Are we actually evolving?

THE “FOURTH Industrial Revolution” is one of the major items on the agenda of the World Economic Forum at Davos.

For those used to speaking and thinking of the Industrial Revolution (as if there was only one), some brief simplistic explication is necessary.

The first Industrial Revolution is dated from 1784 onwards and was driven by steam and mechanical labour-saving devices. The second, from around 1870, was driven by electricity, enabling mass production and the division of labour.

The third, from around 1969, was enabled by computers, electronics and information technology. The fourth is going on as we speak, and is being driven by artificial intelligence, robotics and biotechnology.

To what extent have these revolutions been “a good thing”? The first produced factories, which ruined the cottage industries of England, provoking the Luddite movement to destroy manufacturing machinery. On the other hand, Watt’s steam engine led to the development of the railway system.

The second provided mass employment, reducing man to a robot on a production line, but led to affordable cars and appliances. Only the third could be said to have benefited the greatest number of people. The outcome of the fourth is unknown, but is predicted to increase inequality and threaten jobs.

Hughes is an emeritus professor, Wits University.