Invention: The Master-Key to Progress

A historical account written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the evolution of human civilization through the lens of invention, exploring how creative developments, from primitive tools to modern technologies, have shaped human progress. Fiske emphasizes the crucial role of inventors in transforming society, ultimately suggesting that the future of civilization relies heavily on continued inventive breakthroughs. The opening of the book introduces the idea that early humans, living in primitive conditions, relied on their ability to invent tools and strategies for survival. Fiske discusses the significance of early inventions such as weapons and the creation of fire, illustrating how they were pivotal in mankind's advancement from a savage existence to a more organized and civil society. He posits that these original inventions laid the groundwork for future achievements, connecting the dots between ancient innovations and the progress that followed through various periods of civilization. By framing the invention as a mental process initiated by insight and imagination, he sets the stage for a deeper exploration into the historical impact of inventive thought on societal development.