In the present day, the author argues that the Luddite perspective is relevant as we face a new age of automation and artificial intelligence. Workers across various industries are beginning to feel the impact of technology on their jobs, from Hollywood writers fearing their scripts will be written by chatbots, to factory workers seeing their roles replaced by robots. The author concludes by suggesting that we should learn from the Luddites and ensure that the benefits of technological advancements are shared by all, not just the tech elites.
Key takeaways:
- The term "Luddite" is often used today to describe people who reject or are skeptical of new technology, but its origins lie in a group of 19th-century English clothworkers who resisted the automation of their craft.
- The original Luddites were not simply opposed to technology, but to the social and economic changes it brought about, including lower wages, dangerous working conditions, and the loss of their autonomy.
- Journalist Brian Merchant's new book, "Blood in the Machine: The Origins of the Rebellion Against Big Tech", explores the history of the Luddites and argues that their story has relevance in today's age of artificial intelligence and automation.
- As technology continues to reshape our work and lives, Merchant suggests we can learn from the Luddites' insistence that the benefits of technology should be shared by all, not just a wealthy elite.