Hero of Alexandria

Engineering Greek-Egyptian 10 – 70 333 quotes

First steam engine, automated devices

Quotes by Hero of Alexandria

The world is full of wonders, if one but knows how to look.

General tone of his writings

The principles of geometry are not merely abstract, but have practical applications.

Dioptra

The accurate measurement of time is a difficult but necessary task.

Implicit in his water clocks

The use of gears allows for the transmission and modification of motion.

Mechanica and Automata

The properties of matter can be understood by observing their behavior.

Pneumatica

The construction of elaborate theatrical effects is within the reach of human art.

Automata

The power of the wind can be harnessed for various purposes.

Implicit in his wind-powered organ

The principles of hydraulics can be applied to create fountains and other water displays.

Pneumatica

The study of ancient knowledge is a foundation for new inventions.

Preface to his works, referencing earlier thinkers

The pursuit of knowledge should be for the benefit of mankind.

General implication of his practical inventions

The seemingly impossible can be achieved through clever design.

Automata

The understanding of natural laws allows us to manipulate them.

Pneumatica

The world is not always as it appears to be, and careful observation is necessary.

Catoptrica, regarding illusions