Science and Technology as Engines of Growth

Science and Technology as the Engine of Economic Growth

As societies evolve both scientific and technological advances are made. These advances have substantial effects on the world. The entire social framework of a society can change, as well as the distribution of wealth. The Industrial Revolution had perhaps some of the most profound social consequences in the history of the world.

One of the most defining social consequences of the Industrial Revolution was the rise of cities, or urbanization. Over 80% of the population lived in rural areas prior to industrialization, however with the rise of factories, people began to migrate towards city areas. Small towns grew into large cities as migrants moved from the countryside. This process of urbanization concentrated workers and factories together, which further stimulated the booming new industries (The Industrial.., n.d.). Common peasants and working classes found it more feasible to seek employment in this newly created sector rather than continue to struggle in agricultural areas. The new industrial cities became sources of wealth for the nation.

The growth of industrial cities brought about another significant social consequence of the Industrial Revolution, the emergence of the “middle class” or bourgeoisie. Prior to the Revolution, there were only two major classes in society: aristocrats born into their lives of wealth and privilege, and low-income commoners born in the working classes (The Industrial.., n.d.). However the new industries required more business people, shopkeepers, insurance agents, and merchants, which became the corner stone of the new middle class. This class was divided into two distinct groups: upper middle class and lower middle class. The upper middle class was composed of factory owners/managers, doctors, lawyers, and engineers. This group benefited greatly from the Industrial Revolution as they obtained wealth in the intensely competitive industrial market. The lower middle...