Sociogenesis of Skydiving

The origin of skydiving is debatable, but is most commonly attributed to André-Jacques Garnerin, who was a French inventor and an individual known for his large jumps where he used a canopy to break his fall. His first descent using a parachute happened on October 22^nd 1797. Since this time, parachutes have evolved and have become much more advanced. Also with the invention of the airplane people have been able to jump from greater heights, which has in effect pushed the sport into new bounds. Since it’s beginning, skydiving has been a sport but has also been used as a tactical advantage during warfare. Today parachutes are commonly made with nylon and are rectangular shaped to provide greater stability compared to the circle shaped counterparts that were used throughout World War I.

As this sport has progressed, the outfit has developed to accommodate colder temperatures, goggles have been added to help with visibility, and a helmet for protection. However, as far as rules go, the laws of gravity and aerodynamics are the only true factors that define what people are allowed to do. Therefore, individuals who engage in this extreme sport are free to push the limits at their own risk. This in effect has created competition and thus has resulted in great progression; in 2012 Australian, Felix Baumgartner successfully landed a freefall jump from a record height of 39 kilometers. While this record is astonishing, it is only a matter of time before someone tries to break it.  However, it is important to note that with great strides comes great costs, in the case of skydiving, this has resulted in death. Every year people die because people either take too many risks and or as a result of faulty equipment. Thus, it is clear that this is a sport for adrenaline junkies and thrill seekers who are willing to put it all on the line each and every time.