In this mini-episode of Balckwell’s Books, I discuss one of my favourite non-fiction writers, Lewis Mumford. In his book Technics & Civilization, Mumford attempts to explain the progress of technology from the 10th century to the 20th, focusing on the ways that technology has both improved and worsened human life. Specifically, he discusses how the industrial capitalism of the 19th century had disastrous effects on the environment as well as the social conditions of mankind. Witnessing the new advances such as electricity and improved automation that were emerging in his day, Mumford recommends some ideas for modifying our productive and distributive systems so that we can utilize mass production in a way that benefits everyone in the world.
Of course, none of these ended up happening and in many ways we are worse off than before, and so is the environment! But there is still time to learn from this book and incorporate some of its key ideas into how we live our life, and how we might wish to see the world change in the future.
In this episode, I explain how I found out about Lewis Mumford, what I respect most about his perspective, compare him with other writers, and then explain some of the key points of the book, ending with some of the main critiques of capitalist production. And then the show ends abruptly, as I realize I’ve already said everything!
The biography I mention is "Lewis Mumford, A Life" by Donald L. Miller
