WHO IS JAMES WATT?
I was delighted to see the review by Mark Thomas of my book on James Watt (October 12) and very glad that he found it informative and entertaining. I am sure that he would agree that the accompanying illustration of a steam locomotive is unfortunate. Watt had nothing to do with the invention of that machine and, in fact, actively opposed the development by others of the high-pressure engines that led to steam railways.
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Watt worked only on stationary steam engines for driving either pumps or machinery. At least we avoided another common misconception about Watt: the bright idea that he invented the lightbulb.
David Philip Miller, Emeritus Professor of History of Science, Maroubra
WHAT A CIRCUS
Regarding the circus animal protesters (Illawarra Mercury, October 5), I am a passionate animal lover and I despise any form of cruelty and mistreatment of all and any kind of animal. But these people are just trouble-makers who need to use their brain instead of their mouth to actually think about what they are doing.
Do they really believe that people who make a living showing these clever & beautiful animals in public would be mistreating them? Why would they? It's absolutely ridiculous. These people have raised and cared for these animals for years. They are subject to strict animal welfare laws and frequent inspections by the RSPCA. There is no proof that being trained has any negative effect on the animals. In fact they would obviously be trained using a reward system like food or toys.
The truth is that bringing down the circus & trying to destroy these people's business and income is just plain dumb. These animals have been born and raised in captivity. So what would you people suggest they do? Let them free to fend for themselves? Abandon them? Euthenise them?
The protesters are actually putting these lovely animals in more danger than anyone else! If they succeed in their plan to bankrupt this circus and the owners, there is a chance these hard-working people will have to surrender these animals because they will not be able to afford to care for them. If you people don't like the circus then just don't go. But leave other people to make up their own minds. And think about what you're doing because it is not helpful.
Linda Anderson, Barrack Heights
A PRICELESS GIFT
Recent reports in the media have suggested payment for blood donors and characterised them as 'heroes'. That Australia has to import a considerable portion of its plasma requirements underpins this recommendation. We know, however, that done well an education campaign could change donation levels, as it has successfully changed behaviour with other public health issues.
Putting a price on carbon when it pollutes, makes good sense. A price on things such as blood or body organs that are personally vital to life, is different. In a real sense these things are priceless. Blood donors are not so much heroes as simply reasonable folk, who have the time, enjoy the gift of giving and yes, no doubt the pleasant attention they enjoy at one of our Red Cross donor centres when they donate. This is a far more wholesome culture for individuals, and for the body social.
Mike Clear, Cudmirrah