Question 6 of 9intermediate🔍 AnalyzeLong Answer5 marks

Can technology replace other factors like labour? Is this good or bad? Support your answer with the help of an example.

Correct Answer

Technology can partially replace labour in certain production processes, but it cannot completely eliminate the need for human involvement.

For example, increased machine use in agriculture has reduced dependence on manual labour for tasks like ploughing, harvesting, and irrigation. Similarly, automated manufacturing in factories uses robots for assembly line work that was previously done by humans.

This shift has both positive and negative effects. On the positive side, technology increases efficiency, productivity, and output quality while reducing physical strain on workers.

It can also help revive traditional arts — for instance, 3-D printing can produce handloom products at large scale.

On the negative side, technology can displace workers who lack the skills to operate new machines, leading to unemployment in certain sectors.

However, technology also creates new types of jobs requiring different skills, such as machine operators, technicians, and software engineers.

The key is ensuring workers receive training to adapt to technological changes.

Exercise: Questions and activities | Q: 6 | (Page Page 20)
For More Understanding

Explanation

The chapter discusses this on Page 16: 'new techniques can change the proportion used and output. For instance, increased machine use in agriculture can lower dependence on labour. Similarly, 3-D printing can help revive the dying art forms in textiles by producing handloom products at a large scale.' The chapter also notes on Page 14 that 'technological progress does not always mean replacing old technologies — some, like pulleys and wheelbarrows, are still in use.'

Solution Steps

  1. Technology can partially replace labour but cannot completely eliminate human involvement

  2. Machines in agriculture reduce dependence on manual labour for tasks like ploughing, harvesting, and irrigation

  3. Automated manufacturing uses robots for assembly line work previously done by humans

  4. Positive effects include increased efficiency, productivity, and output quality with reduced physical strain

  5. 3-D printing can help revive traditional arts by producing handloom products at large scale

  6. Negative effects include worker displacement and unemployment in certain sectors

  7. Technology creates new jobs requiring different skills like machine operators, technicians, and software engineers

  8. Training workers is essential for adapting to technological changes

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