In the 18th century, the Industrial Revolution was one of several revolutions that overturned society. Mechanical creatures intruded into farms and homes, but still this invasion had no name. Finally, in 1802, Johann Beckmann, an economics professor at Gottingen University gave this ascending force its name [technology] . . . He hoped his outline [a textbook titled Guide to Technology] would become the first course in the subject. It did that and more. It also gave a name to what we do. Once named, we could now see it. Having seen it, we wondered how anyone could not have seen it.
Source:Â Kevin Kelly, What Technology Wants
Posted: 2025 Oct 18
Or check out this TEDxSF by Kelly.
Happy counts!
Tom
Tom – OK!
I was thinking something similar about some things I am sure my children have little interest in inheriting but that remind me of people or of circumstances that take me instantly to a happy place. Then, a few minutes spent looking at other people’s artwork can do something similar. Pinterest provides endless examples of stained glass work, handcrafted jewelry, gardens, and other design projects that charm my eyes and warm my heart. I may never get to know the artists but their designs are a received gift. Reflections hold an intrinsic charm. Doubly so when you share your delight here.
Laurna – It’s hard to fathom the wealth of art images and “just” beautiful images that we have access to, compared to our ancestors. Same for music and literature.
Alas, I rarely see such scenes of beauty. My car is rarely that clean and shiny.
Jim T – 🙂 I have a clean-car hound in the house. Left to my own devices, these reflections wouldn’t exist, either.