sorry Boston, somehow I missed that. I think what I am trying to say though is that in addition to the lack of "virgin territory", or maybe because of it, fewer people have opportunities to discover anything exciting for themselves since everything is all explained to them from an early age.
I believe this is the critical point, I suspect this early spoon-feeding kills the momentum, self confidence, drive, and lust for for exploring that would otherwise develop through the thrill of "discovering" things for oneself as a child.
I also believe there may be a lot of presumed "settled territory" today that may be settled somewhat erroneously but tends not to be looked at through fresh eyes because it is somehow perceived to be settled and taught as if it were so.
I agree on the "shoulders of giants" statement, however, I think there is plenty of time for studying what others have discovered after one has had the chance to make a few successful "discoveries" for themselves as a child. And even then, I believe it should be emphasized that what we think we know is always open for review/question.
