RAPID RESPONSES
Time-saving tech
[Re: The technology paradox: It will kill jobs but rescue Britain’s economy, yesterday]
I was rather suprised by Matthew Rock’s assertion that new technology kills jobs. If that were the case, the invention of the shovel would have led to economic decline, by allowing one digger to get more work done than many could with their hands. In fact, new machines and devices provide savings – both in time and resources – which can then be passed across the economy. Everyday essentials are cheaper, customers spend their money elsewhere, creating jobs, or put it in the bank – to be lent back to businesses and people. Those who lose their jobs due to technological advances ought to learn new skills.
Matthew Freedman
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Digital limitations
This is a really interesting opinion. Rock is probably right that retail shopping is declining because of the efficiency of internet shopping. And, whereas technology always promised to give us more leisure time, it hasn’t necessarily delivered that – if anything, we work just as hard, but in different ways. Technological advances increase the expectations we have of our standard of living. The balance of everything has changed. But we should consider the areas of our economy that won’t be easily improved by technology. It’s all very well dreaming of a future, where businesses are lean and strong, but industries like social care and food production likely won’t suddenly become more efficient because of the internet.
Anna Wood
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TOP TWEETS
The Olympics build peace between nations and within them. London 2012 is likely one of the reasons the riots haven’t been repeated.
@RowennaDavis
The Olympics are impressive, but Nasa has just lowered a car-sized rover onto Mars, using nylon strings attached to a rocket.
@CatherineQ
I wonder how Louise Mensch was struggling to find family time, but could still send 22,000 Tweets and set up a new social media site.
@MrPaulStott
Nick Clegg has waved the white flag and surrendered Lords Reform. Where does that now leave the Lib Dems in coalition?
@KarlTurnerMP