The Job Market Impact of AI: A Historical Perspective

This chapter examines the evolving perspective on artificial intelligence and its potential effects on employment. It contrasts the narrative of job replacement with historical instances of technology creating new opportunities, while also addressing the inequality stemming from past technological revolutions.

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This week on Econ 102, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg tackle the shift in economic research from empirical studies to "big think" theories, critically examine Acemoglu's work on institutions and AI's impact on jobs, and debate the future of economics as a science.

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Intro

(01:14) Shift in economic theories

(07:16) Influence of economic theories on practice