the printing press seems extremely simple, so why did it take so long to invent?

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I often find myself wondering why the printing press was such a massive invention. Of course, it revolutionized the ability to spread information and document history, but the machine itself seems very simple; apply pressure to a screw that then pushes paper into the type form.

That leaves me with the thought that I am missing something big. I understand that my thoughts of it being simple are swayed by the fact the we live in a post-printing press world, but I choose the believe I’m smarter than all of humanity before me. /s

So that leaves me with the question, how did it take so long for this to be invented? Are we stupid?

In: Engineering

6 Answers

Anonymous 0 Comments

You have the benefit of hindsight. It’s already been invented and it seems simple to you. That’s completely different than living in a world where nothing like that exists and coming up with it. They weren’t stupid. We’re not stupid. 

Think about it this way: what’s the next great idea that’s gonna completely revolutionize the world?  Can’t think of it?  Me neither. When someone thinks it up you’re gonna feel dumb cuz it’s so simple. 

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