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Not really a book, but check out James Burkes Connections series. Other shows he's worked on have to do with the history of science/technology as well.

The episode pertaining to the birth of the computer is here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ORY-mXXgJg4&feature=PlayL...

That's worth checking out first, to give you an idea of what it's like. The rest of his stuff is here: http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=JamesBurkeWeb#g/p

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Actually there is a book version as well:

http://www.amazon.com/Connections-James-Burke/dp/0743299558

I loved this series as a kid. It was my favorite TV show. Now that I know more about the history of technology, the connections sometimes seem a bit strained, but even so I know of no better introduction to the topic.

This is my favorite monologue of all time. Inspiring. In it, James Burke sums how sci/tech is fundamental to changing the world. Then he ties Eastern & Western philosophical views. And the explains how the computer revolution will could radically change society: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mB8_wPei2ZM (5mins)

If you like Paul you'll like Burke. Here's his bibliography: http://www.amazon.com/James-Burke/e/B002N2NB36/ref=sr_tc_2_0...

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