★ 17種分子,改寫整個世界的歷史軌跡★ 從香料、染料到藥物,文明其實由化學驅動★ 一顆原子的變化,可能引爆歷史巨變★ 科學 × 歷史 × 冒險,最迷人的分子故事本書透過17種關鍵分子,重新詮釋人類文明的發展歷程,展現化學如何影響探索、貿易、醫學與日常生活。作者以生動敘事說明微小的分子變化如何帶來重大歷史轉折,讓讀者從全新角度理解世界。內容結合科學與歷史,是一部兼具知識性與趣味性的科普佳作。Napoleon's Buttons is the fascinating account of seventeen groups of molecules that have greatly influenced the course of history. These molecules provided the impetus for early exploration, and made possible the voyages of discovery that ensued. The molecules resulted in grand feats of engineering and spurred advances in medicine and law; they determined what we now eat, drink, and wear. A change as small as the position of an atom can lead to enormous alterations in the properties of a substance-which, in turn, can result in great historical shifts. With lively prose and an eye for colorful and unusual details, Le Couteur and Burreson offer a novel way to understand the shaping of civilization and the workings of our contemporary world.