The Story of Technology: How We Got Here and What the Future Holds

by Daniel M. Gerstein

This book was motivated by several personal experiences. First, my observations about the importance of technology in the security and defense field have been foundational. The history of warfare contains numerous examples of specialized technologies designed to improve the efficiency of armies in battle. It also contains examples of technologies developed for civilian or peaceful purposes being applied in warfare with great effect. Perhaps not as well understood is that many of the technologies originally developed for use in warfare have later been adapted for nonmilitary uses with great benefit to society. Second, my experiences serving in government in the Department of Homeland Security in the Science and Technology Directorate caused me to directly confront questions surrounding how technologies are developed and what leads to successful transitions that fulfill a need. I also saw firsthand that successful technology development has as much to do with getting people to use it as with the technology itself. It may be terrific, but if the operator cannot or will not use it, it is irrelevant. Finally, on many occasions, friends and colleagues have asked questions about the development of technology. Some are simply looking to know more about the field. Others are asking for practical purposes as they look to integrate technological solutions into a business deal. Still others are looking to better understand how a novel, dual-use, or disruptive technology is likely to s...