23/10/2026
Are we all going to be screwed by AI?
I was talking to my dad this morning, and he said something interesting.
The 70s, 80s and 90s certainly had their challenges, but looking back, he thinks they were better times.
He also believes people today have it harder than ever, but many don't realise it because we're living in a bubble of technology, convenience and the illusion that everything is improving.
And it got me thinking about AI.
For the first time, we could see economies growing, businesses making more money, but fewer people being employed.
Normally, when people lose their jobs, it's because the economy is struggling. There's at least hope that when things improve, jobs will return.
But what if AI means those jobs never come back?
And let's be clear. Has AI cured HIV or cancer yet? No. It's helping scientists, but right now businesses seem far more interested in using it to reduce staff and increase profits.
What happens to the rest of society?
Who buys houses, new cars or holidays? Who spends money in restaurants, shops and local businesses?
We've been promised a future where AI creates so much wealth that everyone could receive Universal Basic Income.
But where's the plan? Where's the safety net for people losing their jobs today?
And if governments eventually start handing out substantial guaranteed incomes, won't that risk pushing up inflation, rents and the cost of living unless supply keeps pace?
I'm not against AI. I use it every day.
But I do wonder whether we're confusing technological progress with actually improving people's lives.
Maybe my dad is right. We have more than ever, but perhaps we're not as well off as we think.
And here's the biggest question of all.
If businesses replace their workers with AI, who's going to have the money to buy their products?
I'd be interested to know what everyone thinks.
