I just finished watching a show on the History Channel about the top 101 gadgets that changed the world. They listed the Safety Razor as No. 74. Yes, the safety razor changed the way men and women shave, but you would think from listening to the broadcast that no one uses a straight razor, today. My Merkur 34c gets a regular work out. It is my go to mode of shaving, but I work daily on my straight razor shaving skills and razor maintenance skills.
What are your reactions?
From a strict, objective POV I may have to agree with the show's conclusion. Regardless of the fact it didn't happen overnight, the safety razor more or less was the kiss of death for the straight razor. I'm not saying this is a good thing, but the majority of men prefer convenience and efficiency, eventually leading to the rise of King Gillette's empire. Nobody said progress was pretty.....
Progress sometimes goes backwards. (negated, that would be "Congress never goes forward :-) )
The first safety razors were introduced in the very late 19th century and were among the first "modern" contraptions to change people's lives. I would put it right with the telephone in importance.