What Are The Top Five Inventions?

Thread starter omin
Start date Aug 9, 2004

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the question of what constitutes the top five inventions of all time. Participants share their personal lists and reasoning, covering a wide range of inventions from various fields, including technology, health, and everyday life. The scope includes both historical and contemporary inventions, as well as humorous and unconventional suggestions.

Discussion Character

Debate/contested
Exploratory
Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

Some participants propose traditional inventions like the wheel, clock, and written language as foundational to human development.
Others suggest modern inventions such as the internet, computers, and the printing press, emphasizing their impact on communication and knowledge dissemination.
Several participants mention health-related inventions like vaccination and contraceptives, arguing for their significance in societal balance.
Humorous suggestions include items like toilet paper, the spork, and even George Foreman's grilling machine, reflecting a lighter take on the topic.
Some participants challenge the relevance of certain inventions, such as pounding tools, and defend their historical importance based on early human usage.
There are mentions of speculative future inventions like quantum computers and space elevators, indicating a forward-looking perspective on innovation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a wide range of opinions with no clear consensus on the top five inventions. Multiple competing views remain, with various lists and justifications presented throughout the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Some participants base their choices on personal significance or humor, while others focus on historical impact or technological advancement. The discussion reflects a mix of serious and lighthearted contributions, leading to a diverse array of perspectives without resolution.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may interest individuals exploring the history of inventions, the impact of technology on society, or those looking for a humorous take on everyday items and their significance.

Aug 12, 2004

Ivan Seeking

Staff Emeritus

Science Advisor

Gold Member

Evo said:

portable hair dryer

Girls...

Computer science news on Phys.org

Aug 12, 2004

jimmy p

Gold Member

Ivan Seeking said:

I bought one of those for Tsu and she looked at me like I had given her a set of wrenches

I'd be pretty pleased with a set of wrenches, and which red-blooded male wouldnt?? Useful to wrench things and to club people. The perfect gift for me.