I think I part with some of the opinions here in two ways: not only do
I think this is a good question, but I believe that thinking about the
question is a good thing.

To me, it's valuable to think of "what if the power goes out"? I don't
want a shop I can't use during a blackout: it's the reason I'm putting
skylights and a woodstove in mine. I want to know I _can_, if needed,
do everything by hand. Would I always prefer to do so? No - I'd like
the option of power assist, at least for some tasks. But it shouldn't
be, and isn't, required for me to enjoy my woodworking.

Dudley


foggytown wrote:
Assume that there were no power tools in the world. Would you still be
a keen woodworker? Be honest.

I don't think I would, at least not to anywhere near the extent I am at
the moment. There would be so many things I would be unable to do, or
would be able to do in a crude manner. It would drive me nuts.
Frustration would reign. Does that make me a true Normite? (sigh) I
guess it does!

FoggyTown