Will AI lead to a 4-day workweek?

The future of work in the United States could dramatically shift as artificial intelligence advances, with some experts predicting shorter workweeks and universal basic income becoming standard practice.

Latest industry predictions: JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon envisions a future where the next generation works just three-and-a-half days per week, largely due to AI advancements.

• Dimon suggests technology will enable people to live to 100 years, cancer-free, while working significantly reduced hours
• He emphasizes that AI will be “critical” to JPMorgan Chase’s future success
• Recent AI developments, including ChatGPT, Midjourney, and Tesla’s upcoming Optimus robot, are accelerating workplace transformation

Expert perspectives: Economic and computing experts offer contrasting views on the likelihood of reduced working hours becoming reality.

• Scott Santens, CEO of ITSA Foundation and former advisor to Andrew Yang, advocates for both a four-day workweek and universal basic income
• Santens argues that increased productivity from AI should benefit everyone, given that public investments and collective data enabled AI development
• Professor Janice I. Glasgow from Queen’s University counters that previous technological advances haven’t reduced working hours despite productivity gains

Public sentiment and concerns: Americans show mixed reactions to AI’s increasing role in the workplace.

• A recent Talker Research survey reveals 43% of Americans feel uncomfortable with AI conducting job interviews
• Only 32% express comfort with AI-led interviews, while 26% remain undecided
• Political figures like Senator Ted Cruz have raised concerns about foreign influence on U.S. AI policy, particularly from the EU and UK-based organizations

Looking ahead: While AI promises unprecedented productivity gains, the path to a shorter workweek faces both technological and cultural hurdles that will need to be addressed before such dramatic workplace changes can be implemented.