Introduction
The organic worldview, as described in the Kovacs reading, refers to the idea that society functions like a living organism, with different parts working together seamlessly to benefit the whole. In contrast, the mechanistic worldview views society as a machine, with its various parts operating independently and serving distinct functions. The digital age has altered our understanding of these worldviews, as automation and technology have led to new forms of labor and increased feelings of alienation.
Changes Brought to Labor Markets by Technology
One example of the division of labor in the digital age is the rise of the gig economy. These individuals essentially work as independent contractors or freelancers rather than traditional employees. Such a change in the labor market can lead to greater alienation, as gig workers may not feel a sense of connection or loyalty to a specific company or industry. This is because gig workers are not part of the same organization and do not have the same rights, benefits, and protections as regular employees. In addition, gig workers are not part of the same community; they do not interact with the same people daily and don’t have the same sense of identity and belonging.
Modern Alienation: Automation and AI
Karl Marx’s concept of alienation, in which workers are separated from the products of their labor and the means of production, is evident in the digital age through automation and artificial intelligence. As machines take on more tasks than were previously performed by humans, workers may feel disconnected from their work and its impact on society. They may also feel powerlessness and insignificance as their skills, knowledge, and creativity are no longer needed. Automation and AI can be seen as a form of dehumanization, as machines are taking over tasks that were once done by people and are making human workers redundant.
Impact of Technology on Jobs
In terms of how my intended job or career will be different in ten years, automation and technology will likely continue to play a significant role. Many jobs, including my career interest, will not be entirely replaced by machines; rather, the nature of the work will change and evolve. For example, jobs that involve repetitive tasks, data entry, or manual labor will be the most vulnerable to automation. On the other hand, my intended job requires creativity, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence, which means machines will be less likely to replace it.
However, concerns may arise about the impact of AI on employment and job opportunities for human workers. As machines take over more tasks, the demand for human workers may decrease, leading to unemployment and underemployment. Additionally, as machines become more advanced and sophisticated, the skills and knowledge required for jobs may evolve, making it challenging for human workers to keep pace.
Conclusion
The organic worldview views society as a living organism, whereas the mechanistic worldview perceives society as a machine. The digital age has brought about new forms of labor and increased alienation, as automation and technology have led to the rise of the gig economy and the dehumanization of workers. Jobs centered on routine activities, data input, or physical labor will likely be the most susceptible to automation in the future. On the other hand, roles that demand creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence are less likely to be replaced by machines. Nevertheless, the influence of AI on employment and human job prospects will remain a significant concern.