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
The Meaning of Human Existence
Public Opinion
The Inmates Are Running the Asylum
The Song of the Cell
Hiroshima
The Selfish Gene
The Bed of Procrustes
Tenth of December
The Book of Why
The Biggest Con
Limping on Water
Bass Culture
Machine Learning for Dummies
When Money Dies
Fiasco
Snow Crash
A Time for New Dreams
Getting Everything You Can Out of All You've Got
A Life
The Man Without a Face
Being Wrong
Order Without Design
The Double Helix
A Shot To Save The World
Syntax & Sage
The Fourth Part of the World
Natural Born Heroes
How An Economy Grows and Why It Crashes
Drive
Seeing Is Forgetting the Name of the Thing One Sees
The Legend of Henry Ford
Made to Stick
The Letters of William Godwin
Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Pale Rider
Bitcoin
Vitamania
Falling into Grace
The Benedict Option
Wake Up: Why The World Has Gone Nuts
Friday Black
Little, Big
Insanely Simple
The Emperor of All Maladies
Good Profit
The Invention of Air
The Snowball
Hackers and Painters
Security Analysis
Cold Calling Techniques
101 Reasons to Get Out of Bed
Alice in Wonderland
Working Backwards
The Wealth of Nations
Why Nations Fail
The Golden Compass
The Age of Entitlement
Googled
Competitive Strategy
Hail Mary
The Parasitic Mind
Your Symphony of Selves
Infrastructure
Jane Eyre
The Pleasure of Finding Things Out
Gang Leader for a Day
The Doctrine of Deification in the Greek Patristic Tradition
The Science of Conjecture
Deep Work
Die With Zero
More Than You Know
Very Good, Jeeves
Super Maker
The Infinite Game
A Brief History of Intelligence
Think Like
English Culture and the Decline of the Industrial Spirit, 1850-1980
Zen in the Art of Archery
Spiritual Enlightenment, the Damnedest Thing
Daring Greatly
The Sunday Philosophy Club
Strength In Stillness
Permanent Record
Amazon Unbound
Great Short Poems
The British Are Coming
Rich Dad, Poor Dad
Lagom
Ender's Shadow
The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe
Paradigms
How To Lie With Statistics
Albert Einstein
A Peace to End All Peace
The Power of Habit
Free The Animal
Endure
21 Lessons for the 21st Century
Central Banking 101
Can't Hurt Me