Invention and Innovation

Here's a book that will remind you of the many ways that human invention can go wrong. From airships to nuclear fission, supersonic flight to leaded gasoline, DDT to chlorofluorocarbons, Vaclav Smil catalogues a litany of failed inventions and technologies.

But he also offers a ray of hope, detailing a few inventions that have managed to make a positive impact despite their rocky start.Invention and Innovation is a fascinating read for anyone interested in the history of human ingenuity. Smil's clear-eyed approach to the subject is refreshing, and his wealth of knowledge is impressive. This is a book that will make you think twice about the next big thing.