Technology should complement human labour, not replace it
The writer of “Build up skills for new economy, technological age” (Oct 28) agrees that there is a skills mismatch in the job market.
While the economy is undergoing structural changes in terms of skills becoming obsolete and technology replacing jobs, there are jobs that are hard for technology to replace, such as those requiring analysis, organisation and communication.
The main reason for automation is to save on labour costs, with a machine that can do the work of one or a few persons.
Although automation can replace routine work, will there be a day when artificial intelligence (AI) has a life of its own and can mimic humans’ creativity, problem-solving, planning and communication abilities?
Maybe, with research into AI, but should we let it happen? It would mean a collapse of our economic system.
In a society where those holding the capital can replace staff with robots, can those who are not employable afford consumption?
An economic system with no room for improving Pareto efficiency would not see trade happening because all the trade-optimising utility would have taken place.
We should look at how technology can complement human labour, rather than chase automation blindly as a replacement.
Lastly, an over-reliance on technology is not good for society because machines can break down.
Safeguards allowing for human intervention should be built in, such as for driverless vehicles.
