[snitzr]

This reminds me of economist E. F. Schumacher's idea of "intermediate technology." It's tech that is more advanced than an impoverished person's existing technology, but not so advanced that only a few can afford and use. Intermediate technology prevents a dual economy / neocolonialism where only a few people get rich and productive from using advanced labor-saving technology.

[tweetle_beetle]

I wonder the tipping point for that status for the scythe occured historically. They are fairly difficult tools to manufacture, as far as hand tools go. And it wasn't that long ago, in the history of the tool, that a patent led to a single small site (by modern standards) exporting riveted English scythes all around the world.

https://www.sheffieldmuseums.org.uk/visit-us/abbeydale-indus...

https://scytheassociation.org/english-scythe-making-traditio...

[wood_spirit]

This reminds me of Hans Rosling’s talks about poverty and washing machines

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=BZoKfap4g4w