Michael Brian Schiffer is Professor of Anthropology at the University of Arizona. His many books include The Material Life of Human Beings (1999), Taking Charge: The Electric Automobile in America (1994), Technological Perspectives on Behavioral Change (1992), and The Portable Radio in American Life (1991).

"Many historians have discussed early electrical instruments, but this is the most comprehensive account of the enormous variety of devices developed during this period. With the help of numerous illustrations, Schiffer clearly explains how they worked and what they were for." - Times Literary Supplement (tls) "A strong book, imaginatively conceived, based on the sources, and informed by theory. It should be read, appreciated, and argued about." - Darwin Stapleton, American Historical Review "Schiffer writes about science in a way non-scientists can enjoy, and in so doing opens our minds to the fantastic developments in electrical technology that blossomed in the eighteenth century.... This is the kind of book you'll tell your friends about." - Dan Danbom, Time Out For Entertainment "Draw the Lightning Down offers the reader a novel, and downright refreshing, viewpoint on the science and technology that were most central in bringing about the Enlightenment.... [It] presents the reader with a wonderfully researched and delightful voyage into the past. This one is well worth taking." - Shawn Carlson, American Scientist"

• Preface List of Figures 1. The Franklin Phenomenon 2. In the Beginning 3. A Coming of Age 4. Going Public 5. Power to the People 6. Life and Death 7. First, Do No Harm 8. An Electrical World 9. Property Protectors 10. A New Alchemy 11. Visionary Inventors 12. Technology Transfer: A Behavioral Framework Notes References Cited Index