"We today live in a cult of technology and innovation we equate with progress and civilization."
I've dug ditches with pick and shovel. That's why I bought a backhoe.
In 1962, as part of the "get acquainted with GM" thing in my new job at the Chevy test lab, we got a tour of the GM truck & coach assembly plant at Pontiac. Gazillions of little short, stocky women in coveralls and rubber aprons--with masks--riveting buses. LOUD! DUSTY! Automation is much better. Believe me.
UAW guys, back in those days, didn't really strike for better wages and all that. It was a "I am bored spitless!" thing. College kids who'd hire in for a summer job in an assembly line typically lasted three weeks. Putting the left rear wheel on a car as your day-long job is not what you'd call an exciting challenge.
Damfino. I'll be 79 in July. Been lotsa places, seen lotsa changes. Heard lots of gripes about the world we live in, many of which I agree with. Trouble is, if you don't really understand the real-world cause of the problem, most of the griping is just mouth music.
I just figure I don't have any politically viable solutions...
You're from BATFE? Come right in! I use all your fine products!