David Edgerton
David Edgerton is a British historian and academic specializing in the history of science and technology. He has challenged conventional narratives about Britain's decline as an industrial power and the role of innovation and technology in economic development. Edgerton is known for his critical perspectives on Britain's technological and scientific history, particularly during the 20th century. He has authored several influential books, including 'The Shock of the Old: Technology and Global History since 1900' and 'Britain’s War Machine: Weapons, Resources, and Experts in the Second World War'. His work has contributed significantly to the understanding of how technology shapes societies and economies.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. The Shock Of The Old
This book challenges the conventional narratives of innovation and technological progress, arguing that society's focus on the 'new' overlooks the importance and impact of older technologies that continue to shape our world. By examining how outdated technologies, such as the rickshaw or the propeller plane, have persisted and even thrived alongside modern advancements, the author presents a compelling case for reevaluating our understanding of technological change. Through a series of insightful case studies, the work encourages readers to reconsider the ways in which they think about technology's role in history and its influence on the present and future.
