Charles Babbage Bücher

Kaum ein anderer Zeitgenosse hat den Prozess der Industrialisierung in seinen fortschrittlichsten Bereichen zum einen so kühn und zukunftsweisend umrissen, zum anderen auch ganz praktisch gestaltet. Sein Werk „On the Econonmy of Machinery and Manufactures“, mit dem er praktischen Einfluss auf die Entwicklung der Industriegesellschaft ausübte, gehört zu den wichtigsten Werken von Babbage. „Babbage, der Ökonom der Maschinenfabrik wird zur Zeit wiederentdeckt“ (DIE ZEIT) „Babbage ist ein kritischer Befürworter des Kapitalimus seiner Zeit - er wurde von Marx geschätzt und eifrig exzerpiert.“ (Süddeutsche Zeitung)

Man wird die „Passagen aus einem Philosophenleben“ als ein Schlüsselwerk lesen können - als Lebensbeschreibung eines aufmerksamen, exzentrischen und überaus geistvollen Zeitgenossen, als Reise durch die Gedankenwelt der frühen Moderne - und zugleich: als die vergessene Initiale unserer Gegenwart, in der wir zwar den „Personal Computer“ vor uns haben, aber keine Person mehr damit assoziieren. „Welches von unseren heutigen Büchern wird wohl im Jahre 2130 noch vergleichbar frisch sein?“ (Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung) „Ein verrücktes Buch (und endlich übersetzt).“ (DIE ZEIT)

Focusing on Charles Babbage's contributions to science and society, this book highlights his role in developing early computing with his Difference and Analytical Engines. It showcases selected passages from his diverse writings, covering topics like profit sharing, taxation, and scientific management, accompanied by editorial commentary for context. Babbage's connections with notable figures, including Ada Lovelace and the Duke of Wellington, further illustrate his influence during a pivotal time in British history, marking him as a significant and vibrant figure in the evolution of modern science.

The book critiques the English education system, arguing that it contributes to a significant neglect of science. It highlights how students transition from public schools to universities lacking fundamental knowledge in various useful subjects. This examination raises concerns about the effectiveness of educational practices in fostering scientific understanding among young people.

The 1837 work presents Babbage's perspective on the relationship between science and religion, asserting that they can coexist harmoniously rather than being in direct conflict. As the 'father of the computer,' Babbage explores the interplay between these two fields, challenging the notion that they are inherently opposed. His insights contribute to a broader understanding of how scientific inquiry and spiritual beliefs can inform and enrich one another.

Culturally significant, this work has been preserved from its original artifact to maintain authenticity. It includes original copyright references and library stamps, reflecting its historical importance and connection to key libraries worldwide. The reproduction aims to provide an accurate representation of the original text, ensuring that readers can engage with the foundational knowledge of civilization as it has been documented.

Charles Babbage (1791-1871) was an English mathematician and inventor, best known for designing a mechanical computer called the Analytical Engine. In this essay, first published in 1832, Babbage explores the relationship between machines and labor, and argues that the use of machines can increase efficiency and improve working conditions, but only if they are designed with care and consideration for the needs of workers. This essay is an important contribution to the history of industrialization and labor relations.

This pioneering work in actuarial science was first published in 1826. It offers a detailed analysis of the different methods used by life insurance companies to calculate risk, and remains a significant contribution to the field.

A groundbreaking work of mathematical philosophy that explores the role of signs and symbols in the process of reasoning. Babbage's insights paved the way for major developments in computer science and artificial intelligence.