Renowned labor economist David Autor, known for his research on how technology and trade have impacted American workers, is now advocating for a more optimistic view of artificial intelligence (A.I.). In a recent paper published in the National Bureau of Economic Research, Autor argues that generative A.I. has the potential to restore the middle-skill, middle-class jobs that have been lost to automation and globalization.
Autor’s shift in perspective may come as a surprise to those familiar with his previous work, which highlighted the negative effects of technology on the labor market. However, he believes that modern A.I. presents new opportunities for workers, particularly those without college degrees, to take on more valuable tasks and ultimately earn higher wages.
While some economists view Autor’s ideas as speculative, others see them as a thought-provoking exploration of the potential benefits of A.I. in the workforce. Autor’s research suggests that A.I. could enhance productivity for workers of all skill levels, with less experienced workers potentially benefiting the most.
Despite the potential benefits of A.I., Autor acknowledges that challenges remain, including the need for corporate responsibility, worker bargaining power, and policy incentives to ensure that all workers can share in the rewards of increased productivity. While some economists remain skeptical of the optimistic outlook, Autor believes that imagining a positive future and preparing for it is essential in harnessing the potential of A.I. as a tool for economic growth and job creation.
