Our century has been more productive than any other in this respect.

This may be because we are far enough removed in time from early stages in the
development of the mecanical age to be able to see more clearly some of the
problems involved with and to realize some of the implications, both for
individuals and for the society.

Technology is undergoing a critical transition. We are surrounded by the outward

manifestations of the culmination of the mechanical age. Yet at tre same time, th
mecanical machine -which can be most easily be defined as an imitation of our
muscles- is losing its dominating position among the tools of mindkind; while
electronic and chemical devices -which imitate the processes of the brain and
nervous system- are becoming increasingly important.