Description
Book SynopsisAwarded the Dexter Prize by the Society for the History of Technology, this book offers a comparative history of the evolution of modern electric power systems. It described large-scale technological change and demonstrates that technology cannot be understood unless placed in a cultural context.
Trade ReviewAn exciting, major contribution to the field of history, for it establishes very convincingly that the growth of... power networks is as intrinsic to and characteristic of modern society as the growth of manorialism was to medieval society. American Historical Review How the West was wired. Times Literary Supplement
Table of ContentsPreface
1. Introduction
2. Edison the Hedgehog: Invention and Development
3. Edison's System Abroad: Technology Transfer
4. Reverse Salients and Critical Problems
5. Conflict and Resolution
6. Technological Momentum
7. Berlin: The Coordination of Technology and Politics
8. Chicago: The Dominance of Technology
9. London: The Primary of Politics
10. California White Coal
11. War and Acquired Characteristics
12. Planned Systems
13. The Culture of Regional Systems
14. RWE, PP&L, and NESCO: The
