Description
Book Synopsis: A New Yorker Best Book of 2022 Finalist for the 2023 Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Science & Technology A vibrant account of how measurement has invisibly shaped our world, from ancient civilizations to the modern day.
From the cubit to the kilogram, the humble inch to the speed of light, measurement is a powerful tool that humans invented to make sense of the world. In this revelatory work of science and social history, James Vincent dives into its hidden world, taking readers from ancient Egypt, where measuring the annual depth of the Nile was an essential task, to the intellectual origins of the metric system in the French Revolution, and from the surprisingly animated rivalry between metric and imperial, to our current age of the “quantified self.” At every turn, Vincent is keenly attuned to the political consequences of measurement, exploring how it has also been used as a tool for oppression and control.
Beyond Measure reveals how measurement is not only deeply entwined with our experience of the world, but also how its history encompasses and shapes the human quest for knowledge. 20 black-and-white illustrations
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Discover the captivating world of measurement and how it has shaped our society throughout history. Beyond Measure: The Hidden History of Measurement from Cubits to Quantum Constants is a fascinating journey into the origins and evolution of this powerful tool. From the ancient civilizations that used measurement to understand the world around them, to the scientific breakthroughs that led to the creation of the metric system, this book uncovers the hidden stories behind the numbers.
Named a New Yorker Best Book of 2022 and a finalist for the 2023 Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Science & Technology, Beyond Measure offers a unique perspective on the role of measurement in our lives. James Vincent's meticulous research and engaging storytelling make this book a must-read for anyone curious about the history behind the numbers we use every day.
But Beyond Measure goes beyond just the historical aspects of measurement. It delves into how measurement has been used as a tool for both liberation and oppression. Vincent explores the political consequences of measurement and how it has played a role in control and dominance throughout history. Through his insightful analysis, readers will gain a deeper understanding of how measurement has shaped our society and the implications it has for our quest for knowledge.
With 20 black-and-white illustrations to complement the captivating narrative, Beyond Measure is an essential read for anyone interested in science, history, or the human experience. Whether you're a student, a researcher, or simply a curious mind, this book is sure to broaden your understanding of the world around you.
Don't miss out on this captivating exploration of measurement and its hidden history. Order your copy of Beyond Measure: The Hidden History of Measurement from Cubits to Quantum Constants now and embark on a journey that will forever change the way you see the world. Order now!
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