Final answer:
Gas lighting fundamentally altered human activities by enabling longer work hours, fostering a dynamic nightlife, and spurring further technological advancements in lighting. Despite efficiency gains, it posed several safety issues, leading to the evolution of electric lighting solutions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The introduction of gas lighting in the early 19th century had a profound effect on society. First, it allowed for extended working hours in factories and workplaces as illumination was no longer dependent solely on natural light. This transition contributed to increased industrial productivity and extended commercial operation times, thereby fostering economic growth. Second, gas lighting changed social behaviors; with more brightly lit streets at night, people felt safer venturing out after dark, which led to a more vibrant and extended social and cultural nightlife. Finally, an indirect effect was the acceleration of innovation in lighting technology. The drawbacks associated with gas lighting, such as its dim light, offensive odor, and potential safety hazards like explosions and suffocation, spurred further advancements, ultimately leading to the development of electricity and the incandescent light bulb. This shift to electric lighting continued to dramatically transform human living conditions and productivity.
Aside from the aforementioned benefits, gas lighting was more efficient than previous lighting methods, such as candles and oil lamps. However, its disadvantages were significant, with safety being the primary concern. Its implementation and use laid the foundation for the electric revolution, which came with a host of improvements over gas lighting.