Description
Book Synopsis: From the New York Times–bestselling author of Where Good Ideas Come From and Unexpected Life, a new look at the power and legacy of great ideas.
In this illustrated history, Steven Johnson explores the history of innovation over centuries, tracing facets of modern life (refrigeration, clocks, and eyeglass lenses, to name a few) from their creation by hobbyists, amateurs, and entrepreneurs to their unintended historical consequences. Filled with surprising stories of accidental genius and brilliant mistakes—from the French publisher who invented the phonograph before Edison but forgot to include playback, to the Hollywood movie star who helped invent the technology behind Wi-Fi and Bluetooth—How We Got to Now investigates the secret history behind the everyday objects of contemporary life. In his trademark style, Johnson examines unexpected connections between seemingly unrelated fields: how the invention of air-conditioning enabled the largest migration of human beings in the history of the species—to cities such as Dubai or Phoenix, which would otherwise be virtually uninhabitable; how pendulum clocks helped trigger the industrial revolution; and how clean water made it possible to manufacture computer chips. Accompanied by a major six-part television series on PBS, How We Got to Now is the story of collaborative networks building the modern world, written in the provocative, informative, and engaging style that has earned Johnson fans around the globe.
Details
Discover the untold stories behind the everyday objects that shape our modern world with How We Got to Now: Six Innovations That Made the Modern World. Written by the best-selling author Steven Johnson, this riveting book takes you on a journey through history, revealing the surprising origins of key inventions like refrigeration, clocks, and eyeglass lenses. Uncover the genius and mistakes of hobbyists, amateurs, and entrepreneurs, and learn how their creations have shaped our lives in ways we never imagined.
Prepare to be captivated by the fascinating tales of accidental discoveries and revolutionary breakthroughs. Johnson sheds light on remarkable stories like the French publisher who invented the phonograph before Edison, only to forget one crucial detail. Explore the unexpected connections between seemingly unrelated fields, such as how pendulum clocks played a vital role in triggering the industrial revolution. This thought-provoking read is filled with intriguing anecdotes that will leave you astounded by the hidden histories of the objects we take for granted.
With Johnson's trademark style, this book not only educates but also entertains. Dive into the pages of How We Got to Now and immerse yourself in stories of collaborative networks and innovative thinkers. And if that's not enough, accompany your reading with the major six-part television series on PBS, which delves even deeper into the captivating narratives.
Don't miss the opportunity to be inspired by this extraordinary exploration of ingenuity and the interconnected nature of human progress. Grab your copy of How We Got to Now: Six Innovations That Made the Modern World today and discover the incredible stories that have shaped our world.
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