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The increasing availability of computers has enabled many
people to work from home, a trend that is likely to continue as technology
continues to advance. However, the desirability of working from home is a
subject of philosophical and practical debate.
Computers have come a long way since their early use in the Second World
War. They are now powerful, compact, and have a wide range of functions,
including word-processing, faxing, and electronic creation of screen
graphics. The computer is an integral part of business, commerce, design,
word-processing, and industry in general. With the development of remote
terminals, it is now possible for white-collar workers to work from home,
and this trend is likely to continue.
However, the question of whether this change is desirable remains open.
While some visionaries predict that computers, in combination with robotics,
will eliminate the need for work, most people would find such a prospect
appalling. The instinct to work is an integral part of human nature, and
leisure only has value by contrast with work.
A more likely scenario is that an increasing number of workers will be able
to operate from home, as has always been the case for writers, painters,
sculptors, and musicians. However, the majority of people are naturally
gregarious and need the company of others and the "atmosphere" of work to
produce their best. Going out to work provides opportunities for easy
association with others, building confidence, and exchanging ideas. Personal
contact with managers and directors is essential for those with
responsibilities, and the social side of work is important for building
friendships and a sense of community.
Working from home requires self-discipline and good routines, which do not
come easily to everyone. It is also difficult to maintain the same standards
of dress and personal care at home as in public. The reality of today's
work-pattern, with both spouses often working when children are of school
age, presents further challenges for working from home, including the need
to share facilities and the potential for domestic discord.
In conclusion, while computers have enabled an increasing number of people
to work from home, the desirability of this trend remains debatable. Human
nature is unlikely to change, and the benefits of social interaction and
personal contact cannot be overlooked. While working from home may be
practical in some situations, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. |
