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The Closed World: Computers and the Politics of Discourse in Cold War America (Inside Technology)
 
 
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The Closed World: Computers and the Politics of Discourse in Cold War America (Inside Technology) (Paperback)

by Paul N. Edwards (Author) "This book is about computers, as machines and as metaphors, in the politics and culture of Cold War America..." (more)
Key Phrases: United States, Star Wars, Soviet Union (more...)
4.0 out of 5 stars  (1 customer review)

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Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Edwards traces how computers have emerged as the dominant technology as a direct result of Cold War politics and the defense research it engendered. From the first use of room-size mainframes to coordinate missile systems, Pentagon research aimed toward complete computer control, including the budget-busting and ultimately impractical Strategic Defensive Initiative. Edwards relates how the technolog--which is now so open as to be nearly anarchic--began in strictly enclosed secrecy. The military computer goal of perfect "command, control and communication" systems was understood to mean communication only within a very closed world. Edwards' thesis is that this approach influenced the very structure of our modern computers. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

The Nation, Grant Kester
The Closed World functions as both a fascinating glimpse into the history of computing and a cogent reminder of the extent to which this history continues to inform our vision of the future. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

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Product Details
  • Paperback: 462 pages
  • Publisher: The MIT Press (August 1, 1997)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0262550288
  • ISBN-13: 978-0262550284
  • Product Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 1.1 inches
  • Shipping Weight: 1.7 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
  • Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  (1 customer review)
  • Amazon.com Sales Rank: #519,183 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)
    (Publishers and authors: Improve Your Sales)
  • Also Available in: Hardcover  |  All Editions