Will AI Replace Jobs, and Should the So-Called Corporate “Bullshit Jobs” Be the First to Go?

Will AI Replace “Bullshit Jobs” First? Exploring the Future of Work and Higher Education

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence has sparked widespread debate about the future of employment. One pertinent question is: If AI is poised to automate many roles, should we not expect the so-called “bullshit jobs” — those perceived as unnecessary or purely administrative — to vanish first?

Many critics argue that roles involving extensive email correspondence, endless meetings, and superficial PowerPoint presentations — such as project managers or consultants — are inherently trivial. These positions often seem centered around bureaucracy rather than productivity. If automation is to streamline the workforce, it seems logical that these administrative and corporate roles might be the first to go, potentially making room for human workers in more tangible, value-driven positions like manufacturing or service jobs.

However, this raises a critical puzzle: Why do certain academic disciplines seem more vulnerable to automation than others? For example, degrees in the humanities, arts, or design are often deemed at higher risk of obsolescence, whereas fields like economics, finance, or administrative studies appear more resistant.

Understanding these dynamics involves examining the nature of these professions and educational paths. Roles rooted in critical thinking, creativity, and nuanced human interaction—traits that AI struggles to fully emulate—tend to be more resilient. Conversely, disciplines that emphasize data analysis, procedural knowledge, or technical skills might be more susceptible to automation because AI can often perform these tasks more efficiently.

In essence, the future of work and education in the AI era hinges on what roles remain uniquely human: creative problem-solving, emotional intelligence, and strategic thinking. As we navigate this transformation, a reevaluation of academic priorities and job design becomes increasingly vital to prepare for a world where automation reshapes every sector.