Thesis
Ever since it was unveiled by Henry Ford on December 1, 1913, the assembly line has been hailed as one of the greatest inventions of the 20th century. While certainly beneficial when first implemented, it, however, ultimately proved to be detrimental to the workers, both at Ford and other companies. It resulted in the commoditization of the workers' roles, diminished their responsibilities and ultimately allowed for the violation of their rights.
Ever since it was unveiled by Henry Ford on December 1, 1913, the assembly line has been hailed as one of the greatest inventions of the 20th century. While certainly beneficial when first implemented, it, however, ultimately proved to be detrimental to the workers, both at Ford and other companies. It resulted in the commoditization of the workers' roles, diminished their responsibilities and ultimately allowed for the violation of their rights.
"Historical fact: People stopped being people in 1913. That was the year Henry Ford put his cars on rollers and made his workers adopt the speed of the assembly line."
- Jeffrey Eugenides, Middlesex