Discusses the historical development of science, technology and medicine in Western Europe and North America from the Renaissance to the present. Identifies four principle ways of knowing within specific periods: natural history in the eighteenth century analysis following the French Revolution experiment in the epoch of modernism the current presence of technoscience. Balances the historical exposition of natural magic and natural theology with a philosophical interpretation of the Scientific Revolution and reflective comments on Foucault and Collingwood. Strikes a balance between theoretical discussion and empirical illustration. Redefines the geography of science, technology and medicine. (Bookdata)