It is not inevitable that AI will create jobs

Richard Foster-FletcherJuly 17, 2024

The belief that AI will inherently create jobs because “technology always does” is overly simplistic. This perspective, often reiterated by industry leaders, overlooks the essential infrastructure and policy interventions needed to realise these opportunities. Creating jobs through AI necessitates strategic legislation, government incentives, and a robust framework for innovation and entrepreneurship.

To fully harness AI’s potential, strategic legislation and incentives are critical. Tax breaks, subsidies, and public recognition programmes can motivate companies to invest in grassroots innovation and entrepreneurial ventures. Simplified regulations for businesses engaged in these practices can further promote participation and stimulate innovation. These measures are vital for transforming the theoretical benefits of AI into actual job creation.

The discourse on AI and future employment must advance beyond hopeful rhetoric. A substantive, urgent debate is needed to navigate this transition effectively. This includes discussions on reskilling, protecting intellectual property, and developing open-source platforms. By fostering a deeper understanding and taking proactive steps, we can ensure AI’s advantages are widely shared and that the workforce is prepared for impending changes.

The scale of the action required from governments is substantial. It involves more than minor policy adjustments; a comprehensive strategy to support grassroots innovation and entrepreneurial ventures is necessary. This approach is crucial for leveraging AI’s potential and ensuring the workforce is not sidelined. The time for decisive action is now, and the stakes are exceptionally high.

One of the primary challenges posed by AI’s integration into the workforce is the significant skills gap. Many workers currently in roles susceptible to automation lack the technical skills required for emerging jobs. Therefore, reskilling and upskilling initiatives are essential. Educational institutions and businesses must collaborate to create programmes that provide workers with the necessary competencies to thrive in an AI-enhanced job market.

Government policies should support these initiatives through funding and regulatory support. For example, subsidies for companies that offer training programmes for their employees can incentivise businesses to invest in their workforce’s future. Moreover, public-private partnerships can help align educational curricula with industry needs, ensuring that new graduates possess relevant skills.

The future of jobs in the age of AI requires a multifaceted approach that combines strategic legislation, robust incentives, and comprehensive action. By addressing the skills gap, promoting inclusive innovation, encouraging ethical AI development, and fostering global collaboration, we can navigate the challenges posed by AI and harness its potential for job creation. The time for decisive and coordinated action is now, and the success of our efforts will shape the workforce of the future.

Written by

Richard Foster-Fletcher

Richard stands at the forefront of ethical artificial intelligence as an AI Advisor, Author, Speaker, and LinkedIn Top Voice. He is the visionary behind MKAI.org (Morality and Knowledge in Artificial Intelligence), an initiative dedicated to fostering AI’s responsible development and application. Through his stewardship of the Boundless Podcast, Richard delves into discussions about AI inclusivity and digital ethics, contributing to a more equitable technological future. His profound insights have illuminated lecture halls at globally renowned institutions, including the London School of Economics (LSE), University College London (UCL), Oxford University, and Imperial College London, guiding the next generation of tech leaders.

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Richard has the unique ability to bring out the best in a person. He has three rare qualities to achieve that: incredible empathy, a deep cultural background, and an open mind second to none! I’ve been interviewed all my life on national television, radio, newspapers, conferences, and podcasts. Richard tops them all! He pierces right through the surface with his eagle vision into the core of how we perceive life. My mind sees connections everywhere and in everything. Richard sees that in everybody. Do not miss a chance to sit down and talk with Richard! You will probably learn incredible things about yourself, your work, and the world! Talking with Richard will take you to the next level.

Denis Rothman, AI Expert & Ethicist | Author & Speaker

Richard Foster-Fletcher delivered a truly engaging and thought-provoking keynote at the AI Tomorrow Summit 2024 in Türkiye. His insights into the transformative potential of AI for Türkiye’s economy were both enlightening and impactful. Richard’s emphasis on the pivotal role of generative AI for SMEs, the importance of upskilling, and ethical considerations in AI development resonated deeply with our audience. His ability to articulate complex concepts with clarity and relevance made the session highly valuable. AIPA were thrilled to have Richard speak and look forward to future collaborations.

Ulas Malli, Board Member, AIPA

Richard delivered a truly engaging and thought-provoking session at our Director As Strategic Leader programme. His insights into the opportunities and challenges of AI were both enlightening and inspiring. Richard highlighted the need to channel AI advancements into creating new roles and fostering grassroots innovation, emphasising the importance of responsible AI development. His ability to articulate complex concepts in an accessible manner made the session highly impactful. Richard’s emphasis on transparency, accountability, and aligning AI with human values resonated deeply with our participants. We were delighted to have him speak and look forward to future collaborations.

Graham Bell, Director of Digital Education at Cranfield School of Management

The physicist John Wheeler once remarked, “We shape the world by the questions we ask.” If that’s so, then Richard is shaping the world. I had the pleasure of joining him as a guest on his podcast and was *profoundly* impressed with the depth, generosity and thoughtfulness of his questions. He’s a star!

Andrew Zolli, Chief Impact Officer at Planet

Richard Foster-Fletcher is an asset to humanity. He brings intelligence and heart to our ever-changing future. He’s a team player who cares about people and their important role on the planet as stewards for future generations. He is a great communicator and thinks outside of the box when creating solutions to difficult problems. Richard also sees the value in healthy partnerships when expanding new ideas. It’s an honor to work with Richard.

Laura Cox, Executive Producer

Richard is a thorough professional who takes his work seriously, is knowledgeable and possibly the best at spreading the word about AI. Richard’s probing questions about this subject, make you think. He gets the best out of you!

Nikhil Malhotra, Chief Innovation Officer, Tech Mahindra

I thoroughly enjoyed my recent conversation with Richard Foster-Fletcher. His thoughtful approach to the important intersections of AI, ethics, and education allowed us to explore critical issues in a way that was both engaging and insightful. Richard brings a unique perspective to these discussions, and I appreciated the depth and clarity with which he led our conversation.

Dan Ariely, Professor of psychology and behavioral economics at Duke University

Richard’s keynote at our recent EMEA Conference was both enlightening and engaging. His presentation, “AI in Action – Balancing Innovation and Integrity in Decision-Making” adeptly addressed the complex interplay of AI innovation and ethics, enhancing our understanding of these critical issues. Richard combined humour and humility to make the intricate topics of bias and the future of work approachable, while his interactive style enriched our session. We are grateful for his significant contribution to the conference and for advancing the conversation on ethical AI.

Megan Hendricks, Executive Director, MBA Career Services & Employee Alliance

Richard provided an excellent platform for our discussion, skillfully getting to the heart of the matter and allowing me to share my views effectively. His thoughtful questions, combined with a warm and engaging manner, made for a truly insightful conversation. I appreciated his genuine interest and the respectful way he facilitated our discussion.

Sir Anthony Seldon, Author, Historian and Educator

Richard delivered an insightful and thought-provoking talk on the expansive implications of artificial intelligence on society, the future of work, and ethical considerations. His ability to articulate complex concepts in an accessible manner prompted a dynamic and engaging discussion among attendees. Richard’s presentation not only highlighted the potential risks and rewards of AI adoption but also encouraged a deeper understanding of its impact. The session was very well-received, sparking meaningful dialogue and a multitude of questions from an engaged audience. We are appreciative of Richard’s contribution to our event and his role in advancing the conversation around AI. His expertise and passion for the subject matter were evident and greatly appreciated by all participants.

Andy Murray, Executive Director at Major Projects Association