In 'Glass' by Alan Macfarlane and Gerry Martin, readers embark on a fascinating journey through the intricate history of glass, a material that has shaped cultures and civilizations. The authors unravel the secrets behind glassmaking, revealing how this seemingly mundane substance has influenced art, architecture, and science throughout the ages. With a unique blend of storytelling and scholarly insight, 'Glass' challenges us to reconsider our relationship with objects that surround us. From ancient artisans to modern technologies, discover the hidden stories and innovations that have made glass a mirror reflecting humanity’s evolution. Prepare to see the world through a new lens—one that shines with brilliance and intrigue!
By Alan Macfarlane, Gerry Martin
Published: NaN
"The beauty of glass lies not just in its transparency, but in the worlds it reveals and the reflections it offers of our own lives."
Picture, if you can, a world without glass. There would be no microscopes or telescopes, no sciences of microbiology or astronomy. People with poor vision would grope in the shadows, and planes, cars, and even electricity probably wouldn't exist. Artists would draw without the benefit of three-dimensional perspective, and ships would still be steered by what stars navigators could see through the naked eye. In Glass: A World History, Alan Macfarlane and Gerry Martin tell the fascinating story of how glass has revolutionized the way we see ourselves and the world around us. Starting ten thousand years ago with its invention in the Near East, Macfarlane and Martin trace the history of glass and its uses from the ancient civilizations of India, China, and Rome through western Europe during the Renaissance, Enlightenment, and Industrial Revolution, and finally up to the present day. The authors argue that glass played a key role not just in transforming humanity's relationship with the natural world, but also in the divergent courses of Eastern and Western civilizations. While all the societies that used glass first focused on its beauty in jewelry and other ornaments, and some later made it into bottles and other containers, only western Europeans further developed the use of glass for precise optics, mirrors, and windows. These technological innovations in glass, in turn, provided the foundations for European domination of the world in the several centuries following the Scientific Revolution. Clear, compelling, and quite provocative, Glass is an amazing biography of an equally amazing subject, a subject that has been central to every aspect of human history, from art and science to technology and medicine.
Showing 8 of 28 similar books
Caterina Fake is an American entrepreneur and investor, best known for co-founding Flickr, one of the first photo-sharing platforms that helped define social media and web 2.0. After the success of Flickr, Fake went on to co-found Hunch, a recommendation engine that was later acquired by eBay. She is a partner at Yes VC, a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage startups, with a focus on companies that foster human connection and creativity. Fake is also an advocate for ethical technology and often speaks about the importance of designing products that prioritize user well-being. Her contributions to tech and her insights on the intersection of technology and culture have made her a respected leader in the industry.
Jocko Willink is a retired Navy SEAL officer, renowned for his leadership during the Battle of Ramadi in the Iraq War, which earned him the Silver Star and Bronze Star. Transitioning from military service, he co-authored the best-selling book "Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win" with fellow SEAL Leif Babin, which has become a cornerstone in leadership and management literature. Willink has also written the "Way of the Warrior Kid" series, aimed at empowering young readers with principles of discipline and resilience. Additionally, he hosts the popular "Jocko Podcast," where he discusses leadership, discipline, and personal development. Willink's influence extends beyond literature through his Echelon Front leadership consultancy, helping organizations implement effective leadership strategies.
Reshma Saujani is the founder of Girls Who Code, an organization aimed at closing the gender gap in technology by empowering young women to pursue careers in coding and computer science. She gained national attention in 2010 as the first Indian-American woman to run for U.S. Congress. Reshma is also the author of several books, including Brave, Not Perfect, which encourages women to embrace failure and take risks. Her TED Talk on teaching girls bravery rather than perfection has garnered millions of views. Reshma continues to advocate for gender equality and innovation in education.
Aaron Rodgers is a renowned American football quarterback, widely recognized for his exceptional career with the Green Bay Packers in the NFL. Although his primary acclaim comes from sports, Rodgers has contributed to literature through insightful writings and interviews that offer a deep dive into the mindset of a professional athlete. His thoughtful perspectives on leadership, teamwork, and personal growth have resonated with readers beyond the sports community. Rodgers’ contributions have been featured in various sports and lifestyle publications, adding a unique voice to the literary world. His ability to articulate the nuances of his experiences has made him a respected figure in both athletic and literary circles.
Guillermo del Toro is a Mexican filmmaker, author, and producer known for his dark fantasy and horror films, including Pan’s Labyrinth and The Shape of Water. Del Toro’s films often blend elements of fairy tales with gothic horror, exploring themes of humanity and monstrosity. He won the Academy Award for Best Director for The Shape of Water in 2018. Del Toro is also a passionate advocate for the preservation of film history and a mentor to emerging filmmakers. His unique visual style and storytelling have made him one of the most respected directors in modern cinema.
Howard Stern is a renowned American radio and television personality, best known for his groundbreaking work on "The Howard Stern Show," which revolutionized the radio industry with its candid and often controversial content. He is also a successful author, with his autobiographical books, "Private Parts" (1993) and "Miss America" (1995), both becoming bestsellers and earning critical acclaim for their raw and humorous insights into his life and career. Stern's literary contributions extend to his 2019 book, "Howard Stern Comes Again," which features a collection of his most compelling interviews and personal reflections. His ability to blend entertainment with deeply personal storytelling has cemented his status as a significant figure in modern media and literature. Stern's influence continues to resonate, reflecting his unique voice and fearless approach to both broadcasting and writing.
David Kadavy is an author, podcast host, and creativity expert, best known for his books The Heart to Start and Design for Hackers, where he explores the intersection of creativity, productivity, and design. Kadavy's work focuses on helping creators overcome procrastination, build meaningful habits, and find motivation to pursue their creative projects. He is also the host of the Love Your Work podcast, where he interviews high-performing individuals across various fields about their creative processes and productivity techniques. Kadavy’s insights stem from his own experiences as a designer and entrepreneur, offering practical advice on how to break through mental blocks and create with intention. His work emphasizes the importance of self-discipline, creativity, and a minimalist approach to both design and life. Kadavy’s books and podcast have garnered a global audience, positioning him as a thought leader in the realms of personal development and creative success.
Brett Adcock is an entrepreneur and co-founder of Archer Aviation, an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) company focused on revolutionizing urban air mobility. Prior to founding Archer, Adcock co-founded Vettery, a talent marketplace that connects companies with job seekers using data-driven matching technology, which was later acquired by the Adecco Group. At Archer, Adcock is working to build the future of transportation with electric aircraft designed for short-distance flights in urban areas. His vision for the future of air travel has made him a key player in the growing eVTOL and aviation technology industries.
Showing 8 of 12 related collections
“The beauty of glass lies not just in its transparency, but in the worlds it reveals and the reflections it offers of our own lives.”
Glass
By Alan Macfarlane, Gerry Martin
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Alan Macfarlane is a distinguished British anthropologist and historian, renowned for his interdisciplinary approach that blends ethnography with historical analysis. He is best known for his influential works including 'The Making of the English Landscape' and 'The Origins of English Individualism.' Macfarlane's writing style is characterized by its clarity and accessibility, often integrating personal narrative with scholarly research to engage readers in exploring complex cultural and historical themes.
Gerry Martin is an accomplished author known for his engaging storytelling and vivid character development. With a background in literature and creative writing, he has carved a niche in contemporary fiction. His notable works include 'Whispers of the Past', 'Shadows of Tomorrow', and 'The Last Goodbye', each exploring complex themes of love, loss, and redemption. Martin's writing style is characterized by its lyrical prose and immersive narrative, drawing readers into richly crafted worlds. He is passionate about the power of narrative to foster empathy and understanding.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In 'The Gift of Fear', renowned security expert Gavin De Becker reveals the critical importance of intuition in recognizing and responding to danger. He shares real-life stories that illustrate how our instincts can act as a powerful early warning system. De Becker challenges societal norms that often dismiss or undervalue our gut feelings, urging readers to trust their internal alarms. Through practical advice and psychological insights, he empowers individuals to better protect themselves from potential threats. This thought-provoking book not only teaches us about fear but also celebrates the strength of our innate instincts.
In 'The City in History,' Lewis Mumford explores the evolution of urban life from ancient times to the modern metropolis. He argues that cities are not just physical structures but reflections of human values and societal progress. Mumford delves into the interplay between architecture, technology, and culture, revealing how they shape the human experience. With incisive critiques and vivid historical examples, he presents a vision of the ideal city that promotes both individuality and community. This thought-provoking journey challenges readers to reconsider the role of cities in their own lives and the future of civilization.
In a marriage filled with deception, Nick Dunne becomes the prime suspect in the sudden disappearance of his wife, Amy. As the media frenzy escalates, hidden truths and shocking secrets emerge, revealing the labyrinth of their relationship. Flynn's masterful narrative twists and turns keep readers guessing at every page. Just when you think you understand the characters, they pull you deeper into their web of lies. Can love survive the ultimate betrayal, or is it merely a façade?
In 'Phantoms in the Brain,' neuroscientist V. S. Ramachandran explores the enigmatic complexities of the human brain, unraveling the mysteries behind phantom limb sensations and neurological disorders. Through fascinating case studies, he presents the brain as a puzzle of remarkable adaptability and creativity. Ramachandran delves into how our perceptions shape reality, challenging conventional notions of self and consciousness. With wit and insight, he reveals the brain's capacity to distort and reconstruct our experiences. This provocative journey leaves readers questioning the very nature of identity and the fabric of reality itself.
In 'Hardcore History', Dan Carlin takes listeners on an epic auditory journey through the annals of human conflict, exploring the profound impact of war on civilization. His vivid storytelling and deep analysis breathe life into historical events, making even the most distant eras feel immediate and relevant. With a unique blend of passion and intellect, Carlin challenges conventional narratives, urging us to question what we think we know about our past. Each episode transforms history into a gripping tale of human drama, complete with the moral dilemmas faced by our ancestors. Prepare to rethink history as you uncover the haunting truths hidden in the echoes of time.
In 'The Kandy-Kolored Tangerine-Flake Streamline Baby', Tom Wolfe takes readers on a vibrant journey through the unconventional world of 1960s America. With his keen eye for detail and sharp wit, Wolfe explores the kaleidoscope of youth culture, from custom car enthusiasts to the rise of the counterculture. The book is a dazzling tapestry of stories that showcase the eccentricities and passions fueling a generation's quest for identity. Through lively prose and striking imagery, Wolfe invites us to witness the birth of a new social landscape, where boundaries blur and creativity reigns. Dive into this exhilarating ride and discover the colorful characters that shaped an era like no other!
In 'Greenlights,' Matthew McConaughey shares his unconventional journey through life, unveiling the triumphs and trials that shaped him into the man he is today. With a blend of personal anecdotes, philosophical musings, and candid reflections, he invites readers to embrace their own stories. The book offers a unique perspective on success, highlighting the importance of resilience and finding joy in the journey. McConaughey's signature charm and wit shine through, making every page a pleasure to read. Discover the 'greenlights' that have guided him, and uncover how to recognize and pursue your own.
In 'The Principia,' Isaac Newton lays the foundation of classical mechanics, unveiling the laws of motion and universal gravitation that govern the cosmos. This groundbreaking work not only revolutionized science in the 17th century but also transformed humanity's understanding of the universe. Newton's meticulous observations and mathematical rigor challenge readers to rethink their perceptions of force, motion, and the nature of reality. As you delve into this masterpiece, discover how one man's quest for knowledge reshaped the destiny of science. What revelations might you uncover about the principles that govern our world?
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
