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The Religion of Technology: The Divinity of Man and the Spirit of Invention
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The Religion of Technology: The Divinity of Man and the Spirit of Invention Paperback - 1999

by David F. Noble

Summary

Are religion and science really at war with one another? Not according to David F. Noble, who argues that the flourishing of both religion and technology today is nothing new but rather the continuation of a 1,000-year-old Western tradition.

The Religion of Technology demonstrates that modern man's enchantment with things technological was inspired by and grounded in religious expectations and the quest for transcendence and salvation. The two early impulses behind the urge to advance in science, he claims, are the conviction that apocalypse is imminent, and the belief that increasing human knowledge helps recover what was lost in Eden. Noble traces the history of these ideas by examining the imaginings of monks, explorers, magi, scientists, Freemasons, and engineers, from Sir Isaac Newton to Joseph Priestley to Wernher von Braun.

Noble suggests that the relationship between religion and technology has perhaps outlived its usefulness. Whereas it once aimed to promote human well-being, it has ultimately become a threat to our survival. Thus, with The Religion of Technology, Noble aims to redirect our efforts toward more worldly and humane ends.

From the publisher

David W. Noble is professor of history and American studies at the University of Minnesota. He lives in St. Paul, MN.

First line

The dynamic project of Western technology, the defining mark of modernity, is actually medieval in origin and spirit.

Details

  • Title The Religion of Technology: The Divinity of Man and the Spirit of Invention
  • Author David F. Noble
  • Binding Paperback
  • Edition First Penguin Ed
  • Pages 288
  • Volumes 1
  • Language ENG
  • Publisher Penguin Books, New York
  • Date 1999-04-01
  • ISBN 9780140279160 / 0140279164
  • Weight 0.52 lbs (0.24 kg)
  • Dimensions 7.86 x 5.14 x 0.65 in (19.96 x 13.06 x 1.65 cm)
  • Ages 18 to UP years
  • Grade levels 13 - UP
  • Dewey Decimal Code 261.56

About the author

David W. Noble is professor of history and American studies at the University of Minnesota. He lives in St. Paul, MN.

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New York: Penguin, 2013. 8vo size trade paperback; 272 pages From back: "Spanning a thousand years, (the author's) book uncovers the religious roots and spirit of Western technology. By examining the imaginings of monks, explorers, magi, scientists, and engineers (this book) brings to light the otherworldly inspiration behind the apparently worldly endeavors by which we habitually define Western civilization. (The author) traces the Western idea of technological development from the ninth century, when the useful arts became connected to the concept of redemption, up to our own time, as humans begin to exercise Godlike knowledge and powers with nuclear weapons, manned space exploration, artificial intelligence, and genetic engineering. "(He) then poses the question - has the convergence of technology and religion outlived its usefulness?" Edgewear. Thanks for shopping with us. 100% of your purchase benefits charity and supports literacy and life-long learning.. Trade… Read More
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