Automation, Jobs And The New Techno-Pessimism

A strange vision is gaining traction in the developed world: a vision of a future economy so dramatically changed by technology that it is beyond recognition. This is not the apocalyptic prophecy of a real-world Skynet, turning computerised gadgets and artificial intelligence systems against the human population, but a growing fear of automation replacing people in an increasingly robotised world of work. While it is plain to see how machines have improved humanity's lot in the past despite putting their overlords out of work, some argue that this time, it is different. No doubt, sophisticated IT and AI are likely to consign more jobs to the bin of history than ever before. But some elements of this new techno-pessimism are worryingly short-sighted, and they must be weeded out before they gain more popularity in business and political circles.