The Dawn of Robotics: Are Jobs at Risk in the Age of AI?
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The Rise of Automation
Recently, during a visit to our favorite local eatery, I noticed a significant change. Everything was as usual, except for a new addition to the staff—a 5-foot-tall, polished robot. This mechanical server efficiently delivered our meals and quickly moved on to assist other diners. While we chuckled at the novelty, it dawned on me that our familiar server had been replaced by a machine!
This decision by the restaurant owner is understandable; employing a robot eliminates payroll costs, breaks, and other employee-related expenses like sick days and vacations. Mr. Robot can work tirelessly, 24/7, throughout the year. It's a sobering thought, isn't it?
Automation is advancing swiftly. When I worked in a call center, a colleague speculated that our jobs might someday be automated. Although that scenario hasn't materialized yet, the prospect of widespread job loss due to automation remains a concern.
Section 1.1 The Convenience Factor
I may not be a tech expert, but it's evident why automation is on the rise. Consumers increasingly demand convenience. With appliances like washing machines and dryers, once tedious chores are now simplified. I recall helping my mother with laundry as a child, enduring the lengthy process of wringing and hanging clothes. Today, most people take these conveniences for granted, with even laundry folding innovations likely available online.
Businesses, both small and large, find it cost-effective to utilize robots for various tasks. As self-driving cars become prevalent, we may find ourselves relying on autonomous vehicles for our daily commutes or holiday shopping trips.
Subsection 1.1.1 The Rise of Intelligent Machines
It is clear that robots are becoming increasingly intelligent. For example, I recently asked Siri, my iPhone assistant, to multiply two large numbers, and she provided the answer almost instantly. Similarly, she quickly calculated the distance from Vancouver to Cuba.
Section 1.2 Humanity vs. Robots
As humans, we possess unique qualities that robots lack, such as emotions, love, and the ability to create art and literature. Yet, some individuals have taken the leap to form relationships with robots. A Chinese engineer, for instance, created a robot to escape familial pressures and even 'married' it—though this union remains unofficial.
In another unusual case, a man in Japan held a wedding ceremony with a virtual reality singing hologram, leading to his mother's refusal to attend.
Chapter 2 Title: The Need for Moderation
Have we advanced too far technologically? The rapid pace of change can be daunting. Perhaps we should heed the wisdom of ancient philosophers. Aristotle once stated, “The virtue of justice consists in moderation, as regulated by wisdom.”
When I asked Siri if humans are smarter than robots, she paused before failing to provide an answer. This illustrates our superiority and highlights the need for cautious engagement with technology.
We must hope that, in the future, we won't find ourselves unable to enter our own homes because of a robot.
The first video titled "AI Will Take Billions of Jobs by 2030: How Can You Get Ready?" discusses the potential job displacement caused by AI and offers insights on preparing for this change.
The second video "Mo Gawdat on AI: The Future of AI and How It Will Shape Our World" features insights from AI expert Mo Gawdat about the future impact of artificial intelligence on society.
Feel free to share your thoughts on artificial intelligence or write about it yourself! Shoutout to Chris Hallett for inspiring this discussion.