The industrial revolution was about using Tools as Physical Amplifiers. Prior to the steam engine, the oxen/bullock/horse/donkey/elephant was the dominat non-human power-source. Humans can work at about 125-250W continuously (1/8 to 1/4 of a kilowatt, or 1/6 to 1/3 Horsepower). Elite athletes can produce 500W or more for short periods. All biological systems have a short and medium term "duty-cycle" - our muscles get tired, non-linearly, and need short-term recovery and longer-term rest and recuperation. Sleep and recreation are about the nervous system/mind/brain. From chapters of Taylor's book Scientific Management here's proof you get more out of people by making them rest! He improved average output from 12 tons/day to 47 tons/day through careful (psychological) selection and enforcing rest periods. Counter-intuitive, but well-researched. For example, when pig iron is being handled (each pig weighing 92 pounds), a first-class workman can only be under load 43...
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