Ingenium is
medieval English vernacular for “an ingenious contrivance.” In
this fascinating book, physicist Mark Denny considers five such
contrivances—the bow and arrow, the waterwheel, the counterpoise
siege engine (including the trebuchet), the pendulum clock anchor
escapement, and the centrifugal governor—and demonstrates how
they literally changed the world. Interweaving an entertaining
narrative with diagrams, equations, and drawings, Denny shares
the history of each device, explains the physics behind it, and
describes how it was used, how it evolved, and why it is significant
in today's world. Reflecting on the inventors of these ancient
machines and the times in which they lived, Denny concludes with
thought-provoking observations about inventors, inventiveness,
genius, and innovation. Whether you follow the diagrams and equations
for a greater scientific understanding of these machines or skip
lightly through them to focus on the technological history presented,
Ingenium does not disappoint.
200 pages.
Illustrated in B&W with 52 halftones and 23 line drawings. 6-1/4
x 9-1/4. Hard cover. $25.00. (2007) ISBN 9780801885860
