Does AI Threaten Humanity?

Published Date : 5/10/2025 

The global concern over the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on employment and societal stability is growing. Will AI lead to violent protests and significant job losses, or can it be harnessed for positive change? 

The big question today in every corner of the world, including India, is this: Will the new technology wave of artificial intelligence (AI) create similar violent protest movements and what kind of resolution will be reached?

Governments everywhere, including in India, ought to be struggling to decide what kind of regulation is necessary and appropriate. (Illustration: Binay Sinha)

Technological unemployment occurs when developments in technology and working practices cause some employees to lose their jobs. The phrase and the event appear to have headline status nowadays. Here is the Financial Times from London: “Tech companies axe jobs…”; and closer home, the Times of India: “IT (information technology) jobs slowdown: Sector sees 10 per cent dip…”. There are also the modern-day proofs to establish a topic’s popularity: Reddit has multiple discussions on the issue, and Wikipedia has an article devoted to it.

This entry reviews the unemployment caused by technology through the ages and says that while technological advancements have historically led to job displacement, they have also created new opportunities. For instance, the Industrial Revolution replaced many manual jobs with machine-operated ones, but it also led to the creation of new industries and job roles.

The current wave of AI is no different. While it has the potential to automate many jobs, especially in sectors like manufacturing, customer service, and data processing, it also opens up new avenues for innovation and employment. For example, the development and maintenance of AI systems require highly skilled professionals such as data scientists, machine learning engineers, and AI ethicists.

However, the rapid pace of AI adoption has raised concerns about the speed at which jobs are being displaced. This has led to calls for stronger regulatory measures to manage the transition and protect workers. Governments are grappling with the challenge of balancing the benefits of AI with the need to mitigate its negative impacts.

In India, the government has taken steps to promote the development of AI while also addressing the potential job losses. The National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, launched in 2018, aims to position India as a leader in AI research and application. The strategy includes initiatives to develop AI talent, foster innovation, and ensure ethical and responsible AI practices.

Moreover, there is a growing awareness of the need for reskilling and upskilling programs to help workers adapt to the changing job market. Organizations like the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) are partnering with tech companies and educational institutions to provide training and certification programs in AI and related technologies.

Despite these efforts, the fear of AI-driven job losses and social unrest remains a significant concern. The key to addressing these challenges lies in a multi-faceted approach that includes robust regulatory frameworks, investment in education and training, and a focus on ethical AI development.

In conclusion, while the rise of AI poses significant challenges, it also presents opportunities for growth and innovation. By taking a proactive and inclusive approach, governments and organizations can ensure that the benefits of AI are realized while minimizing its negative impacts on society. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS): 

Q: What is technological unemployment?

A: Technological unemployment occurs when advancements in technology and working practices lead to job losses. This can happen when machines or automated systems replace human workers in various industries.

Q: How is AI affecting the job market?

A: AI has the potential to automate many jobs, particularly in sectors like manufacturing, customer service, and data processing. However, it also creates new job roles such as data scientists, machine learning engineers, and AI ethicists.

Q: What steps are governments taking to address AI-driven job losses?

A: Governments are implementing regulatory measures, promoting AI education and training programs, and fostering innovation to manage the transition and protect workers from job displacement.

Q: What is the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy in India?

A: The National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, launched in 2018, aims to position India as a leader in AI research and application. It includes initiatives to develop AI talent, foster innovation, and ensure ethical and responsible AI practices.

Q: How can individuals prepare for the AI-driven job market?

A: Individuals can prepare by reskilling and upskilling in AI and related technologies. Participating in training and certification programs offered by organizations and educational institutions can help workers adapt to the changing job market. 

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