What Should I Write For My History Paper? (don't worry, it's engineering related)

College Majors Engineering Majors
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<p>So I’m taking a class this semester called History, Science, And Technology and my biggest assignment is to write an argument paper which addresses some aspect of the relationship between technology and society. I have to address either how society has shaped a particular technology through invention/innovation or how a particular technology has influenced or shaped society. </p>

<p>For my major, I have to create a portfolio of my work and I could use this paper to fulfill one of the requirements if I make it related to my major which is civil engineering. What is something civil engineering related that I could write about that would be very interesting to research and write an extensive essay on? Is there a topic where through research I can learn more about the civil engineering field/profession?</p>

<p>Thanks! I have some general ideas but they seem kinda boring so I’m just wondering if there’s something I haven’t thought of or if there’s a more interesting topic out there!</p>

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<p>you can talk about how you ended up on espn several times and how you’re some famous freshmen on campus</p>

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<p>I imagine the influence of concrete upon ancient and modern civilization could be a pretty substantial paper.</p>

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<p>How about the development of the interstate system and how it led to suburbanization in the U.S.? This kind of paper would focus more on the “society” side rather than the “engineering” side though so I’m not sure if this would make it into your portfolio.</p>

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<p>totally agree on concrete. That is one hell of an idea</p>

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<p>Also, what about steel-framed structures as opposed to the classic brick & mortar techniques? I don’t know a whole lot about it, but from what I’ve studied on it, it seems that it was a huge breakthrough in allowing flexibility for the structures and… hell, you know it all anyway. Just an idea.</p>

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<p>^ agreed with the steel-framed structures</p>

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<p>The building of the Panama Canal was a huge civil engineering achievement. There’s a fascinating book on the subject - “The Path Between the Seas: The Creation of the Panama Canal, 1870-1974,” by David McCullough. My US History teacher assigned us this book to read way back in 1983, and I still remember it clearly. It would make for a great essay.</p>

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<p>If u want to write something about water/water infrastructure, I recommend reading Cadillac Desert: The American West and Its Disappearing Water for background material…</p>

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<p>Cadillac Desert is a good read. Desertification and salination of land is a big problem in the west.</p>

<p>Another topic: Plastics. Sure, plenty of benefits: food safety, medicine, etc. Also plenty lots of environmental downside.</p>