The influence of science and "industrial enlightenment" on steelmaking, 1786-1856

Scientific knowledge is crucial to opening up new possibilities for major technological advances. However, the role of science has not been regarded as important in the innovations leading to modern steelmaking. In addition, how did science begin to play an important role? Mokyr focuses on the "Industrial Enlightenment," which has its origins in the Baconian program of the seventeenth century. This paper examines the process through which modern steelmaking emerged and clarifies the role of science and "Industrial Enlightenment." When much time elapses between scientific and technological advances, the role of science is often not regarded as important and sensational innovations such as the Bessemer process are emphasized. However, this is not a proper evaluation. The role of “Industrial Enlightenment” on the supply side must also be recognized as significant in the emergence of modern steelmaking technology.