The Unbound Prometheus: Technological Change and Industrial Development in Western Europe from 1750 to the Present

by David S. Landes

Overview

In this new edition of his classic history on revolution and economic development in Europe, David Landes reasserts his original arguments in the light of current debates about globalization and comparative economic growth. Questions about why Europe was the first to industrialize and the viability of the post-war economic boom are as controversial as ever and Landes concludes that only by continuous industrial revolution can Europe and the world sustain itself in the years ahead. First Edition Hb (1969): 0-521-07200-X First Edition Pb (1969): 0-521-09418-6

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521534024
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	06/26/2003
Edition description:	Second Edition
Pages:	590
Product dimensions:	5.47(w) x 8.58(h) x 1.50(d)

About the Author

David Landes is Emeritus Professor of Economics and History at Harvard University and the author of The Wealth and Poverty of Nations (1998).

Table of Contents

Preface to the new edition; Preface to the original edition; 1. Introduction; 2. The industrial revolution in Britain; 3. Continental emulation; 4. Closing the gap; 5. Short breath and second wind; 6. The interwar years; 7. Reconstruction and growth since 1945; 8. Conclusion; 9. Epilogue; Index.

Editorial Reviews

"The first edition has long been a classic in the field...In 1969, Landes undertook the heroic task of surveying modern technological history. This path-breaking work asked the right questions, and provided insightful and balanced answers. It still repays reading by scholars of technological and economic history." Rick Szostak, The International History Review

"An unbeatable introduction to the economic history of the industrial and technologiocal revolutions in Western Europe." Military Review

From the Publisher