Document Type
Article
Abstract
The space environment poses significant dangers and difficulties for human explorers—difficulties so great that it has been argued that space exploration should be exclusively conducted by automated spacecraft. The possibility of space science conducted by human astronauts in spite of these dangers presents the opportunity for individuals to exhibit traditional heroic virtues—presumably, supererogatory forms of prudence, temperance, fortitude, and justice—in the pursuit of science. In particular, the difficulties of pursuing science in the hostile conditions of extraterrestrial environments will call for physical courage in the face of personal danger, patience with the painstaking procedures of technically difficult scientific experiments performed under demanding conditions, and the ability to maintain good humor under conditions of privation, hardship, and discomfort—all necessary to preserving a constructive work environment among a team of scientists far from home.
DOI
10.26736/hs.2024.01.12
Recommended Citation
Nielsen, John N.
(2024)
"Heroic Virtues in Space Exploration: Everydayness and Supererogation on Earth and Beyond,"
Heroism Science: Vol. 9:
Iss.
1, Article 11.
DOI: 10.26736/hs.2024.01.12
Available at:
https://scholarship.richmond.edu/heroism-science/vol9/iss1/11