Science & Technology

The X Factor in X-rays

New innovations in radiology have sparked public criticism as to its safety and cost-effectiveness. Wilhelm Conrad Rontgen's discovery of the X-ray in 1895 and its subsequent use in medicine sparked similar safety and health hazard concerns throughout its development.

Time, Tide and Michael Faraday

The story of Michael Faraday, the genius of electricity, is very much a classic tale of the rise from obscure origins to scientific eminence. But as Frank James notes, an important chapter was the commercial work Faraday did for the army and navy in order to secure his freedom to pursue pure research.

Sex and the Automobile in the Jazz Age

'Brothels on wheels' thundered the moralists but Peter Ling argues the advent of mass motoring in the 1920s was only one of the changes in social and group relationships that made easier the pursuit of carnal desire.

Well-Groomed or Well-Bred?

In the light of genetic engineering today, Nicholas Russell explores how the thoroughbred racehorse has changed in history.

The Political Magic of John Dee

Ian Seymour looks at the involvement of Elizabeth I's astrologer in matters of state, and his diplomatic intrigues on the Continent on the eve of the Armada.