Standard, a “Standard”— stand fast, stand hard. Stand firm — a flag as rallying point in battle?
The etymology of the word “standard” reveals an interesting journey from its origins to its contemporary usage. Initially, in the late Middle Ages, “standard” was a term used in a military context, referring to a flag or emblem used as a rallying point for soldiers in battle. This usage is derived from the Old French word “estendard” and ultimately from the Frankish word “standhard,” meaning ‘stand firm’ or ‘stand fast’.
Over time, the meaning of “standard” evolved. As these flags were a consistent and recognizable symbol in the chaos of battle, the word began to be associated with the ideas of constancy and invariability. This led to its modern usage, where “standard” refers to a level of quality or attainment, something established by authority, custom, or general consent as a model or example to be followed.
In the realm of philosophy and innovation, the concept of a “standard” can be quite intriguing. It raises questions about the balance between conformity and innovation. On one hand, standards ensure a certain level of quality and reliability; on the other hand, they can potentially stifle creativity and novel approaches. For an entrepreneur or a thinker, navigating and sometimes challenging these standards can be a crucial part of the creative and innovative process.