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About this quote

What does it mean?
The clock, rather than the steam engine, is the defining technology of modern industry because it regulates time and labor.
In plain terms
Timekeeping machines matter more than power machines in shaping modern work.
What can you take from it?
Control of time is central to industrial organization.

Where it applies

  • workplace management
  • industrial history
  • economic systems

Putting it to work

  • scheduling systems
  • productivity analysis
  • historical study

Questions to consider

  • How does time control your work?
  • What machines shape society?

Another view

Steam engines were still vital for actual power generation.

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