Machine : Master or Slave?

A CLOSER LOOK

The Prelinger collection preserves ephemeral films that document everyday life, instruction, commerce, and popular culture. This entry is cataloged as Machine : Master or Slave?.

The film explores the impact of labor-saving machinery on employment and the economy. As factories ramp up production for defense needs, workers face potential layoffs due to automation. The narrative follows a group of factory workers and managers grappling with rising inventories and the challenge of selling increased output at higher prices. Despite aggressive marketing efforts, the lack of consumer purchasing power leads to a failure in sales campaigns.

Watch the film here, then open the archive record for its full description and file details.