It was a warm summer day, and John had just returned from a job interview at a local tech company. He was feeling confident as he recounted the details to his wife.
"I think I have a good chance of getting the job," he said. "But there was one thing that bothered me. They kept talking about AI this and AI that. It was like they didn't think I could do the job without some computer doing it for me."
John's experience is becoming more common as AI (artificial intelligence) continues to evolve and permeate every aspect of our lives. Jobs that used to require human expertise and judgment are now being automated, and the people who used to do those jobs are being left behind. In many cases, they feel insulted by the implication that a machine can do their job better than they can.
Insulting AI
The unemployment rate for certain types of workers, such as manufacturing and retail, has been increasing in recent years due to the increased use of automation.
A study by PwC found that up to 38% of US jobs could be at risk of being replaced by automation by the early 2030s.
According to a survey by Pew Research Center, 72% of Americans are worried about a future where robots and computers can do many human jobs. 33% are worried a lot and 39% are somewhat worried.
These statistics show that the fear of being replaced by AI is not unfounded. It's a real concern for many workers, and it's causing them to feel undervalued and diminished.
Why AI is an Insult
It implies that the work that was being done by humans is not important or valuable.
It suggests that humans are not capable of doing the work as well as a machine is.
It can make workers feel like they are being reduced to a number or a statistic, rather than a valuable member of a team.
These are all valid concerns, and they highlight the need for companies and individuals to recognize the value of human expertise and judgment, even in a world where AI is becoming increasingly prevalent.
How to Address the Insulting Implications of AI
Recognize and appreciate the unique qualities that humans bring to the table, such as empathy, creativity, and critical thinking.
Involve workers in the development and implementation of AI technologies, so that they feel like they are part of the solution, rather than being replaced by it.
Provide training and education opportunities for workers who are at risk of being displaced by automation, so that they can stay relevant and continue to contribute to their fields.
By taking these steps, individuals and organizations can help to bridge the gap between humans and machines, and create a future where AI is not an insult, but a valuable tool that complements and enhances human expertise and judgment.
Written by Jane Doe
Published on August 1,
References
"Artificial intelligence could upend the $27 billion US legal services industry — here are the top 5 ways firms are investing in the tech", Business Insider, July 30, 2021.
"AI could threaten almost 40% of jobs in the US, according to one PwC report", Business Insider, March 28, 2021.
"Americans optimistic about future of technology, but concerned about jobs, privacy", Pew Research Center, June 28, 2021.
Curated by Team Akash.Mittal.Blog
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