The AugCog of Work

The relative value of automation is debated. On one hand, it is lauded for making mundane work doable by machines. Not only can such machines carry out such work more efficiently than humans: the latter are then empowered and opened up to fulfill endeavors [57] (e.g., creative). Furthermore, automation can itself inspire innovations and the creation of work, such as in the creation of driverless vehicles (including software and hardware, as well as new regulatory practice). In an ideal scenario where work is fully automated, humans would be able to maximize leisure and not be bound by economic demands. Automation fits into a vision for societal AugCog where humans put machines to work so that the former can invest in more rewarding cognitive activities. Humans can do so by deepening their respective cultures with furthered devotion to art, philosophy, science, engineering, mathematics, humanities, politics, spirituality, and religion. In day-to-day life, automation can augment cognition via reduced stress and increased life satisfaction as people’s lives become more centered on relationships and meaning. Automation of work should proceed in a manner sensitive to overall economic and human impacts.