Modus vivendi Modus vivendi Modus vivendi is a Latin phrase that means "mode of living" or “way of life”. It often is used to mean an arrangement or agreement that allows conflicting parties to coexist in peace. In science it is used to describe lifestyles. "Modus" means "mode", "way", "method", or "manner". "Vivendi" means "of living". The phrase is often used to describe informal and temporary arrangements in political affairs. For example, if two sides reach a "modus vivendi" regarding disputed territories, despite political, historical or cultural incompatibilities, an accommodation of their respective differences is established for the sake of contingency. In
Necessity is the mother of invention Necessity is the mother of invention "Necessity is the mother of invention" is an English-language proverb. It means, roughly, that the primary driving force for most new inventions is a need. "When the need for something becomes imperative, you are forced to find ways of getting or achieving it." The author of this proverb is unknown. This phrase was familiar in England, but in Latin, not in English. In 1519, the headmaster of Winchester and Eton, William Horman, used the Latin phrase "Mater artium necessitas" in his book "Vulgaria". In 1545 Roger Ascham used a close English version, "Necessitie, the