Aurora Borealis, or the Northern Lights, are mystic and awe-aspiring natural wonder and are hands down one of the most aesthetically pleasing aspects of the otherwise hostile tundra. Besides producing a glourius picturesque array of the visible spectrum, it serves a noble purpose. The Earth produces a magetic field that oscillates from its core. The electromagnetic current can be thought of a flow of moving charges. The electromagnetic field that is produced by and surrounds the earth forms a barrier against the tremendous amount of radiation the sun spews at us on a daily basis. Now that you know that the preatty lights are actually proof that the earth protects us from getting 7 different types of cancer, do you appreciate it more?
That's a tough one. I definitely feel grateful when I see them - knowing that Aurora Borealis represents the Earth's protection, maybe even a bit humbling to know we are bombarded with solar radiation and the only keeping us alive is our planet's magnetic field. However, I still think a paleolithic man who sees the spirits of his ancestors or maybe the gods in those lights would find beauty in that. As Yuriko Saito said, however, would this be an appropriate response - even if we find an incorrect interpretation equally or perhaps more fascinating and beautiful?
ReplyDeleteI certainly agree with the philosophy that understanding the science behind something "beautiful" can cause one to alter their perception of it. The Aurora Borealis is certainly beautiful but the fact that such magnificence protects us makes it even more beautiful. Something like an invasive flower, though natural and fragrant, may cause less biodiversity in an area, which increases the likelihood of disease and inhabitable areas for animals.
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