What is the primary concern of the sewing machine's societal introduction?

The primary concern regarding the societal introduction of the sewing machine revolved around its potential to threaten livelihoods. This impact stemmed from the possibility that mechanization could displace skilled hand-sewers and tailors, leading to a loss of jobs in an industry that relied heavily on artisanal labor. The advent of the sewing machine allowed for faster production and the ability to create garments at a lower cost, which posed a significant challenge to traditional craftsmen whose livelihoods depended on manual sewing skills. As machines took over tasks that were previously performed by skilled workers, there was widespread anxiety about unemployment and the economic consequences for those whose trades were being transformed or rendered obsolete. This concern reflects a broader theme in industrialization, where innovation often brings both advancements and disruptions to established ways of life.