Thomas Edison: the Modern World's greatest influence?

The 19th Century in both Europe and the America's was one of innovation and development. Myriads of creations, advancement of technology and machinery, the Industrial Age housed some of the most brilliant of inventors on the planet. One of the most prominent, as a such, was Thomas Alva Edison.

The inventor resided within the United States of America, and in the end, patented over 1,000 inventions. His contributions completely transformed the manner in which society in itself functioned, the way humans interacted with one another. And in the end, his creation of the light bulb transformed the world. The light bulb showcased to the planet the capability of humanity as a whole, emphasising on the fact that man could overcome nature, the surrounding environment, in certain instances and occasions. It provided humans with the ability to function even as the sun set, over an extended period of time- allowing for efficiency, longevity and overall brilliance.  The ability to function so effectively even during the evening, as the sun dimmed, allowed humans to overturn the manner in which they interacted with each other and worked, functioned as well, thus inciting a tremendous social transformation.

Both literally and figuratively, the light bulb 'lit' the path to the future, creating for itself a humungous impact on society, and as a result, history. Edison himself did the same, his actions and creations aiding in the transformation of cultures as well: for it was he who created the first ever device that could record music. This invention managed to play a major role in cultural upheaval and progress. The inventor thus managed to influence the time period in which he resided in extensively.

Yet, it may be stated that he was also influenced by it. The Industrial Age called for continuous new thought and creation, a complete overturn of the manner in which society functioned. Edison was greatly influenced by the society he lived in: one that called for invention. The creation of the Light Bulb in itself could potentially be the result of society's need for 'light' in the dark, a manner in which it could function effectively, continuously. The want for entertainment could have also led to the idea of recorded sound, and as a such, myriads of other creations.

And so, Thomas Alva Edison may be stated to be one of the Modern World's greatest influences: however, he himself was subject to the whims of society and humanity as a whole, whether unknowingly or knowingly.

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Written by Raghav Pathak