The Steam Engine and the Computer

The steam engine is a prime example of the evolution of technology.  Many people assume it only takes one idea/invention to create something useful.  In the steam engine's case, it took various inventions that were then combined to make it what it is today.  Similar to the steam engine, the computer has evolved through the combination of people's ideas since the first computer was created.  Herbert A. Simon has made a point to explain the fact that one cannot simply follow the computer's instructions.  By immersing oneself in the technology, new possibilities can form.  Not limiting oneself to the apparent capabilities of the computer can open the door to shaping the future of computers one wants to see.