The Romantic Machine: Utopian Science and Technology After Napoleon

Is romanticism inherently opposed to science and technology and intrinsically linked to fascism? For a few brief decades at the start of the nineteenth century, at least in Paris, the answer was no. Human, machine, and nature were seen as integral parts of a more rational, egalitarian, and harmonious future. _Romantic Machines_ brings that historical moment to vivid life and projects an appealing alternative to currently popular dystopian views. A must-read for policy makers and concerned citizens alike.

super enjoyable read that demonstrates the shift in the role of machines and technology in the decades after 1800. tresch beautifully dances through different scientists, philosophies, inventions, and political moments!

There's a great deal to say about this book--much more than should appear in one of these little reviews, but I'm so knocked out by this book I needed to express my esteem right away. I should say first that this is really the best looking university press book I've ever seen. It's worth springing for the hardcover over the kindle. Also, with the hardcover version it is easier to see the illustrations that have been meticulously culled and presented here.That might be my own prejudice.So in this space I'll just also say that the book covers so much ground that it really can be used in a wide array of contexts--history/science/ and literary courses. But it also strikes me that this book can appeal to a general reader since by crossing so many methods and disciplines, the author never gets bogged down in jargon. At every turn it is rigorous and learned, as well, and clearly it will leave a lasting mark in how we think about the ways that technology and ideas of self, culture, history are all intertwined. In fact what Tresch most brilliantly shows is that all things are much more intertwined than we usually can see. The writing is clear and illuminating and the scholarship meticulous and provocative. Would that all researches this careful about the material and as committed to the prose.

Overall, an interesting, if sometimes quite selective and procrustean study. For example, Bonald's ideological take on "science" is best understood from the perspective of medieval and early-modern Catholic philosophy not in the context of early 19th c. Romanticism, even Romantic biology. Moreover, Bonald's first name was not "Joseph," but "Louis"!