Forks, Phonographs, and Hot Air Balloons

'It is difficult to evaluate how well Weber's ideas would work as predictors of future developments, but as explanations of past events, his arguments have a sense of logic and insight. Even if his hindsight is better than his foresight, this is an interesting and entertaining work.' Hilary D. Barton, Lawrence Livermore National Lab, Library Journal
'grippingly written book ... Weber ... offers example inventions to make his arguments; this analysis is at times compelling and, because of its specificity, is likely amenable to future mental testing' Psychological Science, Vol. 5, No. 3, May 1994
'The book is enjoyable to read and the examples and methods of analysis used illustrate the points clearly and well.' Steve Allman, Physics Education
The major advantage of this book is its use of language. Weber examines discoveries from the layman's point of view, which makes for easy reading. The discussion is also relatively free of technical jargon and complicated discussions of how devices work. In short, Weber's text is both accessible to technophobes and excellent for anyone interested in creative and critical thinking.
The section on understanding the created world is fascinating. Using simple methods of analysis, Weber strips everyday objects to the bone, laying bare for all to see why some inventions are shaped, used or made the way they are .. . The book is enjoyable to read and the examples and methods of analysis used illustrate the points clearly and well ... A clear conclusion, and brilliant chapters on heristics and understanding the created world, make the book an enjoyable ... read. * Physics Education *