What is the proper definition of “invention”?
  • Blackhole94
    3
    I have a few issues with the definition of invention and I'm trying to formulate a definition of invention.

    If invention means "created" by humans, then babies in pregnancy are created by humans, chewing food is created by humans to make a bolus for swallowing.

    We can’t say “crafted” because craft= made by hand skill. But a monkey peeling a banana is crafting (making) something and changing the environment—so that doesn’t work.

    Basically, I’m looking for a proper definition of “invent” that excludes things like peeling a banana but includes things like making a banana smoothie. There is a clear difference and I want invent to include making that smoothie vs peeling the banana.

    Also a bird making a nest should be considered an invention that evolved over time, but a bird peeing a seed to eat it should not be an invention.

    Invent should be inventing either objects or processes.

    What is the proper definition of invention?
    Blackhole94 Options
  • Sir2u
    3.6k
    Basically, I’m looking for a proper definition of “invent” that excludes things like peeling a banana — Blackhole94

    Where did you even get the idea that peeling a banana could be said to be inventing. :rofl:

    Why don't you try telling us what the dictionary says and then tell us what is wrong with that definition.
    Sir2u Options
  • Blackhole94
    3
    ↪Sir2u

    Invention is defined as something crafted by humans. What I’m saying is there seems to be a range/continuum of things crafted and a peeled banana seems to fit that definition. I’d like a better definition.
    Blackhole94 Options
  • Sir2u
    3.6k
    Invention is defined as something crafted by humans. — Blackhole94

    No it is not, that is only part of the meaning. Bread was an invention, arrived at through experiments. Peeling bananas is an action, and it is doubtful there was an inventor.

    Invent: Come up with (an idea, plan, explanation, theory, or principle) after a mental effort

    Invention: A creation (a new device or process) resulting from study and experimentation
    Sir2u Options
  • Blackhole94
    3
    Wait, but peeling a banana is something that we come up with after a mental effort. So that definition doesn’t work like we want it to.

    We all feel peeling a banana is not an invention—but how do we define it such that it is the case?
    Blackhole94 Options
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