With topics ranging from epitaxy through lattice defects and doping to quantum computation, this book provides a personalized survey of the development and use of silicon, the basis for the revolutionary changes in our lives sometimes called "The Silicon Age." Beginning with the very first developments more than 50 years ago, it reports on all aspects of silicon and silicon technology up to its use in exciting new technologies, including a glance at possible future developments. A team of expert authors, many of them pioneers in the field, have written informative and stimulating contributions that will be of interest to all scientists working with silicon.