Elon Musk believes that artificial intelligence will eventually replace all of our jobs, but he doesn't see this as a negative development. Speaking at a tech conference, Musk stated that it is likely that none of us will have jobs in the future.
During a remote talk at VivaTech 2024 in Paris, Musk talked about a future where jobs would become "optional." According to Musk, people can choose to work if they want, but AI and robots will be able to provide all the goods and services needed.
He mentioned that for this scenario to be successful, there would need to be a concept of "universal high income" which should not be mistaken for universal basic income. However, he did not provide details on what this could entail. (Universal Basic Income, or UBI, involves the government providing a set amount of money to every individual, regardless of their earnings.)
He also added that in this scenario, there would be an abundance of goods and services available.
AI capabilities have advanced rapidly in recent years, leading to a need for regulators, companies, and consumers to navigate the responsible use of this technology. As AI becomes more prevalent in the market, concerns arise regarding the impact on various industries and jobs.
A recent study by researchers at MIT’s Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Lab revealed that workplaces are adopting AI at a slower pace than anticipated. Contrary to fears, the majority of jobs deemed vulnerable to automation were not economically viable for employers to automate at the time of the study in January.
Many jobs that rely on emotional intelligence and human interaction, like mental health professionals, creatives, and teachers, are believed by experts to be irreplaceable.
Elon Musk has expressed his worries about AI, calling it his biggest fear during a recent keynote. He referenced the "Culture Book Series" by Ian Banks as the most realistic portrayal of a future AI society.
In a world without jobs, Elon Musk raised a concern about whether people would find fulfillment. He pondered, "If computers and robots outperform humans in every task, does your life still hold significance?" Musk suggested that humans may still have a purpose by providing meaning to artificial intelligence.
He also used his stage time to urge parents to limit the amount of social media that children can see because “they’re being programmed by a dopamine-maximizing AI.”
Editor's P/S:
Elon Musk's vision of a future where AI replaces all jobs is both intriguing and thought-provoking. While the idea of a world where humans are no longer required to work may sound appealing, it also raises concerns about the potential loss of purpose and fulfillment. Musk's suggestion of a "universal high income" to address this issue is a step in the right direction, but further details and discussions are necessary to ensure its feasibility and impact on society.
The article also highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the impact of AI on jobs. While some experts believe that AI will lead to widespread unemployment, others argue that it will create new opportunities and enhance job functions. The recent study from MIT suggests that the adoption of AI in workplaces is slower than anticipated, indicating that the transition may not be as imminent as some fear. However, it is crucial to remain vigilant and explore ways to mitigate the potential negative consequences of AI on the workforce.
