War and Technology

The war instinct is part of human nature, but the means to fight war depend on technology. Alex Roland traces the co-evolution of technology and warfare from the Stone Age to the age of cyberwar, describing the inventions that changed the direction of warfare throughout history: from fortified walls, the chariot, battleships, and the gunpowder revolution to bombers, rockets, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and nuclear weapons.

In the twenty-first century, new technologies continue to push warfare in unexpected directions, while warfare stimulates stunning new technological advances. Yet even now, the newest and best technology cannot guarantee victory. Brimming with dramatic narratives of battles and deep insights into military psychology, this book shows that although military technologies keep changing at great speed, the principles and patterns behind them abide.

"Warfare and technology predate human history. The dynamic relationship between them is timeless, echoing through human history in patterns that link the bow and arrow with the IED (improvised explosive device), the walls of Jericho with reconnaissance satellites. This book traces those patterns, from the Scheoningen spears to cyberwarfare"--Provided by publisher.

A thoroughly good idea. Snappy, small-format . . . stylish design . . . perfect to pop into your pocket for spare moments.-Lisa Jardine, The Times

[The Oxford VSIs] are models of their kind - crisp, clear, and animated by a strong point of view. -Terry Teachout, Wall Street Journal

In this masterpiece of concision and clarity, Alex Roland illuminates the role of technologies in warfare since the Stone Age. While recounting the major eras in military history, he also analyzes the key elements of that history: the persistence of the principles of warfare, the importance of dual-use technologies, the recurring trend toward gigantism in weaponry, arms races, and the military-industrial complex, and the recent rise of electronic and of asymmetrical warfare. Readers will find much to admire and ponder in this short book. -Daniel Headrick, author of The Tools of Empire and Power over Peoples