As computer technology advances with dizzying speed, human workers face an ever-increasing threat of obsolescence. In Human Work In the Age of Smart Machines, Jamie Merisotis argues that we can—and must—rise to this challenge by preparing to work alongside smart machines doing that which only humans can: thinking critically, reasoning ethically, interacting interpersonally, and serving others with empathy.
The days between now and Jan. 20 will feel like some of the longest and shortest of our lives. We live with uncertainty, fear and a palpable amount of dread—about what President Trump may do, about the actions of those who have been radicalized by his ideas and words, and about the feckless elected leaders who seemingly have enabled this destruction of fundamental American ideals for personal or political benefit.
As AI and automation take on more and more sophisticated tasks, being human can look like a career liability. But not when you consider inherent advantages like our capacity to collaborate, create, and think critically. Jamie Merisotis, President and CEO of the Lumina Foundation and author of the new book Human Work in the Age of Smart Machines, explains the emerging ecosystem of jobs and how employers, educators, government, and the social sector can help workers prepare.
Earlier today, I met with the senior leadership and staff of Lumina Foundation. I had intended to talk about the work ahead and my renewed sense of optimism and resolve after a restful, family-centered holiday season. While I still do feel that way because of my belief in the justice of our mission of helping to foster a better-educated country, we are at an inflection point for democracy unlike any in our lifetimes.
Nations everywhere are grappling with how to prepare for the work of the future, and finding new reasons for optimism as the global economy digs out from the wreckage caused by COVID-19.
What prompted you to write your latest book? A Q&A with Author Jamie Merisotis from the Indianapolis Business Journal.
Merisotis guests with David Litt on episode 250 of Pete Dominick’s daily podcast: Stand Up! with Pete Dominick.
As technology and Artificial Intelligence take over more and more of the predictable, replicable aspects of the workplace, humans will be needed more than ever in roles that require uniquely human traits and skills—things like collaboration, empathy, compassion, and interpersonal communication.
It’s the learning, stupid. That’s the mantra we should be following as we consider the gut-wrenching implications of a rapidly changing society, radically transforming because of technology and supercharged by a global pandemic. But once again, we are facing an economic crisis where myriad solutions are being proposed but too few focus on preparing people for the coming era in which “human work” will reign.
