An Illustrated History of Science: From Agriculture to Artificial Intelligence

To be human is to wonder. The impulse to ask questions is hardwired into our DNA, and for three hundred millennia people have been searching for answers.

In An Illustrated History of Science, Mary Cruse takes readers on a fascinating journey through the evolution of this discipline in its many strands. Throughout the centuries, our conception of what constitutes ’science’ has developed hugely - from ancient natural philosophers and medieval alchemists to Renaissance scholars and Enlightenment reformers. Modern science evokes images of bubbling test tubes and spotless lab coats, but this limited perception inhibits us in truly understanding the progress of science throughout history. Cruse does not fall into this trap.

Learn about the development of agricultural tools, the study of weather patterns, mapmaking, mathematics and modern geology. Delve into the cutting-edge science of the 21st century - genetic engineering, artificial intelligence, sustainable energy projects. Cruse even speculates on which breakthroughs are yet to come...

Filled with useful timelines, fun facts and profiles of key characters, Illustrated History of Science is a fascinating read that the whole family can enjoy.

ABOUT THE SERIES: Sirius Visual Reference Library brings together wonderfully illustrated reference guides on scientific and historical topics, made bold and fascinating through full-color maps, timelines, photographs, feature boxes and other visual elements.

Mary Cruse is a writer, journalist and science communicator, who began her career working as a publicist for a particle accelerator. Over the course of her career, Mary has edited Inside Diamond magazine, worked as a science columnist for the Oxford Mail, and supported science communications for the UK’s synchrotron, the Science and Technology Facilities Council and the Wellcome Trust. Mary lives in Canterbury, England, with her partner, Alan and their cat, Bean.