Monday Computer Models

I think it is really cool that scientists are using computer models and simulations to learn more about cell part functions. I do not remember learning about integrins in science class, but if most scientists do not understand how they work, that is not really surprising. I doubt teachers like to teach things they do not understand. I am not a teacher though. I think the vast majority of researchers out there are doing some impressive things and most of the world will not ever know about their work. However, there are vast amounts of people out there doing other kinds of important work that no one will ever know about. I think the anonymous nature of humanity is rather unfortunate. We cannot know everyone and yet everyone is worth knowing in some capacity. Part of my problem with philosophical arguments about what we can know and how we can know is that I believe reality needs to include all the other people. I do not think we should argue that our realities only are made up of what we know when I don't believe that is true. I may be confusing things at the moment, but it is a Monday morning. I would so much rather be in bed or doing nothing. However, neither would I want to miss today's classes on Christology, the Future tense of Spanish, and translating part of the book of Esther from Hebrew. So off to school I go...

What is your favorite scientific computer model?

Computer Competition!

http://cancerincytes.scienceblog.com/2013/03/09/using-computers-to-prevent-human-rights-violations/

For someone who is dating an international conflict stats graduate student and best friends with a computer programmer, this article seemed very intriguing. It seems it is more of an announcement of a competition. The competition is giving prizes for computer models and other things working to prevent mass genocide, rape, cleansing, and so forth. The mission is a very laudable one and we can hope that humanity can one day move away from ever wanting to try such things on each other. As a strong Christian, I believe that we should all work to love and be loyal to each other. In the terms of science, if we are all interconnected, then killing or hurting large populations will change you. Not really any way around that. And truly, what would your mother say?

The site of the challenge is here: http://thetechchallenge.org/

Musical Progressions

http://thinkingintermsof.scienceblog.com/2013/03/08/the-science-of-music-and-algorithms/

This article is really cool. I remember learning 'rules' of music composition in my eighth grade special music class. I cannot help but think of some of Isaac Asimov's stories when things like this come up. Some of his stories dealt with how humans would respond to the changes in ourselves with technology. Who knows what the future will bring.

We, those previously at headquarters, had a wonderful reunion today to celebrate the launching of a career of one of our members. It was awesome.

Programming Ancient Languages

For part of my Lenten practice, I am going to be reading and reflecting on a science article each day. Hopefully they will all end up here. Today is Ash Wednesday and the first day of Lent. Today's article was:
Computerized 'Rosetta Stone' Reconstructs Ancient Languages

The article is pretty cool for someone who loves languages. In Ancient Hebrew class we sometimes talk about Ugaric and the way that Ugaric studies have helped understand some of the rare ancient Hebrew words in the Torah that were previously unknown. In liturgics we did talk about how in serious religious situations, people usually go back to the older, more archaic language/vocabulary to express time honored emotions. Not only are our abilities to program a computer to find aspects and sound connections impressive, but the idea that ancient languages are based on patterns which we still use today is kind of impressive. Human brains obviously have some traits that do follow through despite generations upon generations of small changes.
This is the kind of thing I would do more if I had more time in my life, study ancient languages. Along with study ancient mathematics. The article has an exception for Latin, which I am surprised about. What patterns does Latin not follow?
Humans create their own meanings and understandings through their symbols, and language is the principle vehicle for sharing those. Emotions, patterns, and music may be better vehicles, but language is probably the most used. And to think we are always surprised when what we find written are normal things about business and politics and religion. We have our patterns. If only we could change those patterns to reflect the joy and love we feel instead of the pain and hurt.
I wonder if they have or will send something like Ancient Hebrew through such a program. I wonder if we have missed stuff in our nuanced skilled language reconstructions. Just in taking Hebrew class, I have learned new things about the Torah which could change the way most Christians view the bible and their theology. Just because we like our worldview, doesn't mean its the best.