Arab Engineering unveils the significant contributions of Middle Eastern engineers, architects, and inventors to global technology. Often overlooked, these innovations range from sophisticated hydraulic systems crucial for agriculture in arid climates to groundbreaking architectural designs found in mosques and palaces. The book highlights how advancements in mechanical engineering, such as early automated machines, predate and influenced later European inventions, challenging Eurocentric views of technological progress.
The book explores hydraulic engineering, architectural innovation, and mechanical engineering across chapters, demonstrating how Arab engineers integrated scientific knowledge with practical applications and aesthetic considerations. For example, the qanat system of irrigation showcases ingenious water management techniques. By examining medieval Arabic manuscripts and archaeological findings, Arab Engineering reveals how these innovations were transmitted to Europe, enriching our understanding of the diverse origins of modern technology.
The book progresses by first introducing the historical background and key figures, then explores specific examples of each engineering domain, concluding with an analysis of how these innovations influenced Western technological development. This approach offers a unique perspective by focusing on the practical applications of scientific knowledge in solving real-world problems, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of science, technology, and the Middle East.
