Future Technology and Labour - Are we Heading Towards a Jobless Future?

Abstract

Technological innovations and the invention of machines powered by Artificial intelligence2 have changed the way we work, interact and carry on our everyday lives. Automation wave has revolutionized the manner in which the traditional manufacturing and service-oriented industries are functioning today. The first industrial revolution was triggered with the invention of steam engine and also led to mechanical production. The invention of electricity and assembly lines resulted in the second industrial revolution where mass production became feasible. The third industrial revolution was driven by computer, digital technology and the internet. The future technologies have resulted in the fourth industrial revolution. The new age technological innovations and inventions such as the automated robots; big data and analytics; augmented reality; the cloud; cyber security; additive manufacturing; horizontal and vertical integration; the internet of things are transforming industrial production and labour relations. There is a drastic improvement in the entire chain of production ranging from design up to productivity, the speed and the quality at which the goods are produced. As a result of the new age technologies various concerns are raised especially its impact on the employment. Many labourers are rendered unemployed and redundant due to automation. The question that arises is whether we are approaching a jobless future?? The job market in India is also undergoing a transformation and posing many social, economic, legal and ethical challenges. Job structure is changing and the workers need to equip themselves with new skills to fit into the new jobs that are emerging as a result of technological innovation. The education system in any country plays a pivotal role in the overall development of an economy as it caters to the needs of the trained and skilled manpower. It is vital for the education system in the country to re-orient itself to cater to the needs of the students to fit into the changing paradigm. The focus of the education needs to be on imparting life-skills and to improve the thinking, problem-solving and decision-making ability of the individuals in a society. In the light of the above, it is also important to address and discuss the various changes, issues and challenges that are taking place in the labour market including the impact of these technologies on the working hours, wages, the working environment and the labour relations amongst others.