The Perfectionists by Simon Winchester - 4 stars (Subdue)

[Joy D]

The Perfectionists: How Precision Engineers Created the Modern World by Simon Winchester - 4* - My Review

This book takes a look at the evolution of precision in measurements, and the technological accomplishments that have accompanied them. As is implied by the title, the author dives deeply into each topic. I found some of these topics riveting (the Hubble Telescope and its repair, the development of nanotechnology, timekeeping, history of GPS). Readers will find their own personal favorites among these essays. It requires a general interest in both science and history to fully appreciate it. It should appeal greatly to the engineers among us.

I particularly enjoyed the ending, where Winchester takes a step back to examine the concept of an increasing level of precision, and whether or not it is an advantage or a drawback. For example, there are many areas that add value to our lives but are not related to precise measures (such as art, nature, and cultural works). There are impacts on quality of life, not all of which are positive (such as displacement of human labor). There may come a time when further increases in precision will outmatch human capacity to achieve it. It is obvious that Winchester is enthusiastic about this material. I found it both entertaining and educational.