The history of history books

This week we were treated to the history of the printing press in our generally mind blowing lecture (got the phrase out the way early).

This week we learnt how the progression of the storing and of the written word played a key part in changing the nature of the social classes and the mindset of your average human being. Specifically I’m referring to how the introduction of a mass printing press lead to the production of various scientific publications from radical voices of the time like Copernicus and Galileo were able to reach the masses which lead people to develop theories and beliefs. An example of this would be how Galileo's theories on the galaxy could have lead people to one get a better education then the one they have currently but also change their beliefs contradicting the one the church had represented.

Also in terms of the effects it had on class was the construction of a whole new one during the 17th century known as the Bourgeoisie which could have been considered to be the producers and key consumers of books and publications at the time and also bought at change to the countries info structure by allowing someone of no nobility of heritage possess some power.

Two key bits I have learnt however:
1. Ideas are based on ideas. To sum this up in less vague modern artish manner I’ve found for example printing guru Elizabeth Eisenstein presented various ideas and research on the printing press possibly influenced further publications and served as a platform for information.
2. The evolution of print is fragile and the written word is evolving. From going from cave paintings and simplistic illustrations utilised by the Church to demonstrate extracts from the Bible to manuscripts of key religious texts, printing presses and finally the computer. The written word is evolving even now through blogging (blogging on a blog whilst blogging?) and (something I need to do an account for) Twitter, the real questions is what's next for the word and questions marks?