Former Google Vice President Geoffrey Hinton has advocated for a universal basic income (UBI) to mitigate the job losses predicted by the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics. Speaking to the BBC’s Newsnight, Hinton emphasized that while UBI could address basic financial needs, it does not solve the issue of self-respect that many derive from their jobs. He expressed concern over the societal impact, stating, “AI and robots will be very bad for society because the millions of workers left jobless by the technology will not enjoy the wealth resulting from the boom in productivity.”

Hinton, known for his pioneering work in AI, left Google in 2023 to raise awareness about its risks. He highlighted that many blue-collar and ‘mid-level intellectual jobs’ could vanish, whereas jobs requiring physical manipulation, like plumbing, might remain secure. The International Monetary Fund has projected that 40% of jobs worldwide could be affected by AI, with the UK’s Institute for Public Policy Research estimating eight million job losses in the country.

The concern about AI’s societal impact was echoed by UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who will address a summit in Seoul, South Korea, alongside South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol. Sunak will emphasize the joint responsibility of world leaders to ensure AI is managed safely, as highlighted in a report by the International Scientific Report on Advanced AI Safety. This report discusses both the benefits and risks of AI, including the potential for increased disinformation and job disruption.