There are some things we shouldn't adapt to

WHENEVER great changes promise (or threaten) to overtake a society, there is usually some resistance. But there is also a strong sense that if the change seems inevitable, the sensible thing to do is to adapt. Sometimes, that is the best way - but not always.

Adaptation may make an undesirable change that was not in fact inevitable, certain to occur. Adaptation can become a slippery slope that once embarked upon, results in far worse consequences than initially anticipated. It can mean reconciliation with something that should never be accepted.

Historically, the development of modern industry was enormously productive - but at the price of bringing about a radical change in how labour was performed. Those who laboured on the land and in their homes had previously been able to work at their own pace, provided they got the necessary tasks done.