This is what life looked like before ubiquitous computing

Architizer has dug up a fascinating 10-minute commercial that Charles and Ray Eames wrote and produced for IBM in 1958.

Called "The Information Machine: Man and the Data Processor," it's a cartoon that opens with a Captain Caveman-esque scene and a description of, basically, how dumb early man was. From there it draws the viewer through the evolution of early problem-solving and design theory. At about the two minute mark, the film draws strong parallels between the work of artists (defined broadly to include engineers and politicians and communicators) and basic computer programs.

"As a function of design, the calculator provides creative man a higher platform upon which to stand and from which to work," explains the narrator. But he also stresses the need for, um, "man" to control and direct these new "electronic calculators."

"Data processing removes the drudgery," he says, "but imposes new and broad responsibilities...the designer must be able to state precisely what it is he needs to know. This is not always so easy."

Well, that was before search engines.

But seriously, it's amazing how clearly the film tries to intercept any notions that IBM's behemoth machines would somehow take over the human psyche.

It ends with this reassurance: "This is the story of a technique in the service of mankind."

Via: Architizer

Image: Flickr/jurvetson

This post was originally published on Smartplanet.com