Longitude by Dava Sobel

Longitude

Longitude: The True Story of a Lone Genius Who Solved the Greatest Scientific Problem of His Time is a best-selling book by Dava Sobel about John Harrison, an 18th-century clockmaker who created the first clock (chronometer) sufficiently accurate to be used to determine longitude at sea—an important development in navigation.

The book tells the story of Harrison’s forty-year obsession with building his perfect timekeeper, known today as the chronometer, and how he solved the problem of calculating longitude at sea.

The main themes of the book are the power of genius to transform human life, the importance of determination and perseverance, and the impact of technological advances on society. Through the story of John Harrison, Sobel shows how one man’s ingenuity and dedication can have a lasting impact on the world.

The book also highlights the importance of the Longitude Prize, which was offered by the British government in 1714 to anyone who could find a practical solution to the problem of determining longitude at sea. This prize motivated many to search for a solution and ultimately led to Harrison’s success.

What I Liked

I loved how this book brought attention to such a basic technology that went so long without a solution. I like how it centered on the power of a single individual to make a massive impact. It’s nuts that all the power & money of the British, French, Spanish, Dutch, and Portuguese empire could not solve the problem of longitude until John Harrison came along.

What I Did Not Like

Not a whole lot – it’s a bit of a random topic and it’s a bit dense at points. But overall, it’s a fascinating book.

Longitude by Dava Sobel
$11.79
In Longitude, Dava Sobel tells the captivating story of John Harrison, an 18th-century clockmaker who tackled the daunting challenge of determining longitude at sea with his groundbreaking chronometer. I was really impressed by how Sobel highlights Harrison's relentless dedication and ingenuity, showing how one person's efforts can change the course of history. The book also sheds light on the Longitude Prize, which sparked competition and innovation. While some parts felt a bit dense, the overall narrative is engaging and thought-provoking. It’s a fascinating read that underlines the importance of perseverance in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.
Pros:
  • The book highlights the significance of a basic technology that remained unsolved for a long time.
  • It emphasizes the power of an individual to create a massive impact.
  • The story showcases the intersection of genius, determination, and technological advancement.
Cons:
  • The topic may seem random to some.
  • It can be a bit dense at points.
  • There are no major cons.
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02/13/2025 11:12 pm GMT
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