The Age Of Automation Is Now: Here's How To 'Futureproof' Yourself

Algorithms determines things like who qualifies for nutrition assistance or public housing. While they do work fine sometimes, the other times they misfire. 

Bots and automation is also being used by governments in the criminal justice system. These algorithms are generally not open and inspected by the public and there's not a lot of accountability for them. As a result, we end up with these mysterious machines making these decisions that affect millions.

Maximizing watch time is the main goal of this algorithm. And so some of the ways that it's learned that it can keep people on YouTube for a long time is by introducing them to new ideas, to conspiracy theories, extreme versions of something people believe in, or things that will lead people down rabbit holes. This has had an effect on politics, and our culture. And it's resulted in some cases where people have been radicalized because of the algorithm.

There are 3 categories of work that are unlikely to be automated- 

1. Surprising work- It involves complex rules, changing environments, unexpected variables. AI and automation really like regularity but not an irregular environment. Example- teaching. 
2. Social jobs- They involve making people feel things rather than making things. Example- flight attendants, therapists, ministers. 
3. Scare work- This involves sort of high-stakes situations, rare combinations of skills, or just people who are experts in their fields. Example- 911 operators. 

We should teach people to be more like humans instead of teaching them to be more productive or efficient.