The Evolution of Useful Things
How Everyday Artifacts-From Forks and Pins to Paper Clips and Zippers-Came to be as They are.
By Henry Petroski | Publisher: Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group
About the book
How did the table fork acquire a fourth tine? What advantage does the Phillips-head screw have over its single-grooved predecessor? Why does the paper clip look the way it does? What makes Scotch tape Scotch?
In this delightful book Henry, Petroski takes a microscopic look at artifacts that most of us count on but rarely contemplate, including such icons of the everyday as pins, Post-its, and fast-food \"clamshell\" containers. At the same time, he offers a convincing new theory of technological innovation as a response to the perceived failures of existing products—suggesting that irritation, and not necessity, is the mother of invention.
Editions of The Evolution of Useful Things
- Hardcover
- ISBN 9780679412267
- Paperback
- ISBN 9780679740391
- EBook
- ISBN 9780307773050
Read an Excerpt
How did the table fork acquire a fourth tine? What advantage does the Phillips-head screw have over its single-grooved predecessor? Why does the paper clip look the way it does? What makes Scotch tape Scotch?
In this delightful book Henry, Petroski takes a microscopic look at artifacts that most of us count on but rarely contemplate, including such icons of the everyday as pins, Post-its, and fast-food \"clamshell\" containers. At the same time, he offers a convincing new theory of technological innovation as a response to the perceived failures of existing products—suggesting that irritation, and not necessity, is the mother of invention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Evolution of Useful Things about?
How did the table fork acquire a fourth tine? What advantage does the Phillips-head screw have over its single-grooved predecessor? Why does the paper clip look the way it does? What makes Scotch tape Scotch?
In this delightful book Henry, Petroski takes a microscopic look at artifacts that most of us count on but rarely contemplate, including such icons of the everyday as pins, Post-its, and fast-food \"clamshell\" containers. At the same time, he offers a convincing new theory of technological innovation as a response to the perceived failures of existing products—suggesting that irritation, and not necessity, is the mother of invention.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in The Evolution of Useful Things?
Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, Industrial processes > Technology: general issues > Technical design
Where can I read a sample of The Evolution of Useful Things?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780679412267
Who is/are the Author/s of the book The Evolution of Useful Things?
Henry Petroski
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
The Evolution of Useful Things is available as hardcover(ISBN 9780679412267) and paperback(ISBN 9780679740391) and ebook(ISBN 9780307773050)
Where can I buy The Evolution of Useful Things online or support local independent bookshops?
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Where can I buy The Evolution of Useful Things?