What were the effects of Guttenberg's printing press?
http://www.answers.com/topic/printing-press
Scroll down and read the section called Impact of Printing -- very complete and very interesting.
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The print revolution brought about by Gutenberg's printing press had a significant impact on various aspects of society. Here are some of the effects:
1. Increased availability of books: Before the printing press, books were produced by hand, making them rare and expensive. The printing press enabled the mass production of books, leading to increased access to knowledge and education. This democratization of information played a crucial role in the Renaissance and the spread of ideas.
2. Expansion of literacy: With the increased availability of books, literacy rates began to rise. People had more opportunities to learn to read and write, leading to a more educated population. This, again, played a crucial role in the dissemination of knowledge and the advancements seen during the Renaissance.
3. Cultural transformation: The printing press facilitated the spread of new ideas, challenging existing beliefs and traditions. It led to the dissemination of religious texts, scientific discoveries, and philosophical works. This cultural transformation fueled the intellectual and artistic movements of the time.
4. Standardization of language: Before the printing press, there were different variations of languages and dialects. As books were printed and distributed widely, a need for standardization arose. This resulted in the development and spread of a single standardized language, strengthening national identities and facilitating communication.
5. Political and social changes: The printing press played a role in political and social reform. Printed materials such as newspapers and pamphlets provided a medium for disseminating political ideas, leading to increased political awareness and activism. This, in turn, contributed to social changes and movements like the Protestant Reformation.
Overall, the Gutenberg printing press revolutionized the way information was produced and disseminated, paving the way for the spread of knowledge and the transformation of society.