The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on American workers is a pressing concern that has sparked two dominant narratives: techno-optimists believe AI will create new jobs and free humans from mundane tasks, while techno-pessimists foresee widespread unemployment. As a sociologist studying job insecurity, I’m among the pessimists due to America’s unique approach to work and social welfare.
American exceptionalism refers to the country’s distinct system of work and social welfare, which differs significantly from other rich nations. The US has relatively low unionization rates, an “at-will” employment system, a modest welfare state, and a two-party system that lacks a social democratic tradition. This setup leaves American workers vulnerable to job insecurity.
The current Trump administration has taken the “exceptional” traits further by undermining regulatory agencies and cutting support programs, including food aid and health insurance. The mass firing of federal workers is another example of this trend. AI’s integration into various industries will likely exacerbate these issues, particularly with agentic AI, which can act autonomously to achieve outcomes.
Recent research shows that American workers are no more afraid of losing their jobs than those in other rich countries, despite having fewer protections from firing and a less robust unemployment system. However, concerns about job security spiked after recent economic reforms and recessions.
Business leaders predict job losses in the service industries, supply chain management, and human resources over the next three years. While some new roles like AI compliance specialist and ethics specialist have emerged, these gains are unlikely to outweigh the losses. The US’s path realistically depends less on workers’ and local politicians’ actions than what companies do.
If nothing changes, job insecurity may become the new normal in America.
Source: https://theconversation.com/the-us-really-is-unlike-other-rich-countries-when-it-comes-to-job-insecurity-and-ai-could-make-it-even-more-exceptional-261934