Colonial Technology: Science and the Transfer of Innovation to Australia (Studies in Australian History)

Todd, Jan

ISBN 10: 0521109841 / ISBN 13: 9780521109840

Published by Cambridge University Press, 2009

About this Item

An important study of the transfer of technology to Australia in the nineteenth century. Series: Studies in Australian History. Num Pages: 316 pages, 17 b/w illus. 5 maps 2 tables. BIC Classification: 1MBF; RGL. Category: (P) Professional & Vocational. Dimension: 229 x 152 x 18. Weight in Grams: 470. . 2009. 1st Edition. paperback. . . . . Books ship from the US and Ireland.

Seller Inventory # V9780521109840

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Colonial Technology: Science and the Transfer of Innovation to Australia (Studies in Australian History)
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication Date: 2009
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0521109841
• ISBN 13: 9780521109840
• Binding: Soft cover
• Condition: New

About this title

Synopsis

Australia has always imported overseas technology, largely out of necessity, but has this been exploitative, fostering a relationship of dependence, or used to Australia's advantage? Jan Todd explores this question in the context of nineteenth-century science. In her important study, Todd argues that the technology transfer was far more complex than has been widely acknowledged. She shows that technology systems reflect national characteristics, institutions and priorities, drawing general conclusions about Australian science and technology in an imperial context. Much of the book is devoted to two fascinating case studies: the anthrax vaccination for sheep and the cyanide process of gold extraction, both transferred from Europe. In both cases, considering a range of economic, political and cultural factors, she traces a process of creative adaptation to these technologies.

Book Description

This important study examines the transfer of technology to Australia in the nineteenth century, arguing that this was not a simple relationship of dependency. Using case studies, and considering a range of economic, political and cultural factors, Jan Todd traces a process of creative adaptation to these technologies.