INDUSTRY: Rhythm & Work

For years sociologists have wondered whether rhythmic movements on the assembly line are a help or a nervous strain on workers. In its last issue, the Journal of the American Medical Association reports a study by British Psychologist P. C. Wason of 15 soap-wrappers working for Manchester soapmaker Cussons, Sons & Co. Ltd., who do a strange little jig to music piped in over the plant intercom. W'ason's findings: jigging on the job is a big help both in speed and efficiency. Wrote Wason: "The movements consisted of a rhythmical swaying of the trunk backwards and...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!