Book excerpt: Available for the first time in paperback, this volume includes twenty-two chapters by international experts covering the entire history of technology from humankind's earliest use of stone tools to the exploration of space. Written clearly and without unnecessary jargon, each chapter traces the development of its subject from earliest times to the present day, stressing the social context and its place in scientific thought. * Usefully drawn with over 150 tables, drawings and photographs * Two comprehensive indexes of names and subjects * Essential reading for teachers and students in the History and Philosophy of Science and Technology, Industrial History and Archaeology.