The Things We Make by Bill Hammack Summary

The Things We Make explores the hidden "engineering method" behind humanity’s greatest inventions, from medieval cathedrals to soda cans. Bill Hammack reveals three core strategies: iterative trial-and-error, building on historical knowledge, and embracing trade-offs to solve practical problems. The book emphasizes engineering’s distinct role in shaping daily life, contrasting it with pure science while celebrating collaborative, context-driven innovation.

This book is ideal for history enthusiasts, STEM educators, and curious minds interested in how everyday objects are designed. Engineers will appreciate its focus on practical problem-solving, while general readers gain insight into the iterative, often overlooked processes behind technological progress.

Hammack identifies three pillars of engineering:

• Trial and Error: Incremental improvements over generations, exemplified by the evolution of light bulbs.
• Historical Continuity: Innovations like microwave ovens adapting wartime radar technology for kitchens.
• Trade-Off Acceptance: Balancing cost, efficiency, and accessibility, as seen in the design of skyscrapers and soda cans.

Engineering prioritizes functional solutions over theoretical knowledge, using science as a tool rather than an end goal. For example, medieval masons built cathedrals using geometric heuristics long before scientists formalized structural mechanics.

Key examples include:

• Gothic Cathedrals: Master masons using rope-based geometry for arched designs.
• Microwave Ovens: Repurposed from military radar systems through material cost compromises.
• Photography: Iterative refinements by multiple inventors over decades.

Yes. Hammack argues engineers must weigh societal impact, advocating for solutions that balance functionality with moral responsibility—like designing inclusive technologies or sustainable materials.

As a Carl Sagan Award-winning educator and creator of the "engineerguy" YouTube channel, Hammack combines technical expertise with storytelling. His focus on accessible explanations mirrors his viral videos, demystifying complex topics through historical narratives.

Hammack synthesizes centuries of engineering history, citing innovations like Josiah Wedgwood’s ceramics and Charles Parsons’ steam turbines. The book bridges scholarly rigor with engaging prose, avoiding jargon to appeal to broad audiences.

Kirkus Reviews praises its clarity but notes the engineering-centric perspective may oversimplify scientific contributions. Critics suggest deeper exploration of modern challenges like AI ethics would enhance its relevance.

Hammack debunks the "lone genius" myth, showing how inventions like electric lighting emerged from cumulative efforts. For instance, Edison’s bulb relied on prior work by Swan, Faraday, and others.

As AI and green tech dominate headlines, the book’s lessons on adaptive problem-solving and ethical trade-offs offer a framework for addressing contemporary issues like climate change and automation.

Hammack’s YouTube channel "engineerguy" provides visual explorations of topics covered in the book, such as microwave engineering and cathedral design, enhancing understanding through multimedia.