The Puzzle of Progress: Why Modern Tech Seems Harder to Grasp
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The Puzzle of Progress: Why Modern Tech Seems Harder to Grasp

Discover more about the evolution of everyday technology from simple tools to complex systems. Dr Antony Robotham untangles the complexity

By Plymouth Athenaeum

Date and time

Thu, 29 May 2025 19:30 - 20:30 GMT+1

Location

Plymouth Athenaeum

Derrys Cross Plymouth PL1 2SW United Kingdom

About this event

  • Event lasts 1 hour

Join us as Dr Antony Robotham discusses the The Puzzle of Progress: Why Modern Tech Seems Harder to Grasp.

Discover more about the evolution of everyday technology from simple tools to complex systems as Dr Antony Robotham helps untangle the complexity and considers why the technology we all use feels more complicated.

The Puzzle of Progress will highlight the practical technology all around us. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Dr Robotham designed an environmentally friendly face shield, manufactured from recycled materials that were compostable or recyclable at the end of its useful life.

Antony is Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering in the School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics (Faculty of Science and Engineering) at the University of Plymouth. He has taught Engineering Design at all levels and his roles have included Associate Head (Teaching & Learning) and Deputy Head of School in the former School of Engineering. Latterly, he has been Project Lead for the University's new Babbage facilities, overseeing the development of the specialist laboratories and managing an £11m budget for the procurement of new equipment on behalf of the School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics.

This talk is part of a series of events celebrating the 200th anniversary of the foundation of the Plymouth Mechanics’ Institute. These events and activities, in late May and early June, focus on the past, present and future of mechanics, engineering and technology.

The Plymouth Mechanics’ Institute was founded on 30 May 1825 and merged with the Plymouth Athenaeum in 1899.

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Plymouth Athenaeum

The Plymouth Athenaeum, located in Plymouth, England, is a charitable society dedicated to the promotion of learning in the fields of science, technology, literature and art.

The Athenaeum building, located at Derry's Cross in Plymouth City Centre, includes a 340-seat auditorium, lecture room, lounge, meeting rooms and a local interest library.

Founded on 17 October 1812 as the Plymouth Institute, it was soon renamed the Plymouth Institution. The first meetings took place in Catherine Street and later Frankfort Street Art Gallery.

Architect and founding member of the Institution John Foulston (1772 – 30 December 1841), who had won a competition to design the Royal Hotel and Theatre group of buildings, designed the building that would become the permanent home of the organisation. The foundation stone of 'The Athenaeum', which had a Greek Doric-style facade, was laid on 1 May 1818.

The Devon and Cornwall Natural History Society, formed in 1838, amalgamated with the Plymouth Institution in 1851. The Mechanics' Institute in Princes Street closed in 1899 and a merger with the Plymouth Institution took place.

Foulston's original 'Athenaeum' was destroyed during the Blitz in 1941, resulting in the loss of the Insititution's library, art and museum collections.

The Institution was renamed The Plymouth Athenaeum when it moved into its present building on 1 June 1961, which is located on almost the exact location of its pre-Blitz home.

FreeMay 29 · 19:30 GMT+1