Modern Architecture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Modern Architecture - Essay Example One of the latest styles of architecture that emerged in the 20th century is Modern architecture. Modern architecture can be best described as a style which believes that "Less is more". The major proponent of this style is Ludwig Mies van der Rohe which thought of the "Less is more" theme for modern architecture. Modern architecture is known for its rejection of the classical styles (historicism) and believes that the materials and functions of the objects used in the structure is the end all and be all of the structure. It also firmly applies the principle of industrial aesthetic and the concept of functionality over being ornamental. Unnecessary details are removed and all design aspects are streamlined ("Modern Architecture", 006a). "Less is more" emphasises that every part of the structure must have a purpose other than being ornate and that every part must compliment each other in terms of function. In modern architectural design, the overall from and aesthetic value of a structure is determined by its function and the materials it is made from. This should be done without reverting to classical design concepts. A structure, commonly a building is envisioned as a wide governing space that rests on delicate foundations and surrounded by walls and ceilings complementing the foundations rather than a chunk of rock and other materials. Modern architectural design is mostly based on industrial concepts and by modern art styles such as abstract and impressionism. Le Corbusier's book entitled Vers une architecture (1923, tr. 1927) is a very good source of inspiration for modern architectural styles as well as the writings of Dutch architect J. J. P. Oud and German architect Walter Gropius, who handled the design of the Bauhaus in Dessau. Other early proponents of the modern movement include: German architects such as Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Marcel Breuer, Ernst May along with Americ an architects Raymond Hood, Albert Kahn, Richard J. Neutra, William Lescaze, and George Howe ("Form and Materials." 2006).Modern architectural style is also known as 'International style', 'Neue Sachlichkeit', and 'functionalism' and has been around after the end of World War II. Modern architecture relies on modern materials, the principles of functionality and the rejection of historicism and everything that is purely ornamental ("Modern architecture." 2006b). early forms of modern architecture were seen in the 1900's, but modern architecture was not formalised yet. Those times saw the advent of simplified and functional structures that eventually became the signature of modern architecture. By the 1940's the characteristics of this style were identified and given the name 'International Style' which became the trend for most building styles in the twentieth century. Some historians think that modern architecture is a response of the society to 'Modernity' and further in to the so -called 'Enlightenment'. They view it as a result of all the social and political turmoil that happened during that period. Critics and architectural experts however view modern architecture as the natural path of architecture fuelled by the latest advancements in structural technology and development in engineering. Also the availability of modern materials such as Plexiglas, metal alloys concrete etc. drove

The Role of the Media in the Childhood Obesity Research Paper

The Role of the Media in the Childhood Obesity - Research Paper Example Obesity has now become a worldwide issue due to its increasing rise and the risks that it poses. It is a very common condition in the United States with two third of the population of United States suffering either from obesity or increased weight and approximately one-third of the population being obese according to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (Weight Control and Information Network 2010). In the UK, the Health Survey for England in the year 2008 presented that 24.5% people above the age of 15 were suffering from obesity. The same survey showed that the rate of obesity between the ages of 2 and 10 years was 13.9% (Department of Health 2009). It has been estimated in the United States of America that the rate of obesity in children has increased more than thrice in the past three decades (Laing 2010). Obesity in America is a growing epidemic. Childhood obesity in America has become such an important issue that it has been addressed by the first family in effo rts to combat obesity in America. With rising attention from important figures, it is the media’s turn now to draw the line and aid the youth in America by promoting healthy lifestyle choices and a clear representation of healthy people. Obesity carries with it a potential risk for the development of other disease states. It can lead to cardiovascular diseases which include hypertension, coronary heart diseases, and stroke. It increases the risk of certain cancers which include breast, colon and prostate cancers. It can lead to insulin resistance within the cells hence leading to diabetes mellitus. And it also affects the musculoskeletal system of a person by increasing the risk of osteoarthritis due to the increased weight burden on the joints. The respiratory system can also be affected with a person having difficulty in breathing while sleeping. An obese individual is also prone to develop metabolic syndrome.