“A house of wonders itself. . . . Wonderland inspires grins and well-what-d'ya-knows†—The New York Times Book ReviewFrom the New York Times–bestselling author of How We Got to Now and Where Good Ideas Come From; a look at the world-changing innovations we made while keeping ourselves entertained. This lushly illustrated history of popular entertainment takes a long-zoom approach; contending that the pursuit of novelty and wonder is a powerful driver of world-shaping technological change. Steven Johnson argues that; throughout history; the cutting edge of innovation lies wherever people are working the hardest to keep themselves and others amused. Johnson’s storytelling is just as delightful as the inventions he describes; full of surprising stops along the journey from simple concepts to complex modern systems. He introduces us to the colorful innovators of leisure: the explorers; proprietors; showmen; and artists who changed the trajectory of history with their luxurious wares; exotic meals; taverns; gambling tables; and magic shows.In Wonderland; Johnson compellingly argues that observers of technological and social trends should be looking for clues in novel amusements. You’ll find the future wherever people are having the most fun.
#2565970 in Books 1984-08Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 #File Name: 0395354145366 pages
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Four StarsBy Philip M. BlacetA true wealth of information; and food for thought. A reference book; not intended for casual reading!2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Factoids that I did not knowBy Kindle CustomerHas a lot of new information that I had not known about. I have seen some rock art involving star configurations andthis has helped me to understand them better.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Interesting but outdatedBy BlueI bought this book at Chaco Canyon; thinking it was a new publication as I had not seen it before.However; after a couple of chapters; it occured to me that it was not really up to date (no mention of Chimney Rock Archeological Site in Colorado; for example) and when I checked; I noticed that it was written in 1984!All in all; an interesting book on an interesting subject; but terribly outdated as there have been many new findings on archaeoastronomy in the last few decades.
