Man vs. Machine

In the 19th century, the Industrial Revolution brought wealth and power to Great Britain. Many changes occurred in Britain, politically, socially, and economically. New inventions were created and mechanized factories were built that helped the country expand as a whole. Many argue that this change impacted the economy and social life of those individuals living in Europe. Many individuals wrote on behalf of the change, some going for it and others going against it. One major controversy was between Dr. Andrew and Friederich Engels, who supported their opinion through writing. In my opinion, I believe there are more advantages than disadvantages that came out of the Industrial Revolution such as how the economic life shifted from villages to towns, and better transportation, communication, and mechanized goods uplifted the lives of many individuals.

To begin, many factories opened up for business and gave the opportunity for many workers, including children. This was an advantage for those who lived in the rural side of the land, and farming was becoming a difficult job to handle, due to soil and climate change. Some factories that opened their doors to the poor to work were cotton factories, and iron factories. The use of machines made the labor work easier, since it was a mixture of machinery and hands on jobs. Dr. Andrew Ure believed this was true. He said the use of machines made it easier for workers to get the job done. “it has been said, for example, that the steam-engine now drives the power-looms with such velocity as to urge on their attendant weavers at the same rapid pace” (Ure, 456). Also the products produced by these factories brought in a large amount of investments for the owners. That was the main g...

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...rt of. Besides the economic standing, the Industrial Revolution raised job opportunities, living standards opportunity and transportation opportunities. It introduced many new machines that made like easier for those who had a difficult time trying to survive. The poor were given the opportunity to work, make money, and move from rural areas to towns. Their job conditions weren’t the best, but they still managed to survive. The had the opportunity to contribute to this successful area and making their children future easier. Yes, the Industrial Revolution raised Britain on the map, but it declined in the happiness of its people. I still stand on the Dr. Andrew Ure's side, when saying the Industrial Revolution had its advantages and disadvantages, but the Libra scale leans more toward the advantages side. In order to prosper in life, one has to suffer and sacrifice.