Weights and measures form an essential part of our ingrained view of the world. It is just about impossible to function effectively without some internalized system of measurement, enabling us to estimate and judge size, weight, duration, distance and value. In this volume, author Jeffrey Huw Williams outlines a history of the science of measurement, and the origin of the International System of Units (SI).

The simplicity and coherence of the metric system is outlined, and this book demonstrates how a system of weights and measures, based on only seven fundamental quantities, can be used as the basis of all science; the means of defining the make of all things. We will soon witness a redefinition of four of these seven fundamental quantities. This change will not be subject to any discussion or appeal; humanity will be presented with a fait accompli. What will this mean for us?