Matthew Chan

Analyzing the Impacts of A.I. on Employment and More in the Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary Sectors

Started May 8, 2023

Abstract or project description

This study aims to contribute to the ongoing conversation about the current and future impacts of technology on professions and the employment of human labor. The onset of language processing tools from a myriad of companies and the continued digitalization and automation of workloads have led to growing interest in the impacts this could have across the primary, secondary, and tertiary sectors. Some professions face the threat of AI displacement, some have their workload modified, while others remain unimpacted. Measuring and discussing these shifts and changes is a primary goal of this study. This was done qualitatively and quantitatively. Qualitative research of experiences, opinions, and personal insights was first performed to provide a nuanced understanding of possible implications and broad trends. Quantitatively, data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics was then utilized in the construction of linear regression tests to determine whether there are significant relationships between increased AI adoption and employment gain/loss. This research ultimately showed the complex and varying impacts of AI in specific sectors. In the primary sector, statistical analyses reflected a general trend of moderate displacement from AI adoption due to possible compatibility between employees and machines. In the secondary sector, employment is shown to continue to rise despite AI adoption. Generally, AI adoption in that sector is more likely to shift the nature of work instead of replacing laborers. The tertiary sector remains more ambiguous. Because of its large nature and expansive list of industries, understanding the impacts of AI holistically is difficult.