The Human Machine

"The Human Machine" by Arnold Bennett is a non-fiction work written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the intricacies of human existence, positing that individuals often overlook their greatest asset—their own physical and mental abilities—while focusing excessively on external circumstances. Bennett advocates for a deeper understanding of oneself as a 'machine' that can be fine-tuned and improved, calling for a proactive engagement with self-development and personal efficiency. At the start of the book, the author contrasts the passion of inventors and their relentless pursuit of perfection in machines with the complacency many people exhibit towards their own lives. Bennett suggests that, like these "machine lovers," individuals should harness their potential and actively engage with their own intricate workings—their emotions, thoughts, and habits. He emphasizes that most people take themselves for granted and only begin to realize their complexities when faced with moments of reflection. Through various engaging anecdotes, he sets the stage for a broader discussion on personal discipline, control over one's mind, and the importance of fostering self-awareness to lead a more fulfilling life. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Enoch Arnold Bennett was an English author, best known as a novelist, who wrote prolifically. Between the 1890s and the 1930s he completed 34 novels, seven volumes of short stories, 13 plays, and a daily journal totalling more than a million words. He wrote articles and stories for more than 100 newspapers and periodicals, worked in and briefly ran the Ministry of Information during the First World War, and wrote for the cinema in the 1920s. Sales of his books were substantial, and he was the most financially successful British author of his day.