Can ancient calendars be considered engineering or physics inventions?

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    Engineering Physics
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on whether ancient calendars can be classified as inventions of engineering or physics, considering their role in measuring and counting time. Participants explore the implications of this classification from various perspectives, including historical and theological contexts.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions if ancient calendars should be labeled as engineering or physics inventions, suggesting that both disciplines are involved in their development.
  • Another participant proposes that calendars may have originated from theological needs, emphasizing their role in agricultural planning and societal wisdom.
  • A different participant expresses agreement with the idea that both physics and engineering are necessary for the creation of calendars, highlighting the interplay between understanding and building.
  • One participant challenges the need for categorization, asking why it is important to label ancient calendars in this way.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the classification of ancient calendars, with some advocating for a dual perspective of engineering and physics, while others suggest a theological origin. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing views present.

Contextual Notes

Participants do not fully explore the definitions of engineering and physics in this context, nor do they clarify the assumptions underlying their arguments. The discussion lacks a consensus on the classification of ancient calendars.

kaleidoscope
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I was wondering if the early calendars developed by mankind can be considered engineering or physics inventions, as they were developed to count or measure time. Any opinions about this?
 
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Both?
You need physics to know what you want to build, and engineering to build it.
 
I think that they were probably a theological invention, if in a primitive society you could foretell the time to plant crops, the changing cycle of tides or when animals would start to migrate than you'd be a wise man who communicated with the Gods and thus got the best of everything.
 
I agree w/ mfb. Why do you feel the need to put a lable on them?
 

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