Now that we’ve pointed new divers to some resources, let me mention something for more advanced divers, or at least for those who want to learn something more advanced.
The term “Hogarthian diver” generally refers to a minimalist diving style devised William Hogarth Main who believed, essentially, that if a piece of equipment isn’t needed, it’s a liability. It’s not simply the practice of diving with as little as possible, however, which sets apart the Hogarthian diver. (Indeed, if you look at some of their gear set-ups, you’ll quickly see that Hogarthians are rarely accused of carrying very little.) Instead, the Hogarthian style strives to “eliminate the unnecessary while configuring the necessary in the most streamlined manner possible.” Arguably, for the Hogarthian diver -- who are typically cave divers -- the means are an end unto themselves. For an excellent, articulate elaboration of the Hogarthian system, check out Jarrod Jablonski’s treatment of the practice.
If you’re interested in learning a bit more about Hogarthian diving, I found a fairly regimented list of “acceptable” Hogarthian rules. Moreover, the Woodville Karst Plain Project is widely considered to be the strictest adherents to Hogarth’s system. They’ve got plenty of images and suggestions for Hogarthian rigs for the curious. Check it out and let us know what you think. Too many rules? Too restrictive? Maybe you think it doesn’t go far enough?
1. I like the idea of keeping things as simple as possible. I might have to try out a simple rig for recreational diving when I next get a chance.
I confess that I was a bit put off by the "diving with strokes" attitude (from the very bottom of the "acceptable rules" link). "You don't use the same equipment as me, the same way as me, and you haven't dropped the couple grand needed to change over, so you are OBVIOUSLY completely unsafe to dive with." Reminds me of some rabid religious encounters.
Posted at 7:22AM on Sep 1st 2005 by mccand