AI threatens middle-class livelihoods |
| Simon Johnson, Nobel Prize-winning economist and chair of the Government’s AI Economics Institute, warns that AI could force 10% to 20% of workers from secure, well-paid roles into lower-income employment. Middle-income and middle-skill workers, particularly those in white-collar jobs, face the greatest pressure. While mass unemployment remains unlikely, Johnson believes unchecked adoption could deepen inequality and create a permanent underclass. He said: “You can’t stand idly by,” citing Sheffield’s damaging experience of deindustrialisation as evidence that markets do not automatically repair displaced communities. Up to eight million UK roles could be at risk without intervention, while one in five London jobs may be highly vulnerable. Johnson urged politicians and businesses to encourage productivity-enhancing innovation while actively protecting workers, supporting entrepreneurs and avoiding simplistic measures such as taxing machines. Despite the dangers, he remains hopeful that Britain can secure higher productivity and incomes by ensuring technology works for people. |
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