I've Got Questions with Sinead Bovell The AI Economist: The Skill You Need to Stay Employed in the Age of AI
Oct 2, 2025
In a fascinating discussion, Ajay Agrawal, an AI economist and professor, unpacks the intricate relationship between AI and the economy. He draws parallels between AI and the historical adoption of electricity, emphasizing the slow yet transformative impact on productivity. With a focus on the evolving job market, he warns that entry-level positions face the greatest threat while advocating for judgment as the essential skill for future success. Agrawal also highlights the need for educational reforms to prepare graduates for an AI-driven landscape.
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Episode notes
AI Is Underrated, Not Overhyped
- Ajay Agrawal argues AI is not overhyped but its full impact is hard to grasp and will take time.
- He expects AI to be transformational across the economy, though adoption speed will vary.
Co-Invention Drives Big Gains
- Agrawal explains transformational gains come from co-invention, not just plugging in new tech.
- Early adoption yields small gains until workflows and designs get rebuilt around the technology.
Use AI Early To Build Feedback Loops
- Start using AI now because it learns from use and creates feedback loops that improve performance.
- Avoid ignoring AI to prevent falling behind competitors who gather usage data.
