We live in the middle of an information age ,transforming every facet of life.
It is useful to look at the past to get some guidance for the future.
In the 19th century, the industrial revolution also led to mass upheaval.
The profound changes led to a permanent remoulding of society.
The population of United Kingdom was exploding, doubling between 1815- 1870.
Work was revolutionised by mechanical automation.
Mass importation of machinery into mainstream manufacturing and agriculture threatened the livelihood of millions.
Militant and direct action was seen as a reaction. “Swing” rioters opposed agricultural machinery whereas “Luddites” burned down their own mills .
The most important part to note here is that these groups were not against technology, machinery, automation – per se.
They were opposing the loss of their livelihood because they had no means by which to find compensatory, upgraded, unskilled jobs necessitated by the Industrial revolution.
It is an important historical fact to remind ourselves of.
We must not let there be a future world of geeks , bankers , corporate bureaucracy and the vast majority of ‘rest’ .
It doesn’t bode well.
#society #newtechnology #thewiredworld #digital #anythingbutordinary