Free enterprise
Sir, — The important questions raised by John B. Gallagher (August 11) were probably asked at the time of the industrial revolution, when unionists were smashing machines that “would put people out of work.” But the net result of the industrial revolution was a shorter working week, lower prices, more affluence. The computer revolution will no doubt have the same effect. It is possible that our production machinery will become so sophisticated that no humans at all will be required for mining, harvesting, transport, processing, maintenance; etc., and the few hours work required to purchase the super-cheap commodities would no doubt be doing what machines cannot — research, philosophy, teaching, art, entertainment, This is the true goal of capitalism — affluence for all who want it, and time for the more important things in life; man achieving his true state, not battling for survival as a crude labourer. — Yours, etc., FRANK A. SMITH. August 11, 1980.
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Press, 13 August 1980, Page 16
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155Free enterprise Press, 13 August 1980, Page 16
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