A history of the motivations for underwater diving as depicted in selected literature

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Kathleen Ann Krucker (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Advisor
Tony Ladd

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to trace the historical development of the motivations for underwater diving. The data base for the investigation was selected literature, which included ancient sources and modern documents. From the review of literature, the following questions were formulated: 1) Why and how did man begin underwater diving?, 2) What motives prompted the continuation of man's pursuit of underwater diving?, and 3) What effect did technology have regarding new motivations for underwater diving? All passages related to underwater diving were extracted from books, periodicals, museums, and unpublished papers. Interpretations of meaning and significance of diving accounts were made. The findings for question one showed that man was motivated to begin underwater diving to obtain food, to gain material resources, and for military reasons. The data concerning question two demonstrated that man was motivated to continue underwater diving for possible material gains, for purposes of military gains, to explore new and unknown frontiers, and to pursue scientific investigation. The findings of question three showed that as a result of improvements in diving equipment, man was motivated to engage in underwater diving as a sport or source of recreation.

Additional Information

Publication
Thesis
Language: English
Date: 1976

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