Quote:
Originally Posted by Slawomir
I was not aware that bicycle cannot be explained - sounds like an interesting topic for a research, thank you.
Well, in the end, as far as I am aware, we still do not know what an atom looks like, what is light and why/how gravity works. Meanwhile mental problems are on the rise too; so much for our understanding of human psyche. To some degree, progress has been hindered by standardised education where curious young minds are programmed to memorise and accept information without any real and meaningful questioning. Anyway, by five cents worth of waffle.
|
It was long thought that a bicycle gained its stability because of the gyroscopic effect, but helicopter characteristics discovered in the 1970s proved that theory to be an inaccurate explanation of bicycle stability. the "Castor Effect" was another theory that was popular but that was dismissed as well (by science). These theories, to be fair are incomplete theories in that they can explain bicycle stability but at different speeds. The latest theory I believe was tested at Delft University, with a specially designed bike which did not require the gyroscopic or Castor effect to work, and it still managed to move in a stable fashion. What the Delft bicycle revealed was that for it to be stable, it needed to be unstable, especially the steering. (the researchers dont know why this is the case)
I can sympathise with your comments on education. It is as if, the education system's main function is to bash out the natural curiosity and creativity of a young child or student. in order to push out automatons suited for the corporate world. Obedient and functional.
Its reflected in the type of fundamental research carried out in Universities and institutions. The research appears to be market driven, short term projects that can potentially generate profits, military research etc.
There doesnt seem to be any BIG idea challenges being tackled. Its reflected in some of the recent Nobel prize winners. A Nobel prize given for the invention of a blue LED (great as it is) just doesnt compare with those won by Dirac, Planck, Watson and Crieck, Shroedinger, Heisenberg, Pauling etc. Pioneers in fundamental research and profound ideas.
its sad to see medical research being driven by market forces and copyright etc. Money being poured into medical areas such as plastic surgery, rather than a disease which may effect a third world country (for example) - just no return for investors and bankers. Where are all the plans for space exploration?
Science still cant fully explain why humans require sleep - Oh Well back to the grind.............