Science, new technologies and armed conflict

Abstract

This article is an exploration of the relationship between technology and warfare from prehistoric times to the present day. The subject is examined in four realms – land, naval, air and space – and three time periods defined by the dominant power source driving the weapons: muscle power, chemical reactions, and charged particles. It introduces a rigorous definition of technology. The essay focuses on the ongoing evolution of military technology throughout human history, which accelerated since the Industrial Revolution in the West and, in particular, since the commitment to science-based research and development during World War II.

Peer Reviewed

Postprint (published version)