Depending on one’s perspective, recent artificial intelligence (AI) advancements represent either an exciting opportunity for massive, scalable productivity increases or an existential threat to jobs. Here, Leandro Maya examines both viewpoints, exploring the big-picture of what AI and robotics mean for businesses and employees now and in a rapidly approaching future.

Maya argues that humanity is entering a transformational era driven by the convergence of artificial intelligence, robotics, automation, and abundant computing power. He notes that recent developments presage a fast-approaching world in which both cognitive labor (thinking) and physical labor (doing) can be performed by machines, potentially creating unprecedented wealth and productivity—but also forcing society to rethink work, income, and purpose.

Of course, previous technological revolutions also automated either physical labor or specific tasks, while creating new categories of work for humans. However, the author contends this revolution is different because while AI is automating knowledge work, robotics is automating physical work—and both trends are advancing simultaneously.

The lightning-fast pace is especially challenging: “When automation takes 100 years, society can adapt,” Maya writes. “When it takes 15 years, society gets disrupted.”

Maya contends we are moving toward a future where abundance replaces scarcity as the primary economic challenge. The issue will no longer be producing enough goods and services but rather determining how wealth and opportunity are distributed.

Maya doesn’t shy away from detailing how scary and upsetting it can be to discover one’s job has evaporated because a machine can do it without expecting a wage (or benefits, for that matter). Furthermore, he delves into each topic accessibly for lay readers without becoming overly granular or academic. His writing is thoughtful and professional, conveying his ideas in straight talk.

The result is a well-developed viewpoint on the nature of labor today and the rapid, sometimes chaotic, ways businesses and workers are trying to adapt to these developments. Those hoping to understand the changing landscape will appreciate this excellent overview.

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