Animal Disturbances in Eastern Deciduous Forests Essay -- Ecology, Eco

The study of ecology is currently primarily focused upon anthropogenic effects on ecosystems as well as feeding relationships; however, non-feeding interactions are also an important factor in understanding the balance of the ecosystem and identifying issues. These interactions are generally termed disturbances. What constitutes a disturbance? White and Pickett defined it as â€Å"any relatively discrete event in time that disrupts ecosystem, community, or population structure and changes resources, substrate availability, or the physical environment† (White 1985). Some definitions of disturbances such as Grime's require the destruction of biomass, however, this tends to rule out many events that cause changes in the makeup of ecosystems yet are not feeding interactions (Buckley 1992). All animals interact with their environment beyond simply feeding as even walking can affect the makeup of the environment by crushing grasses or insects. Still, not all animals have the same degree of effect on the environment - certain animals are considered to be â€Å"ecosystem engineers.† These ecosystem engineers include crocodiles and beavers, animals that substantially change the environment around them to adapt it to their needs. Clive G. Jones defined ecosystem engineers as â€Å"organisms that directly or indirectly modulate the availability of resources to other species, by causing physical state changes in biotic or abiotic materials. In doing so, they modify, maintain, and create habitats†(Jones 1994). Of course, not all organisms that have non-trophic effects on their environment are ecosystem engineers. It is simply that the effects of the ecosystem engineer tend to be the best studied as they have the largest, most deliberate effect. H... ...ing monoculture comes a plethora of plant viruses that were previously reduced by diversity. As Castello states: â€Å"As forests become monocultures of one or several species, and as they suffer from mismanagement...they become more vulnerable to the impacts of biotic and abiotic stresses†(Castello 1989). Problematically, little is known about plant viruses and thus little is known about how to manage forests to prevent viruses or reduce their impact. There is some disagreement on whether a lack of disturbances truly leads to monoculture as certain ecologists including Hubbell believe that recruitment failures outweigh any possible effect of disturbances (Hubbell 1999). However, as studies have shown, disturbances can drastically increase recruitment failures. Nearly all researchers did agree that anthropogenic disturbances universally reduce diversity in ecosystems.

Philosophy of life: wisdom and meaning of life Essay

Good afternoon Dear Audience, today I am here to speak about something we are all going through. But first of all, let me start with some questions. I am sure that we all tried to find the answers to them at least once in a lifetime. Do you know what is Time? Or What is Space? Maybe you know what is Conscience? Or what is a Dream? Is there Heaven? or Hell? How can we live without knowing whether we are the ones to choose our own paths? And are we sure that we really Live? So many questions remain unanswered. And all these issues and many many others are in a constant connection with our Lives. Life is something we are all here going through and this is exactly the thing I would like to talk about today. There are a lot of technical definitions for the word Life, but can we really fit the whole meaning of this word in a sentence from the dictionaries, most of which claim that Life is the aspect of existence that processes, acts, reacts, evaluates, and evolves through reproduction and metabolism. But what is life really about, if anything? Basically, scientists, today are contemplating about 2 possible theories. That life is either a meaningless accident arising from the laws of physics operating in a meaningless universe, or it is a ‘step’ in a so-called planned ‘experiment’. I say ‘step’, for this, cannot be the end. The current state of life is yet too unstable and undeveloped for it to be the end. And I say ‘experiment’ since the evolutionary nature of life suggests that its future is unknown. If therefore the universe itself has a purpose, it seems most likely to be to explore what the outcome of the evolutionary experiment would be. And here comes the question of what kind of the outcome will we eventually acquire. In our contemporary world, we all get to listen to scientific debates on how, when and where life will come to an end. However, questions remain which may never be resolved. In this vacuum, philosophers and religious thinkers have attempted to give meaning to life by suggesting goals: Plato suggested the acquisition of knowledge, Aristotle to practice virtue, and the Stoics, mental fortitude and self-control. Today’s philosophers echo the existentialist view that life is full of absurdity, although they also tell us that we must put meaning into life by making our own values in an indifferent world. But if life is just a journey from womb to tomb, will such ‘meaning’ be sufficient to allow the traveler at journey’s end to feel that it was worthwhile? The worthwhile journey, the Beginning, and the End, Birth and Death, talking about Life I can not skip on talking about Time. All animals except humans live in a continual present, with no sense of the temporal distinctions of past, present, and future. Our consciousness of time is, therefore, one of the most important distinguishing features of humankind. It comes as no surprise, then, that from time immemorial, philosophers, teachers, and theologians have speculated on the true nature of time. Does time have a substance and, if so, what is it made of? How do we know that time really exists? Does time have a beginning and an end? There is a general agreement among philosophers that time is continuous and that it has an intrinsic direction or order. There is also a more or less general agreement that it is objective, rather than subjective or dependent on its being consciously experienced, and also that so many different physical processes bear consistent time relations to each other . However, even given that, many differing opinions and approaches to what time actually is have been put forward over the centuries. Presently, most websites and books on the subject begin with a candid admission that time is a curious and slippery concept which continues to defy definitive explanation despite hundreds, even thousands, of years of trying. We are told that time is â€Å"enigmatic† and â€Å"ineffable†, but that does not help us much in our search for the true nature of time. Nearly two and a half thousand years ago, Aristotle contended that â€Å"time is the most unknown of all unknown things†, and arguably not much has changed since then. Despite the fact that we don’t know exactly what time is, we still try to develop and move forward. Throughout my entire speech, I’ve been constantly repeating one word. â€Å"WE†. Just 2 letters. Do you know what they mean, since I don’t? We call ourselves Human beings. And, actually, being a human today does not necessarily mean being humane, being able to read or write, being able to work and provide yourself with everything that is needed. Generally speaking, the main features that distinguish us from animals are our abilities to think unconventionally, speak multiple languages, develop all-around spheres, from literature to sciences, from arts to business, and ,of course, we are different, since we believe in more than what we see and we hope for more than what we possess. Lately, I’ve been thinking about our Lives a lot, and I couldn’t resist the desire to share my thoughts with you, which, of course, are backed up by the scientific facts and evidence. While thinking about it, I’ve listened to myself carefully and eventually noticed that inexplicable voice speaking from within. Most of the time we don’t pay enough heed towards this part of our being., however, it should not be taken for granted. Some call it inner voice, others prefer to call it conscience. This is the reason, employed in questions of right and wrong. It is that within a man which approves or condemns his actions. The inner voice is a principle without which a man falls easily into temp ­tation, and every temptation succumbed to means degradation of his best instincts. He feels that he is no longer the same, but something weaker, something polluted, and the secret uneasiness and self-reproach which pursue him are the biting of conscience. Even though this voice should evoke all the notions of what is right and what is wrong there are some whose ideas of justice and injustice are so perverted that even the most wicked actions bring no remorse and at times even win their approval. Principles are not born in a man but are the result of training and association. It should be the endeavor of all of us, so that when temptation comes we will not fall, but resist it, and with every victory strengthen our character until we grow into noble, firm and self-reliant people. So, wherever you go and whatever you do your inner voice is always there, whispering the right answer. From time everlasting, we’ve always been trying to find the answers to as many questions as possible. We come up with the possible explanations, however, there is no-one out there to say that we are moving in a right direction. Who knows, maybe we are just fooling ourselves, and while, relying on our own science, we try to explain the inexplicable, we are increasingly driving ourselves into the jungles, from which, one day, we will not be able to find a way out. Just look at all the global conspiracy theories, most of which seem not only inconceivable but totally delirious. Let me name couple of them in order for you to have a comprehensive picture of what I am actually talking about. The water fluoridation theory, for instance, claims that the water we drink actually contains fluorite, which allegedly brainwashes the entire population of the Earth and makes us susceptible to inculcation. Or the other theory which states that the Moon does not exist, since it’s a hologram put there by someone unknown. And finally, the theory which assures us that lizard people, also known as ‘reptilians’ run the world. What the believers actually propose is that the top echelon of our government is actually controlled by shape-shifting reptilian aliens, who have been lording power over humans to turn them into mindless slaves for their own purposes. I can not deny the fact that hundreds of conspiracy theories look like the ravings of a madman, however, how can we be so sure that all of these bizarre guesses come from nowhere? How can we be so sure about something yet unknown? We have to set priorities for ourselves. This is all about our Lives, not anyone else’s. In today’s ruthless world you either live in lies and ignorance, or you leave your carefree life behind and go search for the Truth. Life is just a wink of an eye if one thinks of eternity. It’s fast and it’s short but it’s worth every single second since it can not be bought, it can not be changed nor can it be returned, ever. And in order to make your Life a worthwhile journey, be sure to rejoice in every single day as if it is the last one you have. Thank You for Your attention!

Genteel People and Honest Hearts in Jane Austens Emma...

Emma: Genteel People and Honest Hearts In Emma, Jane Austen gives us ‘only the surface of the lives of genteel people’? Though not necessarily a commonly used term today, the meaning of ‘genteel people’ is easily assumed. Good birth and breeding are not necessarily the only ‘qualities’ of genteel people: simple generosity, courtesy and elegance can also apply, as well as marriage into the class. The majority of the characters in Emma to some extent expand this definition to provide exceptions to the rule or abuses of the title. In this way the characters provide an interesting answer to the question of whether or not Austen actually deals with genteel people. Mrs and Miss Bates are genteel people and of†¦show more content†¦If she had been able to procure the necessary husband, there is no doubt that her gentility would have become permanent. As it was, she married for love and the ‘intimacy between her and Emma must sink,’ that is, she has lost her albeit precarious hold on gentility. Jane Fairfax is, at her introduction to the reader, in ready danger of slipping from the class that she deserves through both breeding and character. Jane’s orphaned status and increasing years mean that if she does not find a suitable husband in the near future, a governor’s position will soon be beckoning. Fortunately for her, the engagement to Frank Churchill has secured Jane’s position, as he has genteel breeding and was brought up in the Churchill household – a very prestigious claim. Jane’s position is almost the reverse of Mrs Weston nà ©e Taylor. The life of a governess was seemingly inescapable, save for the connection to Mr. Weston. Mr. Woodhouse’s cries for ‘poor Miss Taylor’ illustrate his social blindness when he cannot recognise the constant desire to further oneself. The notion of ‘manners maketh man’ can also be used to judge the gentility of the persons involved. That of Mr Knightley is proven at the ball when, despite his reservations about Harriet and dancing, he chooses to ‘rescue’ her from the humiliation of Mr Elton’s snub illustrating his good manners and gentleman’s heart. The appalling manners of

Annual Mayors Luncheon For The Arts - 2229 Words

Good afternoon Mayor Bowman, ladies and gentlemen, fellow artists, and arts supporters. It s a pleasure to be here with you this afternoon at the annual Mayors Luncheon for the Arts - chance for us to celebrate the accomplishments of the arts community over the past year, and while we have the mayors attention talk about the importance of arts and culture to the well-being of the community. In a city that s rich in ethnic diversity, has deep ties to it’s past and its roots, that embraces a wide range of artistic practice, and is looking for ways to support and nurture young and emerging artists in the community, who better to speak you today than me - a past-middle-aged white guy from Vancouver who s working in an art form which hasn t fundamentally changed in the last 2500 years. Mayor Bowman, You’ve had quite the first year. There are must be a lot of interests competing for your support, so we all appreciate that you’re here, and we appreciate your stance on funding the Winnipeg Arts Council; moving to raise funding levels up from $5 per capita to seven dollars per capita. It s a good start. And while it doesn’t get us close to the 19 dollars per capita of Toronto, or $42 in Calgary or 55 in Montreal, the 30 in Saskatoon or even the 47 in Vancouver, that city that I left, if you add another two dollars and 44 cents to that 7, we will be on par with that other Canadian city well known for it’s arts scene, Missassuaga. But, we are moving forward. †¦ I’m justShow MoreRelatedChristmas Trees in the Workplace and the First Amendment: An Overview of the Issue5305 Words   |  21 Pagesengender feelings of inadequacy, doubt, frustration, or even anger (Page, 2007). Again, it is often the intent- some might feel placing a poster that says Office Halloween Luncheon Bring Goodies, is offensive because it promotes witchcraft and the supernatural. Yet, again, we are in an era of seculariazation, and the luncheon means nothing more than perhaps some orange cookies and a candy feast.In almost every complaint noted, the employee asserts that en employer infringed on their rights by allowingRead MoreThe Government and Not-For-Profit Environment100975 Words   |  404 PagesDetermining whether or not the governmental entity has a balanced budget. b) Determining whether or not the governmental entity has the ability to issue debt. c) Determining whether or not certain economic events occurred. d) Determining the annual payments to a government-sponsored pension plan. 24. The basis of accounting selected by or imposed on a governmental entity can influence which of the following? a) A decision to contract-out a specific service rather than provide that serviceRead MoreProject Managment Case Studies214937 Words   |  860 Pagesmore interested in the cost than the average consumer, who viewed the faucet as an object of art, irrespective of price. Clark Faucet Company did not spend a great deal of money advertising on the radio or on television. Some money was allocated for ads in professional journals. Most of Clark s advertising and marketing funds were allocated to the two semiannual home and garden trade shows and the annual builders trade show. One large builder could purchase more than 5,000 components for the furnishingRead MoreProject Mgmt296381 Words   |  1186 Pagesand techniques 6.1 Define activities 9.1.2. Responsibility matrixes 10.1 Communication planning (.2.3.4) [App. G-4] Chapter 12 Outsourcing 12.1.1 Procurement requirements [G.8] 12.1.2.3 Contract types 9.4.2.3 Conflict management 12.2.7 The art of negotiating 12.2.3.5 Change requests Chapter 13 Monitoring Progress Chapter 5 Estimating Times and Costs 6.4 Activity duration estimates (.3) 6.4.2 Estimating tools (.1.3.4) 6.3.1 Identifying resources 7.1 Activity cost estimates (Read MoreDeveloping Management Skills404131 Words   |  1617 PagesLeale Senior Production Project Manager: Kelly Warsak Senior Operations Supervisor: Arnold Vila Operations Specialist: Ilene Kahn Senior Art Director: Janet Slowik Interior Design: Suzanne Duda and Michael Fruhbeis Permissions Project Manager: Shannon Barbe Manager, Cover Visual Research Permissions: Karen Sanatar Manager Central Design: Jayne Conte Cover Art: Getty Images, Inc. Cover Design: Suzanne Duda Lead Media Project Manager: Denise Vaughn Full-Service Project Management: Sharon Anderson/BookMasters

Social Media And Its Effect On Society - 1208 Words

SOCIAL MEDIA!!!! DIGITAL MARKETING!!! CONTENT MARKETING!!! Every business hears those terms being bandied about every day. They are made to feel less than and that their business will go under if they are not on the cutting edge of whatever is happening in digital. The reality is, there is some truth to it, but not in the way you think. Digital and Social Media are just tools. Yes tools, like a hammer Facebook Twitter Google+ Pinterest is a tool, like a drill is a tool, like a great knife is a tool to chef. Do you need to use the tools? Absolutely! Because someone else in your industry is already using them and is getting exposure to your potential (and possibly current) customers that way. Do you need to jump into every aspect of social media or digital marketing banging away at everything that might look like a nail with your Thor sized hammer and expecting the sales gods to bend to your will? No! Like your business needs a strategy, your social media efforts need a strategy. 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What Lies Behind the Battle of Jericho free essay sample

Historical evidence is presented showing that the Battle of Jericho is not just a biblical myth. This paper investigates the battle of Jericho to see what scientific evidence relates to the battle, how the battle affected the lives of the Israelites, the historical setting, and the theological and spiritual meaning of the battle both then and now. Evidence from recent years shows that Joshua and his army could have conquered this city just as it is told in the Bible. From the paper: The battle of Jericho, as told in Joshua 5:13 6:27, is a story that has captured the interest of biblical scholars, scientists, and even Sunday school classrooms with its mystery and intrigue. It is the story of how the weak were able to overtake the strong through a supernatural force, Yahweh, the Lord of Israel. There are many facets of this story that can be explored. We will look at the scientific evidence of the storys truth, as well as biblical and moral concepts that can be derived from it. We will write a custom essay sample on What Lies Behind the Battle of Jericho or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page We will also discuss the time period the Israelites were living in during the battle, and how the passage relates to events occurring at that time in the Bible.

The Dollarizing of Argentinas Economy free essay sample

An in-depth study of the use of the American Dollar currency to halt the hyperinflation in Argentina. This paper is an in-depth analysis of the dollarizing of Argentinas economy. It describes the affects of the Convertibility Plan aimed at ending the soaring inflation in the late 80s and reorganizing the national economy. The plan replaced the Argentine peso with the U.S. dollar in the hope of eliminating the peso-dollar exchange-rate risk, lowering interest rates and stimulating economic growth. The author gives a brief overview of the economy of Argentina and its history and describes the continuous protests and national strike since 1996. The paper also looks at the `social costs` of the economic success in Argentina. `The `dollarizing` of Argentinas economy was the product of the genius of Domingo Cavallo, finance minister of former President Carlos Saul Menem, under a Convertibility Plan aimed at putting the countrys chillingly soaring inflation in the late 80s to a sudden stop (Mark Falcoff) and then saving and re-ordering the economy as a whole. We will write a custom essay sample on The Dollarizing of Argentinas Economy or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page No more Argentinean money to be printed than there were dollars in circulation a radical measure, which worked. But it also created more trouble by raising prices above those of the United States and resulted in slow capital inflows and high unemployment rate (17% in 1997) and the consequent overthrow of President Menem after 10 years of rule. The Convertibility Plan replaced the Argentine peso with the US dollar in the hope of eliminating the peso-dollar exchange-rate risk, lowering interest rates and stimulating economic growth (Hanke Schuler 1999) The one-on-one rate (1 Argentine peso to US$1) induced currency stability and helped achieve free-market reforms and high growth, but this streak of genius `proved to be more a manipulation than miracle, because it came the price of selling off national industries, services and resources (Looksmart).` These resources included airlines, telephones, railroads, subways, roads, even the control of the petroleum industry. The Plan stabilized the currency all right, but eventually damaged export trade `by shoring up the peso` (Looksmart) `