Publisher's Synopsis
This lavishly illustrated book provides a unique insight into the inventions, images, discoveries, products and ephemera that make up the vast collections of the Science Museum. It vividly demonstrates the variety and often sheer beauty of the objects; it also tells some of the stories behind them. Together, the text and images chart a remarkable historical phenomenon -- the emergence of the first industrial society. The book is divided into four sections: 'Industry and Technology' which features the tools, machines and engines that have dramatically changed Western lives. 'Science' which showcases the work of some of the world's greatest scientists, and features the ever-changing worlds of genetic and computing. 'Society' which shows how technology has had a huge impact on medicine, agriculture, conditions in the workplace and home, and on our scope for leisure. Finally, 'Museum' goes behind the scenes at the Science Museum, briefly outlines its history and discusses the vision behind the Wellcome Wing.
