The rise of AI in creative fields is not necessarily a signal of a dystopian future where humans are relegated to hard labour. Instead, it represents an opportunity to redefine work, making creativity accessible to all and freeing humans from strenuous tasks.
The idea that robots will take over creative pursuits, while humans are relegated to low-wage manual labour, has been gaining traction on social media. Here’s a version of it from Twitter with 4.3 million views:
The above statement paints a stark picture of an imagined future wherein human labor is marginalised and AI takes over the realm of creative arts. However, a closer analysis of the subject suggests a more optimistic potential reality.
Firstly, it is crucial to acknowledge the current global labour landscape where millions of people are engaged in strenuous jobs for low wages. This reality is a manifestation of socio-economic disparities and employment problems. Yet, it is essential to recognise that this does not imply permanence; rather, it underscores the need for change.
Simultaneously, the rise of generative AI that can create art and write poetry is a testament to the astounding strides of technological advancement. While this might initially seem irrelevant or even frivolous in the face of more pressing human needs, it is a significant indicator of the potential of AI in reshaping work paradigms.
The transformation of AI from a technological novelty to a tool capable of creative tasks signifies a profound shift in the future of work. AI’s ability to automate routine tasks has long been acknowledged; now, its potential to undertake creative tasks is becoming apparent. This implies that AI might eventually free humans from both monotonous and strenuous tasks, allowing them to pursue more fulfilling endeavors.
The presence of AI in creative fields could lead to the democratisation of art and literature. With AI generating poetry and paintings, art could become more accessible, inspiring human artists and fostering a broader appreciation of these fields. This scenario could foster a societal shift where creativity and innovation are valued over manual labor.
However, this does not mean that manual labour will become obsolete. Instead, the nature of this work will evolve. The integration of AI and robotics in various industries can make hard jobs safer, more efficient, and less physically taxing. Workers can be upskilled to oversee these automated processes, leading to enhanced productivity and improved working conditions. Moreover, the economic savings from AI integration could be redirected towards improving wages and worker benefits. The implementation of universal basic income, partly funded by the profits made from AI, could also be a potential solution to wage disparities.
The statement, therefore, serves as a wake-up call to rethink our socio-economic structures and the value placed on diverse types of work. It highlights the necessity for societal and economic reforms to ensure equitable distribution of wealth and opportunities.
In conclusion, the advent of generative AI does not necessarily signal a dystopian future where humans are condemned to hard labour while machines indulge in creativity. Instead, it represents an opportunity for human society to redefine the concept of work and to ensure better conditions for all workers. If leveraged appropriately, AI can facilitate a more equitable, creative, and prosperous society, where humans are freed from the chains of strenuous labour, and creativity is not a luxury but a widespread reality.