Will artificial intelligence transform economic growth—or are expectations running far ahead of reality? And what does the rise of AI mean for graduates, white-collar professionals and the future of work?

In Part 2 of his conversation with Dr Alan O’Sullivan, renowned economist and Northwestern University professor Robert J. Gordon challenges predictions of limitless AI-driven growth. He explains why many human-centred and physical jobs remain difficult to automate, while roles involving computer-based tasks could face significant disruption.

The discussion also examines the economics behind the AI investment boom: who will ultimately generate the revenue needed to justify enormous spending on data centres, chips and electricity? Professor Gordon considers the implications for productivity, education and independent thinking, drawing on his experience teaching university students.

Turning to the longer-term outlook, Gordon identifies population ageing and declining fertility as central challenges to economic growth. He discusses retirement ages, immigration, inequality and why the labour market may increasingly favour skilled trades over traditional graduate careers.

They close with a recommendation of Brad DeLong’s Slouching Towards Utopia and Gordon’s advice to young people planning a career in an AI-driven economy.

Topics discussed

  • AI, automation and the future of white-collar employment
  • Productivity, technological progress and the return on AI investment
  • University education, examinations and AI-generated coursework
  • Demographics, fertility, retirement and long-term economic growth
  • Immigration, income inequality and skilled-trades shortages
  • Career advice and book recommendations

Further viewing

Robert Gordon TED Talk — The death of innovation, the end of growth  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYHd7rpOTe8&pp=0gcJCR0AztywvtLA

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Disclaimer: This episode is for general information and discussion only and does not constitute financial or investment advice.



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