A leading artificial intelligence researcher has warned about the possibility of the global job landscape being turned upside down like never before due to the pace at which Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) is accelerating.
In a conversation on The Diary of a CEO podcast, hosted by Steven Bartlett, University of Louisville’s Dr Roman Yampolskiy cautioned that AGI could emerge as early as 2027. He explained that AGI, as opposed to the current form of AI that can only manage a few cognitive tasks, will surpass humans in nearly every cognitive ability.
‘Up to 99% unemployment’
Dr Yampolskiy cautioned that once such systems get deployed, there will be massive job cuts. He said, “Even 10% unemployment is frightening, but AI could cause up to 99% unemployment.” He further stated that current AI systems are already capable of replacing most existing jobs.
Also Read | 'Embrace AI or opt out': Google offers voluntary exit offers to employees
According to him, computer-based jobs would be the first to be replaced, followed by physical jobs, with the further progression of robotics. In a forecast to 2030, computer-based machines may be able to perform most forms of manual work.
He also expressed doubt whether the issue could be fixed with retraining programs, based on the fact that if AI technology can surpass human capabilities in many industries, the options for careers to pursue might be few.
The five roles that may endure
Despite the stark outlook, Dr Yampolskiy identified a small set of roles that could persist:
Personal services of the wealthy: Even high-net-worth individuals might want human accountants, assistants, and so forth.
Emotion-centred professions: Individuals working in jobs that require empathy and trust, such as therapeutic services, might still exist in a modified way.
AI supervision and regulation: Experts may be required to monitor, audit, and regulate advanced AI technologies.
Also Read | What is the ChatGPT caricature trend? Here's how you can create your own AI avatar
AI intermediaries and explainers: Experts who assist organisations in implementing AI models and interpreting them may still find work.
Prompt engineers and AI handlers: The growing autonomy of AI systems could bring opportunities for people knowledgeable about prompt engineering and managing these systems, although such opportunities may also decline.
A system unprepared
Similarly, Dr Yampolskiy proposed that solutions like Universal Basic Income could be contemplated as a drastic solution if AI-enhanced productivity substitutes conventional employment. However, it is asserted by him that it is not suited to these fast-paced changes. For countries that already face significant youth populations and significant employment pressures, the possible impact could be particularly pronounced.
