Bill Gates Believes AI Won’t Take Over Creative Jobs but will Change Them Forever
Bill Gates, the billionaire co-founder of Microsoft who is now known for his philanthropy, recently shared his thoughts on the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the future of work. In a podcast episode with Trevor Noah, Gates discussed the idea of a three-day work week, stating that it might be “probably OK.”
Gates expressed that technology might not replace humans but could pave the way for a shorter work week. In the episode, he expressed his belief that there could come a time when humans might not need to work as hard, and working three days a week could be acceptable.
He mentioned that there might be a time when “machines can make all the food and the stuff,” suggesting a world where people won’t have to work a traditional five-day week to earn a living.
While Gates highlighted the potential positive impact of AI, he also acknowledged the risks associated with its misuse. In a blog post earlier this year, Gates addressed the potential impact of AI, comparing it to the introduction of PCs, emphasizing that while technology changes the way we work, humans and organizations adapt to it. Notably, Gates is not the only one predicting a shorter work week as JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon has also suggested a 3.5-day work week for the next generation of workers, attributing this change to AI.
Gates’ view on work has evolved over the years, as he once considered sleep as “lazy.” Now, he believes that life’s purpose is not solely about jobs. He emphasized that it’s not about losing jobs, but instead, reconsidering the meaning and necessity of work in light of advancing technology.
The discussion led Gates and Dimon underscores the ongoing debate around adjusting work hours due to technological advancements. It follows the growing interest in the concept of a four-day work week, with companies around the world reporting improved work-life balance and productivity. As the conversation around work-life balance and the impact of technology continues to develop, it’s evident that the future of work is a topic that is set to evolve with time.