What global challenge keeps you up at night? What is your responsibility towards meeting that challenge? (300) 294 words
Ever since the 19th century Industrial Revolution, efforts have been underway to make the manufacturing process more cost-effective, safe, and efficient. Some examples include Henry Ford’s assembly line, the outsourcing of labor to cheaper locations, and the safety improvements that have come along with the increased use of machinery. Today, automation is largely used to ameliorate the manufacturing process. These days, manufacturing is done mostly by robots; even automation is automated. The onset of new software that allows machines to coordinate manufacturing will likely cause another industrial revolution, leading to decreased human employment.
The loss of manufacturing jobs means that most people will not be able to support themselves through traditional employment. The primary source of employment in the economy has already shifted from manufacturing to the service sector due to automation. However, even this industry runs the risk of losing jobs to more cost-efficient robots.
This development will likely lead to a severe economic crisis, so it must be solved. Capitalism cannot continue without human capital. Thus, it is necessary that we emulate other economic systems. One possible solution is used by European governments, such as Norway and Sweden, which are experimenting with a monthly stipend and universal health care for all their citizens. This action provides unemployed citizens with the basic essentials for life. In light of recent political events, I feel it is also important that we understand that the manufacturing jobs taken by automation can never return, and that way of life can no longer be an option. We must educate citizens and legislators of this fact through local communities, a process in which I will take part, to help people understand that we must continue to move forward and find new niches for humans in this increasingly automated world.