In the face of an era dominated by artificial intelligence, our society is confronted with an unprecedented upheaval, where the working population could be divided between the “gods” who master AI and the “dispensable” whose jobs will be rendered obsolete. This article explores the repercussions of this technological revolution on the world of work, the role of humans in society, and the means of preventing the marginalization of a majority now threatened with obsolescence.
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Man without work no longer exists
Three major philosophers highlight the importance of work for human beings and how AI could challenge this fundamental principle. Aristotle regarded work as an essential component of personal fulfillment, enabling the individual to realize their potential and contribute to the common good. In the face of AI, this vision leads us to rethink the means of fulfillment and each person’s contribution to society. Karl Marx saw work as the tool through which humans forged their identity and accomplished themselves as individuals and members of a community. AI, by substituting certain professions, could generate an identity crisis and a loss of bearings for affected workers. It is therefore necessary to consider new forms of engagement and professional identity compatible with a world where AI holds a central position. Hannah Arendt argued that work contributed to the meaning of life and social cohesion, allowing individuals to forge connections with each other through productive and creative activities. The expansion of AI and the possible disappearance of certain professions, such as taxi drivers, accountants, factory workers, secretaries, analysts, and lawyers, raises the question of preserving social bonds and establishing a sense of belonging in a context of changing work.
The revenge of general culture and operatives
In the context of the transformation of work by artificial intelligence, two distinct groups could escape the “useless” category by developing specific skills and positioning themselves in sectors resistant to automation. The first group, the “gods,” would be composed of individuals capable of mastering AI and taking advantage of the opportunities offered by this technology. They could rely on their general knowledge, synthesis skills, and memory to collaborate effectively with AI and create added value. These skills would allow them to excel in fields such as research, innovation, strategy, and decision-making. They would also be able to understand the ethical and societal implications of AI and contribute to the development of suitable policies and regulations.
The second group, the “operatives,” would focus on manual or personal service professions that cannot be easily automated due to their intrinsically human nature. These professions require relational skills, empathy, and adaptability, which are difficult for machines to reproduce. Among these professions are elderly care, plumbing, craftsmanship, education, and social work.
These two groups could play a central role in building a society where AI is used responsibly and in a balanced manner. The “gods” could contribute to the development of strategies and policies aimed at preserving human values and social justice. The “operatives,” on the other hand, could ensure the continuity of essential services and social connections in a world undergoing technological change.
The precariousness of the “useless”: universal income, dependency, and social invisibility
The concept of universal income has been studied and experimented in several countries and regions, and its effects on society and individuals deserve examination in the context of work automation and the “useless” category. Past and ongoing experiences offer valuable lessons on the potential consequences of such a scheme and the risks associated with increased dependence on the state. Universal income experiments in Finland, Canada, and the Netherlands, among others, have shown contrasting results. Some beneficiaries reported improved well-being and reduced financial stress, while others expressed passivity and reduced motivation to seek employment or training. These results suggest that universal income could have ambivalent effects on individuals and society.
In the scenario where the “useless” refuse to retrain and become dependent on social assistance, including a possible universal income, several problems could arise. On the one hand, this dependency could lead to feelings of inferiority and loss of dignity, depriving individuals of the opportunity to actively contribute to society and realize their potential. On the other hand, passivity and lack of incentive to train or work could exacerbate inequalities and widen the gap between the “gods,” the “operatives,” and the “useless.” Moreover, this situation could generate social and political tensions, with a majority of the population no longer existing economically and contributing. The “useless” could feel marginalized and neglected, leading to widespread discontent and increased polarization among different population categories. The “useless” therefore risk being condemned to an idle existence, spending their days slouched on their couches, absorbed by Netflix series, while having food delivered by undocumented workers braving the rain and cold to pedal at their service.
We cannot swim against the current
It is thus of utmost importance to recognize the perils that imperil our society and take decisive action to avert descending into an epoch where the majority of the population would be consigned to the status of “useless.” The hazard of increased reliance on the state and widespread indolence could precipitate social disintegration and the gradual evaporation of the values that form the bedrock of our humanity. Should we fail to regain our footing, we run the risk of witnessing our world crumble and the demise of our civilization as we know it. Reinventing ourselves and adapting to the transformations wrought by artificial intelligence are indispensable to avoid becoming “useless.” We must tap into our creativity, ingenuity, and perseverance to forge a future in which humanity continues to thrive and coexist harmoniously with technological advancements. Mastery of AI and retraining in careers resistant to automation offer a path toward a more balanced and sustainable future for society as a whole.
The choices we make today will have a decisive impact on our collective future. The future lies in our hands, and it is our responsibility to coexist with artificial intelligence, rise to the challenges, and shape a world where human values continue to be celebrated and preserved. Let us always bear in mind that it is already too late. AI has irreversibly embedded itself in our lives. If we are told that we shall be cast into the sea, our first instinct would be to learn to swim. And for those who know how, we must never forget that we cannot swim against the current.
