Question

With improvements in technology, production becomes more efficient, increasing the output per worker of a given industry. Product quality rises, profits and wages increase, and the economy improves overall. In short, both workers and employers benefit. Which of the following opinions contradicts the above conclusion about improvements in technology? A. New technology will cause companies to decrease the size of their workforce in order to cut costs. B. Product quality increases consumer satisfaction, which leads to greater company profits. C. When businesses succeed, more money is reinvested into the economy. D. Efficiency is a key factor in ensuring a business's success.

Short answer

The short answer is: Option A contradicts the given conclusion, as it suggests that new technology can lead to a decrease in the size of the workforce, potentially negatively affecting workers.

Step-by-step solution

Identifying the contradicting opinion

Carefully read through the four options given, evaluating which one contradicts the statement that both workers and employers benefit from improvements in technology.

Option A

"New technology will cause companies to decrease the size of their workforce in order to cut costs." This option indicates a reduction in workforce size as a result of technology, which could imply that workers don't necessarily benefit from technological advancements. This option contradicts the original conclusion.

Option B

"Product quality increases consumer satisfaction, which leads to greater company profits." This option supports the conclusion, as it posits a positive effect of technology by increasing product quality, consumer satisfaction, and company profits.

Option C

"When businesses succeed, more money is reinvested into the economy." This statement also supports the conclusion, stating that successful businesses invest more money into the economy, ultimately benefiting workers and employers.

Option D

"Efficiency is a key factor in ensuring a business's success." This option is in line with the conclusion, as it points out that efficiency, which can be improved through technology, plays a crucial role in a business's success, again benefiting both workers and employers.

Conclusion

The option that contradicts the conclusion about improvements in technology is: A. New technology will cause companies to decrease the size of their workforce in order to cut costs.