Size : how it explains the world
Smil, Vaclav2023
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A mind-expanding exploration of how size defines life on Earth, from the New York Times bestselling author. To answer the most important questions of our age, and secure our future, we must understand size. Neither bacteria nor empires are immune to its laws. Measuring it is challenging, especially where complex systems like economies are concerned, yet mastering it offers rich rewards. Is bigger always better? Can something keep growing indefinitely, or be too big to fail? Vaclav Smil tackles this goliath subject and it is no exaggeration to say that this tour de force will change the way you look at absolutely everything. 100 words- The New York Times bestselling author returns with a mind-opening exploration of how size defines life on Earth. Explaining the key processes shaping size in nature, society and technology, Smil busts myths around proportions - from bodies to paintings and the so-called golden ratio - tells us what Jonathan Swift got wrong in Gulliver's Travels - the giant Brobdingnagian's legs would buckle under their enormous weight - and dives headfirst into the most contentious issue in ergonomics- the size of aeroplane seats. It is no exaggeration to say this fascinating and wide-ranging tour de force will change the way you look at absolutely everything.
Size : how it explains the world / Vaclav Smil.
Smil, Vaclav, author
[London] : Viking, 2023.©2023
ix, 292 pages : illustrations ; 24 cm
Includes bibliographical references and index.
9780241507001 (pbk)9780241507001
530.8
English
538244
Location | Collection | Call number | Status/Desc |
---|---|---|---|
Brighton Library | Adult Non Fiction - Science and Technology | 530.8 SMI | Available |