Introduction
Abstract
Chapter 1 introduces the volume. After accounting for how the idea of preparing such a book came about, the Chapter notes some of the general sources of technological and scientific innovation. The overall purpose of the book is explained and its broad structure and division into the three Parts is outlined. In the next section each of the ensuing Chapters is introduced, giving a brief synopsis of their scope and focus. Thereafter the editor and the contributing authors are introduced to the reader by means of biographical notes. After summarising the intended readership of the book, the Chapter concludes with some thoughts on how it might most profitably be used.