Introduction
The article “Attitude of Survival” from Backcountry Attitude emphasizes the importance of having a positive attitude in survival situations. The article argues that the psychological state of a person is the most important factor in survival, as it affects their motivation, determination, and ability to adapt to the situation.
Discussion
In order to overcome the challenges of a survival situation, the article suggests developing a strong will to live, a goal-oriented mindset, and an ability to control and overcome negative thoughts and fears. The article highlights loneliness, fatigue, pain, cold, heat, hunger, thirst, and fear as major enemies of survival and recommends adopting a positive attitude to combat these challenges and remain in control of the situation. Most of the points made in the article are subjective personal opinions and beliefs about survival rather than being based on scientific evidence.
There is some overlap with actual survival techniques and concepts that have been reported or studied, but the text often presents them as absolute truth and may overstate their importance or effectiveness. Some specific points are not supported by scientific evidence or may not be universally accepted by survival experts. For example, the article states: “Humans can be very brave and resourceful when in emergency situations” (Conway par. 3). This statement is not necessarily true because not all humans react in the same way when faced with an emergency situation. While some individuals may exhibit bravery and resourcefulness, others may freeze, panic, or become overwhelmed (Mondal et al. 164).
Individual differences in personality, life experiences, and previous exposure to traumatic events can all play a role in how someone reacts in an emergency. Additionally, the specific circumstances of the situation, such as its severity and personal stakes, can influence one’s behavior. Thus, it is not accurate to make a blanket statement about all humans being brave and resourceful in emergencies.
Moreover, the second problematic and contradictory statement is about mental skills. The author states: “Mental skills are much more important than physical skills in survival situations” (Conway par. 2). Andre-Francois Bourbeau is a well-known global record holder on the longest number of days of voluntarily surviving in the wilderness, and he is a survival expert himself. He is capable of surviving for a long without gear or equipment because of his physical skills and health, even in his old age (Girap par. 6). He is extremely skilled in using available material to create tools and other items, which aid his survival (Girap par.). There is little to no mention of mental skills being as critical. In a sense, it does not matter if a person is mentally tough if he or she is incapable of starting a fire or hunting. Thus, it is important to note that survival scenarios can vary widely and that what works in one situation may not be effective in another. While having a positive mental attitude and being prepared with basic survival knowledge and skills can increase your chances of survival, it is not a guarantee.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the majority of the points made in the article are subjective personal opinions and beliefs about survival rather than being based on scientific evidence. Firstly, resourcefulness and bravery are not correlated and interlinked because a person’s reaction is individual. Secondly, being physically skilled is significantly more important than being merely mentally strong. In addition, other factors such as physical health, access to resources, and environmental conditions can play a significant role in survival.
Works Cited
Conway, Chris. “The Attitude of Survival.” Backcountry Attitude, 2021. Web.
Girap, Sneha. “André François Bourbeau.” Alchetron. Web.
Mondal Sudeshna, et al. “Effects of fear and additional food in a delayed predator–prey model.” Biophysical Reviews and Letters, vol. 13, no. 4, 2018, 157-177.