3 Books That Explain the Materials Powering Our World
Understanding the materials that power our world is essential in grasping the forces that drive modern civilization
Here are three insightful books that delve into the critical materials shaping our planet and future.
1. Material World: The Six Raw Materials That Shape Modern Civilization
Author: Ed Conway, Genre: Nonfiction, History, Science, Publication Date: 2023
Material World explores six fundamental materials — sand, salt, iron, copper, oil, and lithium — revealing how these raw materials have influenced the rise and fall of empires, driven technological innovations, and continue to dictate geopolitical strategies. Ed Conway takes readers on a global journey, from the depths of the world’s largest mines to the cutting-edge labs where tomorrow’s materials are being developed.
This book provides a comprehensive look at how these seemingly mundane materials are the building blocks of modern civilization. It’s a fascinating blend of history, economics, and science, offering a new perspective on the everyday substances that power everything from our smartphones to our cities. Conway’s accessible writing makes complex topics…
