Final answer:
The story 'The Making of a Scientist' shows that competitions are stepping stones in the larger journey of learning and personal development, where perseverance and resilience are crucial. The concept of 'luck and pluck' and the self-made man narrative highlight that success often involves overcoming setbacks.
Step-by-step explanation:
The story 'The Making of a Scientist' reflects on the concept that successes and failures are part of a lifelong learning process, and that competitions, such as science fairs, serve as stepping stones rather than conclusive assessments of one's abilities. Although Richard did not win anything at the science fair, this experience was a stepping stone for his future success.
It emphasizes the importance of perseverance and learning from experiences, regardless of immediate outcomes. Similarly, the idea of luck and pluck in Horatio Alger's stories signifies that success often requires not only hard work but also some good fortune. The concept of the self-made man, bolstered by Social Darwinism and embodied by figures like John D.
Rockefeller, illustrates that achieving success in business or any other field demands resilience and self-belief, often despite several setbacks. These themes are universal in stories of growth and underscore the value of striving for one's ambitions despite various challenges. They teach us that the journey towards success is as significant as the destination itself.