<p>I know it’s bad…but how bad?
A colleague of the great scientist James Watson remarked that Watson was always “lounging around, arguing about problems instead of doing experiments.” He concluded that “There is more than one way of doing good science.” It was Watson’s form of idleness, the scientist went on to say, that allowed him to solve “the greatest of all biological problems: the discovery of the structure of DNA.” It is a point worth remembering in a society overly concerned with efficiency.</p>
<p>Adapted from John C. Polanyi, “Understanding Discovery”</p>
<p>Assignment:</p>
<p>Do people accomplish more when they are allowed to do things in their own way? Plan and write an essay in which you develop your point of view on this issue. Support your position with reasoning and examples taken from your reading, studies, experience, or observations.</p>
<pre><code> When people are given the opportunity to complete a task in a manner which suits them, the efficiency in completing the task is significantly increased. We all are familiar with this simple truth. If we want to get something done, we tend to get it down “our way.” This concept can be seen from one’s personality, the field of mathematics, and the effects of diversity in art and music.
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<p>One’s personality allows one to prosper and succeed. This is apparent in all aspects of one’s life. Our actions reflect our personality. However, sometimes people are forced into a new, unfamiliar template. As this happens, the productivity is instantly decreased. The lack of freedom, the lack of choice, and the lack of personality inhibit how much work can be done. </p>
<p>The field of mathematics shows the usefulness of being able to do a task in a certain way as well. Math, as we all know, always produces a set, determined solution. However, to achieve our correct solution, we are offered numerous, differing methods. A truly successful mathematician is able to search through the plethora of methods and find the one true approach which suits him or her. Likewise, effective workers are able to choose one certain method among many which appeals to him or her.</p>
<p>Not only does individuality in work result in enhanced efficiency, but also variation is produced. Without diversity in the workplace, many of the masterpieces of art and literature would be lost. Ingenious artists such as Picaso would cease to thrive if they were restricted by mundane conditions. In fact, the aspect which makes the art of Picaso so magnificent is the fact that he avoids the banal approach to art. His innovations resulted in artwork of unparalleled quality. Similarly, all types of works rise in value the more they stray from the hackneyed views of a majority of society.</p>
<p>Utilizing the many different approaches and techniques for work is one of the beauties of life. If the world was constricted into following a set procedure, a great majority of the magnificent creations and discoveries of today would be lost. Indeed, it is crucial to allow, respect, and cherish the many different ways to perform things.</p>