decreases likelihood of developing infection. Early detection of infection allows for early interventions to decrease severity.
(ii) Turn patient in bed as ordered and monitor skin integrity paying special attention to pressure points.
(ii) Skin breakdown may occur if patient lies immobile. With skin breakdown risk of infection increases.
(iii) Keep patient clean with regular bed baths and change soiled linen. Monitor dressings to eliminate possible contamination of surgical sites.
(iii) All patients are at risk for nosocomial infections in hospitals. Regular washing eliminates bacteria and decreases risk for infection.
(vi) Ensure immunizations are up to date.
(vi) With the removal of the spleen special attention to immunizations is important.
Outcomes
The patient will maintain infection free status as evidence by afebrile status.
CHEO Placement Care Plan
November 24, 2004
Care Plan
About the Patient
Patient is a nine year old African American girl previously diagnoses with sickle cell anemia. Patient admitted for a laparoscopic spleenectomy at CHEO. Patient deals with pain and procedures best with distraction and adequate medication. Patient requires lots of encouragement to move in bed and for use of the incentive spiro meter. When receiving this patient post operative, she had a nasogastric tube and a peripheral intravenous in each hand; one for replacing NG losses and the other for fluid maintenance. She also had 5 small dressings on her abdomen. She was on bedrest and NPO. Parents were both present and supportive at the bedside post operation.
Medical Diagnosis
Hyperspleenism (spleen destroys, in excessive numbers, blood cells) secondary to sickle cell anemia. She was at CHEO for a laparoscopic spleenectomy.
Nursing Diagnosis (A)
Acute pain related to surgical procedure.
Nursing Interventions
Rationales
(i) Assess pain level using a self-report measurement tool (scale from 1-10).
(i) Use of tool promotes communication and evaluation of pain control.
(ii) Administer pain medication as ordered, and assess effectiveness. (acetaminophen)
(ii) Use of opioids which bind to opiate receptors to decrease sensations of pain.
(iii) Instruct patient about the importance of pain control prior to pain becoming severe (re use of PCA Morphine).
(iii) A preventative approach to pain control reduces anxiety and promotes a consistent level of relief and overall comfort.
(iv) Use nonpharmacologic pain reduction measures.
(iv) Distraction (movies, etc), proper positioning can increase the effects of pain medication therefore increasing comfort level.
Outcomes
The patient will be more comfortable, as evidence by verbalizing that discomfort is reduced, and moving in bed with less pain.
Nursing Diagnosis (B)
Risk for infection related to surgical wounds, increased environmental exposure to pathogens in hospital, immobility and inadequate secondary defenses.
Nursing Interventions
Rationales
(i) Administer antibiotics as ordered and monitor effectiveness. Monitor vital signs especially temperature and surgical wound sites.
(i) Use of antibiotics decreases likelihood of developing infection. Early detection of infection allows for early interventions to decrease severity.
(ii) Turn patient in bed as ordered and monitor skin integrity paying special attention to pressure points.
(ii) Skin breakdown may occur if patient lies immobile. With skin breakdown risk of infection increases.
(iii) Keep patient clean with regular bed baths and change soiled linen. Monitor dressings to eliminate possible contamination of surgical sites.
(iii) All patients are at risk for nosocomial infections in hospitals. Regular washing eliminates bacteria and decreases risk for infection.
(vi) Ensure immunizations are up to date.
(vi) With the removal of the spleen special attention to immunizations is important.
Outcomes
The patient will maintain infection free status as evidence by afebrile status.
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