Will Human Be Unnecessary? The Horizon of the Workless Era 2020s

Will Human Be Unnecessary? The Horizon of the Workless Era 2020s

The evolution of artificial intelligence has finally tapped into the essence of human intelligence and its role. As intellectual work becomes increasingly externalized, "being hired" is itself becoming a rare opportunity. Yuval Noah Harari warns that this change will lead to the birth of a "useless class." This is not mere unemployment, but the expansion of a state in which "there is not even the prospect of being employed. Whereas the industrial revolution of the past sought labor, modern technological innovation is beginning to exclude people from work.

According to the International Monetary Fund, 60% of jobs in developed countries are under the influence of AI, with the risk of permanent job loss looming alongside the benefits. Globally, 40% are in the sphere of influence. The International Labor Organization reports that AI tends to enhance rather than replace jobs, but only some with complementary skills will benefit; the OECD analyzes that non-graduates, middle-aged and older workers, and women workers are likely to be more severely affected.

To put Harari's perspective in the context of Marx's theory of alienation, the present era is not one of "alienation from labor" but of "deprivation of the role itself." Data capitalism has turned attention, emotions, and even behavioral tendencies into resources, and algorithms are taking away the sovereignty of judgment. Under these circumstances, humans are in danger of being treated as mere "redundancies.

But there is more than one future. There is a need to redesign jobs based on ethical judgment, creative thinking, empathy, and the ability to build relationships, which only humans are capable of. And without institutional support, such as the reacquisition of skills, a more flexible education system, and stronger income redistribution, many will not be able to keep up with the changes and society as a whole will be fragmented.

In the end, the question is not, "What jobs will remain? The question is not "what jobs will remain," but "what are the meaningful roles for human beings? Finding the answer to this question is the condition for humanity in the age of AI.