S1 E8: Power Dynamics, Elitism, and Innovations with Daron Acemoglu from MIT
Feb 13, 2024
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Economist Daron Acemoglu from MIT discusses automation, declining labor share, education, democracy, and government actions. He also talks about the impact of social change on class dynamics, the relationship between automation and democracy, and the role of government policies in steering technological innovation. Acemoglu shares insights on his production function, influences in economics, and challenges in academic work.
Automation drives inequality by impacting labor share and productivity trends.
Political challenges arise from automation's potential to worsen inequality and affect democracy.
Deep dives
Drona Assamoglu's Diverse Expertise and Academic Career
Drona Assamoglu, a professor at MIT, known for his wide-ranging expertise, has worked on various topics from technology in the labor market to political economy and politics. His book, 'Power and Progress' co-authored with Simon Johnson, delves into how vision, ideology, and politics influence technical change.
Initiating Interest in Economics through Personal Experiences
Assamoglu's journey into economics was sparked during his teenage years in Turkey amid challenging socio-political conditions. Motivated by the nation's circumstances, he ventured into economics despite concerns about expressing his views. His diverse background and experiences influenced his research direction and focus on crucial economic aspects.
Exploring Automation's Impact on Society and Productivity
Assamoglu highlights the intricate relationship between automation, inequality, and productivity. He emphasizes the significant role automation plays in driving inequality, particularly its impact on labor share and productivity trends. His collaboration with Pasquale Restrepo underscores how automation influences societal dynamics and economic productivity.
Automation's Implications on Democracy and Control of Information
Delving into the political dimensions of automation, Assamoglu points out how automation's potential to exacerbate inequality poses challenges to democracy. He expresses concerns over information control, stressing the need for equitable distribution of resources. Assamoglu's insights shed light on the complex interplay between automation, democracy, and societal structures.