Will AI take your job?

As the workforce and the introduction of new tech are ever-evolving, it makes perfect sense that for the most part of history, people have been afraid of larger changes, since they might have a significant impact on their lives and jobs. As we stand on the cusp of another technological revolution - AR in the face of Apple's Vision Pro and General AI, it's crucial to reflect on historical patterns to navigate the future with informed optimistic realism.

The Historical Perspective

Historically, each wave of technological innovation has brought with it a mix of disruption and with it - progress. As the most obvious example let's take the Industrial Revolution as it marked a significant turning point in history. It led to the decline of artisan trades (brick layers, mechanics, etc) but also paved the way for the creation of new jobs in factories, fundamentally transforming the socio-economic fabric of the time. According to a study by Bessen (2015), the introduction of the power loom in the textile industry, while initially feared for job displacement, eventually led to an increase in employment due to reduced production costs and increased demand.

Psychological Impact and Societal Adaptation

The psychological impact of technological change must not be overstated. Research by Sverke & Hellgren (2002) highlights job insecurity and stress as significant concerns during periods of technological transition. People have always found a way to handle new challenges. Now, we talk about "technological resilience," which means we're pretty good at getting used to new tech and making it a part of our daily lives and communities. At one point it's hard to imagine how we lived before having these gadgets in our pockets, hands, heads, etc.

The Role of Education and Skill Development

The introduction of new technologies has consistently underscored the importance of education and skill development. A study by Autor, Levy, & Murnane (2003) illustrates how computerization has increased demand for problem-solving and complex communication skills while reducing the need for routine manual tasks. This shift necessitates a reevaluation of educational systems to prepare future generations for the demands of a technologically advanced job market. Imagine this: In the next 5 to 10 years, we could all be using technology similar to the Apple Vision Pro, seamlessly juggling three screens and a call while still being fully aware of our surroundings.

The Future of Work

As we look to the future, the rise of artificial intelligence and automation presents both opportunities and challenges. A report by the World Economic Forum (2018) predicts that while 75 million jobs may be displaced by 2022, 133 million new roles could emerge that are more adapted to the new division of labor between humans, machines, and algorithms. This highlights the dynamic nature of technological progress, where innovation does not merely replace jobs but transforms them, creating new opportunities for employment and societal advancement. I know how AI has impacted my daily responsibilities and activities and to be honest, so far it has only made my life better. I am not saying that AI is not out to get my job because I genuinely don't know but I'll do my best to stay ahead.

This has to end somehow, so..

The history of technological innovation is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of both individuals and societies. As we navigate through the 21st century, it is crucial to welcome change with a forward-looking mindset, invest in lifelong learning, and encourage an environment of innovation and inclusivity. By doing so, we can turn the challenges of technological disruption into opportunities for growth.

p.s. This could be us in 5 years..