this post was submitted on 03 Aug 2023
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I think the metric argument can be a logical discussion, but it can also devolve into a cultural argument, which is what I think has happened here. I'm obviously biased towards the imperial system since I grew up with it, but not so much to call it superior by any means. I think there's places where it adds value is all.
I guess I could've said something about still liking the metric system and thinking it was perfect for science, but it honestly didn't cross my mind to be that explicit. Since Lemmy is generally more intellectual and not as simplistic, I didn't think I needed to be.
Perhaps my real mistake here wasn't recognizing just how passionate some people get about this haha
See this is what I like about Lemmy. People actually seem open to dialogue. I appreciate your response.
I grew up with the imperial system, I just hate that it feels uselessly different to most of the world. I care more about interoperability. "What is that in Celsius?" Is a question I hate asking myself. "What's the next larger size wrench to a 3/8 inch?" Is another. It's not a huge deal, if I had to work with wrenches every day I'd get used to it.. it's the idea that standards have one job imo: making shit easier. Reducing cognitive load and communication issues. So since imperial is globally unpopular, I wish we'd just kill it. I am fine with people using it in niche cases they feel it makes sense, I just don't enjoy it being everywhere in the US, it often feels like a barrier.
Yes exactly!
And I see what you mean, and it is a good point. I don't see it as an important distinction in my field, so long as people label their units. But I can imagine in just common communication worldwide, it must be a pain point.
If the US were going to change, I think we'd have to first accept that it's going to be a long process. We'd need a generation or two to be fluent in both, and we make it a norm for everyone to provide both units in communication. That'll get us enough people where for everyday use at least, we can just do metric. Industry would be more challenging to change, especially since so much equipment is designed for imperial.
Edit: Oh and I just wanted to say, I really appreciate your open mind and politeness when it comes to discussing difference of opinion.