Science, Technology and the British Industrial 'Decline', 1870–1970

A comprehensive survey of the history of British science and technology since 1870 in relation to economic performance.

David Edgerton (Author)

9780521577786, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 28 June 1996

104 pages, 24 tables
21.6 x 13.9 x 0.7 cm, 0.126 kg

'… this book will be of considerable value to students and teachers alike, serving as an authoritative reference work and an accessible course reader.' Journal of Industrial History

The place of science and technology in the British economy and society is widely seen as critical to our understanding of the British 'decline'. There is a long tradition of characterising post-1870 Britain by its lack of enthusiasm for science and by the low social status of the practitioners of technology. David Edgerton examines these assumptions, analysing the arguments for them and pointing out the different intellectual traditions from which they arise. Drawing on a wealth of statistical data, he argues that British innovation and technical training were much stronger than is generally believed, and that from 1870 to 1970 Britain's innovative record was comparable to that of Germany. This book is a comprehensive study of the history of British science and technology in relation to economic performance. It will be of interest to scientists and engineers as well as economic historians, and will be invaluable to students approaching the subject for the first time.

List of tables
Acknowledgements
Note on references
1. Introduction
2. Use of technique and technical and scientific training
3. Industrial invention, innovation, and research and development
4. State funding of research and development
5. British technology in comparative perspective
6. Conclusions
Glossary
Bibliography
Index.

Subject Areas: Economic history [KCZ]