Has There Been a Time When the Impossible Became Possible?

The question is not whether the impossible is possible, but when it becomes possible. The trouble with defining 'possible' lies in our evolving understanding of what is real and achievable. Historically, many things that were once considered impossible have become routine, thus challenging our perceptions of the impossible.

The Evolution of Possibility

When people couldn't speak to someone on another continent in real time, such a concept was often described as 'impossible' back in the days. However, as we know, such an 'impossibility' became possible due to technological advancements.

Is something truly physically impossible if it contradicts the known laws of Physics? Our understanding of these laws is continuously evolving. For instance, faster-than-light travel is currently classified as impossible according to our present Physics, but this could change with ongoing scientific research and discoveries. Elevating Science to a religion by declaring certain phenomena impossible is a limiting stance.

The Reality of the Possible

Many things we consider impossible are in fact possible if not probable. For example, seeing through the eyes of your fellow man was once unimaginable until the camera was invented. Similarly, the creation of life apart from childbirth was once reserved for Gods but became a reality with recent advancements in biotechnology.

Another classic example is the idea of going faster than running, which was impossible until transportation innovations like horseback riding, boats, cars, and planes were developed. Walking on the moon, which was long thought to be an analogy for the impossible, became a reality in the 1960s with the Apollo missions.

Practical Possibility

The true challenge lies in identifying the impossible in a practical sense. For instance, the need for people to breathe is a well-established reality, and it is impossible to hold your breath for an hour. However, with advancements like artificial hemoglobin, the density of oxygen in the blood could be increased a billion times, allowing you to hold your breath for almost 185 years.

Conclusion

These efforts to push the boundaries of what is possible demonstrate the ever-evolving nature of human society. What is considered impossible today may well be a reality in the not-so-distant future. Thus, it is crucial to maintain a flexible and open-minded approach to what we consider possible or impossible.