Tim Leberecht Speaks at SXSW
In a dual talk with John C. Havens, Tim spoke about how automation will affect brands
What are we going to do when 1/3 or more of the population will be out of work due to automation (as many predict will be the case in 10 years)? Together with “Heartificial Intelligence” author John C. Havens, Tim spoke about “The Dispensables: Automation, Humans, and Brands” at SXSW Interactive in Austin. He discussed the need for services for those defeated by algorithms, the need for a new “sentimental education,” and the distinction between “post-human brands,” “post-human human brands,” and the surge of “asshole brands.”
Abstract: “Gartner research says 1/3 of all Americans will be out of jobs by 2025 due to automation. Other reports cite similar results for other Western societies, with jobs in every industry at risk. So look to your right and your left. According to the values driving automation, one of you is “Dispensable.”You’re not just unemployed – you’re void. We need to envision scenarios where humans provide value in the algorithmic economy. Even if a Universal Basic Income keeps the “Dispensables” from poverty, we need to create a paradigm shift regarding how humans find worth beyond work. What does this mean for business? And specifically, what will be the challenges and opportunities for brands?”