Book dossier

Cybernetics, or control and communication in the animal and the machine

by Norbert Wiener, Doug Hill, Sanjoy Mitter

Cybernetics describes the application of statistical mechanics methods to communications engineering. Its subject matter ranges from such control mechanisms as servo-mechanisms, mathematical calculators, and automatic pilots, to the nerves and brain of the human body. This is a study of human control functions and mechanico-electrical systems designed to replace them. As such it impinges on every branch of science. It is the outgrowth of extensive theoretical study and experimentation by Dr. Wiener and a group of outstanding scientists -- including physiologists, psychologists, mathematicians, and electrical engineers.