The Extension of Man

A History of Physics Before the Quantum

J.D. Bernal

Recommended By

Book Reviews

One of Paul Graham's answers to 'What should I read to learn more about history?'

Book Synopsis

"The Extension of Man" by J.D. Bernal is an insightful exploration of the relationship between science, technology, and humanity, delving into the ways in which our advances in these fields have transformed both individuals and societies.

This groundbreaking book examines various aspects of human existence, such as communication, mobility, health, and even thought processes, through the lens of scientific and technological developments. Bernal reveals how inventions like the telephone, the automobile, and medical advancements have shaped and extended our abilities and capabilities.

Through diligent research and thought-provoking analysis, Bernal sheds light on the profound impact of science and technology on human evolution, arguing that they are not mere tools, but integral parts of our survival. He explores how these extensions of man, both physical and intellectual, have altered the fabric of society, leading to new concepts of time, space, and communication.

"The Extension of Man" also delves into the ethical implications of these advancements, acknowledging both their immense benefits and potential dangers. Bernal challenges readers to consider the responsible and ethical use of technology, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that these advancements serve the betterment of humanity rather than facilitating its downfall.

This concise yet thought-provoking book serves as a timely reminder of the impactful relationship between science, technology, and humanity. It compels readers to reflect on how these extensions of man have bridged gaps, expanded horizons, and redefined human existence, ultimately urging us to use our technological power wisely to shape a better future for all.

Explore More Books

See All
Hackers
A Good Man
The Trial
Secrets of Power Negotiating
The Complete Sherlock Holmes
We Wish To Inform You
Accidental Presidents
A History of Rome
Flow
Power Failure
The Diamond Age
The Pattern Seekers
Virtual Society
End The Fed
Artificial Intelligence
The Fever
The Aeneid
The Iliad
The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao
Energy Myths and Realities
Civilized to Death
Applied Minds
Superintelligence
Sex, Ecology, Spirituality
America's War for the Greater Middle East
Tao of Philosophy
Rick and Morty Book Four
The Crisis of Global Capitalism
The $12 Million Stuffed Shark
The Virgin Suicides
The Four
Super Pumped
The 48 Laws of Power
True Believer
For the Love of the Land
Clocks and Culture
Atomic Habits
The Two-Parent Privelege
Psychopolitics
The Information
The Gospel of Wealth
The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin
The Beginning Of Infinity
The World We Have Lost
But What If We're Wrong?
Capitalism Without Capital
The Captive Mind
Fooling Some of the People All of the Time
The Jordan Rules
The Gutsy Girl
Prelude to Foundation
Fermat's Enigma
The Heart
Hyperion
Farmer's Progress
Reality Is Not What It Seems
The Second Mountain
The Third Wave
Who Really Matters
The Right Call
That Will Never Work
Think on These Things
The Great Gatsby
Schulz and Peanuts
Academically Adrift
It's All Too Much
The Outsiders
Trump
The Book of Awakening
History of the World
When The Heavens Went on Sale
The Making of an American Thinking Class
The Dip
The Tiger
From Headless Chicken to Golden Goose
Andy Grove
Explaining Social Behavior
Sapiens
No Applause - Just Throw Money
The 4 Hour Work Week
The Female Brain
The Middleman
The AI Revolution in Medicine
Flu
Hackers and Painters
Folk Devils and Moral Panics
The French Revolution and What Went Wrong
The Accidental Universe
Hooked
Dapper Dan
The Time Machine
Red Notice
Necessary Dreams
The Jungle Book
The Great Crash of 1929
Virus of the Mind
Drunk Tank Pink
Trader Vic
Liberating Learning
The Man Who Invented Fidel