When i say convert i mean to the metric system. We're still using the king's measurement yet we are taught in science and math class how to use the metric system. So why don't we simply do it? It is so much easier to use anyway because it's multiples of 10. Easy so come on let's catch up.
DiverScience saidNah, we won't.
But I use it all the time, without thinking about it. 'Cause it's habit for a scientist.
dc415 saidIt's true that metric is easier to do conversions with, but a lot of metric units are really inconveniently sized. Here are some examples:
1. Weight. A pound is a really convenient unit to measure by. One kilogram is kind of a lot. In mainland China, even though they officially use metric, they still use the "catty" (一斤) for most weights (though for convenience they've set one catty == 0.5 kg).
2. Temperature. In Fahrenheit it's easy to tell how hot it is outside. If it's 100, it's "really hot". If it's 0, it's "really cold". If it's 50, it's in between.
3. Length: a foot is also a convenient measurement. It's convenient to carry around a foot-long ruler... meter sticks, not so much.
YourName2000 saiddc415 saidIt's true that metric is easier to do conversions with, but a lot of metric units are really inconveniently sized. Here are some examples:
1. Weight. A pound is a really convenient unit to measure by. One kilogram is kind of a lot. In mainland China, even though they officially use metric, they still use the "catty" (一斤) for most weights (though for convenience they've set one catty == 0.5 kg).
2. Temperature. In Fahrenheit it's easy to tell how hot it is outside. If it's 100, it's "really hot". If it's 0, it's "really cold". If it's 50, it's in between.
3. Length: a foot is also a convenient measurement. It's convenient to carry around a foot-long ruler... meter sticks, not so much.
I think in a way, you've really hit on something here though.
Metric is a measurement for an age of reason and data, whereas imperial was more daily human scale. Maybe it says something that as a species we're moving to a system of measure that makes data and analysis more transparent, even if the units themselves are unwieldy in reality.
Of course, it is also a decimal system. One could also just gravitate to centigrams or decimeters for such physical day to day interactions.
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