Final answer:
One major downside of the Industrial Revolution was the negative social and economic impacts it had on society, including inequalities in wealth, poor living conditions, and negative effects on the arts.
Step-by-step explanation:
One major downside of the Industrial Revolution was the negative social and economic impacts it had on society. The industrial age brought about inequalities in wealth, as owners became wealthy while laborers, including young children, worked long hours in unsafe conditions. Issues such as workers' rights, wage protection, and safe work environments arose during this period and remain concerns today.
Furthermore, the living standards for the majority of people decreased, with overcrowded and unsanitary housing in urban areas. Pollution of both water and air, as well as the spread of infectious diseases like cholera and tuberculosis, added to the negative aspects of city life. The arts also suffered, as untouched vistas became rare and the focus shifted towards the realities of industrial society.
Overall, while the Industrial Revolution led to economic growth and technological advancements, it also brought significant negative consequences for society.