Publisher's Synopsis
This book is about the life of the man whose groundbreaking inventions revolutionized the automotive and refrigeration industries but also led to some of the most significant environmental and health disasters of the 20th century.
From his early fascination with chemistry to his celebrated breakthroughs with leaded gasoline and Freon, Midgley's work solved major technological problems of his time. However, the toxic legacy of these inventions raised critical questions about the unforeseen consequences of scientific progress. This book takes you on a journey through Midgley's brilliant yet controversial career, exploring how his solutions to engine knocking and refrigeration safety inadvertently caused widespread harm. It's a story that challenges us to think about the balance between innovation and responsibility, making it a must-read for anyone interested in science, history, and the impact of technology on our world. Immerse yourself in a narrative that is both inspiring and cautionary, and see why Thomas Midgley Jr.'s life and legacy continue to resonate today.
