Pięć rewolucji przemysłowych – przyczyny, przebieg i skutki (ujęcie historyczno-analityczne)

The article explores industrial revolutions in chronological order. The article begins with explaining the concept of the industrial revolution. The opening section examines the first two industrial revolutions that caused great economic and social changes. The second section focuses on the third industrial revolution, which involves information technology, the development of means of transport, telecommunications and nuclear energy. The previews of Industry 4.0 and 5.0 appearing on the horizon are also briefly examined. The final part indicates that technological innovations are the engine of changes in the economy, but also affect the form of, among others, democracy and interpersonal relationships that shape new ways of communication. Special attention is given to the biggest changes that concern labour market: new technologies create great opportunities for educated and creative employees, while excluding those who are not able to adapt to the new requirements.