Industrialization in this context refers to the process by which humans utilize natural resources to produce and manufacture goods for economic purposes. This process is central to Crusoe's activities, shaped by his cultural upbringing and religious beliefs. He quickly adopts a mindset of industry and self-reliance on the island.

During the time of Robinson Crusoe, many communities were experiencing a shift towards labor specialization. People began purchasing bread instead of making it themselves. Consequently, Crusoe must reacquire many of these skills to survive. Through practice, Crusoe successfully increases the level of industrialization on his island.

Crusoe possesses a few tools that enable him to recreate elements of civilization and develop more advanced technologies. While building his house, he observes that each task is labor-intensive. He briefly praises the idea of the “division of labor” as he describes cutting timber, transporting it to the building site, and constructing his shelter. Eventually, he invents labor-saving devices, thereby enhancing his efficiency and productivity.

The necessity for a sharp axe inspires Crusoe to create a foot-powered sharpener. Although he lacks “any understanding of a kiln,” he manages to successfully fire pottery. He needs a mill to grind grain, but without the right stone, he improvises with a block of hard wood. The entire process of baking his own bread leads him to appreciate the wonders of human technology.

People often overlook the effort involved in producing essential goods when these items can be easily purchased in the market. Crusoe is not suggesting a return to self-sufficient households. Instead, while tackling strenuous tasks like crafting a simple shelf in his house, he notes that a carpenter could have completed the two-day job in just an hour. Thus, he values the specialization process that makes industrialization so effective.