Wheels, Clocks, and Rockets: A History of Technology / Edition 1

by Donald Cardwell

Overview

"A prime example of how to write a history of an immense and technical subject ....a winner."—New Scientist

As technology transforms our lives at an ever quickening rate, Donald Cardwell reminds us that technological innovation is not created in a vacuum—rather, it is the product of the successful interaction between social change, scientific developments, and political vision. In this wide-ranging, "spirited" (Booklist) survey of the machines and tools that humans have developed throughout history, Cardwell not only explains the mechanical technicalities but also delves into the underlying trends that have culminated in eras of great change. In particular, he highlights the eighteenth century as a watershed in the modern history of technology, analyzing how scientific developments in physics and chemistry spurred the mechanical innovations of the Industrial Revolution. From the steam engine to electrical power to nuclear energy to today's world of electronics and computers, this book opens a discussion of how science and technology together change our lives. Originally published as The Norton History of Technology.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780393321753
Publisher:	Norton, W. W. & Company, Inc.
Publication date:	05/17/2001
Series:	The Norton History of Science Series
Edition description:	(The Norton History of Science)
Pages:	592
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.20(h) x 0.80(d)

About the Author

The late Donald Cardwell was professor of the history of science and technology at the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology.

Editorial Reviews

A prime example of how to write a history of an immense and technical subject ....a winner.

New Scientist