From: Jon Glass (jonglass_at_usa.net)
Date: Tue May 04 2004 - 00:37:15 PDT
on 5/3/04 11:24 PM, Nicolas Krizan at nico_at_mbox309.swipnet.se wrote:
> I can see the beauty and humanism of using a measurement system deriving
> from our own bodies but the clear sharp logic of the metric system is
> quite nice too.
Quite right! That was what I was trying to say from the start! I like the
Metric, and use it when I think it fits, but I also like having the ability
to use the inches and foot measurement system, in particular when I'm
working on building things or remodeling my place. (personally, the cup,
half-cup, etc. could go away as far as I'm concerned--but my wife would
probably disagree with me on that one!)
> PS. In swedish, the word for inch literally means »thumb«. What is the
> etymology of the word »inch«?
Here is what an online dictionary says: "Middle English, from Old English
ynce, from Latin uncia, one twelfth of a unit." So it doesn't seem to
reflect a body part. :-) BTW, there also seems to be a small island named
"inch" also. ;-)
-- Jon Glass Krakow, Poland <jonglass_at_usa.net> 'A general dissolution of principles and manners will more surely overthrow the liberties of America than the whole force of the common enemy. While the people are virtuous they cannot be subdued; but when once they lose their virtue then will be ready to surrender their liberties to the first external or internal invader." -- Samuel Adams -- This is the NewtonTalk list - http://www.newtontalk.net/ for all inquiries Official Newton FAQ: http://www.chuma.org/newton/faq/ WikiWikiNewt for all kinds of articles: http://tools.unna.org/wikiwikinewt/
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