Flying Buttresses, Entropy, and O-Rings

This is a book about engineering. It examines engineering in a broad context, it is to some extent also a book about technology. The activities included are complex and varied, involving mathematics, physical sciences, and other areas of expertise that have evolved their own specialized languages and do not always communicate well, even with one another.

James L. Adams

In these witty and engrossing pages, Adams demonstrates that engineering actually can be as divine an occupation as the clergy and as soulful as an aria...Adams' literary tour is the next best thing to visiting a hands-on engineering exhibit. -- Alex Raksin Los Angeles Times Book Review Adams has covered his subject well, and his book would make excellent reading for young people contemplating a career in engineering...[It is] well organized, well written and often amusing, with some very shrewd observations...[The author] deserves our thanks for an interesting and valuable book. -- Michael French Times Higher Education Supplement This text was written to provide a general audience with access to the subjects of engineering and technology. It is a superb book...Discussions of the Challenger tragedy, the balcony collapse at the Hyatt Regency in Kansas City, a DC-10 crash...and other technical topics make the book readable, convincing, and enjoyable. Science Books and Films In this engaging book, the author of Conceptual Blockbusting introduces the world of engineering, from the origins of problems to design and invention; mathematics; science and research; development, testing and failure; manufacturing; money and business; and regulation. Science News