Introduction
Over the past few years, robots have been taking on more roles in the economy, with estimates suggesting they could eliminate up to 375 million jobs by 2030. This trend is expected to accelerate with the continued advancement of artificial intelligence (AI), enabling machines to take an even larger slice of the value creation process.
The Scope of Automation
Automation’s impact extends beyond high-tech industries, affecting everyday tasks performed by humans. Examples include:
- Fully autonomous factories: Companies like Xiaomi and Amazon are pioneers in creating end-to-end robot-driven manufacturing systems.
- Delivery robots: These robotic systems handle tasks such as delivering pizzas, enhancing convenience while potentially reducing the need for human couriers.
The Zero-Sum Game of Automation
Automation often results in a zero-sum scenario where job losses in one sector lead to increased competition elsewhere. For instance:
- Employees might struggle to find alternative employment if robots replace their former roles.
- This dynamic can create tension between those relying on manual labor and those displaced, as both groups compete for limited resources.
Necessity of Adaptation
While automation presents challenges, it also offers opportunities:
- Skill development: The rise of AI necessitates retraining programs to prepare workers for evolving job markets.
- Innovation: Advanced technologies like Web3 and decentralized physical infrastructure (DePIN) provide platforms where humans can stake claims in automated systems.
From Victims to Stakeholders: The Role of Web3
The shift towards decentralized systems empowers individuals by converting real-world assets into digital tokens, granting ownership stakes:
- Tokenization Example: Viennese car-sharing operators tokenizing vehicles demonstrate how users gain control over their assets.
- DePIN’s Impact: These platforms enable users to become stakeholders in automated infrastructure, ensuring they benefit from technological advancements rather than being exploited.
The Future of Automation
The convergence of Web3 and automation promises a future where everyone has a stake:
- Decentralized infrastructure: This approach distributes control away from centralized entities, reducing vulnerabilities.
- Shared prosperity: By valuing human contributions alongside machine capabilities, this model ensures sustainable growth across all sectors.
Conclusion
Automation presents both challenges and opportunities. While it poses significant risks to job security, the integration of Web3 technologies offers a path towards a more equitable future where individuals can stake their claims in an increasingly automated world. This shift is crucial for ensuring that technological advancements benefit society as a whole rather than leaving many behind.