A new report from the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) suggests that up to 70% of tasks in computer-based jobs could be taken over by rapidly advancing AI. This revelation has experts predicting a “seismic impact” on both the economy and everyday lives.
The focus is on roles that rely heavily on computer-based tasks such as project management, marketing, and administrative support, which are expected to be most affected by the rise of AI. The IPPR is calling for government intervention, expressing concerns that current AI policies are too focused on speeding up development and safety issues, while neglecting the broader implications of powerful AI.
The study, which analyzed 22,000 common tasks performed by workers, found that up to 70% of jobs could be significantly altered or replaced by AI. This shift is expected to have the biggest impact on organizational, strategic, and analytical tasks.
The findings come just before the Paris AI Action Summit, where global leaders, industry experts, tech leaders, and academics will gather to discuss an international approach to using AI. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer recently showcased the Government’s AI Action Plan, aimed at positioning the UK at the forefront of the AI stage and boosting the economy.
While some experts warn of potential job displacement due to AI, tech leaders argue that AI is meant to assist and streamline workloads rather than replace human workers. Companies like OpenAI are introducing AI agents, autonomous tools programmed for specific tasks, signaling a significant shift in both professional and personal spheres.
The IPPR’s head of AI, Carsten Jung, emphasized the need for politics to adapt to the rapid advancements in AI, stating that AI capabilities are advancing at a breathtaking speed. The study also revealed that AI is already transforming wider society, with around 930,000 people in the UK reportedly having an AI digital companion on app Character.
However, the think tank cautioned that while these AI companions can offer emotional support, they also pose risks of addiction and potential long-term psychological impacts, especially for young people. The promise of AI to tackle societal problems is tantalizing, but it is crucial for politics to catch up with the implications of powerful AI and involve the public in setting clear missions and boundaries.