Engineering, at its origins, was a profession of problem-solving. The classic text, Dialogues Concerning Two New Sciences by Galileo Galilei is revisited in this ambitious and comprehensive book by Milton Shaw. In-depth discussions of passages from the Galileo text emphasize the 'mind set' of engineering, specifically the roles played by experimentation and dialogue in analysis and creativity. In the epilogue, the author points out that engineering students are usually exposed to two types of faculty. The first type are mathematically oriented and mostly interested in analytical solutions. The second type are interested in devising and experimenting with innovative solutions. However, since many talented graduates move directly into teaching instead of gaining real world experience, an imbalance of analytical teaching has occurred. Shaw points out through an example by Dr. Dave Lineback that learning to solve practical engineering problems is a very important part of an engineerAs education, but it is often denied due to the expense, time and effort required. This book fills in many of the gaps in engineering education by showing students, and professionals, the historical background of problem solving. Among those who will find this book particularly useful are engineers working in cross-disciplinary capacities, such as mechanical engineers working with electrical engineering concepts or polymeric materials, engineers preparing for professional engineering exams, mid-career engineers looking to broaden their problem-solving skills, and students looking for help improving their skills. Key Features: Clear, concise writing Rich examples Thorough treatment of similitude, dimensional analysis and computers as problem solving tools The full text of Galileo's book will be available, free, at www.knovel.com. Contents include: What Engineers Do Rigid Body Mechanics Dimensional Analysis Deformable Body Mechanics Fluid Mechanics Aerodynamics: The Boundary Layer and Flow Separation Similitude Materials Science Engineering Materials Electrical Engineering Thermal Engineering Engineering Design Engineering Economics Engineering Statistics Computers in Engineering.