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07254_Field_TCUM T819.txt
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1996-04-10
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the work operation that uses the power. The same is true in all
servomechanist structures that involve feedback. The source of
energy is separate from the process of translation of
information, or the applying of knowledge. This is obvious in the
telegraph, where the energy and channel are quite independent
of whether the written code is French or German. The same
separation of power and process obtains in automated
industry, or in “cybernation.” The electric energy can be applied
indifferently and quickly to many kinds of tasks.
Such was never the case in the mechanical systems. The
power and the work done were always in direct relation,
whether it was hand and hammer, water and wheel, horse and
cart, or steam and piston. Electricity brought a strange
elasticity in this matter, much as light itself illuminates a total
field and does not dictate what shall be done. The same light