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Paul Blake

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What is progress? A recent essay prompt asked, 'Is history since 1500 the story of progress? Why or Why not?"

How do you define progress? What constitutes progression? What factors are involved? How do you measure it?

Topics: Colonialism communications education global affairs globalisation health history progress technology travel
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  • Rhona Pavis 50+

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    Dec 17 2011: Progress is increasing the well-being and happiness level of humanity.
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      Paul Blake

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      Dec 17 2011: This, to me, is also the definition of progress. Though I realise that this is somewhat of a utilitarian definition of progress...

      • Rhona Pavis 50+

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        Dec 17 2011: You use the word "utilitarian" as though it diminishes the concept. I do not understand. Is "ivory tower" more impressive to you than "utilitarian." Do you prefer "useless," "idealist" or some other concept?
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          Paul Blake

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          Dec 17 2011: No, I don't intend to demean a utilitarian definition of progress -- as I said, it is also my definition of progress. However, my point was to acknowledge that there are other definitions and 'progress' means different things to different people.

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