Will AI Replace Jobs, and Should the so-Called Corporate “Bullshit Jobs” Disappear First?

Will AI Eliminate “Bullshit Jobs” Before Replacing Essential Workers? A Closer Look at the Future of Employment

As artificial intelligence continues to advance and reshape industries, a thought-provoking question emerges: If AI is poised to replace many jobs, shouldn’t the so-called “bullshit jobs” in corporate settings be the first to go?

Many roles in project management, consulting, and administrative support often involve tasks such as creating PowerPoint presentations, responding to countless emails, and attending numerous meetings that may seem unnecessary. These positions are frequently labeled as “meaningless” or “overhead” jobs that primarily serve organizational or bureaucratic purposes. If AI and automation are to impact the labor market significantly, logic suggests these types of roles could be eliminated sooner than essential jobs like housekeeping, manufacturing, or healthcare.

This raises an intriguing question about the nature of job vulnerability: Why are certain educational backgrounds—such as humanities, languages, design, or computer science—perceived as more at risk from AI disruptions than degrees in economics, finance, or administrative fields? Traditionally, it’s assumed that roles centered around strategic decision-making or technical skills are safer, but the ongoing technological shift challenges us to reconsider these assumptions.

Understanding these dynamics is crucial for policymakers, educators, and workers alike, as we navigate a future where AI’s capabilities will redefine the landscape of employment. As some jobs become obsolete, the focus might shift toward roles that require genuine human creativity, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking—traits notoriously difficult for AI to replicate.

Ultimately, the question remains: Will the automation of “busy work” lead to a more meaningful and efficient job market, or will it simultaneously threaten the stability of roles that traditionally support our economies? Only time will tell, but ongoing analysis and adaptation are essential to preparing for the changes ahead.