4. How has machinery taken over from humans when it comes to making things? Well, in the last 50 years, machinery has replaced our hands in many situations, whether it be
at home, at work, or in our hobbies. First of all, at home, most people now own a washing
machine, and don't need to hand-wash their clothes as often as before. I think that very soon in
China, people will also own a dish washer too (most Western families bought one in the 1990s),
although rich families would rather pay for a maid to take care of the household chores. In
addition, at work, especially in factories, machines have enhanced efficiency and increased
production. Workers have had to adapt to machines. Machines are now used in factory assembly
lines, and manufacturers only need real people for the more precise tasks or to repair the
equipment. Machines also do the most dangerous or most inconvenient jobs which has made
working in a factory safer than before. Nowadays, because very few people have the skills
required, woodworkers, carvers and tailors are regarded as artists and their prices are usually high.
Everyone recognizes the quality of their items, however.
5. What are the effects of increased automation on people's lives? I think that the mechanization and computerization of many aspects of modem life has
facilitated our lives (= made our lives easier) a lot. People don't need to work as hard as before.
Manual workers are not required to (= don't need to) carry such heavy loads as in the past, factory
workers can enjoy a safer environment, and people at home can save time thanks to their car or
their washing machine. We take the elevator, we call our friends on their mobiles anytime, and we
watch movies on computers. All these items have made our life more exciting and definitely more
convenient. Some people might tell you that it has also made people lazy. It is possible, but I think
it all depends on how much you use these technological products. It's up to people to decide
whether or not they want to be lazy. I prefer having the choice (rather than having to do everything
all the time by myself).
