Technology has not always been seen as a positive force. An example of this is the way Victorians understood the Industrial Revolution. Although many of them were happy with progress, many others worried about the effects this might have on society. Some of their fears were related to:
- Our bodies: Victorians were worried about technology making work too easy, and therefore, diminishing the effort we required to perform some tasks. They worried this might have a negative effect on our bodies and our health.
- Social structure: As technology was developed and became cheaper, it also became easier for all people to access it. This meant that less privileged people could access benefits that were previously reserved for the wealthy classes. Many Victorians worried that this would undermine the social structure they lived under.
- Jobs: As more technology is developed, more tasks that were previously performed by people are performed by machines. This can lead to a loss of jobs. This is a concern that continues to be relevant in the present.
- Women: Women were seen during Victorian times as responsible for the household. Many people believed that technology would make such work easier, and thus women less skilled. They also believed technology might make women freer, which could lead them to neglect their husbands and families.
- Morality: While many Victorians believed technology to be a sign of progress, many others worried about technology undermining traditional morality. They believed that such changes might make humans overly confident or arrogant, encouraging them to disregard the traditional knowledge of their ancestors.