Colonial Printing

In every scientific poll on inventions, the printing press has consistently been voted the most significant invention of the past 2000 years. What cultural and social changes were brought about by the printing press that changed modern history? Do you agree with this assessment or would you vote for another invention?

Generally, the printing press allowed for the wide dispersal of literature of every kind, from the Bible to pamphlets promoting more democratic forms of government. Now, in order for those products to be understood, literacy must increase. Thus, immediately following the printing press was a huge increase in literacy. This has far reaching implications in culture and society. If more people can read, there is a greater demand for books, newspapers, and anything that promotes reading. Therefore, culture develops . Society changes because people can read and understand what effects laws and such have on them, so they can change how society is organized and operates.

Thus, the assessment is the most significant invention of the past 2000 years because it allows society to develop and flourish at all levels, so the poor and the rich advance together.

One Response to “What cultural and social changes were brought about by the printing press that changed modern history?”