And when we describe it as I shall do, it becomes plain that imagination is a specifically human gift. To imagine is the characteristic act, not of the poet's mind, or the painter's, or the scientist's, but of the mind of man.

During the Second World War Bronowski worked in operations research for the UK's Department of Home Security where he developed mathematical approaches to bombing strategy for RAF Bomber Command. He died in 1974 of a heart attack in East Hampton New York a year after The Ascent of Man was completed and was buried in the western side of London's Highgate Cemetery near the entrance. New York: Julian Messner Inc.

He is best remembered as the presenter and writer of the 1973 BBC television documentary series The Ascent of Man and the accompanying book.