We are now in the third stage of the industrial revolution. The first involved machines which extended human muscle; the second used machines to extend the human nervous system (radio, television, telephones); the third is now utilizing machines which extend the human mind-computers. About half of all service workers (43 percent of the labor force by 2000) will be involved in collecting, analyzing, synthesizing, structuring, storing, or retrieving information... By 1995, 80 percent of all management will be knowledge workers.

Summary

This quote highlights the progression of the industrial revolution, from machines augmenting human physical capabilities in the first stage, to the second stage where machines enhanced communication and information sharing. The third stage focuses on the use of computers and technology to extend human cognitive abilities. The quote predicts that a significant portion of the labor force will be engaged in information-related activities by 2000, and by 1995, a majority of management positions will be held by knowledge workers who rely on their ability to collect, analyze, synthesize, and store information.

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