Recent fears over artificial intelligence (AI) causing widespread unemployment continue to grow as workers across the world witness technology taking away their jobs. A content-writer, Eric Fein, recently revealed that his work would be replaced by ChatGPT, a system that virtually wiped out his business in a matter of days. Earlier this year, Eric had 10 ongoing contracts, and since his payment was $60 an hour, his work made up half of his annual income. Although Eric pleaded with the companies to reconsider, only one of the original 10 rehired him. However, they were reportedly dissatisfied with the ChatGPT’s work. The situation has led to a fear among coders, writers, graphic designers, and others that AI systems like ChatGPT will soon be able to complete their job, leading to future layoffs.
In May alone, nearly 4,000 job cuts were due to artificial intelligence, according to data compiled by Challenger, Gray & Christmas. The executive outplacement firm found that 3,900 job losses were due to AI, while the largest number – 19,598 – was due to businesses closing. Two months earlier, Goldman Sachs estimated that AI systems could potentially replace upwards of 300 million full-time jobs.
While fears grow among workers, many remain skeptical. According to a report by the UN’s Department of Economic and Social Affairs, suggestions of AI taking the majority of jobs are unrealistic. The department has suggested that much of the technology is not versatile or adaptable enough to excel in human jobs. Additionally, as AI advances, technological developments will create new jobs at the same time.
Eric plans to enter a trade that AI hasn’t picked up just yet to ensure a steady income and a solid future for himself and his family. A trade is more future proof, Eric said. Even as many fear job loss, a silver lining could be that the situation creates a shift for workers to acquire new skills and adapt to the changing job market.
