As technology evolves and computers provide data output increasingly fast, the world around us continues to progress. This period of change is noted by Hakken as the “computer revolution”, a phrase used to describe “a period of major social change cause primarily by the computerization of workplace technology” (Hakken). However, no one truly knows how far the computerization of the workplace will go, and how fast technology will take over not only our social lives, but our jobs as well.
It can be seen now in the manufacturing industry, with robots assembling cars faster than human factory workers ever could.
But what happens when this extends to other industries as well? Nannies are replaced by robots that clean, brick and mortar stores are fully replaced by Amazon and other online marketplaces, oil mining jobs becoming fully computerized, etc. The point here is that we don’t know how far technology can take us, and whether those who aren’t “tech savy” will be left behind not only in workplace productivity, but also in terms of meaningful employment. Since the late 90’s, there has been high growth in technology related professions, and this is growth is expected to continue. So in the future, just how computerized will we become? What will happen when taxi and Uber driver are replaced by self driving cars? When manual labor driven jobs are taken over by the efficiency of technology?
The people most in danger of losing employment are the ones in the jobs that require the least education. These likely are not the same people that will take advantage of new jobs in technology, jobs that require training and education. This issue is one that will be dealt with years down the road, and potentially one for the next generation to deal with.
While yes, there are certain industries where face to face interaction may seem necessary, there are also areas where the benefits of technology greatly outweigh the high cost of human capital.
Tesla Factory Image: http://www.carnewscafe.com/2014/07/tesla-factory-idled/
Nike Factory Image: https://shannonbalogh.wordpress.com/2012/12/07/modern-slavery-nike-human-trafficking/