The biggest factor affecting the Engineering culture of Britain and France would be the geographical separation between the two nations coupled with the lack of a concept of globalization and their diverse histories.
Britain at a point of time was the most dominant force in the world primarily because it was the epicenter of the industrial revolution. It was the birthplace of the steam engine, the handloom and countless other innovations. On the other hand France was historically more meek and in major contrast, was the source of the nationalist movement. As for the scientific prospect, France was more purist than Britain and held more theoretical scientists than engineers. Additionally, each of the nations possessed different natural resources and therefore gained different kinds of engineering experience while they developed methods to extract and enrich or process these materials.
The engineering cultures of these countries are the culmination of these factors and centuries of diverse experiences.
I did not even consider the lack of a globalization concept when considering the differences between France and Britain. But now that you have brought it up. it makes a lot of sense. Do you think Britain's no planning attitude came about because of all their achievements? That they figured they can stumble upon something great? And unlike France who maybe thought everything needed to be planned out? Something to think about.
ReplyDeleteYou are very right with your last sentences. The centuries of different experiences must have affected both teams in the project. ENGL 106
In my opinion, pride might have had something to do with Britain's current approach to engineering. Historically, the British always over exerted themselves which in some sense led to their downfall as the most dominant force on the planet. They strive to create challenges for themselves and that too might have had something to do with their engineering mindset.
ReplyDeleteENGR 103