Colonial Technology
Science and the Transfer of Innovation to Australia
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Cambridge University Press
Published:30th Apr '09
Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back
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- Hardback£96.00(9780521461382)
An important study of the transfer of technology to Australia in the nineteenth century.
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.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.
"...an incisive, innovative challenge to conventional theories of colonial dependency....engaging and informative." Choice
"...in a field where theoretical forays are in need of more substantiation, this is an exemplary work." Robert Kubicek, Pacific Affairs
"Todd's book...is a welcome addition..." Lionel Frost, American Historical Review
"...the writing is clear and never dull. The literature relating to technological change in Australia is sparse and this is a welcome addition." Lionel Frost, American Historical Review
ISBN: 9780521109840
Dimensions: 229mm x 152mm x 18mm
Weight: 470g
316 pages