ANTARCTIC EXPLORATION.

Auckland Star, Volume LXV, Issue 21, 25 January 1934, Page 6

ANTARCTIC EXPLORATION.

THE SPIRIT OF ADVENTURE.

(To the Editor.)

The question is being asked why RearAdmiral Byrd and Mr. Lincoln Ellsworth spend so much time and money on exploring the Antarctic, and it is asked if this adds to the sum of human happiness. It all depends upon what one bases the claim for happiness. True happiness must be based on knowledge, and these adventurers are widening the scope of human knowledge. It was always so. The unknown, in any sphere of human interest, has always made a strong appeal, and down the centuries men have pushed ever on towards the uncharted. And humanity needs some such interest to keep the balance of life true. Happiness does not consist'of ease, or in being entertained. The best happiness comes from achievement in whatever sphere of life we may be placed. That is why artists paint and singers sing. If we are to be kept to the routine of life in our interests, then it must become drab. In America to-day the people have enough to worry about, but one can imagine the joy they obtain listening to the wireless messages from the Far South. It must provide, a healthy change of interest, and so add to happiness. The unknown, the dangerous, will always make appeal to the virile nations, and it will be a sad day when they fail to respond. The quest for' knowledge must be strong, and those who join in it will enjoy a happiness that is lasting. In one of his lectures on the strenuous life Theodore Roosevelt said that those relieved of the necessity of working for a living owed it to their fellow men to undertake tasks that otherwise would be left, and that is what these men are doing. Fortunately, many can find joy in their efforts and realise that they are extending the bounds of man's knowledge. H. GIRVAX.