Here are some possible terms that may be defined in Unit 2:
Green Construction
Sustainable Design
Energy Efficient Design
Eco-friendly Materials
LEED certification
Friday, March 27, 2009
The history of mankind has, no doubt, shown evolving prejudices towards women. I say evolving because historians hold a wide consensus that women were respected as equals in the hunter-gatherer age of humans, which is widely believed to be the interaction taking place at the start of the homosapien experience. The idea was that in order for these early peoples to survive they had no time to play favorites or express prejudices; they needed to work together as effectively as possible. However, as agricultural societies developed, women were less needed for supplying the once needed nutrition because men were able to plant and harvest large crops. As a result women tended to stay at home and raise the children, while the men were out providing food and shelter. This led to the intense attitude of superiority by males towards women. This attitude has plagued society even up to the present-day.
In life, right eventually prevails. That said, something had to be created to stop this unfair treatment of women. What was brought about is known as feminism. So, what is feminism and why is it important to understand the reality of this concept? As an existing species, it is detrimental to our success to define certain prejudices and their opposition to allow for beneficial change to society. Feminism plays an enormous role in the daily lives of arguably everyone on this planet. For this reason it is imperative that we understand the implications of this term.
Feminism is a devout disagreement and stance against the inequality, unfair treatment, and stereotyping of women in relation to men. Foremost on the feminism agenda is equality. As noted by Cassandra L. Langer, "[Feminism's] mission is to achieve full equality for women of every race, religion, ethnic group, age, and sexual orientation. It is important to indicate that the parameters surround specifically women and men to clarify the subjects of the debate (Note how it almost sounds grammatically incorrect to say women before men). However, feminism is not man vs. women, but equality vs. inequality. This idea coincides with Langer's depiction of feminism, as she states, "The central goal of feminism is to reorganize the world on the basis of equality between the sexes in all human relations" (570). Many men have the perception that they are somehow more capable than women, which feminism attempts to refute. Furthermore, it does not only have to be men that hold this outlook of superiority; some women can also see themselves as inferior. In this case feminism challenges women to become enlightened about their place in society. Moreover, feminism not only questions our legal sytem with respect to women but also improper stereotyping. As Langer notes, "What unites all feminists, what they all have in common that makes them 'femenists,' is the belief that they must question and challenge sexual stereotypes"(574). We can't make stereotyping illegal; after all that would be a blatant encroachment of our first amendment right, and we all know how important human rights are. So, we must combat stereotyping through intelligent and dignified arguments.
The argument of what feminism is cannot bear completeness until we can explain what it is not. Feminism does not make the claim that women are superior to men. This could be a common misinterpretation, which brings us back to equality vs. inequality and not man vs. women. Feminism does not accept the standards of patriarchal society. However, Joan Williams seems to believe that feminism must put women in the workplace with men. Williams claims that women must go to the workplace and then "return home to the second shift" (594). Feminism does not press the idea of women performing the same functions in society as men; it simply argues that women should have the choice to do this as equals to men. Women should have freedom of choice. In addition, feminism is not a prejudice towards men, which has been a perception of many people. Williams claims that most feminists are "...'strident' and 'ballbusting'..." (594). This may be a real attitude of some women who claim to be feminists, but that does not mean that it is feminism. Feminism is an intelligent movement for the betterment of women's equal place in society and better quality of life.
So, what can be gained from this new definition of feminism? Well, the dignity of future debate relies on the precise understanding of this controversial movement. We cannot continue to have the popular belief that feminists are purely and simply women who hate men and will do anything possible to gain the upperhand in society. By acknowledging feminism as an intelligent ideology in opposition of prejudices, we, as a united whole, may focus our efforts on more important issues, which have more tanslucent boundaries.
In life, right eventually prevails. That said, something had to be created to stop this unfair treatment of women. What was brought about is known as feminism. So, what is feminism and why is it important to understand the reality of this concept? As an existing species, it is detrimental to our success to define certain prejudices and their opposition to allow for beneficial change to society. Feminism plays an enormous role in the daily lives of arguably everyone on this planet. For this reason it is imperative that we understand the implications of this term.
Feminism is a devout disagreement and stance against the inequality, unfair treatment, and stereotyping of women in relation to men. Foremost on the feminism agenda is equality. As noted by Cassandra L. Langer, "[Feminism's] mission is to achieve full equality for women of every race, religion, ethnic group, age, and sexual orientation. It is important to indicate that the parameters surround specifically women and men to clarify the subjects of the debate (Note how it almost sounds grammatically incorrect to say women before men). However, feminism is not man vs. women, but equality vs. inequality. This idea coincides with Langer's depiction of feminism, as she states, "The central goal of feminism is to reorganize the world on the basis of equality between the sexes in all human relations" (570). Many men have the perception that they are somehow more capable than women, which feminism attempts to refute. Furthermore, it does not only have to be men that hold this outlook of superiority; some women can also see themselves as inferior. In this case feminism challenges women to become enlightened about their place in society. Moreover, feminism not only questions our legal sytem with respect to women but also improper stereotyping. As Langer notes, "What unites all feminists, what they all have in common that makes them 'femenists,' is the belief that they must question and challenge sexual stereotypes"(574). We can't make stereotyping illegal; after all that would be a blatant encroachment of our first amendment right, and we all know how important human rights are. So, we must combat stereotyping through intelligent and dignified arguments.
The argument of what feminism is cannot bear completeness until we can explain what it is not. Feminism does not make the claim that women are superior to men. This could be a common misinterpretation, which brings us back to equality vs. inequality and not man vs. women. Feminism does not accept the standards of patriarchal society. However, Joan Williams seems to believe that feminism must put women in the workplace with men. Williams claims that women must go to the workplace and then "return home to the second shift" (594). Feminism does not press the idea of women performing the same functions in society as men; it simply argues that women should have the choice to do this as equals to men. Women should have freedom of choice. In addition, feminism is not a prejudice towards men, which has been a perception of many people. Williams claims that most feminists are "...'strident' and 'ballbusting'..." (594). This may be a real attitude of some women who claim to be feminists, but that does not mean that it is feminism. Feminism is an intelligent movement for the betterment of women's equal place in society and better quality of life.
So, what can be gained from this new definition of feminism? Well, the dignity of future debate relies on the precise understanding of this controversial movement. We cannot continue to have the popular belief that feminists are purely and simply women who hate men and will do anything possible to gain the upperhand in society. By acknowledging feminism as an intelligent ideology in opposition of prejudices, we, as a united whole, may focus our efforts on more important issues, which have more tanslucent boundaries.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Annotated Bibliography Draft
"Survey Shows 'Green' Paradox." ASHRAE Journal 48.1 (Jan. 2006): 9-46. Print. According to to the ASHRAE Journal, a survey conducted by The Turner Construction company, one of the largest construction companies in the world, indicates that most school executives hold false ideas of green construction costs. Included in the study was all types of building construction dealing with K-12 schools. The participants involved were about 25% actual school executives, with the rest being building executives.
"Green" Construction Promoted in Legislation. Indoor Environment Quality Strategies 17.9 (Sep. 2004): 14-15. Print. According to Indoor Environmental Quality Startegies (IEQS), two senators are working on passing legislation regarding green construction. Percentages of certain areas of environmental impact by construction are given. In addition, an outline of the legislation is provided.
Levermore, G. J. "A review of the IPCC Assessment Report Four, Part 1: the IPCC process and greenhouse gas emission trends from buildings worldwide." Building Services Engineering Research & Technology 29.4 (Nov. 2008): 349-361. Print. G.J. Levermore provides a detailed un-biased report on the IPCC's findings of man-caused environmental change. He provides information on what critics of the IPCC believe to be false information and provides graphs of varying scopes. Levermore also explains that in order to understand the initial report of the IPCC, one must understand how it is written, with which he provides insight.
Persram, Sonja. "Waking Up to Potential of Green Construction." Toronto Star 1 Oct. 2007: B04. Print. Sonja Persram explains that worker performance studies have shown an increase in productivity by workers in a green facility. Persram also notes some percentages provided by the president of the green building council.
Ries, Robert, Melissa M. Bilec, Nuri Mehmet Gokhan, and Kim LaScola Needy. "The Economic Benefits of Green Buildings: A Comprehensive Case Study" Engineering Economist 51.3 (2006): 259-295. Print. The authors explain the various economic benefits of green construction. Contained are charts showing different options for efficiency, as well as information regarding employee performance in the form of graphs and analysis. The approach is aimed toward the cost-benefit side of the argument for green construction.
Ross, Phillip M. "Being Green May Be Easier Than You Think." Westchester County Business Journal 47.19 (12 May 2008): S4-S9. Print. Phillip Ross explains the phenomenon of green construction in relation to the many false beliefs associated with it. Ross also covers the Environment Incentives Tax Act of 2005 and outlines its details.
"'Green' construction costs dramatically lower than believed." Mortgage Banking 67.13 (Oct. 2007): 167-168. Print. Mortgage Banking concludes that the initial estimated costs of green construction are incorrect. Dealing with the most prevalent aspect of green construction opposition, they lay down the facts of its cost.
"Green" Construction Promoted in Legislation. Indoor Environment Quality Strategies 17.9 (Sep. 2004): 14-15. Print. According to Indoor Environmental Quality Startegies (IEQS), two senators are working on passing legislation regarding green construction. Percentages of certain areas of environmental impact by construction are given. In addition, an outline of the legislation is provided.
Levermore, G. J. "A review of the IPCC Assessment Report Four, Part 1: the IPCC process and greenhouse gas emission trends from buildings worldwide." Building Services Engineering Research & Technology 29.4 (Nov. 2008): 349-361. Print. G.J. Levermore provides a detailed un-biased report on the IPCC's findings of man-caused environmental change. He provides information on what critics of the IPCC believe to be false information and provides graphs of varying scopes. Levermore also explains that in order to understand the initial report of the IPCC, one must understand how it is written, with which he provides insight.
Persram, Sonja. "Waking Up to Potential of Green Construction." Toronto Star 1 Oct. 2007: B04. Print. Sonja Persram explains that worker performance studies have shown an increase in productivity by workers in a green facility. Persram also notes some percentages provided by the president of the green building council.
Ries, Robert, Melissa M. Bilec, Nuri Mehmet Gokhan, and Kim LaScola Needy. "The Economic Benefits of Green Buildings: A Comprehensive Case Study" Engineering Economist 51.3 (2006): 259-295. Print. The authors explain the various economic benefits of green construction. Contained are charts showing different options for efficiency, as well as information regarding employee performance in the form of graphs and analysis. The approach is aimed toward the cost-benefit side of the argument for green construction.
Ross, Phillip M. "Being Green May Be Easier Than You Think." Westchester County Business Journal 47.19 (12 May 2008): S4-S9. Print. Phillip Ross explains the phenomenon of green construction in relation to the many false beliefs associated with it. Ross also covers the Environment Incentives Tax Act of 2005 and outlines its details.
"'Green' construction costs dramatically lower than believed." Mortgage Banking 67.13 (Oct. 2007): 167-168. Print. Mortgage Banking concludes that the initial estimated costs of green construction are incorrect. Dealing with the most prevalent aspect of green construction opposition, they lay down the facts of its cost.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Works Cited for Current Sources
Persram, Sonja. "Waking Up to Potential of Green Construction." Toronto Star 1 Oct. 2007: B04. Print.
Ries, Robert, Melissa M. Bilec, Nuri Mehmet Gokhan, and Kim LaScola Needy. "The Economic Benefits of Green Buildings: A Comprehensive Case Study" Engineering Economist 51.3 (2006): 259-295. Print.
Ross, Philip M. "Being Green May Be Easier Than You Think" Fairfield County Business Journal 47.19 (2008): S4-S9. Print.
Galehouse, Maggie. "Building Green is the Buzz Phrase" Houston Chronicle 18 Mar. 2007: npg. Print.
Matlock, Staci. "Home Under Constuction is Model for Green Design." The Sante Fe New Mexican 30 Jun. 2008: npg. Print.
This is all I have right now. I am trying to find the time to get some sources from the library; the online sources are vast and hard to pick through.
Ries, Robert, Melissa M. Bilec, Nuri Mehmet Gokhan, and Kim LaScola Needy. "The Economic Benefits of Green Buildings: A Comprehensive Case Study" Engineering Economist 51.3 (2006): 259-295. Print.
Ross, Philip M. "Being Green May Be Easier Than You Think" Fairfield County Business Journal 47.19 (2008): S4-S9. Print.
Galehouse, Maggie. "Building Green is the Buzz Phrase" Houston Chronicle 18 Mar. 2007: npg. Print.
Matlock, Staci. "Home Under Constuction is Model for Green Design." The Sante Fe New Mexican 30 Jun. 2008: npg. Print.
This is all I have right now. I am trying to find the time to get some sources from the library; the online sources are vast and hard to pick through.
Monday, February 23, 2009
The Necessity for a 'Green' Argument
Today, society is faced with numerous problems with no concrete solutions. Of these problems, the issue of global warming has plagued the hearts and minds of many across the globe. It is time for responsibility; it is time to use our greatest attribute, intellegence. Although many understand the various ways in combatting this particular problem, they just do not seem to be acting. Well, my question is why not? Stuctures are one area which could make a detrimental difference in the changing climate. By practicing 'green' construction the world could live in great harmony with the environment; however, many people refuse to jump on the bandwagon. Again, my question is why not? Throughout the short history of building 'green,' society has come up with excuses not to apply a 'green' mindset to their building projects. Of course, their are several reasons people have done this. The disbelief in cost-savings, the disbelief in functionality, and the close-minded societal ideal of needing the most luxurious and not the most efficient are just a few on the long list of excuses. This is an issue that calls for action; this is an issue that calls for many to rise up and create a better place to live, not just for us, but for our children. Finally, the proof of the positive and necessary impact of 'green' construction must be shouted for the world to hear.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Class Assignments - Addressing an Issue
In the world today, there are vast numbers of differing languages, some resemble others and some are completely unconnected. However, they all have one thing in common and that is to communicate meaning from one individual to another or from one individual to a number of others. As a result of the necessity for communication, problems inevitably arise. [TOPIC SENTENCE] Society is now faced with the controversial issue of the 'right' way to speak and whether or not the opposite is to be accepted.
[TOPIC SENTENCE] I ask this question, is there a 'right' way to speak? Amy Tan provides a powerful opinion in her essay entitled "Mother Tongue," "Her language, as I hear it, is vivid, direct, full of observation and imagery. That was the language that helped shape the way I saw things, expressed things, made sense of the world"(805). Here she expresses how fully and accurately her mothers so-called broken Chinese-American English describes her mother's particular perception of things. Some will protest this sort of communication, while others will naturally embrace it. In such occasions, comes an issue of whether or not this sort of speaking should be tolerated? Furthermore, if it is tolerated should it be implemented in our education system?
[TOPIC SENTENCE] Ebonics is another issue which could bring considerable heated debate into the bilingual issue. After all, as John Rickford notes, the Oakland School Board believes that ebonics can be considered a primary language of African Americans(810). If it is considered as a primary language should they then approve Ebonics in a bilingual system? As David S. Troutt explains, "[Ebonics] is the dumbness against which all smartness is measured"(818). Keep in mind Troutt is not expressing his individual opinion of ebonics, but rather he is addressing a social stigma that many Americans latch onto. With this statement one can almost certainly assume that including ebonics in our education system will bring about uproar among "proper" speaking people. Nevertheless, why is this issue important? What pushed it out into our minds? Well, as was spoken earlier, John Rickford provides an example with Ebonics as an accepted primary language. However, what was most important was not the fact that this event had happened, but the public outcry that soon ensued. Rickford notes some e-mails posted on America on-line calling ebonics 'lazy' and 'bastardized'(810). Of course, this depicts some American's utter contempt for diversity. That said, should a bilingual education model be accepted by the American school system?
[TOPIC SENTENCE] I ask this question, is there a 'right' way to speak? Amy Tan provides a powerful opinion in her essay entitled "Mother Tongue," "Her language, as I hear it, is vivid, direct, full of observation and imagery. That was the language that helped shape the way I saw things, expressed things, made sense of the world"(805). Here she expresses how fully and accurately her mothers so-called broken Chinese-American English describes her mother's particular perception of things. Some will protest this sort of communication, while others will naturally embrace it. In such occasions, comes an issue of whether or not this sort of speaking should be tolerated? Furthermore, if it is tolerated should it be implemented in our education system?
[TOPIC SENTENCE] Ebonics is another issue which could bring considerable heated debate into the bilingual issue. After all, as John Rickford notes, the Oakland School Board believes that ebonics can be considered a primary language of African Americans(810). If it is considered as a primary language should they then approve Ebonics in a bilingual system? As David S. Troutt explains, "[Ebonics] is the dumbness against which all smartness is measured"(818). Keep in mind Troutt is not expressing his individual opinion of ebonics, but rather he is addressing a social stigma that many Americans latch onto. With this statement one can almost certainly assume that including ebonics in our education system will bring about uproar among "proper" speaking people. Nevertheless, why is this issue important? What pushed it out into our minds? Well, as was spoken earlier, John Rickford provides an example with Ebonics as an accepted primary language. However, what was most important was not the fact that this event had happened, but the public outcry that soon ensued. Rickford notes some e-mails posted on America on-line calling ebonics 'lazy' and 'bastardized'(810). Of course, this depicts some American's utter contempt for diversity. That said, should a bilingual education model be accepted by the American school system?
Summaries
"If Only We All Spoke Two Languages"
Perhaps an exceptional argument which attempts to defy the cultural gap of modern society lies in "If Only We All Spoke Two Languages" by Ariel Dorfman. As implied by the title, Dorfman criticizes the world's seemingly monocentric customs, specifically the language divide. The purpose is explained in the story of Dorfman's life, which was torn between the English and Spanish language. She applies an undeniably emotional appeal to indicate her opinions on this particular matter saying, "...this thrilling experience of being dual, of taking from one liguistic river and then dipping into the other, until the confluence of the two vocabularies connects distant communities. This is an experience I wish all Americans could share." Dorfman also explains the importance of bilingualism in understanding differing cultures.
"Mother Tongue"
In "Mother Tongue" by Amy Tan, a specific language experience is examined. The issue is a decidedly individual experience between Tan and her mother's communication in the English language. Tan argues that while many would think of this verbal exchange as "broken", it perfectly exemplifies to her the ideas of her mother with undisputed clarity. However, she explains that this particular communication is not observed in a similar fashion by other, more "fluent" citizens. Tan gives a real example of a talk she had with her mother in the text, which provides an idea of this relationship of thoughts between the two women. Most would have great difficulty in understanding this conversation, but to Tan it's as comprehendable as her own thoughts. Tan also raises questions about the influence this communication has on her intellectual ability as a younger women trying to score on english exams.
"Suite for Ebony and Phonics"
In "Suite for Ebony and Phonics" by John Rickford, the question of ebonics as a primary language of centrally African Americans is addressed. Rickford argues that Ebonics does follow the standards of a language with precise rules and usages. This amazingly intuitive response details these specific rules and explains their function in completing this sub-english language. He acknowledges the general public's disapproval of this language and describes how it came to be. The idea of a ebonics being a pidgin language is also discussed.
"Defining Who We Are in Society"
In "Defining Who We Are in Society" by David Trout, the problem surrounding how society views ebonics is addressed. Trout assesses the probelms with ebonics as well as the positives. He is trying to explain that one should step outside of his or her close-minded opinions and see ebonics for what it truly is.
"Can We Talk?"
In "Can We Talk?" by Deborah Tannen, the inticate nature of the relationship between a mother and daughter is detailed. Tannen explains why these difficulties exist within this type of communication. She realizes that the inherent bond and attachment in this type of coexistance often times creates an easily heated relationship. Tannen uses specific examples from daughters to describe her meaning.
Perhaps an exceptional argument which attempts to defy the cultural gap of modern society lies in "If Only We All Spoke Two Languages" by Ariel Dorfman. As implied by the title, Dorfman criticizes the world's seemingly monocentric customs, specifically the language divide. The purpose is explained in the story of Dorfman's life, which was torn between the English and Spanish language. She applies an undeniably emotional appeal to indicate her opinions on this particular matter saying, "...this thrilling experience of being dual, of taking from one liguistic river and then dipping into the other, until the confluence of the two vocabularies connects distant communities. This is an experience I wish all Americans could share." Dorfman also explains the importance of bilingualism in understanding differing cultures.
"Mother Tongue"
In "Mother Tongue" by Amy Tan, a specific language experience is examined. The issue is a decidedly individual experience between Tan and her mother's communication in the English language. Tan argues that while many would think of this verbal exchange as "broken", it perfectly exemplifies to her the ideas of her mother with undisputed clarity. However, she explains that this particular communication is not observed in a similar fashion by other, more "fluent" citizens. Tan gives a real example of a talk she had with her mother in the text, which provides an idea of this relationship of thoughts between the two women. Most would have great difficulty in understanding this conversation, but to Tan it's as comprehendable as her own thoughts. Tan also raises questions about the influence this communication has on her intellectual ability as a younger women trying to score on english exams.
"Suite for Ebony and Phonics"
In "Suite for Ebony and Phonics" by John Rickford, the question of ebonics as a primary language of centrally African Americans is addressed. Rickford argues that Ebonics does follow the standards of a language with precise rules and usages. This amazingly intuitive response details these specific rules and explains their function in completing this sub-english language. He acknowledges the general public's disapproval of this language and describes how it came to be. The idea of a ebonics being a pidgin language is also discussed.
"Defining Who We Are in Society"
In "Defining Who We Are in Society" by David Trout, the problem surrounding how society views ebonics is addressed. Trout assesses the probelms with ebonics as well as the positives. He is trying to explain that one should step outside of his or her close-minded opinions and see ebonics for what it truly is.
"Can We Talk?"
In "Can We Talk?" by Deborah Tannen, the inticate nature of the relationship between a mother and daughter is detailed. Tannen explains why these difficulties exist within this type of communication. She realizes that the inherent bond and attachment in this type of coexistance often times creates an easily heated relationship. Tannen uses specific examples from daughters to describe her meaning.
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