Technological unemployment, the loss of jobs due to automation and technological advancements, has been a recurring concern throughout history. While technological progress undoubtedly boosts overall productivity and economic growth, its impact on the labor market is complex. The core argument suggests that as machines become capable of performing tasks previously done by humans, certain jobs become obsolete, leading to displacement. However, economists often counter this argument by highlighting the creation of new jobs. Historically, technological disruptions have led to the emergence of entirely new industries and occupations that were previously unimaginable.
The key lies in the concept of 'creative destruction,' where old industries are destroyed, but new ones are simultaneously created. This process often requires workers to acquire new skills and adapt to changing demands. Failure to adapt can result in prolonged periods of unemployment and widening income inequality. Therefore, governments and educational institutions play a vital role in providing retraining programs and fostering a culture of lifelong learning. Ultimately, the extent to which technological unemployment becomes a significant societal problem depends on our ability to manage the transition and equip the workforce with the necessary skills for the jobs of the future.
Câu hỏi luyện tập
1. The passage suggests that technological unemployment is best described as:
2. What is the term used to describe the simultaneous destruction of old industries and creation of new ones?
3. According to the passage, what happens when workers fail to adapt to changing job demands?
4. What phrase indicates something undoubtedly improved by technological progress?
5. According to the passage, who plays a vital role in providing retraining programs?
6. The passage implies that the negative effects of technological unemployment can be mitigated by:
7. The passage directly identifies what factor as a possible outcome of failure to adapt to new technologies?