Etymology and History of Technology
- The term 'technology' dates back to the early 17th century and means systematic treatment.
- Derived from the Greek word 'tékhnē' (craft or art) and '-λογία' (study or knowledge).
- In the 19th century, continental Europeans used 'Technik' or 'technique' to refer to a way of doing.
- 'Technologie' referred to the academic discipline studying arts and crafts or the political discipline legislating on their functions.
- In English, both 'Technik' and 'Technologie' were translated as 'technology'.
- The history of technology explores the development of tools, techniques, and systems.
- Prehistoric technology includes the development of stone tools, control of fire, and the invention of the wheel.
- The Neolithic Revolution brought about agricultural innovations and increased social complexity.
- Ancient civilizations such as Egypt, India, China, Greece, Rome, and Iran showcased various technological advancements.
Prehistoric Technological Advances
- Tools were initially developed through observation and trial and error by hominids.
- The first stone tools were made around 2 million years ago.
- Pressure flaking, a refinement of tool-making, emerged around 75,000 years ago.
- The discovery and control of fire played a crucial role in human development.
- Other technological advances during the Paleolithic era include clothing, shelter, and the construction of wood huts.
Neolithic Technological Advances
- The Neolithic Revolution brought about accelerated technological innovation and increased social complexity.
- The invention of the polished stone axe allowed large-scale forest clearance and farming.
- Agriculture fed larger populations and enabled sedentism and labor specialization.
- The transition to the first cities and civilizations involved hierarchical social structures, trade, and collective action.
- The invention of writing facilitated the spread of cultural knowledge and the development of history, libraries, schools, and scientific research.
Ancient Technological Contributions
- Ancient civilizations such as Egypt, India, China, Greece, Rome, and Iran made significant technological contributions.
- The wheel was invented around 4,000 BCE, enabling transportation and trade.
- Wind power was utilized through sailing ships from around 7,000 BCE.
- Egyptians used the annual flooding of the Nile for irrigation through canals and levees.
- Advancements in metallurgy led to the discovery of alloys like bronze and brass, and the use of iron alloys like steel.
Modern Technological Advancements
- Industrial Revolution in the 18th century led to discoveries in agriculture, manufacturing, and transport.
- Second Industrial Revolution brought rapid scientific discovery, standardization, and mass production.
- Inventions included sewage systems, electricity, light bulbs, railroads, automobiles, and airplanes.
- 20th century saw advancements in nuclear power, computers, information technology, and space exploration.
- Modern technology relies on training and education, with complex fields supporting their development.
Technology Data Sources
Reference | URL |
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Glossary | https://www.alternix.com/blogs/glossary-of-terms/technology |
Wikipedia | http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Technology |
Wikidata | https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q11016 |
Knowledge Graph | https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=/m/07c1v |