Behind the Book: Q&A with Dr. Ian Taplin

By Erin Marlow, Communications Specialist

Dr. Ian Taplin, Professor of Sociology, recently published his book, Technology, Culture, and Change. The book, published with Cambridge Scholars Press, examines the emergence of capitalism and the role that technology plays in not only creating tangible innovations but in shaping our self-identity.

Dr. Taplin recently spoke with the Dean’s Office about the origins of the book and its contributions to the field of sociology.

What inspired you to write this book?

I have taught a course on this topic several times over the years, and it seems pertinent to examine the context of technological innovation, especially how change is culturally embedded.

What was a major challenge that you faced in your research?

Gaining access to historical materials.

What would you say is your project’s unique contribution to the field? Larger society? 

It moves from a technologically determinist perspective and looks at how change is the result of interdependent factors that are rooted in demographic and cultural changes as well as the growth of a materialist culture.

How do you bring your research into the classroom?

It is useful to provide students with a grand historical narrative when examining the interaction of issues/events that might not be immediately obvious. 

What’s next?

My next book project is a return to my wine industry research with a book on the recent successful growth of the English wine industry.