There is a particular failing in most of us. Often, it is a deep-seated
need or desire to present only the celebrated and successful side of our
character. We project our best qualities. We show off our finest
attributes. We engage in duplicity. Sometimes we lie.
Perhaps we do it because we know it is easy to hide our real character
behind some stereotypical image of “self”. A concept of fitting in,
being accepted or being appreciated. Some people just don’t like to
shake the tree!
Of course there are accounts of Humans who buck such a trend but, I
recall with fascination, that such individuals have done so at a cost of
not being appreciated or fully recognised … until way after their own
deaths.
Socrates was a supreme example of bravely swimming against the tide.
Possibly the most poignant and original one. (It cost him his life).
Even Newton faced a similar dilemma. Despite giving us the Principia and
laying the foundations for our modern world of science, he only revealed
the essence of his subversive, taboo fascination with alchemy near the
end of his life. I am no historian but I have always believed the
release of Darwins work was delayed for a similar reason.
All of them were aware that their discoveries or thoughts might upset
the status quo.
Human Beings, as a collective herd, don’t appreciate having their
stable, acceptable view of the world being turned on its axis by some
bright new mind. They will bolt like startled deer rather than
acknowledge some new way … unless they first witness others of their
kind bravely risking a drink at some newly discovered intellectual
watering hole.
And it’s the same at all levels, even at the basic social level of
Humanity.
Much is said about the adventurous spirit of the Human race but such
sentiment is wrongly attributed. The brave individuals who make a
profound, global difference in our lives are rare indeed … and do so
at the peril and indifference of their peers.
Who is your hero of history? Which single, LONE Human being do you
regard as the bravest, the most radical or the most influencial
inspiration on your own life?
I’m asking about philosophical, scientific or political figures. I am
thinking of inventors, writers, musicians or artists. I am asking you to
consider anyone OTHER THAN a religious character. (If people wish to
discuss religious heroes, perhaps they would be kind enough to put up
their own posting).
Bang on TBC!
The word for Leonardo is “Renaissance Man”. A man who could create,
write, paint, invent … and put his mind, talents and great intellect
into just about anything.
And again, I agree with you. Newton …
Before Newton, the world was deduced and examined with “signs from God”
or a crystal ball.
After Newton, humanity was able to explore the universe in an
analytical, scientific fashion.
Of course he can’t take all the credit … and he didn’t. He himself
admitted he did it “On the back of giants!” (Other great minds that had
come before him).
OTB
Good point!
We have all heard of GOODYEAR, the global rubber / tyre company but poor
Charles Goodyear’s invention of the process of vulcanizing rubber,
earned him neither fame nor fortune.
Whittle transformed our world by inventing the jet engine but … had
the rights to the thing taken from him by England and the USA …in the
interest of national defence. (A government has the right to claim a
patent from an inventor in the case of national security).
History is littered with other examples.
Mind you, a few get raised to iconic status. Diesel, Biro …
That’s pretty cool!
Q2. Manned Exploratory Journey To Mars
Will Man / Woman Cope Emotionally?
1 2 Last
» OTB 21-Sep-2006 18:33 · ReplyManned mission to mars
Political and financial constraints aside, we are still at least 20
years away from executing our next big human adventure. A manned
exploratory journey to Mars.
Technologically, we WILL eventually achieve the objective but … I am
fascinated by the emotional and psychological challenges that astronauts
will inevitably face.
Unless the much talked about plasma drive engine materialises, a Martion
expedition will be a TWO year, 70 million mile round trip (Excluding the
2 months they will have to stay on the surface).
Chances are though, the 4, 5, or more astronauts will have to use a
direct minimum energy orbit as a means of propulsion and spend at least
12 months incarcerated in a vessel little bigger than a touring caravan
before eventually arriving at the red planet.
Obviously, the logistics of the venture are profound but … could you
seriously imagine what inhuman strain such an environment would place on
the minds of those imprisoned pioneers? (I recall reading somewhere that
UK astronaut Michael Foulds suggested taking his wife as one way of
guaranteeing his own emotional stability if faced with a request to lead
a team).
In the past, I have invited visiting friends to stay “as long as they
need” and for a week or two, the novelty and friendship reigned. After
that, even with the finest of intensions, little things were capable of
being turned into bigger things!
What’s that saying? “Familiarity breeds contempt!”
If we are lucky, any hospitality we give is appreciated and we
eventually say “good luck”, give our friend a hug and wave goodbye at
the door, planning to meet up again in the future.
As far as I am aware, leaving a Mars bound vessel (now a million or two
miles from Earth), well, that’s not a good time to step out into the icy
environs of space. It’s certainly not a good place to be if you have
developed serious issues with others onboard. Truth is, I doubt any form
of psychological test can prepare anyone for such a journey.
Incidently, if you read accounts about many of the astronauts who placed
a foot on the Moon, you will share my fascination. They were only “off
Planet” for a few weeks yet most of them have rarely come back the same
character or personality. Hell, can’t blame them though!
May I ask your views on the subject?
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