As with many things in life, the imperial system is the product of what was originally a "quick and dirty" (by twenty-first century standards) solution. It is probably easier to use that the metric system for elementary purposes, but the moment one tries to actually manipulate imperial units, the lack of a proper design comes into play.
For example, try finding the average weight of a number of people using stones and pounds. Very few people would be able to do it - and using a calculator would make it even more difficult. Now try working out the standard deviation of those weights, or even worse, the variance! _____ From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of David Sent: 11 January 2009 03:24 To: U.S. Metric Association Subject: [USMA:42299] Fact or opinion? Is the metric system really easier for everyone or is that just opinion? I was speaking to some close friends and one of them is very much against the metric system. His argument is that it isn't easier for everyone. Is this true? Isn't ease of use a matter of opinion? But then I looked at it this way. In converting units, which one takes less calculations? Obviously metric wins hands down, since none are needed. I think this makes metric more efficient and thus makes it easier. Makes sense, right? I personally think it's easier for everyone, and I also think that people against metrication just use that as an excuse; but is it really easier for everyone or is it just opinion?
