> VR would enable work to be done from home more. Using telepresence, even
> factory equipment could be operated, reducing the need for travel even
> further. That, of course depends on how expensive such equipment remains
> relative to the cost of human labor.
In theory, yes.
Let me give you an example: Right now I do attachment work from my Polytechnic. I do programming, and I bring my own computer there because of the inadequate facilities (especially software) there. I can easily do the job at my home, with better facilities (except the lack of air-conditioning).
However, I have to "work" a 44 hour week, and travel there during the peak traffic hours where everyone also wanted to get to work. This also prevents me from working late at night where I can program better, and for me to take quick afternoon naps to maintain my alertness.
I actually found this crazy enough for me to bring this issue up, of a compromise that I travel during less congested times. However, the lecturer in charge retorted: "What's the problem with seeing my face more often?". I know that I have no choice but to go along with this craziness, if I want to get my diploma that my mother demands of me.
I had not even scratched the surface of the injustices and inefficiency I face. Some choose not to take the road to efficiency, and I have no power to stop them.
You can refer to an ancient posting for some hints:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Personal_Discourses/message/72
> All very interesting stuff... and part of the reason why I want *so* much
> to live to see the long-term future.
The future, unfortuntely, proceeds at a snail's pace (to me), and may turn out very different from what we hope it will turn out.
You can read some of my past postings to other discussion groups for some hints:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Personal_Discourses/message/69
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Personal_Discourses/message/71
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