AI Revolution: Jobs to Be Displaced but New Roles Expected to Emerge, Harvard Review Reveals
Artificial intelligence (AI) technology is rapidly advancing, much like the exponential growth experienced by database technology in the late twentieth century. With databases becoming the core infrastructure that drives enterprise-level software, AI is expected to play a significant role in adding value to software in the coming decades, according to a review by Harvard.
While there are concerns about AI causing a net loss of jobs, the review suggests that it will actually lead to a substantial displacement of jobs from certain occupations. Workers in low-wage occupations are expected to be disproportionately affected by this displacement, as these jobs use computers less frequently compared to high-wage occupations.
Historically, office and administrative support positions in the US experienced significant growth until the mass adoption of personal computers in the 1980s returned them to the same level as in the 1950s. This trend highlights the profound impact of technology on job dynamics.
The outlook for the future, however, is not entirely bleak. While around 75 million jobs may disappear due to AI, the review predicts the creation of approximately 133 million new roles that are more engaging and less repetitive. This signifies an opportunity for workers to focus on the aspects of their jobs that are most satisfying to them, says Carolyn Frantz, Microsoft’s Corporate Secretary.
The potential of AI goes beyond the workplace. In fields like healthcare, AI has the power to make services more accessible and affordable. For instance, Babylon Health, an app that utilizes AI to offer symptom-checking and fast access to physicians, currently provides advice to over one million residents in central London. Patients can obtain accurate and convenient answers within seconds, leading to cost savings for healthcare providers as well.
AI’s automation capabilities extend to various sectors, streamlining processes and increasing efficiency. Tasks that previously required human intelligence, such as customer service and medical diagnostic assistance, can now be performed by AI-powered chatbots and software. This enables organizations to save on labor resources and individuals to allocate their time more effectively.
Another area revolutionized by AI is the realm of art. Software has transcended its role as a tool and evolved into a creative collaborator, merging the fields of computer science and art. This interplay is transforming exhibitions into laboratories, where artists serve as researchers exploring new possibilities.
However, as AI becomes more prevalent, governments and policymakers must be prepared to address its risks and seize the opportunities it brings. From transforming public administration to ensuring cybersecurity, the implications require careful evaluation and effective governance.
AI’s reliance on big data cannot be overlooked. Recent breakthroughs in AI development primarily originate from machine learning, which relies on large datasets. Chatbots, for example, learn appropriate responses by being trained on vast collections of human conversations.
In the realm of cybersecurity, AI will play a crucial role both defensively and offensively. It will enhance cybersecurity measures while also presenting new challenges as cyber attackers exploit weaknesses in AI technology. Furthermore, the importance of data protection will be amplified as AI requires substantial amounts of training data.
To ensure broad safety and prosperity, global governance must evolve to address the implications of AI technology. Security, particularly in areas such as identity fraud, will need ongoing improvement as AI-powered attacks continuously evolve.
As AI continues to transform various sectors, it is essential to strike a balance between embracing its potential and managing its risks. By focusing on responsible and prudent governance, societies can harness the benefits of this era-defining technology while mitigating its potential downsides.
In conclusion, while AI brings about job displacement, it also opens up new avenues and possibilities. By understanding the impact of AI and overseeing its development effectively, societies can navigate this revolution and secure a better future.
