Naked Science Forum

On the Lighter Side => New Theories => Topic started by: Expectant_Philosopher on 29/08/2014 23:02:27

Title: Is there an affinity by geographic latitude for scientific discovery?
Post by: Expectant_Philosopher on 29/08/2014 23:02:27

Is all scientific discovery confined to a certain range of latitude?  Is there a natural quality associated with location other than geopolitics or social influences that encourages discovery? 

Title: Re: Is there an affinity by geographic latitude for scientific discovery?
Post by: alancalverd on 30/08/2014 17:34:51

Necessity is the mother of invention. As homo sapiens moved northwards he had to find ways of storing seasonal foods, tracking or domesticating migratory animals, and so forth. Having done so, and in so doing increased occupational specialisation and invented trade, the scene was set for urbanisation. But humans living in close proximity need additional technology to prevent the spread of disease, hence civil engineering and brewing, whilst conflict between starving groups led to developments in weaponry.....and here we are.

Ugandan friends visiting London some years back simply said "We never needed to do this. We don't get cold, and there's food on the trees all year round."