The Future of Employment: Unveiling the Implications of AGI

As we stand on the brink of significant advancements in Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), a recent thought crossed my mind that could fundamentally reshape how we view work and productivity. Here’s a simpler way to define AGI: imagine having an online agent capable of performing tasks indistinguishably from a human, all while your employer remains none the wiser. If that scenario becomes a reality, we can safely say we have reached a point of AGI.

This definition may seem straightforward, but the implication is profound. Consider a job that is primarily remote, like call center operations. Envision an AI trained not only to mimic your communication style but also to adapt your responses, manage your tasks, and even show up on video calls as if you were there. Such capability would mean that AI could match or even exceed human productivity—a reality that is applicable across various professions, from programming and accounting to consulting and investing.

We often add layers of complexity to the concept, but I believe we may be overthinking it. Once agents can effectively take over job responsibilities, we will have crossed an irreversible threshold that transforms the workforce landscape.

However, this ephemeral revelation could be fleeting. As these agents allow individuals to generate income autonomously, we may see an emergence of ‘Agentic Cowboys’—pioneers who harness multiple AI agents to maximize efficiency and profitability. The first to master this technology could find themselves accumulating wealth at an astonishing rate.

I anticipate that businesses will soon recognize the potential of these agents and might even hire these innovative individuals to help integrate AGI into their operations. This shift could lead to a rapid decline in employment levels as companies phase out human workers in favor of automated solutions, all in the pursuit of higher profits.

This reflects the concern many experts express when they say society is not prepared for AGI. The shift we are facing represents a monumental change that could unfold in just a few months, outpacing our ability to understand and adapt.

As we venture further into this new era, it is crucial for society, businesses, and policymakers to consider the implications of AGI. We must prepare not just for the benefits but also for the challenges that this revolution in technology will bring.