Avoiding Automation’s Negative Consequences: Balancing Technology Advancement with Ethics, Workers’ Livelihoods and Human Creativity

The rapid advancement of technologies has transformed the world, with breakthroughs in generative artificial intelligence and robotics leading the way. While these developments hold great potential, global leaders must prioritize ethics, workers’ livelihoods, and human creativity over efficiency to avoid negative consequences.

Automation could bring many benefits, but it should not come at the expense of people and jobs. A 2023 study by the McKinsey Global Institute found that up to 30 percent of hours currently worked across the US economy could be automated, a trend accelerated by generative AI. Additionally, Goldman Sachs predicts that roughly two-thirds of current jobs are exposed to some degree of AI automation, with generative AI potentially substituting up to one-fourth of current work. This underscores the importance of a mindset that supports workers and their well-being.

As college students prepare for their careers, they should be trained to understand and use technology in ways that complement their work rather than replace it entirely. An article by American Progress highlights an approach that can help mitigate the impact of automation on employment by providing workers with skills needed to adapt to changing job markets.

Beyond economic and job implications, there is an increasing ethical concern related to new technologies such as generative AI. As these platforms begin to dabble in creating art and writing, questions arise about the authenticity of human creativity. These platforms often draw inspiration from existing artwork, raising legal and ethical issues related to intellectual property theft as highlighted in a New Yorker article.

To navigate this evolving technological landscape while ensuring a more sustainable and equitable future, global leaders must prioritize regulation in these fields to protect workers and artists from negative impacts. By emphasizing ethics, workers’ livelihoods, and human creativity over efficiency, leaders can ensure that technological advancements benefit everyone equally while minimizing negative consequences.