A central theme in this work deals with the changes people have initiated in response to technology. Tenner describes how people have modified the natural world, which has affected the manner in which we use our bodies through how we sit, stand, walk, and communicate. As outcomes of all this, these changes result in perceptions of self and others and how we view one another. The author notes that many everyday occurrences are the result of the ongoing interplay of technology, economics, and values.

Noted is that there is a dual aspect of technology: While it is a prime mover of change, it is also a response to long-standing traditions. An interesting point is made that manual skills have not declined as predicted by many observers in the past, but have moved from the area of work to the arena of hobbies and sports. There is only an arbitrary demarcation between information and materials that are manufactured. Everyday objects are viewed in this book as commonplace things by use of the two terms of technology and technique. The interplay between these two can be seen everywhere around us. As an example, Tenner mentions how shoelaces are a good example of the interplay of technology and technique. He explains how technological improvisations have often led to unexpected new applications beyond their original purposes. He cites changes that have occurred over time in how the use of clothespins, paper clips, duct tape, and shoelaces has been expanded over time through further applications.

The author clearly pointed out that this book is an exploration of both inventive genius and user ingenuity. He begins by examining the manner in which objects complement body techniques. Throughout the book are thorough considerations of body techniques and technology through history. It begins with “The First Technology: Bottle Feeding” in Chapter Two.

This is followed by Chapter Three: “Slow Motion: Zori”. The development of the simplest foot covering, the sandal and its gradual evolution to the present day elaborate running shoe in Chapter Four: “Double Time: Athletic Shoes”. Included are the changes brought on by desires to modify the use of foot coverings to accommodate it styles of movement. An interesting history of the evolution of each is provided.

The next two chapters delve in the evolution of chairs. In Chapter Five: “Sitting Up Straight: Posture Chairs”. The author points out that the chair originated in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern part of the world. It only recently replaced more ancient forms of seating in most other places. To the present day, modifying the style of chairs continues to be a challenge for designers. Reclining chairs, the topic of Chapter Six is an interesting disclosure of their changes over time. When first devised, they were considered to be a symbol of leisure for the well to do. As time went on, they became associated as symbols of self-indulgence and obesity.

During the past two hundred years, the major breakthrough in technology for the hands has been the keyboard. It originally resulted in the displacement of the pen and pencil as writing instruments. Furthermore, it has changed human control over many other processes. For example, a chapter is devoted to the musical keyboard and how the styles of playing and the principles of making instruments interacted.

The chapter on eyeglasses is an interesting exploration of mass production of spectacles. Originally, the impetus for improved eyesight was the growing need for literacy aids. Later came an understanding of optics, which further enhanced their popularity. Noted is that the explosion of reading material in the past two centuries has made people increasingly dependent on eyeglasses.

An interesting treatment of the emergence of the helmet is provided in Chapter Ten. It first appeared as an important component in the arms race in ancient Middle East. Since then, its use has been modified as a protective device for the modern day military, a much-valued athletic appendage, and even an orthopedic appliance for babies.

The epilogue is the author’s peak into trends in body technology. He offers as future prospects the possibility of direct modification of the body itself through exercise machinery, diet, medication, and maybe the regeneration of teeth and organs. Tenner is adept at provoking new ways of looking at commonplace things.

A generous supply of Notes is provided as well as suggested Further Reading. The Index is carefully done, making it easy for the reader to refer back to particular items that may be of interest. It is written in a non-technical manner, making it an interesting book for the general reader.