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The pervasiveness of microelectronic-based technologies and rising levels of unemployment have led to special attention being paid to the role of technology in the workplace. Prescriptive statements about this impact have failed to do justice to the contingent and contested nature of these changes. Recognition of the quasi-political nature of this process may disrupt the hygienic tone of these prescriptions, but should lead to a more realistic appreciation of this process. This argument is illustrated with reference to both employment numbers and the nature of work.
