Colonial Technology

Science and the Transfer of Innovation to Australia

Jan Todd author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Cambridge University Press

Published:30th Apr '09

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Colonial Technology cover

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