In 'Clocks and Culture, 1300-1700', Carlo M. Cipolla explores the profound impact of mechanical clocks on society and culture during a transformative era. He reveals how the precise measurement of time reshaped daily life, social structures, and even economic practices in Europe. The book intertwines historical analysis with the evolution of technology, illustrating how clocks became symbols of order and progress. Cipolla's engaging narrative encourages readers to consider the intricate relationship between timekeeping and cultural evolution. Will you uncover how the rhythm of life was forever changed by the ticking of a clock?
By Carlo M. Cipolla
Published: 2003
""Time, measured not merely in hours but in moments of human endeavor, circles the relentless march of culture, revealing the intricate dance between the mechanization of life and the artistry of the human spirit.""
The history of the clock opens a window on how different cultures have viewed time and on Europe's path to industrialization.
Carlo M. Cipolla (1922-2000) was an esteemed Italian economic historian and writer, renowned for his insightful explorations of economic history and human behavior. He is best known for his influential works such as 'The Basics of Sufficient Reason: A New Approach to Economic History', 'The Economic History of World Population', and the widely discussed essay 'The Law of the Inverse Relationship between the Size of an Impact and its Frequency', which explores the notion that as the impact of a tragedy increases, its frequency decreases. Cipolla's writing is characterized by its clarity, humor, and engaging narrative style, making complex economic concepts accessible and relatable to a broad audience. His unique perspective on the interplay between economics and human society has left a lasting impact on the field.
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“"Time, measured not merely in hours but in moments of human endeavor, circles the relentless march of culture, revealing the intricate dance between the mechanization of life and the artistry of the human spirit."”
Clocks and Culture, 1300-1700
By Carlo M. Cipolla
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