1 May 2024
Should I be worried about AI taking my job?
The concern over AI potentially displacing jobs is multifaceted and depends significantly on the nature of your job, the industry you are in, and the pace of technological adoption within your sector
Economist perspective:
From a Marxian viewpoint, technological advancements like AI are seen as tools of capitalist production which, while enhancing productivity and creating wealth, also exacerbate class struggle by potentially displacing workers. This would lead to what Marx referred to as the "reserve army of labor" - increased pools of unemployed workers which can lead to lower wages and increased job insecurity for the working class. However, this crisis could catalyze the labor movement to push for a more equitable distribution of the wealth generated by these new technologies
Philosopher perspective:
AI has the potential to disrupt the social contract and the role of the state in this transition deserves consideration. If AI technologies lead to significant job displacement, it could threaten social stability. Thus, it may be necessary for strong government policies to manage the integration of AI into the workforce to prevent social disorder
Technologist perspective:
The transformative potential of AI is almost unimaginable. It may accelerate innovation and lead to the creation of new job categories that do not currently exist. One might argue that change and innovation should be embraced, that technology ultimately creates more opportunities than it destroys, and that it requires a workforce willing to adapt and learn new skills to succeed
Mathematician perspective:
From a mathematical standpoint, the adoption of AI can be seen in terms of optimization and efficiency algorithms. These technologies optimize labor processes to a point of minimizing human input
Sociologist perspective:
AI will have a societal and cultural impact on society. It will influence social stratification and the labor value system. AI could lead to a new leisure class - who benefits from AI-driven productivity - while displacing the traditional working class, thus exacerbating social inequalities. It is important that benefits from AI advancements are more evenly distributed
Summary:
In conclusion, whether or not you should be worried about AI taking away your job depends heavily on your adaptability to new technologies, the potential for policy intervention to redistribute benefits and mitigate harms, and the social dynamics at play within your industry. Engaging with continuous learning and skills development, understanding the trajectory of your industry, and participating in discussions about the future of work are all strategic responses to this concern