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What can history teach us about technology and jobs? | McKinsey
Source: mckinsey.com
Article summary:
1. History shows that technology is a net creator of jobs in the long run, despite concerns about job loss due to automation and AI.
2. Sectors decline and rise simultaneously during employment transitions, with demand for cheaper goods leading to increased employment despite productivity gains.
3. The transition to automation will require millions of people to switch occupations, with a need for retraining mid-career workers who may not have the time or resources for traditional education programs.
Article analysis:
The McKinsey article explores the relationship between technology and employment, drawing on historical examples to argue that technology is a net creator of jobs in the long run. The authors cite examples such as the Ford Model T and personal computers to demonstrate how new technologies can create new industries and job opportunities. They also acknowledge that some jobs may decline due to automation, but argue that this will be offset by the creation of new jobs requiring different skills.
While the article provides interesting insights into the relationship between technology and employment, it is important to note its potential biases. For example, the authors are affiliated with McKinsey, a consulting firm that has been criticized for promoting corporate interests over social welfare. Additionally, while they acknowledge that some jobs may decline due to automation, they do not explore the potential negative impacts on workers who lose their jobs or struggle to transition to new occupations.
Furthermore, while historical examples are useful for understanding trends over time, they may not be applicable to current technological developments such as artificial intelligence and machine learning. These technologies have the potential to automate a wide range of tasks across multiple industries, which could lead to significant job losses in certain sectors.
Overall, while the article provides valuable insights into the relationship between technology and employment based on historical examples, it is important to consider its potential biases and limitations when evaluating its claims.
Topics for further research:
Negative impacts of automation on workers
Challenges of transitioning to new occupations
Corporate interests vs. social welfare in technology and employment
Potential job losses in industries due to artificial intelligence and machine learning
Impacts of technology on income inequality
Ethical considerations of technology and employment