We live surrounded by materials, yet rarely think about where they come from.
In *Material World*, Ed Conway reveals how six core substances power our civilization.
This is the hidden story of the modern world—from mining pits to global supply chains.
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The World Beneath the Surface
We touch materials every day—our phones, buildings, cars, packaging—yet often ignore their origins. Ed Conway’s Material World lifts the curtain, taking readers on a global journey through mines, factories, ports, and politics to reveal the true foundations of the modern world.
The Six Materials That Run Our World
- Concrete – The most used human-made substance, shaping cities and infrastructure
- Steel – The backbone of skyscrapers, ships, and machines
- Plastic – Cheap, versatile, controversial—but essential
- Glass – From smartphone screens to transparent architecture
- Copper – The invisible force powering our electrical age
- Aluminum – Lightweight, strong, and revolutionizing industry
More Than Just Chemistry
This is not a book about science—it’s about power, geopolitics, and inequality. From cobalt mines in the Congo to China’s rare earth dominance, Conway shows how these materials shape global conflicts, environmental struggles, and economic systems.
Why It Matters Now
As the world pursues net-zero emissions, electrification, and decarbonization, understanding material supply chains has never been more urgent. Material World offers timely insights into the resources behind everything—from solar panels to smartphones.
Reader Voices
“You’ll never look at your phone, car, or packaging the same way again.”
“A powerful, eye-opening reminder that civilization runs on stuff—often hidden, often exploited.”📚 Final Thought
For readers of *Sapiens*, *The World for Sale*, or *How the World Really Works*, this is essential reading. A smart, sharp, and timely guide to the material backbone of modern life.
