Why does Ralph Emerson discuss the tacking of a sailboat?

Answer 1

When a sailboat travels from A to B, it doesn't do so in a straight line.

A------>B is not optimal because of the boats dependence on wind direction and resistance. Because of this, boats tack. That means the boat will head left or right of their target, then turn the opposite direction.

A\/\/\/\/\/\B

If you were to look at a sailboats direction at any time during the journey, it would probably not be facing its target destination. That said, in the long run, its general path is trending towards the target.

I propose that Emerson uses this to account for the complexity of human actions and justification for you to believe you are making the right decisions if you truly believe them to be best.

Answer 2

Ralph Waldo Emerson discusses the tacking of a sailboat as a metaphor for embracing change and adapting to new circumstances. He uses it to illustrate the importance of flexibility and navigating obstacles in life. By tacking like a sailboat, one can adjust their course and make progress despite challenges.