The recent threat of a strike by the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) has shed light on the ongoing debate surrounding automation and its impact on jobs. The dockworkers are concerned about the potential loss of their jobs to automation due to recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and inflation. They are demanding pay raises and a complete ban on automation to protect their livelihoods.

ILA President Harold J Daggett is optimistic about the negotiations but has warned of the severe consequences a strike could have on the economy. With the United States heavily reliant on imports, a strike could disrupt the flow of goods and cost the economy billions of dollars each day. However, despite the temporary agreement reached, negotiations are ongoing and a strike remains a possibility if the longshoremen’s demands are not met.

In the long term, Daggett may face challenges in resisting the automation of US ports, which are falling behind international competitors. Ports like the fully automated Chinese port in Yangshan have been ranked as the most efficient in the world, highlighting the need for US ports to embrace automation to stay competitive.

The recent funding round that valued ChatGPT-owner OpenAI at $157 billion further emphasizes the market’s focus on innovation and automation. As companies like OpenAI continue to grow and evolve, the need for automation in various industries, including shipping and logistics, becomes more apparent.

While economists have long predicted the automation of jobs, concerns about the loss of purpose and traditional roles remain. John Maynard Keynes’ vision of a future where mankind solves its “economic problem” raises questions about the role of work and purpose in society. For Keynes, the arts offered a path to “fuller perfection,” but for the longshoremen, their purpose lies in providing for their families.

As automation continues to reshape industries and drive productivity improvements, the affordability of raising a family becomes a growing concern. Rising costs of childcare, tuition, and housing make it more challenging for individuals to start families, leading to declining fertility rates. Governments are recognizing the need to address these challenges, with proposals for tax credits and incentives to make starting a family more affordable.

In conclusion, the debate over automation and its impact on jobs highlights the need for individuals to find purpose and meaning beyond traditional roles. As innovation continues to drive change, governments and industries must work together to ensure that progress is balanced with the preservation of livelihoods and societal well-being.