Ever since man first discovered fire, the impact of new technologies has changed the way he does things and expanded the range of things that he is able to do. In the history of technology are many important technologies that have come to be part of everyday life, yet without which progress as we know it would not exist. The most important of these have to do with communication and transportation, the most critical elements that have furthered society through the ages. In addition, though, are the technologies that enable man to do more work more easily and in less time.
My top ten most important technologies include, in this order:
4. Air conditioning and refrigeration
10. the Global Electronic Library
The invention of the printing press did more to further civilization and communication than anything before the Internet. Although many types of primitive printing presses existed before him, it was Gutenberg's printing press with movable type that enabled printers to turn out many different books quickly (Kreis). Thanks to the printing press, knowledge was easier to disseminate and literacy came into reach for many who might not otherwise have been able to afford it (Kreis). The printing press made possible a massive infusion of knowledge throughout the world, as books were easily portable.
The wheel was the basis for transportation and much of future technology, so it was also a vital invention. Thanks to the wheel, even heavy loads could be moved from one place to another fairly easily, making it possible to migrate and bring along the elements of civilized life. In fact, "The wheel, ultimately, allowed for the spread of both technology and knowledge" (Savanger).
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