Modernity and Progress

The stories celebrate the modern era's technological and intellectual advances, contrasting outdated 'hammer and tongs' detective work with cutting-edge laboratory analysis and new inventions like gyroscopes and automobiles.

Kennedy frames the application of science to crime as a modern advancement, moving beyond outdated 'hammer and tongs' methods.

The chapter highlights the cutting-edge technology of aeroplanes, gyroscopes, and wireless telegraphy, and the competitive race for prizes and patents that drives innovation.

Kennedy uses advanced technology (blowpipe) to overcome physical barriers, and the chapter highlights the use of electromagnets in rigged gambling machines.