The perspectives of Andrew Carnegie, John Morrison and Henry George on the impact of industrialization

The perspectives of Andrew Carnegie, John Morrison and Henry George on the impact of industrialization

The three men agree that industrialization brought about civilization. According to Carnegie, human life has been transformed. The example given is that of a millionaire in his palace and laborers in their cottages in comparison to former days where there was no significant difference in terms of dwelling, dressing, or food. Furthermore, the manufacture of goods moved from domestic production to mass production. Formerly production was in terms of households where masters would work side by side with their apprentices. They would work and live in the same conditions; thus, aspects of social equality and political equality were substantial. However, since the manufacture of articles was in terms of households or low quantities, the commodities were acquired at significantly high prices. As a result of industrialization, production of commodities was improved; hence quality products would be acquired at considerably low prices.

According to Morrison, industrialization brought pain among the machinists. However, he does agree that there are benefits to this civilization. The industrialization brought about a revolution in terms of machinery such that efficiency in terms of production of goods was brought about compared to the past. Production of commodities became faster; for example, the work of about 300 to 400 men was now done by about 100 men. This meant that more products were produced. George, on the other hand, does agree that industrialization has brought about civilization such that the increase in wealth is a result of better machinery, the subdivision of production, facilitation of exchange among other entities, thus contributing to the effectiveness of labor. George highlights that productive power has increased.

While there are benefits of industrializing as described by the three men, the negative aspects are overwhelming as well. Both agree issues of equality have been diminished. Carnegie argues that rigid castes are formed as a result of the law of competition. This brings about friction among classes; thus, equality can never be promoted, and as he puts it, the human society loses homogeneity. According to Morrison, the industrialization and revolution have increased the rift between the different social classes. According to him comparing the past and the present, the social conditions of his fellow-workmen have reduced significantly. Therefore, equality can never be achieved. George, on the other hand, describes the injustices that come along with the unequal distribution of wealth. As modernization becomes more apparent, there is more inequality. He even goes ahead to propose reforms that would bring equality in terms of political, social, and moral aspects.

According to Carnegie, industrialization has increased friction between employers and workers. Their wages are small; thus, they are dissatisfied. Furthermore, there is friction between capital and labor. Morrison also highlights the same. Workers have become demoralized and discontented. Moreover, as a result of industrialization, competition has increased; thus, starting a business is more difficult, and if one is already and it’s a small business competing with large firms becomes more difficult in terms of labor. Moreover, wages are also small.

It would be prudent to note the disagreement between Carnegie and George. Carnegie feels that the law of competition is best for the human race. Even though it has its own costs, it has its benefits since it assures the survival of the fittest in every department. He further sites that we people should find a way to accommodate themselves regardless of the vices brought about, such as inequality and concentration of business. George, on the other hand, is advocating against the injustices of such laws. He believes in equality among all men. Morrison also believes in a revolution that would liberate people from inequalities. That is why he is in an organization fighting against the injustices of oppression as laborers. He believes in a government of the people where equality is promoted.

References

Carnegie, Andrew. “Wealth.” The North American Review 148.391 (1889): 653-664.