Will AI Displace Jobs First? What About the So-Called Corporate ‘Bullsh*t Jobs’?

Will AI Eliminating Jobs Lead to a Focus on ‘Bureaucratic’ Roles First?

As artificial intelligence continues to advance rapidly, many are pondering its impact on the workforce. A common question arises: if AI is poised to replace jobs, which roles are likely to vanish first? Interestingly, some argue that certain so-called “bureaucratic” or “administrative” positions might be the first to go.

The Usual Suspects: ‘Non-Productive’ Office Jobs

Many corporate roles, such as project managers, management consultants, or administrative assistants, often involve tasks like preparing presentations, responding to endless emails, and attending numerous meetings—activities that many critics label as “pointless” or “bureaucratic.” Given this perception, it’s logical to expect these jobs to be among the first to be phased out as AI tools become more capable of handling such tasks efficiently.

Why Not Housekeepers or Factory Workers?

A question that often emerges is: if AI and automation threaten certain positions, why do we expect roles like housekeepers or factory workers to be more resistant? Historically, roles that involve direct physical work or essential service provision tend to be less susceptible to automation in the near term. The complexity of physical environments and the need for nuanced emotional labor mean these jobs might persist longer, even as technology advances.

The Education and Industry Divide

Another intriguing point relates to educational backgrounds. Why do some degrees—like humanities, language studies, design, or computer science—appear more vulnerable to automation or AI displacement compared to fields like economics, finance, or administrative studies?

One perspective is that roles rooted in specialized knowledge, data analysis, or strategic planning (common in economics and finance) are more resistant because they require complex decision-making, contextual understanding, and creative thinking—skills harder for AI to replicate fully. Conversely, jobs that involve routine, repetitive tasks, which might be associated with certain degrees, are more vulnerable to automation.

Final Thoughts

In essence, the ongoing debate about AI’s impact on employment reveals a nuanced landscape. While some roles may be rendered obsolete more quickly—particularly those seen as redundant or bureaucratic—the core human functions related to physical labor, emotional intelligence, and complex strategic thinking are likely to persist longer. Understanding these dynamics can help us better prepare for the evolving job market and rethink the value of various educational paths in a future dominated by artificial intelligence.