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Understanding McLuhan
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07269_Field_TCUM T834.txt
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1996-04-10
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automatic production of electric bulbs represents a
combination of processes that were previously managed by
several machines. With a single attendant, it can run as
continuously as a tree in its intake and output. But, unlike the
tree, it has a built-in system of jigs and fixtures that can be
shifted to cause the machine to turn out a whole range of
products from radio tubes and glass tumblers to Christmas-
tree ornaments. Although an automated plant is almost like a
tree in respect to the continuous intake and output, it is a tree
that can change from oak to maple to walnut as required. It is
part of the automation or electric logic that specialism is no
longer limited to just one specialty. The automatic machine
may work in a specialist way, but it is not limited to one line. As
with our hands and fingers that are capable of many tasks, the
automatic unit incorporates a power of adaptation that was
quite lacking in the pre-electric and mechanical stage of