Human Beings Essay Example for Free

Human Beings Essay A. Holmes 2013 ENG140, Week 7, Assignment Stacey A. Holmes 2013 ENG140, Week 7, Assignment Essay 3 Summary and Response (Draft 2) Ivy Bridge at Tiffin University ENG 140 April 25 Essay 3 Summary and Response (Draft 2) Ivy Bridge at Tiffin University ENG 140 April 25 Author and world renowned Philosopher, Dr. Peter Singer who is currently at Yale University, defines terms such as â€Å"Personhood† and â€Å"Speciesism† rather distinctively, and he does it in a way, that does not fit in with most of societies’ ideas of what represents the meaning of either, personhood (such as an infant not being a â€Å"person† because it is not yet self-aware, but a dolphin being a â€Å"person† because it can recognize itself in a mirror) or discrimination (he describes individuals who eat meat as being speciesist, because he or she doesn’t take into consideration the feelings of the animal or the animal’s desire to continue on living). When asked the question â€Å"What is a person? † Most would answer by saying, â€Å"A  person  is a being, such as a  human, that has certain mental capacities or attributes constituting  personhood, which in turn could be defined differently by different authors in different disciplines and by different cultures in different times and places†. The definition for human being is â€Å"a member of any of the races of  Homo sapiens;  person; man, woman, or child† (Collins English Dictionary – Complete and Unabridged  Ã‚ © HarperCollins  Publishers, 2003). When asked to give the definition for a person, Singer, who is currently at Yale University; describes a person as â€Å"Someone who is aware of their own existence over time, is aware enough to realize that they are the same being that lived previously; who can expect to live into the future† (Singer, Peter. (2008, January 28th). Human Use of Animals [http://www. open. edu/openlearn/history-the-arts/culture/philosophy/human-use-animals]. Singer believes that some non-human animals have individuality and could be considered â€Å"persons†; describing some human beings who lack mental capacity and attributes (i. . intellectual disability, dementia, brain injury, mental illness and even infants) as non-persons, because there is†¦ no awareness of a past, present or future being. Singer says that these human beings are still showed compassion, respect, and regard. So, why aren’t we (human beings/persons) capable of showing that same compassion towards animals or non-humans? He argues that we should be able to recognize that animals are aware of their being, are aware of their past and present, that they have a desire to live, and are also very conscience of the way they are treated by human beings. He also believes that they understand suffering. He says that human beings or â€Å"persons† should be more evolved to think that there is no suffering for these animals. Singer thinks that we should be more concerned for them individually, think about what would be in their best interest, and take in consideration the things that could be bad for them or quite possibly, be harming them; rather than, using them for our own wants, needs, and desires. Society has a total disregard for animals and the fact that they are suffering, because our need for what the animal has to offer us is greater; lbeit sustenance, experimental purposes, etc†¦ (Singer, Peter. (2006, December 11th). The Colbert Report [http://www. colbertnation. com/the-colbert-report-videos/79412/december-11-2006/peter-singer]. Singer argues that this total disregard for animals’ is what he deems as speciesism (which is much like racism only targeted toward other species), and that those who practice thi s (speciesism) are speciesist (someone who has prejudices towards species other than their own). Singer says that â€Å"Some animals have a higher moral status than some humans and that our disregard for animal suffering is a deplorable moral blind spot† (Singer, Peter. (2008, January 28th). Human Use of Animals [http://www. open. edu/openlearn/history-the-arts/culture/philosophy/human-use-animals]. I am bipartisan to his argument; I can neither agree nor disagree with his philosophy. Singer makes some valid points in his argument. He says that animals â€Å"non-humans† have the same capacities or attributes that some human beings have, implicating that a non-human could potentially be categorized as a â€Å"person†. He also states that we should recognize that animals or non-humans have an acknowledgement of self and of suffering. Lastly, Singer speaks of the way that human beings or persons should care for animals. These can be categorized as â€Å"reasonable assumptions†. I believe that animals could be categorized as persons. Because, I do believe that they are fully aware, just as aware (if not more, than some human beings) as we are, of their past, present and future being. I also believe that animals are aware of their suffering and, who is causing the suffering. I also think that as human beings we should show more compassion, respect and regard toward animals, in all aspects, of our need, use, want or desire for them. But, as a Christian, I believe that all things serve a â€Å"Divine Purpose† and that mankind (human beings) remains at the top of the food chain. And God blessed Noah and his sons, and said unto them, be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth. And the fear of you and the dread of you shall be upon every beast of the earth, and upon every fowl of the air, upon all that moveth upon the earth, and upon all the fishes of the sea; into your hand are they delivered. Every  moving  thing that liveth shall be meat for you; even as the green herb have I given you all things. But flesh with the life thereof, which is the blood thereof, shall ye not eat† (The Holy Bible, KJV, Genesis 9:1-4). Scripture says that all things on the Earth are for us (human beings) and that there isn’t anything that we could not eat (or use for our purposes) other than another human. If God can take into the consideration the â€Å"feelings† of the beings that He created, and still give them to us (humans) for sustenance. Then who are we (the created) to say that it’s wrong? Well, Singer also suggests that even infants aren’t fully aware of there being, there present, past and/or future and I say to that; If they were afforded the time then they would certainly be aware of these things. So, that statement holds no validity for me. I could understand if his philosophy, applied only toward those that have any intellectual disabilities, dementia, brain injuries, and mental illnesses his statement would have more substance. But, at some point and time; infants would eventually be considered persons. When looking back at my own experience with infants (my children and grandchildren), I felt as if the child’ knew exactly who I was and that we had this â€Å"mutual understanding† and affection for one another. Or it could be very possible for the infant to never fully develop. Who knows with life, it’s too unpredictable. But once again, that is just the nature of life, I do not believe that we were meant to know or have knowledge of everything. I respectfully disagree with Dr. Singer’s analysis of infants. But, I think that his analysis could be applied to people who lack in mental capacities. This subject for me is simply the rules of nature, no more, no less. It is just in the laws of nature to be either prey or predator. Animals’ or non-humans may have full awareness of their suffering and we as humans should create a better environment for animals (that we use for our â€Å"purposes†) so that they don’t have to endure a tremendous amount of suffering. Farmers, Scientist and the general public alike should make changes in the laws that regulate the treatment of animals. Society as a whole should not be so vain to think that we are the only species on Earth that can feel, love, think, and desire, hurt and/or suffer. But, I disagree with Singer when he suggests that we start treating animals with the same moral composition that we show our fellow human beings. Animals are just, simply put†¦not our equals. Yes, my mother who suffers from dementia is going to receive better treatment from me than my dog, cat, fish, bird, llama etc†¦That will never happen (animals as humans equals) in my opinion. I don’t see a comparison between my mother, who has taken care of me for the majority of my life, and an animal. Human beings should start treating the animals’ that provide us nourishment, clothing, friendship and the list goes on, with more compassion and allotting them the quality, respect and dignity of life that someone could say to them in the end â€Å" You lived a full, dignified and â€Å"good life†. References Singer, Peter. (2006, December 11th). The Colbert Report [http://www. colbertnation. com/the-colbert-report-videos/79412/december-11-2006/peter-singer] Singer, Peter. (2008, January 28th). Human Use of Animals [http://www. open. edu/openlearn/history-the-arts/culture/philosophy/human-use-animals]

The Transformation of Hal in Shakespeares Henry IV Essay -- Henry IV

The Transformation of Hal in Henry IV      Ã‚  Ã‚   In Shakespeare's Henry IV, the character Hal, the Prince of Wales, undergoes a transformation that can be characterized as a redemption. Shakespeare introduces Hal, in the opening act as a renegade of the Court.   His avoidance of all public responsibility and his affinity for the company of   the Boar's Head Tavern, have caused serious concern for the King, because Hal is heir to the throne.   The King realizes that to keep order, a ruler and his heir must prove to be both responsible and honorable;   from the outset Hal possesses neither quality.   The King even testifies to his own advisor, that he would have rather traded Hal for Hotspur, the son of the Earl of Northumberland.   In the King's eyes Hotspur, not Hal,   is the "theme of honor's tongue" (1.1. 80), because he has won his glory through his merits in war.   Thus, Shakespeare has set Hal and Hotspur in opposition:   Hal, the prodigal prince, versus Hotspur, the proper prince.   Hal understands that he has been branded with the label, "truant to chivalry,"(5.1.   95) and as the heir to the throne, he realizes that it is imperative that he redeem himself not only for himself, but also for his father and his people because life will not always be a holiday , for "If all the year were playing holidays, To sport would be as tedious as work" (1.2. 211- 212).   However Hal needs some type of strength to make his realization come true.      Luckily Hal's father, the King is willing to lend several comments that enrage him and provide him with the necssary motivation.   It also seems that Shakespeare has included the foil for Hal, the vali... ...o someday rule the nation.       Works Cited and Consulted Barber, C.L. "Rule and Misrule in Henry1V." William Shakespeare: Histories and Poems. Ed. Harold Bloom. New York: Chelsea House Publishers, 1986. 143-167. Bloom, Harold. Henry IV, Part One: Bloom's Notes. New York: Chelsea House, 1996. Cruttwell,Patrick. Hernry IV. Shakespeare For Students, Vol. II. Detroit: Gale Publishing, 1999. Kantor, Andrea. Henry IV, Part One. London: Baron's Education Series, Inc, 1984. Princiss, G.M. Henry IV Criticism. Shakespeare For Students, Vol.II. Detroit: Gale Publishing, 1999. Shakespeare, William. The Norton Shakespeare. Ed Stephen Greenblatt, et al. New York: W. W. Norton & Company, 1997. Shakespeare, William.  Ã‚   1Henry IV.   In The Norten Anthology of English Literature. Eds.   M.H. Abrams et all.   5th Ed. New York: Norton, 1987.  

American Progress

John Gast’s painting, â€Å"American Progress†, illustrates many depictions of the early movement and development of the United States. This particular painting defines uniqueness and character throughout. Looking at it geographically the angel portrayed in the middle is floating westward as though she is exemplifying the Westward Expansion. She has the â€Å"Star of Empire† imprinted on her forehead, which better portrays the idea of her trying to move westward. This painting is a great description of our country’s economical progress and expansion. Gast artistically explains the present day United States as nice cities along rivers with big buildings and churches along the right edge of this painting. This scene is also shown as being happy and awakening because of the bright sun rays being shown down upon it. The city is supposed to represent a growing city along the mighty Mississippi River. You are able to see the evolution of transportation through boats and railroads. The three main intercontinental railways are shown departing from this city, and the beautiful angel in the middle is carrying the telegraph cable which eventually linked the nation together. She is also carrying with her some type school book, which to me represents intellectual ideas being spread throughout the country. In the background behind her lies many rolling hills and plush green grass. There is not many trees in this portrait, but the snow capped mountains on the left and the great plains on the right depict a great deal of land diversity from coast to coast. There are also many cattle, Indians, wild horses, bears, and other wild game trying to flee her approach towards the west and eventually into the storms and waves of the Pacific coast. Although she seems very divine in appearance some may take her intentions as revolting. Her central idea seems as though she is trying to spread the economical progress throughout the entire United States. Emotionally this is a very strong painting because of its detail and significance. When I first looked at this painting it made me think of Manifest Destiny. The angel in the middle attempting to emigrate westward defines the meaning of manifest destiny. Many thought it was God’s belief that the United States would expand from the Atlantic coast to the Pacific coast. I also felt another tie to my previous assumption when I noticed the star on her forehead. I felt it had great importance so I began to acknowledge her surroundings and I realized it was the â€Å"Star of Empire†, which signifies westward movement as well. The star is a bright golden color, almost identical to rays of light being exposed upon new land. She is wearing a long, swaying white robe which is also significant because the color white signifies freedom. Her bright golden, blonde hair also signifies the presence of God to me. Her presence in this painting is not just for beauty but for great importance. I have always felt strongly about the spread of equality throughout our nation, and to me it seems as though she is trying to spread the superior life-style across the United States. The book in her arm represents that she is trying to spread intelligence and the teaching of literacy. It was very rare in the past for many people to be able to both read and write, and with the spread of civilization trying to take place it is very important that she also spread the gift of teaching. I also believe that she is trying to spread the connection of communication throughout the country by carrying the telegraph cord in her other hand. This became a very important facet of our country, because many of the connections and deals made over time would not have been made possible without communication. When I looked more towards the left side of the painting I noticed it was very dark and gloomy. Coincidently that happened to be the way everyone was fleeing, which in my mind represents everyone trying to escape freedom and return to normalcy among themselves. These men, women, and animals look as though they are afraid of the angel hovering over them, but ideally they are trying to escape normal civilization. This painting portrays many different themes and central ideas depending on which way it is observed. I feel from my point of view that I was able to interpret that the theme is based on moving forward in society. As seen on the right side of this portrait, the eastern United States progressed sooner than the west, and many frontiersmen are afraid of this new lifestyle. It seems as though the angel is trying to help everyone move forward and develop a new way of living and become more acquainted with this innovative way of living. No one copes very well with change, and like-wise neither did the Indians, farmers, and all of the other wild animals. These individuals had to manage survival with whatever nature skills they had. The mountainous region on the left side of the painting is covered with dark, rainy clouds and white snow caps. This symbolizes harsh climates and bad conditions for any type of living. Some of the animals may not be used to the western climates and may not be able to adapt quickly enough before facing the edge of extinction. The angel present in the center of the painting is able to help spread this central idea of moving on by her presence and what she brings with her. The coloration of her long, curly hair exemplifies traits from Jesus Christ. Her intentions are as His would be, and that is to create happiness and equality throughout. The gleaming star on her forehead also ties into the main theme through the concept of Manifest Destiny. I believe the star has the most significance of any object in the painting when referring to the main theme. The principle of the star represents the same significance as the main theme; people are trying to move forward in society. This entire painting depicts the importance of this exploration to the western United States. Everything is explained in perfect artistic form from the bright, sunshiny city on the right to the dark, gloomy coast on the left. The depiction of the angel in the middle is obviously the most important characteristic of this painting, but she also brings a lot of debate for whether or not she is subsiding good or bad influence on our country. There are many details and translations that can be looked at from many different angles depending on the person’s train of thought. I have explained in every detail the way I feel about this painting and the way I sensed each direction of the artist’s feelings. John Gast has a great connotation of each perception in his painting, and uses many features to depict different portions of his famous artwork. Many great Americans can agree with the central concept of this painting and will be able to grasp the implications behind each item portrayed in the painting. I personally feel that this painting is well thought out and had great meaning behind each aspect.

Ultraviolet Radiation Cause And Effect Essay - 1750 Words

ESL 099W Writing Reading Cliff Ishida, Cause Effect Essay, August 9, 2017 The effects of ultraviolet radiation are the cause of eye disease The twenty-first century is the century of developing everything on this planet, which has been developed by the human. While humans were developing their house, doing activities, using transportation, structuring manufacturing industry, burning the fuel and cutting the tree, these activities bring toxins into the atmosphere and destroyed the ozone. â€Å"Depletion of ozone in the stratosphere are thought to lead to increased levels of ultraviolet radiation on earth (1), all of which there are three types of ultraviolet radiation as UV-A, UV-B and UV-C. Types of ultraviolet radiation are dangerous to†¦show more content†¦Pinguecula and pterygium are more common in middle aged or older people who spend a lot of time in the sun. These diseases can avoid risk factors and treatment by wearing sunglasses, wearing a hat or using an umbrella. Using artificial tears in people who have eye irritation can help relieve irritation and improve the eye comfort. The patients who have a ti ssue cover into the pupil will need eye surgery. Furthermore, another part of the eye affected by ultraviolet radiation is the lens and the eye disease in this part is a cataract, which cataract disease is caused by degeneration of the lens and symptoms with a blurred vision as a fog, hindering the light to pass into the eyes and the optic nerves are fully. The treatment of cataract disease is surgery to remove the Natural lens and then insert the intraocular lens to replace, also after cataract surgery, patients should take care of themselves, eat a healthy meal and the most important thing is to avoid sunlight. The parts of conjunctiva and lens, there is also the part of the retina that affected by ultraviolet radiation. This part of the eye is the most severe disease from ultraviolet effect and this part has the age-related macular degeneration (AMD) disease, which AMD is a problem with a part of the retina called the macula. ThisShow MoreRelatedSymptoms And Treatment Of Basal Cell Carcinomas961 Words   |  4 Pagesstates the facts in a much more detailed manner, stating that indeed people who expose themselves to ultraviolet rays for prolonged period of time, some form of abnormalities such as skin cancer may occur. Section 3: the reasoning on this article was to convince and to point out the facts that indeed an individual can develop Basal Cell carcinoma overtime due to [prolonged exposures to ultraviolet rays. People with all kinds of skin types and at any age can get skin cancer, that is, if the skin isRead MoreThe Depletion Of The Ozone Layer1593 Words   |  7 Pagesdepletion of the ozone layer became international. 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