Science and Technology in World History: An Introduction by James E. McClellan III (Author) offers a comprehensive exploration of the relationship between science and technology from the dawn of civilization to the early twenty-first century. This third edition, published on December 15, 2015, with an ISBN-13 of 978-1421417752, presents the argument that “applied science” emerged relatively recently as industry and governments began funding scientific research leading to new or improved technologies. The book identifies two great scientific traditions: the useful sciences patronized by societies throughout history and the exploration of questions about nature itself initiated by ancient Greeks.

McClellan and Dorn delve into scientific traditions that took root in China, India, Central and South America, as well as in Near Eastern empires during late antiquity and the Middle Ages. From this comparative perspective, they survey the rise of the West, the Scientific Revolution of the seventeenth century, the Industrial Revolution, and the modern marriage of science and technology. The book traces the development of world science and technology today while raising provocative questions about the sustainability of industrial civilization.

This updated edition includes an enlarged thematic introduction and significantly extended treatment of industrial civilization and the technological supersystem built on the modern electrical grid. It also devotes increased attention to the Internet and social media. Facts and figures have been thoroughly revised, and a comprehensive Guide to Resources is included, featuring major published literature along with a vetted list of websites and Internet resources for students and lay readers.