Science on Tap presents The Alchemy of Us: How Humans and Matter Transformed One Another | A Look at 8 Key Inventions, Little Known Inventors

How have simple inventions changed our lives? Join Science on Tap on May 21 for a presentation by the author of “The Alchemy of Us: How Humans and Matter Transformed One Another”.

————–

Related Portland Events & Info

• River Cruise: Portland Spirit’s Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler Returns to the River This Weekend! | Heart of the Gorge Sightseeing, Gorgeous Dinner (Daily)
• May 22-25: Memorial Day Weekend Events: Festivals, Fireworks, Food & Wine, Traveling
• Theater: Original Practice Shakespeare Festival presents King Lear First Night | Free, Streaming on Facebook, Unrehearsed Tragedy (May 23)
• Rose Festival: Rose Festival Porch Parade Celebrates Community! | Join the Fun, Unleash Your Creativity, Explore The Parade Map (May 16-30)
• Community: The Virtual Vanport Mosaic Festival 2020 | Live Streaming Art Performances, Conversations, Oral History Screenings & More! (May 8-30)

————–

Science on Tap presents The Alchemy of Us: How Humans and Matter Transformed One Another
May 21, 2020
All Ages | 7-8p | $5 Suggested Donation
More info: Facebook

How have simple inventions changed our lives?

People used to wonder whether all four of a horse’s legs left the ground as it ran. The invention of photography answered that question, but people had no idea just how that invention would change the way we see ourselves as humans. People create inventions to fill a need, but in return those inventions have shaped lives, nations, and diverse communities.

Join us for a presentation by Dr. Ainissa Ramirez , a materials scientist and author of “The Alchemy of Us: How Humans and Matter Transformed One Another” . This book examines eight inventions—clocks, steel rails, copper communication cables, photographic film, light bulbs, hard disks, scientific labware, and silicon chips—and reveals how they shaped the human experience.

Filling in the gaps left by other books about technology, Ramirez showcases little-known inventors—particularly people of color and women—who had a significant impact but whose accomplishments have been hidden by mythmaking, bias, and convention. Doing so, she shows us the power of telling inclusive stories about technology.