Ben Evans is one of the most astute commentators on tech and society today. His pro ad tech views persuaded me to change my mind on ad tracking (track away!) and his analysis of AI this year has been equally impressive. Here he presents the conventional view of the AI optimist position, based on the historical precedent - AI will indeed destroy jobs, but will also create many more. Historical precedent might be misleading though, especially as we conventionally frame the Industrial revolution as a purely internal European development, when it was in fact deeply embedded within the wider context of colonialism, relying on conquered lands and enslaved peoples for raw materials and cheap or free manpower. We’re at a similar moment with technology today, though no more lands to conquer or natives to displace. Lots more to think about here. H/T to brainfooder Martyn Redstone for the share the online community
