Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to greatly benefit workers, but only if policies are implemented to ensure it’s used to augment rather than replace human labour. AI can enhance productivity, improve working conditions and offer new job opportunities. However, without the right policies, AI could exacerbate income inequality and job insecurity.
Workers need a voice in shaping AI systems that affect their work. This includes the right to be informed about AI systems, to challenge decisions made by AI, and to have a say in how AI is used in the workplace. Co-determination, where workers and employers jointly make decisions, can help align AI use with workers’ interests.
Education and training are key to helping workers adapt to AI. Lifelong learning initiatives can help workers acquire the skills needed to work with AI. Governments and businesses should invest in these initiatives and provide financial support for those in need.
AI can also be used to improve working conditions. For example, AI can monitor workplace safety, reduce physical strain through automation, and help workers balance work and personal life. However, privacy concerns must be addressed to ensure workers’ data is not misused.
Finally, AI should be used to create, not destroy jobs. Policies should encourage the use of AI to augment human labour rather than replace it. This could involve incentivising businesses to use AI in ways that create jobs or improve job quality.
In summary, while AI has the potential to greatly benefit workers, this will only happen if the right policies are put in place. These policies should ensure workers have a voice in how AI is used, provide education and training, improve working conditions, and encourage the use of AI to create jobs.
Go to source article: https://computing.mit.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Pro-Worker-AI-Policy-Memo20.pdf