technology and civilization

Presents opposing viewpoints on the future of America through discussion of social, technological, economic, ecological, and political factors.

Argues that the cumulative effects of technology have reshaped our world and the way we think and have resulted in our valuing innovation and analysis and ignoring older kinds of knowledge born of intuition, this ancient knowledge must be rediscovered for our survival in the future.

Looks at how progress in technology, intellectual and scientific work, and society during the first half of the twentieth century led to world war and, ultimately, fundamental changes in world culture.

Looks at the Age of Progress that existed in the second half of the nineteenth century, when the application of science to technology and industry led to faith in the future, but also laid the groundwork for conflict between European states.

Looks at globalization as a product of the unprecedented economic growth in developed countries during the thirty years following World War II as underdeveloped countries struggled with hunger and disease.

Examines the knowledge that the Islamic world retained, possessed, and developed in the seventh century AD while Europe was in her Dark Age. Explores Islamic advances in such schools as medicine, astronomy, mathematics, and engineering.

Traces the development and use of tools from ancient civilizations through the technology-savvy twenty-first century, describing how tools have influenced human life.

Discusses technical, economic, social, cultural, and political changes and how they have shaped the world in which we live.

Presents an illustrated overview of the history of technology, providing information on how historical change impacts the development of new technology and technological innovation, from the prehistoric and ancient worlds to the twentieth century and beyond. Includes timeline, maps and diagrams.