Table of contentsHistorical context and evolution of summer timeAdvantages of summer timeDisadvantages of summer timeContemporary discourses on time Daylight saving time, a practice where clocks are moved forward one hour during warmer months to extend evening daylight hours, is a convention rooted in both historical and modern contexts. Although initiated to save energy and use daylight more efficiently, the adoption of Daylight Saving Time (DST) remains a controversial issue. This essay traces the creation and evolution of DST, explores the purported benefits and documented drawbacks, and engages with ongoing discussions about whether this temporal adjustment should remain a fixture in contemporary society. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Historical Background and Evolution of DST Before delving into the pros and cons of DST, understanding its historical context provides rich context for analysis. The concept of daylight saving time was first proposed by George Vernon Hudson in 1895 and then popularized by William Willett in the early 20th century, with the primary intention of making optimal use of daylight hours during the long summer days. Originally implemented during World War I to save energy, the practice evolved over time, with various countries adopting and abandoning it in response to societal and energy consumption needs. Over the years, DST has been subject to change, with different regions choosing to start and end DST at different times of the year, thus leading to a lack of uniformity at on a global scale. Furthermore, the idea is rooted in a time when electricity consumption patterns were different, raising the question of its relevance in contemporary times, where energy consumption is more nuanced and multifaceted. Benefits of DST Proponents of DST make several compelling arguments in favor of the practice. Above all, there is the energy saving aspect. By reducing the need for artificial lighting and heating in the evening, it was believed that significant energy savings could be made. Additionally, additional daylight hours encourage outdoor activities, thereby promoting physical health and well-being. Additionally, many businesses support DST due to increased opportunities for consumer activity. A study by Jechow et al. (2018) indicated that extended daylight hours encourage people to shop more and dine out, thereby boosting economic activity. Additionally, DST has been shown to potentially reduce traffic accidents because more travel takes place during the day, improving visibility and safety. On an aesthetic note, many people appreciate extended daylight hours because they allow a more leisurely enjoyment of summer evenings, fostering a deeper connection with the natural rhythms of the day. However, while these benefits are substantial, it is essential to balance this perspective by considering the documented disadvantages associated with DST. Disadvantages of DST Despite the noted advantages, DST has a series of disadvantages that have led many people to call for its abolition. At the heart of this phenomenon is the disruption of the human circadian rhythm, which can have detrimental effects on individual health. According to Barnes and Wagner (2019), the, 94(5), 1305–1317.