Computer: A History of the Information Machine

This book provides a comprehensive history of computers,from their early beginnings to the present day,including their impact on society,platformization,and regulation. It is suitable for students of history,science,technology,and world history,and covers the social and cultural aspects of computing as well as their technical and business aspects.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 01 June 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive volume offers a thorough account of the evolution of computers,spanning from their early beginnings to the present-day era characterized by their widespread presence. In addition to providing a historical narrative,the book includes new chapters that delve into the realms of globalization,platformization,and regulation,thus enabling readers to engage with the recent surge of computers in a historical context.

The subject of computers has captured the attention of numerous students,making it a valuable topic for courses in history of science and technology,world history,and computing. While books on the history of computing often focus on technical or business aspects,this volume encompasses the social and cultural dimensions as well.

The history of computers is a fascinating journey that spans several decades,from the early development of mechanical calculators to the emergence of electronic computers. The invention of the transistor in the mid-20th century marked a significant milestone,leading to the rapid growth of the computer industry and the widespread adoption of computers in various fields.

In the early days,computers were primarily used for scientific and military purposes. The ENIAC,one of the earliest electronic computers,was built in the 1940s and was capable of performing complex calculations at a speed that was previously unimaginable. However,the cost of these machines was prohibitive,making them accessible only to large organizations and governments.

With the advent of personal computers in the 1970s and 1980s,computing became more accessible to the general public. The introduction of microprocessors,such as the Intel 4004,made it possible to build small, affordable computers that could be used for personal and business purposes. The popularity of personal computers led to the development of the computer industry,which saw the emergence of companies such as Apple,Microsoft,and IBM.

The 1990s saw the rise of the internet,which transformed the way we communicate,work,and access information. The internet enabled the development of new technologies,such as e-commerce,social media,and cloud computing,which have had a profound impact on society.

Today,computers are ubiquitous in our daily lives. They are used in a wide range of applications,from smartphones and tablets to laptops and desktop computers. Computers have become an essential tool for education,research,and business,and have played a crucial role in shaping the modern world.

However,with the growth of computers comes new challenges,such as privacy and security concerns,the impact of automation on employment,and the need for digital literacy. These issues require careful consideration and action to ensure that computers continue to serve the needs of society in a responsible and sustainable manner.

In conclusion,this comprehensive volume provides a rich and detailed history of the evolution of computers,from their early beginnings to the present-day era characterized by their widespread presence. By exploring the social and cultural dimensions of computing,the book offers readers a deeper understanding of the impact of computers on society and the challenges that lie ahead.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032203430
Edition number: 4 ed