1 If you’re like most young people, you’ve probably embraced technology. You communicate with friends via videos and filters. You have vast numbers of songs and shows within reach. You can get items delivered to your home the same day you ordered them without leaving the house. These benefits of technology are easy to see.
2 Perhaps you take it further, and are one of those who believe that technology does not just add fun and convenience to our lives, but is actually the answer to most of our problems—even problems that are caused by technology itself. In the very near future, one of the biggest of these problems is likely to be that many jobs now held by humans will be done by some combination of artificial intelligence and automated machines. If you’re tempted to shrug off concern about this phenomenon because you assume that the wonders of technology will somehow create new and better jobs, you should be aware that research tells another story. As part of the generation that will arguably be most affected by these changes, it’s in your interest to stay informed rather than simply hope for the best.
3 There is no argument that many jobs now held by humans will be replaced by some form of advanced technology. According to a new report by a multi-national accounting and consulting firm based in London, 38% of U.S. jobs are at high risk of being replaced by robots and artificial intelligence over the next 15 years.1 The report estimates the percentage of jobs lost to automation in Britain will be 30%, with 35% in Germany, and 21% in Japan.2
4 This change is already underway. Shipping companies have made headlines with self-driving trucks carrying cargo across the country. Rideshare companies have been testing self-driving taxis in Pennsylvania and Arizona. Once more of our trucks and taxis drive themselves, what will happen to the people who held jobs as drivers? In the U.S., roughly 180,000 taxi drivers, 600,000 ride share drivers, and 3.5 million truck drivers could end up displaced.3 This number is greater than the population of Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, Austin, and Fort Worth combined. Will all these people find some other source of employment? Or will the numbers of unemployed grow as the out-of-work drivers are joined by the millions of others who have been displaced by artificial intelligence and robots?
5 Technology fans claim that the fears that robots will lead to massive unemployment are unfounded. They say that people who are displaced from jobs will find new and better occupations that will be created by the economic shift. They suggest that a factory worker whose task on the assembly line is now completed by a machine might instead become someone who services the machine, for example. Or that there could be a rise in jobs in sectors that are harder to automate, such as healthcare.
6 “The last 200 years, we’ve had an incredible amount of automation,” argues MIT economist David Autor. “We have tractors that do the work that horses and people used to do on farms. We don’t dig ditches by hand anymore. We don’t pound tools out of wrought iron. We don’t do bookkeeping with books! But this has not in net reduced the amount of employment.”4
7 However, there is plenty of evidence to suggest that it’s going to be different going forward. The introduction of the labor-saving tractor did indeed free up some farmers to plant more crops and others to take on different sorts of work. But the kind of automation combined with artificial intelligence being developed today doesn’t just do the physical work of humans. It can do much of the high-level mental work too, faster and more effectively. In the past, newly freed laborers often went on to work in start-up industries that benefited from their availability. Today, the new industries are unlikely to need many human bodies or minds because technology can do the work for less cost.
8 Jerry Kaplan, an artificial intelligence expert who’s founded multiple technology startups, has written a book called Humans Need Not Apply. In it, he lays out the risks of our new era. He explains what’s cutting edge and poised to increase: systems that learn from experience and therefore don’t need to be programmed, as we commonly understand the term. Not only will machines be able to do work that we think of as requiring human judgment and skill, such as fixing electrical problems, painting a house, or writing a news story, they will also be able to do work that people simply can’t. “Unlike humans who are limited in the scope and scale of experiences they can absorb, these systems can scrutinize mountains of instructive examples at blinding speeds. They are capable of comprehending not only the visual, auditory, and written information familiar to us but also the more exotic forms of data that stream through computers and networks,” he writes.5
9 Kaplan is mainly referring to the future he predicts based on his perspective as an expert in the tech world. But already, we can see the consequences. There is no evidence that recent advances in technology have so far offered the majority of workers better pay or positions. In fact, the opposite seems to be true. A report by the National Bureau of Economic Research found that between 1990 and 2007, automation lowered both the number of jobs available and the amount those jobs paid. “We estimate large and robust negative effects of robots on employment and wages,” write the authors of the study.6
10 Renowned theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking is concerned about massive job loss and how that could affect the stability of our society. “The automation of factories has already decimated jobs in traditional manufacturing,” says Hawking. “The rise of artificial intelligence is likely to extend this job destruction deep into the middle classes, with only the most caring, creative, or supervisory roles remaining.”7 Hawking emphasizes that we live in a world where financial inequality is growing, not diminishing. He believes that many people can see their standard of living, and their ability to earn a living at all, disappearing.
11 This is a frightening scenario. It’s tempting to avoid thinking about it, especially because solutions aren’t obvious. But the first step toward avoiding the employment problems we might face is acknowledging them. As someone with your future on the line, don’t let anyone tell you that technology is automatically going to create a healthy economy for everyone. If we don’t want a bleak future for most of us, we have to prioritize human well-being even as we take advantage of what technology offers.
3 answers
Summary of "Heads Up, Humans" by Claudia Alarcon
In "Heads Up, Humans," Claudia Alarcon discusses the impact of advancing technology, specifically artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, on employment. While young people often embrace technology for its convenience and entertainment, the article warns that a significant number of jobs are at risk of being replaced. Alarcon cites a report predicting that 38% of U.S. jobs could be lost to automation within the next 15 years, and similar trends are expected in other countries.
The article notes current changes, such as the rise of self-driving vehicles, which threaten the livelihoods of millions of drivers. Alarcon addresses the counterarguments from technology enthusiasts who believe that new jobs will emerge to replace those lost. They argue that displaced workers might transition into sectors that cannot easily be automated. However, she cites experts like MIT economist David Autor and AI specialist Jerry Kaplan, who express concern that the nature of today's automation is fundamentally different. Unlike previous technological advancements that created human jobs, current innovations may minimize the need for human labor altogether.
Furthermore, evidence suggests that automation has historically led to reduced job availability and lower wages. Stephen Hawking emphasizes the potential for growing financial inequality and job loss, urging a recognition of these challenges. The article concludes by stressing the importance of acknowledging the potential employment crises that could arise from technological advancement and the need to prioritize human well-being in our reliance on technology.
Question at position 1 1 1 point Question at position 1 Read a student’s summary of “The Automation Paradox.” (1) “The Automation Paradox” by James Bessen examines the effects of technology in the workforce. (2) Some people fear that the increased use of computers and other high-tech tools will result in higher unemployment levels. (3) Bessen suggests that the opposite will be the most likely result. (4) He believes that automation could provide greater opportunities for workers in high-skill professions. (5) It will require some workers to gain new skills to meet the demands of a changing workforce. What is the most effective way to revise sentence 5 to include a transitional word or phrase? Read a student’s summary of “The Automation Paradox.” (1) “The Automation Paradox” by James Bessen examines the effects of technology in the workforce. (2) Some people fear that the increased use of computers and other high-tech tools will result in higher unemployment levels. (3) Bessen suggests that the opposite will be the most likely result. (4) He believes that automation could provide greater opportunities for workers in high-skill professions. (5) It will require some workers to gain new skills to meet the demands of a changing workforce. What is the most effective way to revise sentence 5 to include a transitional word or phrase? However it will require some workers to gain new skills to meet the demands of a changing workforce. However, it will require some workers to gain new skills to meet the demands of a changing workforce. For example it will require some workers to gain new skills to meet the demands of a changing workforce. For example, it will require some workers to gain new skills to meet the demands of a changing workforce. Question at position 2 2 1 point Question at position 2 This question has two parts. First, answer Part A. Then, answer Part B. Part A Which statement best describes the author’s central claim in “The Automation Paradox”? This question has two parts. First, answer Part A. Then, answer Part B. Part A Which statement best describes the author’s central claim in “The Automation Paradox”? Computer automation will likely be responsible for the loss of most jobs. Computer automation should allow workers to avoid the need for advanced training. Computer automation will likely increase the number of jobs in certain fields rather than decreasing them. Computer automation should be welcomed like other technological advances in the past have been. Question at position 3 3 1 point Question at position 3 Part B Which quotation from “The Automation Paradox” best supports the answer to Part A? Part B Which quotation from “The Automation Paradox” best supports the answer to Part A? It turns out that workers will have greater employment opportunities if their occupation undergoes some degree of computer automation. (paragraph 2) Take the legal industry as an example. Computers are taking over some of the work of lawyers and paralegals, and they’re doing a better job of it. (paragraph 3) Automation reduces the cost of a product or service, and lower prices tend to attract more customers. (paragraph 6) Some trade groups are promoting skill-certification programs, which allow employers to recognize skills acquired through experience. (paragraph 11) Question at position 4 4 1 point Question at position 4 The word automation comes from the Greek prefix auto-, meaning “self.” Based on this information, what is the best definition of the word automation as it is used in “The Automation Paradox”? The word automation comes from the Greek prefix auto-, meaning “self.” Based on this information, what is the best definition of the word automation as it is used in “The Automation Paradox”? Technology that primarily is used within the workforce Technology that involves the use of advanced computers Technology that operates on its own without human support Technology mostly used in factories in place of human workers Question at position 5 5 1 point Question at position 5 Which two groups are most likely the intended audience of “Heads Up, Humans”? Which two groups are most likely the intended audience of “Heads Up, Humans”? Students Teachers Young adults Older adults Technology professionals Question at position 6 6 1 point Question at position 6 Read the dictionary entry. technology \tĕk-nŏl'ə-jē\ n 1. the practical application of science in a particular area 2. the scientific method used to achieve a commercial or industrial objective 3. electronic or digital products and systems 4. the body of knowledge available to a society to fashion tools Which definition represents the meaning of the word technology as it is used in paragraph 3 of “Heads Up, Humans”? Read the dictionary entry. technology \tĕk-nŏl'ə-jē\ n 1. the practical application of science in a particular area 2. the scientific method used to achieve a commercial or industrial objective 3. electronic or digital products and systems 4. the body of knowledge available to a society to fashion tools Which definition represents the meaning of the word technology as it is used in paragraph 3 of “Heads Up, Humans”? Definition 1 Definition 2 Definition 3 Definition 4 Question at position 7 7 1 point Question at position 7 Which two reasons best explain why the author included paragraph 5 in “Heads Up, Humans”? Which two reasons best explain why the author included paragraph 5 in “Heads Up, Humans”? To explain a counterclaim To provide factual evidence To include employment statistics To describe possible effects of technology To clarify how technology will change the future Question at position 8 8 1 point Question at position 8 Which quotation from “Heads Up, Humans” expresses a counterclaim to the author’s argument? Which quotation from “Heads Up, Humans” expresses a counterclaim to the author’s argument? They say that people who are displaced from jobs will find new and better occupations that will be created by the economic shift. (paragraph 5) Today, the new industries are unlikely to need many human bodies or minds because technology can do the work for less cost. (paragraph 7) There is no evidence that recent advances in technology have so far offered the majority of workers better pay or positions. (paragraph 9) It’s tempting to avoid thinking about it, especially because solutions aren’t obvious. (paragraph 11) Question at position 9 Read a student’s analysis of “Heads Up, Humans.” “Heads Up, Humans” by Claudia Alarcón examines the effects of technology on employment. The author claims that one day artificial intelligence will do the jobs currently done by workers in many high-skill professions. Alarcón also believes that the increased reliance on computers and other forms of technology will raise unemployment levels in the future. Which sentence would best conclude this paragraph by using active voice? Read a student’s analysis of “Heads Up, Humans.” “Heads Up, Humans” by Claudia Alarcón examines the effects of technology on employment. The author claims that one day artificial intelligence will do the jobs currently done by workers in many high-skill professions. Alarcón also believes that the increased reliance on computers and other forms of technology will raise unemployment levels in the future. Which sentence would best conclude this paragraph by using active voice? It is feared that our reliance on computers and other forms of technology will increase unemployment levels. Many people fear that our reliance on computers and other forms of technology will increase unemployment levels. Our reliance on computers and other forms of technology will increase unemployment levels is a fear of many people. Many people fear that increased unemployment levels will be caused by our reliance on computers and other forms of technology. Question at position 10 What do the endnotes in “Heads Up, Humans” suggest about the author’s research for her argument? She relied on internet publications. She strictly used statistical sources. She primarily focused on opinion pieces. She consulted a variety of sources. Question at position 11 Which comparison best explains how the authors develop their claims in “The Automation Paradox” and “Heads Up, Humans”? In “The Automation Paradox,” Bessen primarily uses anecdotes to show how computers have reduced the workforce. In “Heads Up, Humans,” Alarcón primarily uses graphs and charts to show how computers have benefited workers. In “The Automation Paradox,” Bessen primarily uses graphs and charts to show how computers have not changed employment levels. In “Heads Up, Humans,” Alarcón primarily uses opinions to show how computers have harmed workers. In “The Automation Paradox,” Bessen primarily uses statistics to show how computers have increased blue-collar jobs. In “Heads Up, Humans,” Alarcón primarily uses anecdotes to show how computers have lowered low-skill employment in many professions. In “The Automation Paradox,” Bessen primarily uses examples to show how computers have improved the workplace. In “Heads Up, Humans,” Alarcón primarily uses statistics to show how computers have increased unemployment in many professions.
I'm happy to help you with your questions related to "The Automation Paradox" and "Heads Up, Humans." Here are the answers to each of your questions:
Question 1:
What is the most effective way to revise sentence 5 to include a transitional word or phrase?
Answer: However, it will require some workers to gain new skills to meet the demands of a changing workforce.
Question 2 Part A:
Which statement best describes the author’s central claim in “The Automation Paradox”?
Answer: Computer automation will likely increase the number of jobs in certain fields rather than decreasing them.
Question 3 Part B:
Which quotation from “The Automation Paradox” best supports the answer to Part A?
Answer: It turns out that workers will have greater employment opportunities if their occupation undergoes some degree of computer automation. (paragraph 2)
Question 4:
Based on this information, what is the best definition of the word automation as it is used in “The Automation Paradox”?
Answer: Technology that operates on its own without human support.
Question 5:
Which two groups are most likely the intended audience of “Heads Up, Humans”?
Answer: Students and Young adults.
Question 6:
Which definition represents the meaning of the word technology as it is used in paragraph 3 of “Heads Up, Humans”?
Answer: Definition 3: electronic or digital products and systems.
Question 7:
Which two reasons best explain why the author included paragraph 5 in “Heads Up, Humans”?
Answer: To explain a counterclaim and To clarify how technology will change the future.
Question 8:
Which quotation from “Heads Up, Humans” expresses a counterclaim to the author’s argument?
Answer: They say that people who are displaced from jobs will find new and better occupations that will be created by the economic shift. (paragraph 5)
Question 9:
Which sentence would best conclude this paragraph by using active voice?
Answer: Many people fear that our reliance on computers and other forms of technology will increase unemployment levels.
Question 10:
What do the endnotes in “Heads Up, Humans” suggest about the author’s research for her argument?
Answer: She consulted a variety of sources.
Question 11:
Which comparison best explains how the authors develop their claims in “The Automation Paradox” and “Heads Up, Humans”?
Answer: In “The Automation Paradox,” Bessen primarily uses examples to show how computers have improved the workplace. In “Heads Up, Humans,” Alarcón primarily uses statistics to show how computers have increased unemployment in many professions.
Feel free to ask if you have any further questions or need clarification on any point!
