Perspectives: Computers, Tools, and People

Abstract

Mankind has used tools since prehistory. Although the technology of tools has long been of interest and much has been written on the subject, the development and effect of tools on people and society is not as widely studied. This talk examines, using historic analogy, what effects tools can have on people, their work, and on society. Various tools and technologies from the stone age through modern time are examined. Some parallels with the computer age are drawn.