Navigating the Future: AI, Jobs, and Society
I take walks with my kids and try to explain things to them. I’m going to try feeding these talks into chatGPT to have it summarize my talks.
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As AI becomes more advanced, we must consider the implications it has for society and the job market. The rise of intelligent machines could render many jobs obsolete, as they can perform tasks faster, better, and cheaper than humans. The only limitation to AI's growth is the availability of GPUs, which are necessary for their function.
If AI continues to advance, it could replace humans in virtually every job, even in creative fields like entertainment. This raises questions about how people will survive without traditional jobs. Historically, humans have shifted from primarily focusing on basic needs (like food and shelter) to finding ways to pass time in more specialized (but arguably unnecessary) roles. Technology has enabled us to meet basic needs more efficiently, allowing for the creation of new jobs and opportunities.
However, with AI potentially taking over all jobs, we must examine the consequences. One potential outcome is the concentration of wealth and resources among the owners of AI technology or to their customers, leading to a dystopian, Hunger Games-like society. Another possibility is the establishment of a Star Trek-like world, where resources are shared among all people, creating a more equitable society.
Universal basic income (UBI) is one potential solution to this dilemma, in which the wealth generated by AI is redistributed to everyone. This concept is controversial, as some argue it promotes laziness or dependence on welfare. However, as more people lose jobs to AI, public opinion on UBI may change.
The future of jobs and society is uncertain, but it's crucial to consider the possibilities and work towards a more equitable outcome. As AI continues to advance, humans will need to find new ways to derive satisfaction and meaning from their lives, even if they can't compete with machines in terms of skill or efficiency. Finding pride in one's own creations and accomplishments, despite not being the best, will be essential in navigating the future shaped by AI.
