By: Alvin Hoang

SAN JOSE, CALIF — Get ready to savor an extra hour of sleep as Daylight Saving comes to a close. On the first Sunday of November, clocks across the Nation are set back by one hour, which marks the end of Daylight Saving. 

While the adjustment may result in shorter days and an earlier onset of darkness, it gives an opportunity for people to catch up on their sleep. This routine of setting our clocks back aims to make better use of natural daylight during the colder months, but it also has its share of controversies and questions of its relevance in today’s world.

4:30 P.M. After Daylight Saving End (Photo By Alvin Hoang)

The tradition of adjusting clocks to optimize daylight hours dates back to World War I when various countries sought ways to conserve energy. The concept was officially adopted in the United States in 1918, though its implementation has been far from seamless. Over the years, the debate surrounding the necessity of Daylight Saving Time has intensified, with supporters arguing for energy conservation and enhanced productivity, while protesters question its impact on modern lifestyles and its effectiveness in achieving its intended goals. 

While the extra hour of sleep is a welcome for many, the shift in time also means shorter days and earlier nightfall, leading to adjustments in daily routines. Commuters find themselves navigating evening darkness, and outdoor activities are canceled as sunlight dwindles. The potential disruption to rhythms has prompted discussions about the health implications of this biannual time shift. Sleep schedules can be messed up, and especially for the younger and older generations, time changes aren’t the best for their health.

Moreover, not all states observe Daylight Saving Time, like Arizona and Hawaii, adding a layer of complexity to the already contentious issue. Critics argue that the time change causes confusion and disrupts schedules, with some questioning the need for this antiquated practice in the era of advanced technology and 24/7 connectivity.