Exploration Essay

            Throughout history, mankind has had an inert desire for knowledge. This primal, instinctive curiosity is what has driven the courageous and brave into the vast unknown. To explore is in human nature, people want to know what awaits them beyond the next bend. Such explorers are the ones who have charted undiscovered lands that lie across seas or over mountains. To do so, however, requires the proper equipment. Mode of transportation is vital, whether it be by boat, plane, train, car, or even foot. Adventurers have made use of many different vessels in the times past. In early ages, boats and ships were most common amongst those willing to trek into the lands beyond. Since then, however, technology has advanced greatly, allowing for more efficient means of transportation. Airplanes especially have made exploration an easier task; they give the ability to take to the skies and thus avoid any obstacles and hazards that may be between one and his destination. A desire for knowledge is strong enough to push many into the skies, despite a fear of heights being very common in human beings. Knowledge, however, is not the only motive that could bring someone to tread dangerous ground. There are many possible reasons to do so.

            For some, exploration could mean life or death. For others, it could mean as little as what socks to wear around the house. Because of this, some people may require a motive much more enticing than just knowledge. Human nature comes into play, bringing such people to want something for their own personal gain. The desire for material items is a deep-seated instinct within all humans. If putting one’s life on the line could result in wealth and fame, then the amount of people willing to partake in the specified activity will rise dramatically. To become the center of attention and receive praise for performing something worthwhile is desired by all; throw a hefty amount of money into the mix and they are sold (quite literally). Even so, some people would still not be interested in dangerous activities, wealth or not. For them, the price of doing so is higher than that which they are being paid.

            Exploration, like anything, can come at a great price. Depending on the given explorer, however, the price can vary. As previously stated, the price of adventuring could be death, or perhaps something worse. If someone were to go so far as to devote their life to their travels, they could lose more than just their life; family and friends could be lost. Adventuring consumes a very large portion of time and effort, resulting in less time with loved ones. Said people could feel offended or ignored, and may simply leave on their own. Or perhaps an explorer could find himself without time enough to settle down at all, leaving him without friends or family to lose, which is worse. Loneliness can greatly affect the mind and emotions, leaving one to endure a pain and suffering far more debilitating than any possible injury. What follows is nothing but a shallow existence. What good is exploration when one has not a soul to share it with?