Knowledge is power : A view of the productive forces of modern society and the results of labor, capital and skill.

A clear‑sighted guide to the engines that drive modern society, this work walks listeners through the intertwined roles of labour, capital and skill. Written with the young reader in mind, it unpacks the basic principles of political economy without heavy jargon, showing how scientific knowledge underpins our control of material things.

The text comes alive through dozens of detailed woodcuts that illustrate everything from steam‑boilers and railway locomotives to spinning mules and power looms. These images trace the evolution of manufacturing processes across continents, making complex machinery feel tangible and relatable.

First published in the mid‑nineteenth century and expanded in a second edition, the book captures a pivotal moment when industrial innovation reshaped everyday life. By listening, you’ll gain a grounded sense of how the productive forces of the past still echo in today’s economy, and why a solid grasp of these ideas remains essential for a secure and prosperous future.