American Technological Sublime
Americans have a unique relationship to all levels of technology, one that has also changed over time. Nye (Electrifying America, MIT Pr., 1990) explores this "technological sublime" in a history of technology based not in engineering but as one "concerned with the social context of technology." Chapters cover specific technologies, for example, bridges or the atomic bomb. Nye's insightful use of Fourth of July celebrations, world's fairs, and centenaries is particularly effective. The concluding chapter, "Consumer's Sublime," indicates that our technological relationship is headed in a new direction. Skillfully written and easily read, this is recommended for all collections and is essential for history of science collections.Michael D. Cramer, Virginia Polytechnic Inst. & State Univ. Libs., BlacksburgCopyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.