Automation can lead to a loss of craftsmanship from "summary" of The Glass Cage by Nicholas Carr
In some cases, the more we rely on automation, the less skilled we become at the manual tasks it replaces. Take the example of airplane pilots. The increased automation in the cockpit has undoubtedly made flying safer and more efficient. However, pilots nowadays spend more time monitoring computer systems than actually flying the plane. As a result, their manual flying skills may not be as sharp as those of earlier generations who spent more time physically operating the controls. The same can be said for other professions as well. Automation in fields such as medicine and finance has made certain tasks easier and more accurate. Yet, as technology takes over these tasks, professionals may lose touch with the craft of their work. For instance, in the medical field, automated diagnostic tools can quickly analyze vast amounts of data and detect patterns that might elude human doctors. While this can lead to faster and more accurate diagnoses, it also means that doctors may rely more on technology and less on their own observations and instincts. Craftsmanship, by its very nature, requires time, effort, and attention to detail. When automation takes over repetitive tasks, it may reduce the opportunities for professionals to hone their craft and develop their skills. This can lead to a loss of the intuition, creativity, and expertise that are essential to mastering a craft. In the long run, this could have detrimental effects on the quality of work produced in various fields. Furthermore, automation can also lead to a loss of engagement and satisfaction for individuals in their work. When tasks become automated, workers may feel disconnected from the end result and lack a sense of accomplishment. This can result in decreased motivation and overall job satisfaction. As a result, individuals may become less invested in their work and may not strive for excellence in the same way they would if they were more actively involved in the process.- While automation can bring many benefits in terms of efficiency and accuracy, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks it may have on craftsmanship. As technology continues to advance, it is crucial for professionals to find a balance between automation and manual work to ensure that they maintain their skills, engagement, and satisfaction in their craft.
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