• Journal of Engineering Education Research
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• v.13 no.1
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• pp.17-22
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• 2010

This paper examines major activities of Thomas Edison as an example to liberal education for engineers using researches in the history of technology. Edison, as a system builder, developed almost everything necessary to use electric light in the aspects of technology and management. On the contrary, Edison took a conservative stance to new alternating current technology in the case of current war. Edison developed phonograph and motion pictures but didn't understand the meaning of mass culture grown up based on his inventions. This study not only provides an illustrative content to the liberal education for engineers, but also helps to grope for the dynamic character of technological innovation and the desirable features of engineers.