European Committee on Radiation Risk - APPEAL! - Sentient sofas outsmart couch-potatoes - US Public Opinion: Bush has 54% NEGATIVE Rating - Civilian Casualties Continue Climbing in Iraq - Senior House Democrat Urges Top Defense Hands to Resign
European Committee on Radiation Risk
Comité Européen sur le Risque de l’Irradiation
-----------------------------------------------
Background: the ECRR
The European Committee on Radiation Risk was formed in 1997 following a resolution made at a conference in Strasbourg arranged by the Green Group in the European Parliament. The meeting was called specifically to discuss the details of the ‘Basic Safety Standards’ Directive on radiological protection (Council Directive 96/29/Euratom). This Directive, which had been adopted by the Council of Ministers in May 1996, contained a statutory framework for the recycling and reuse of radioactively contaminated wastes and materials so long as the concentrations of itemised radionuclides were below certain levels. The Greens were alarmed at the potential for radioactivity to be incorporated into consumer goods and attempted to amend the draft. The Council however almost completely disregarded the proposed amendments. The Greens were therefore further concerned about the lack of democratic control over such a seemingly important issue and wished for some scientific advice regarding the possible health effects of recycling man-made radioactivity. The feeling of the meeting was that there was considerable disagreement over the health effects of low-level radiation and that this issue should be explored on a formal level. To this end, the meeting voted to set up a new body which they named ‘The European Committee on Radiation Risk’.
The remit of this group was to investigate and ultimately report on the issue in a way that considered all the available scientific evidence. In particular, the Committee’s remit was to make no assumptions whatever about preceding science and to remain independent from the previous risk assessment committees such as the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP), the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR) and the European Commission or EU member State risk agencies.
Shortly after the ECRR was formalized the STOA unit of the European Parliament arranged (on the 5th Feb 1998) a workshop in Brussels to consider criticisms of the risk model underpinning the Basic Safety Standards Directive. At this meeting the eminent Canadian scientist Dr Rosalie Bertell argued that the ICRP, for historical reasons to do with the development of nuclear weapons and nuclear power during the cold war period, were biased in favour of the nuclear industry and that their conclusions and advice in the area of low-level radiation and health were insecure. Unfortunately, the STOA rapporteur, Professor Assimakopoulos, did not properly report Dr Bertell's presentation, which was wide ranging and extremely critical of the ICRP and its advice.
Responding to Dr. Bertell, Dr Valentin, the scientific secretary of ICRP, told the workshop that the ICRP was an independent body which gave advice on radiation safety, but that those who considered this advice unsafe or questionable were entirely free to consult any other group or organisation.
It was a widely held view, both at the STOA workshop and at the initial meeting of the ECRR, that enough evidence was available showing that low level exposure to man-made radioactive material caused ill health, and that the conventional models of the ICRP and other agencies which used the same radiation risk models entirely failed to predict these effects. Members of the European Parliament therefore took note of Dr. Valentin's suggestion and agreed to support the preparation of a new report by the ECRR which would provide an alternative analysis.
In 2001 various members of the European Parliament together with two charitable bodies supported the drafting of a report. Following consultation among the Scientific Committee this is now published (30 January 2003).
Professor Alice Stewart, the first scientist to establish the health effects of low doses of radiation, agreed to be the first Chair of the ECRR. The committee dedicates its first report - the 2003 Recommendations - to her memory.
The Chair of the Scientific Committee is Professor Inge Schmitz-Feuerhake. The Scientific Secretary is Dr. Chris Busby. A full list of people who were consulted and whose research and advice have so far contributed to the work of the Committee is included in the 2003 Recommendations.
There are two sub-committees: one on Depleted Uranium/ Uranium weapons and one on post-Chernobyl effects. Both should be contacted through the postal and email addresses given below.
A report on the effects of DU/U weapons is in preparation.
Publications
2003 Recommendations of the ECRR
The Health Effects of Ionising Radiation Exposure at Low Doses and Low Dose Rates for Radiation Protection Purposes: Regulators’ Edition
More information, Press announcement (29/1/'03) and Ordering (with note on availability)
New
Guidance Note No. 2003/1
Criteria for "Clearance": Controlling the Release of Solid Materials of Very Low Average Activity for Re-use, Recycling and Disposal. June 2003 More information
ECRR contacts
European Committee on Radiation Risk/Comité Européen sur le Risque de l’Irradiation,
Avenue de la Fauconnerie 73,
B-1170 Bruxelles,
BELGIUM
or email at
info@euradcom.org
http://www.euradcom.org
APPEAL!
-------
Dr. Chris Busby (expert witness in a law-suit against Motorola) has founded a team of experts (ECRR) and would like to expand it with the department Non-ionizing Radiation.
He stated: „We can only strengthen the independence of the institutions and must build our own (independent) committees!“
He asks all interested experts for approach through the web site:
http://www.euradcom.org
Message from KMNKnapp from a Whistleblower Conference on 7.September 2003 in Starnberg, Germany
--------
The Hum
-----------
Cheryl wrote: That reminds me, I've been meaning to call the cable company about all those funny lines on my screen! I doubt anyone will be there after 6pm. Cheryl.
I have, however, callout out electricians when my radio which was on standby began to emit strange sounds... even though it was not switched on. At the same time when I went to switch on my light a popping sound could clearly be heard coming out of the speakers. This happened when I went to switch a light on in the kitchen too. The outcome: The private electrician and the electricty board said I had no problem with my electrics. The electrician came out as it was happening and told me my radio was broken. Next day it was fine, and I've not had the problem since. Or the picture suddenly goes all snowy. It's not set by any means. But it's not all of the time either. Perhaps once or twice a week some weeks.
Obviously, you could have something disrupting your signal other than YOU! Perhaps you've got a short wave operator in your area?
I've thought this, and believe I know where some of the stuff is coming from as there were tiny pinholes in the aluminium ground sheets I had up at my sunhouse window. I would add that a firm of Electrical Engineers had been working at the place where I believe this came from at that time. As they have been in the empty house next door quite recently. Since which the problems have become more pronounced again. At that time I know there had been a large cavity left open in the bathroom floor where a lot of work was carried out over a period of months. That bathroom overlooks my sunhouse which is just below from where I have experienced a lot of problems. I had it built in 2000 to try and get away from what I thought were the effects of various pollution that had entered my home on a regular basis for years. It was after I built that the rf and em became apparent, and the problem has remained. The Englishman's home is no longer his castle... I can assure you.
When I sent in the link about 'The Hum' it was because it was given to me that day (Saturday) by an electronics specialist, after hearing of some of my problems. He came to my home to do tests but could find nothing, other than my electrics are in some way connected to others in the row. After he left I read the link and thought it may be of interest to member of the elfred list, and others who may be suffering from strange 'phenomena'.
If that same guy came out while the disruptions were active, he might be able to detect lots of information. True, but try getting someone out at the exact time of any problem! Please read about the electrician above, that came out when the problem was happening. They actually seem bemused and look quite serious by it, but it's as if nothing can be done.
It's not a hum that I hear but various levels of frequency sounds, that are not heard by others. For some time I have worn shielding and 'something' can be heard hitting against at various times of the day and night. It's a loud cracking sound against it. It has had very adverse affects on my health at times, including my hair falling out, vibration of my face when it is bad, red marks and inexplicable bruising on the inner part of my upper arms and legs, to mention but a few of the things.
Is this only when you're home?
Yes. My ex husband would verify the pollution which he suffered from too.
When this first began I mentioned the symptoms I had of burned face, electrical problems etc., with no knowledge of electronic weapons and em of which we are now beginning to read more about. And this I firmly believe is what I'm being subjected to.
You may very well be subjected to something awful! That's why I'm asking if it is outside the home also.
Well, I believe I am too. And it's killing me slowly and in a horrible way. It is outside the home too now as I mentioned in previous messages. I believe it is condoned murder. And that is what has happened to our country these past few years.
And I'm still trying to fathom exactly where it is coming from and what it is. I am leaning more and more to radio waves.
That may be what's happening at your location.
You've clearly given us all a lot to think about here.
I just hope and pray for a solution to this. To be able to live in my home in safe security instead of like a hunted animal that is prodded and poked whenever someone feels like having a go. To be able to go to sleep at nights knowing I will wake up the next morning. Thank you for your concern and your thoughts on this 'phenomena'.
Maureen
When this first began the frequency sounds were just in and around my home. Then I began to experience them when out in my car, and at other places where I regularly go. When I go on holiday for the first couple of days things are fine then the 'problem' kicks in.
Maureen
----- Original Message -----
From: "Cheryl Magill"
To: "ULF ELF Propagation"
Sent: Sunday, September 07, 2003 11:53 PM
Subject: Re: Elfrad-Group The Hum
Dear Maureen,
If you've got specific hours for the hum - that's great! These could be broadcasts occurring at repeating intervals. If you've already got a chronicle of the times and dates, you might find that a local ham radio operator could help you to determine what's cooking on the airwaves at
those times.
Secondly, if your hum was easily heard by others - then of course it's something you can record. You need to triangulate the sound to determine direction. That's three recorders and a clock to synchronize it all from places nearby. Perhaps a friend in a car a block or two away? Your friend may not hear the hum but the recording device might. Oh... and if the detectable noise eventually became permanently wedged between your ears, that's probably due to a sensitizing effect. You could call it an induced impairment.
Thirdly - electrical experts differ from acousticians. You may need someone trained to detect sound sources.
Fourth - some of us have a real knack for creating static. My - you're blessed in all kinds of ways!
I think you may have a problem that can be solved with regard to that location. Is the hum still with you in other places no matter where you go?
As ever,
Cheryl
At 11:16 PM 9/7/2003 +0100, you wrote:
I see, thank you. Perhaps you can tell me why this only happens at certain times. Say once or twice a week.
--------
Sentient sofas outsmart couch-potatoes
--------------------------------------
Hi Klaus: And "smart" couches are only the beginning of this business of smarting up offices, private (or what the naive still insist are "private") dwellings, and on it goes. The article by Juno McEnroe appears on page 9, in the Irish edition of today's (Sept.7)THE SUNDAY TIMES. As it's quite short I'll quote the entire below.
"COUCH POTATOES SURE TO GET STUCK ON 'SMART' SOFAS
More than 300,000 euros of taxpayers' money has been invested in developing an 'intelligent' sofa. Enterprise Ireland, which is examining smart furniture, is sponsoring scientists at Trinity College Dublin and at University College Cork to develop a prototype.
Scientists led by Mads Haahr have developed a sofa equipped with electronic sensors that could ultimately identify its occupant and all his tastes and whims. The sensors detect and store the movement and weight of the occupant while a voice reaction system will allow it to 'converse.' The sensors are linked to television screens and stereo systems, which could mean that the occupant's favourite television programme or CD track will be played as soon as they [sic!] flop into the sofa. Couch potatoes could order their favourite food and select television shows or music tracks without having to move from their seat.
More importantly, the sofa could eventually link up the homes of the elderly or the disabled with medical centres or police stations. Simon Dobson, a TCD [Trinity College Dublin] scientist, said:'In the long term, we want to use smart furniture in health care, to support applications for the disabled and also people who have Alzheimer's. Twenty-four-hour care can be expensive but now you'll be able to wire up certain parts of the home to help these people.'
It will also have a business application. The National Microelectronic Research Centre in Cork is working with Trinity College. Cian O'Mathuna, a research assistant at the centre, said: 'We're looking at intelligent office spaces where computers and phones will start up by recognising your weight on a seat. The project has been in progress since 2001. About 15 people are working to produce a demonstration model by the end of the year. Philips and Xerox are among companies that have expressed interest.
Carol Gibbons, of Enterprise Ireland, said it is conducting a feasibility study on the demand for smart furniture. 'The potential for the future is that when you have a meeting in an office, there's a record of previous conversations and the voices are known through the sensors. Immediately, the relevant documents will appear on the computer and your personal phone would be diverted. This would be a 'smart desk.'
The Trinity College design team is also working on smart sports equipment." And it's accompanied with a real-cool photo of TCD scientist Mads Haahr lounging on "his talking sofa."
The thought struck me while reading the article what a great piece of science fiction it might make to create a character or two--academic middleaged types would be best--who have been covertly enbedded with echips (earlope vicinity might be easiest for this furtive kind of criminal thing) in the interests of scientific research so that all kinds of "smart" things can be tested on them unknowingly while they move about on various campuses. There may even be a kind of a pooling or swapping of info among scientific research facilities on who has been implanted in this way. And all the time these poor--although highly intelligent and well-educated--human lab-rats think it is they who have developed these extraordinary abilities to get computers to turn on and off at whim, intuit others thinking, and do many of the "smart" things mentioned in the article above! Some one on your list might love to get going with that idea. Would need to be soon because science fiction tends to become reality quite often!
To finish with a comment on all this cutting-edge smarting-up of the potato couch's inaminate world. The response I gave a few weeks ago on hearing about the newfangled Jeeves style "smart" cellphone that is programmed to intuit one's every need and indeed relieve one of the boredom of having to do one's own thinking is equally apt here.
Here it is: The only innovative feature about that consumer electronics proposition ("Letting your mobile do your thinking") is the idea in itself which would of course net significant amounts of lucre for the innovators. But it's a regressive action for consumers because it presumes that they are so habit driven, so fossilized in life-styles that they are incapable of introducing creative changes into their lives. In other words consumers are viewed by these bright creative sparks in the electronics industry as no more than rutted, robotic bipeds who plod along a predetermined life-track that even a programmed mobile phone can manipulate!
It reminds me of Bill Gates "bright" idea as presented in some journal or other I read some years back. In the article he focused on how technologically futuristic the interior of his new mansion would be. But in my view it was really going to effect regressiveness or at least stagnation rather than anything else because music and visual masterpieces pre-programmed to reflect the current choices of occupants which would come on automatically as they entered a given room in his new home omitted the essential nature of human development and man's need for creative forays into entirely new arts experiences.
Best, Imelda, Cork, Ireland.
--------
US Public Opinion: Bush has 54% NEGATIVE Rating
http://www.veteransforcommonsense.org/newsArticle.asp?id=1072
Civilian Casualties Continue Climbing in Iraq
http://www.veteransforcommonsense.org/newsArticle.asp?id=1074
Senior House Democrat Urges Top Defense Hands to Resign
http://www.veteransforcommonsense.org/newsArticle.asp?id=1075
Comité Européen sur le Risque de l’Irradiation
-----------------------------------------------
Background: the ECRR
The European Committee on Radiation Risk was formed in 1997 following a resolution made at a conference in Strasbourg arranged by the Green Group in the European Parliament. The meeting was called specifically to discuss the details of the ‘Basic Safety Standards’ Directive on radiological protection (Council Directive 96/29/Euratom). This Directive, which had been adopted by the Council of Ministers in May 1996, contained a statutory framework for the recycling and reuse of radioactively contaminated wastes and materials so long as the concentrations of itemised radionuclides were below certain levels. The Greens were alarmed at the potential for radioactivity to be incorporated into consumer goods and attempted to amend the draft. The Council however almost completely disregarded the proposed amendments. The Greens were therefore further concerned about the lack of democratic control over such a seemingly important issue and wished for some scientific advice regarding the possible health effects of recycling man-made radioactivity. The feeling of the meeting was that there was considerable disagreement over the health effects of low-level radiation and that this issue should be explored on a formal level. To this end, the meeting voted to set up a new body which they named ‘The European Committee on Radiation Risk’.
The remit of this group was to investigate and ultimately report on the issue in a way that considered all the available scientific evidence. In particular, the Committee’s remit was to make no assumptions whatever about preceding science and to remain independent from the previous risk assessment committees such as the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP), the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR) and the European Commission or EU member State risk agencies.
Shortly after the ECRR was formalized the STOA unit of the European Parliament arranged (on the 5th Feb 1998) a workshop in Brussels to consider criticisms of the risk model underpinning the Basic Safety Standards Directive. At this meeting the eminent Canadian scientist Dr Rosalie Bertell argued that the ICRP, for historical reasons to do with the development of nuclear weapons and nuclear power during the cold war period, were biased in favour of the nuclear industry and that their conclusions and advice in the area of low-level radiation and health were insecure. Unfortunately, the STOA rapporteur, Professor Assimakopoulos, did not properly report Dr Bertell's presentation, which was wide ranging and extremely critical of the ICRP and its advice.
Responding to Dr. Bertell, Dr Valentin, the scientific secretary of ICRP, told the workshop that the ICRP was an independent body which gave advice on radiation safety, but that those who considered this advice unsafe or questionable were entirely free to consult any other group or organisation.
It was a widely held view, both at the STOA workshop and at the initial meeting of the ECRR, that enough evidence was available showing that low level exposure to man-made radioactive material caused ill health, and that the conventional models of the ICRP and other agencies which used the same radiation risk models entirely failed to predict these effects. Members of the European Parliament therefore took note of Dr. Valentin's suggestion and agreed to support the preparation of a new report by the ECRR which would provide an alternative analysis.
In 2001 various members of the European Parliament together with two charitable bodies supported the drafting of a report. Following consultation among the Scientific Committee this is now published (30 January 2003).
Professor Alice Stewart, the first scientist to establish the health effects of low doses of radiation, agreed to be the first Chair of the ECRR. The committee dedicates its first report - the 2003 Recommendations - to her memory.
The Chair of the Scientific Committee is Professor Inge Schmitz-Feuerhake. The Scientific Secretary is Dr. Chris Busby. A full list of people who were consulted and whose research and advice have so far contributed to the work of the Committee is included in the 2003 Recommendations.
There are two sub-committees: one on Depleted Uranium/ Uranium weapons and one on post-Chernobyl effects. Both should be contacted through the postal and email addresses given below.
A report on the effects of DU/U weapons is in preparation.
Publications
2003 Recommendations of the ECRR
The Health Effects of Ionising Radiation Exposure at Low Doses and Low Dose Rates for Radiation Protection Purposes: Regulators’ Edition
More information, Press announcement (29/1/'03) and Ordering (with note on availability)
New
Guidance Note No. 2003/1
Criteria for "Clearance": Controlling the Release of Solid Materials of Very Low Average Activity for Re-use, Recycling and Disposal. June 2003 More information
ECRR contacts
European Committee on Radiation Risk/Comité Européen sur le Risque de l’Irradiation,
Avenue de la Fauconnerie 73,
B-1170 Bruxelles,
BELGIUM
or email at
info@euradcom.org http://www.euradcom.org APPEAL!
-------
Dr. Chris Busby (expert witness in a law-suit against Motorola) has founded a team of experts (ECRR) and would like to expand it with the department Non-ionizing Radiation.
He stated: „We can only strengthen the independence of the institutions and must build our own (independent) committees!“
He asks all interested experts for approach through the web site:
http://www.euradcom.org Message from KMNKnapp from a Whistleblower Conference on 7.September 2003 in Starnberg, Germany
--------
The Hum
-----------
Cheryl wrote: That reminds me, I've been meaning to call the cable company about all those funny lines on my screen! I doubt anyone will be there after 6pm. Cheryl.
I have, however, callout out electricians when my radio which was on standby began to emit strange sounds... even though it was not switched on. At the same time when I went to switch on my light a popping sound could clearly be heard coming out of the speakers. This happened when I went to switch a light on in the kitchen too. The outcome: The private electrician and the electricty board said I had no problem with my electrics. The electrician came out as it was happening and told me my radio was broken. Next day it was fine, and I've not had the problem since. Or the picture suddenly goes all snowy. It's not set by any means. But it's not all of the time either. Perhaps once or twice a week some weeks.
Obviously, you could have something disrupting your signal other than YOU! Perhaps you've got a short wave operator in your area?
I've thought this, and believe I know where some of the stuff is coming from as there were tiny pinholes in the aluminium ground sheets I had up at my sunhouse window. I would add that a firm of Electrical Engineers had been working at the place where I believe this came from at that time. As they have been in the empty house next door quite recently. Since which the problems have become more pronounced again. At that time I know there had been a large cavity left open in the bathroom floor where a lot of work was carried out over a period of months. That bathroom overlooks my sunhouse which is just below from where I have experienced a lot of problems. I had it built in 2000 to try and get away from what I thought were the effects of various pollution that had entered my home on a regular basis for years. It was after I built that the rf and em became apparent, and the problem has remained. The Englishman's home is no longer his castle... I can assure you.
When I sent in the link about 'The Hum' it was because it was given to me that day (Saturday) by an electronics specialist, after hearing of some of my problems. He came to my home to do tests but could find nothing, other than my electrics are in some way connected to others in the row. After he left I read the link and thought it may be of interest to member of the elfred list, and others who may be suffering from strange 'phenomena'.
If that same guy came out while the disruptions were active, he might be able to detect lots of information. True, but try getting someone out at the exact time of any problem! Please read about the electrician above, that came out when the problem was happening. They actually seem bemused and look quite serious by it, but it's as if nothing can be done.
It's not a hum that I hear but various levels of frequency sounds, that are not heard by others. For some time I have worn shielding and 'something' can be heard hitting against at various times of the day and night. It's a loud cracking sound against it. It has had very adverse affects on my health at times, including my hair falling out, vibration of my face when it is bad, red marks and inexplicable bruising on the inner part of my upper arms and legs, to mention but a few of the things.
Is this only when you're home?
Yes. My ex husband would verify the pollution which he suffered from too.
When this first began I mentioned the symptoms I had of burned face, electrical problems etc., with no knowledge of electronic weapons and em of which we are now beginning to read more about. And this I firmly believe is what I'm being subjected to.
You may very well be subjected to something awful! That's why I'm asking if it is outside the home also.
Well, I believe I am too. And it's killing me slowly and in a horrible way. It is outside the home too now as I mentioned in previous messages. I believe it is condoned murder. And that is what has happened to our country these past few years.
And I'm still trying to fathom exactly where it is coming from and what it is. I am leaning more and more to radio waves.
That may be what's happening at your location.
You've clearly given us all a lot to think about here.
I just hope and pray for a solution to this. To be able to live in my home in safe security instead of like a hunted animal that is prodded and poked whenever someone feels like having a go. To be able to go to sleep at nights knowing I will wake up the next morning. Thank you for your concern and your thoughts on this 'phenomena'.
Maureen
When this first began the frequency sounds were just in and around my home. Then I began to experience them when out in my car, and at other places where I regularly go. When I go on holiday for the first couple of days things are fine then the 'problem' kicks in.
Maureen
----- Original Message -----
From: "Cheryl Magill"
To: "ULF ELF Propagation"
Sent: Sunday, September 07, 2003 11:53 PM
Subject: Re: Elfrad-Group The Hum
Dear Maureen,
If you've got specific hours for the hum - that's great! These could be broadcasts occurring at repeating intervals. If you've already got a chronicle of the times and dates, you might find that a local ham radio operator could help you to determine what's cooking on the airwaves at
those times.
Secondly, if your hum was easily heard by others - then of course it's something you can record. You need to triangulate the sound to determine direction. That's three recorders and a clock to synchronize it all from places nearby. Perhaps a friend in a car a block or two away? Your friend may not hear the hum but the recording device might. Oh... and if the detectable noise eventually became permanently wedged between your ears, that's probably due to a sensitizing effect. You could call it an induced impairment.
Thirdly - electrical experts differ from acousticians. You may need someone trained to detect sound sources.
Fourth - some of us have a real knack for creating static. My - you're blessed in all kinds of ways!
I think you may have a problem that can be solved with regard to that location. Is the hum still with you in other places no matter where you go?
As ever,
Cheryl
At 11:16 PM 9/7/2003 +0100, you wrote:
I see, thank you. Perhaps you can tell me why this only happens at certain times. Say once or twice a week.
--------
Sentient sofas outsmart couch-potatoes
--------------------------------------
Hi Klaus: And "smart" couches are only the beginning of this business of smarting up offices, private (or what the naive still insist are "private") dwellings, and on it goes. The article by Juno McEnroe appears on page 9, in the Irish edition of today's (Sept.7)THE SUNDAY TIMES. As it's quite short I'll quote the entire below.
"COUCH POTATOES SURE TO GET STUCK ON 'SMART' SOFAS
More than 300,000 euros of taxpayers' money has been invested in developing an 'intelligent' sofa. Enterprise Ireland, which is examining smart furniture, is sponsoring scientists at Trinity College Dublin and at University College Cork to develop a prototype.
Scientists led by Mads Haahr have developed a sofa equipped with electronic sensors that could ultimately identify its occupant and all his tastes and whims. The sensors detect and store the movement and weight of the occupant while a voice reaction system will allow it to 'converse.' The sensors are linked to television screens and stereo systems, which could mean that the occupant's favourite television programme or CD track will be played as soon as they [sic!] flop into the sofa. Couch potatoes could order their favourite food and select television shows or music tracks without having to move from their seat.
More importantly, the sofa could eventually link up the homes of the elderly or the disabled with medical centres or police stations. Simon Dobson, a TCD [Trinity College Dublin] scientist, said:'In the long term, we want to use smart furniture in health care, to support applications for the disabled and also people who have Alzheimer's. Twenty-four-hour care can be expensive but now you'll be able to wire up certain parts of the home to help these people.'
It will also have a business application. The National Microelectronic Research Centre in Cork is working with Trinity College. Cian O'Mathuna, a research assistant at the centre, said: 'We're looking at intelligent office spaces where computers and phones will start up by recognising your weight on a seat. The project has been in progress since 2001. About 15 people are working to produce a demonstration model by the end of the year. Philips and Xerox are among companies that have expressed interest.
Carol Gibbons, of Enterprise Ireland, said it is conducting a feasibility study on the demand for smart furniture. 'The potential for the future is that when you have a meeting in an office, there's a record of previous conversations and the voices are known through the sensors. Immediately, the relevant documents will appear on the computer and your personal phone would be diverted. This would be a 'smart desk.'
The Trinity College design team is also working on smart sports equipment." And it's accompanied with a real-cool photo of TCD scientist Mads Haahr lounging on "his talking sofa."
The thought struck me while reading the article what a great piece of science fiction it might make to create a character or two--academic middleaged types would be best--who have been covertly enbedded with echips (earlope vicinity might be easiest for this furtive kind of criminal thing) in the interests of scientific research so that all kinds of "smart" things can be tested on them unknowingly while they move about on various campuses. There may even be a kind of a pooling or swapping of info among scientific research facilities on who has been implanted in this way. And all the time these poor--although highly intelligent and well-educated--human lab-rats think it is they who have developed these extraordinary abilities to get computers to turn on and off at whim, intuit others thinking, and do many of the "smart" things mentioned in the article above! Some one on your list might love to get going with that idea. Would need to be soon because science fiction tends to become reality quite often!
To finish with a comment on all this cutting-edge smarting-up of the potato couch's inaminate world. The response I gave a few weeks ago on hearing about the newfangled Jeeves style "smart" cellphone that is programmed to intuit one's every need and indeed relieve one of the boredom of having to do one's own thinking is equally apt here.
Here it is: The only innovative feature about that consumer electronics proposition ("Letting your mobile do your thinking") is the idea in itself which would of course net significant amounts of lucre for the innovators. But it's a regressive action for consumers because it presumes that they are so habit driven, so fossilized in life-styles that they are incapable of introducing creative changes into their lives. In other words consumers are viewed by these bright creative sparks in the electronics industry as no more than rutted, robotic bipeds who plod along a predetermined life-track that even a programmed mobile phone can manipulate!
It reminds me of Bill Gates "bright" idea as presented in some journal or other I read some years back. In the article he focused on how technologically futuristic the interior of his new mansion would be. But in my view it was really going to effect regressiveness or at least stagnation rather than anything else because music and visual masterpieces pre-programmed to reflect the current choices of occupants which would come on automatically as they entered a given room in his new home omitted the essential nature of human development and man's need for creative forays into entirely new arts experiences.
Best, Imelda, Cork, Ireland.
--------
US Public Opinion: Bush has 54% NEGATIVE Rating
http://www.veteransforcommonsense.org/newsArticle.asp?id=1072 Civilian Casualties Continue Climbing in Iraq
http://www.veteransforcommonsense.org/newsArticle.asp?id=1074 Senior House Democrat Urges Top Defense Hands to Resign
http://www.veteransforcommonsense.org/newsArticle.asp?id=1075 
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