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Understanding the Distinction Between Artificial Intelligence and Automation
Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are often used interchangeably, but they represent distinct concepts. While automation is primarily focused on reducing human labor for routine or predictable tasks, AI involves simulating human intelligence that can eventually act independently. This distinction plays a crucial role in understanding how these technologies impact various industries.
Senior advisor Gregory Allen from the Wadhwani A.I. Center at the Center for Strategic and International Studies highlights the broader implications of AI and automation. He explains that AI enhances worker productivity, but whether this leads to more jobs or fewer depends on the specific field. Historical examples, such as agriculture, illustrate this point. In the 1920s, about one out of every three workers in America worked on a farm. Today, with a population of over 300 million, less than 1% of Americans work in agriculture. This shift demonstrates how automation can increase productivity without necessarily leading to job loss.
A similar trend has occurred in the manufacturing sector. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, there were over 17 million manufacturing workers at the end of 2000. As of June, that number had dropped to 12.7 million. Research from the University of Chicago indicates that while automation had little effect on overall employment, robots have significantly impacted the manufacturing sector.
Allen notes that tractors made farmers vastly more productive, but this did not result in more farming jobs. Instead, it led to increased productivity in agriculture. This pattern suggests that technological advancements can reshape industries without necessarily causing widespread job displacement.
The Role of AI in Modern Industries
As AI continues to evolve, its applications extend beyond traditional sectors like manufacturing and agriculture. Robots are now being trained to work alongside humans in various settings, including household chores, addressing worker shortages, and even participating in robotic sporting events. According to the International Federation of Robotics, more than 4 million robots were working in factories around the world in 2023. Approximately 70% of new robots deployed that year began working alongside humans in Asia. Many of these robots incorporate artificial intelligence to enhance productivity.
Arnaud Robert from Hexagon Robotics Division explains that labor shortages in industries like automotive and transportation are driving the need for AI-powered solutions. He notes that the older generation is retiring, the middle generation is not interested in certain tasks, and the younger generation prefers different opportunities. To address these challenges, companies are developing advanced robotics. One example is Hexagon’s robot called AEON, which is designed to work in live industrial settings. It features an AI-driven system with special intelligence, allowing it to move four times faster than humans and navigate stairs while mapping its surroundings using 22 sensors.
AI in Sports and Beyond
Even major league sports are embracing AI and automation. Researchers at the University of Waterloo in Canada are using AI algorithms and stadium camera systems to analyze Major League Baseball pitcher performance. The Baltimore Orioles jointly funded a project called Pitchernet, which could help improve form and prevent injuries. By using Hawk-Eye Innovations camera systems and smartphone video, researchers created 3D models of pitchers that athletes and trainers can study from multiple angles. These models provide a clearer view of a pitcher’s movements, helping to refine techniques and reduce injury risks.
AI is also being used in testing for an Automated Ball-Strike System (ABS). Triple-A minor league teams have been using robot umpires for several seasons. Teams tested both situations where the technology called every pitch and when it was used as a challenge system. Major League Baseball began testing the challenge system in 13 of its spring training parks across Florida and Arizona in February and March. Each team started a game with two challenges, and the system allowed umpires to keep their jobs while making strike zone calls slightly more accurate. According to MLB, just 2.6% of calls were challenged throughout spring training games that incorporated ABS, with 52.2% of those challenges overturned.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred stated that the automated system could be incorporated into the regular season as early as 2026. Major league teams would use the same challenge system from spring training, with human umpires still making the majority of the calls.
Ensuring Human Control Over AI
While AI offers numerous benefits, many companies emphasize the importance of maintaining human control over these systems. Brad Smith, Microsoft Vice Chair and President, states that AI should always remain under human supervision. He proposed in 2023 that AI systems should have an “off switch” or emergency brake, similar to high-speed trains and school buses. Ensuring that AI operates safely and responsibly is essential as the technology continues to advance.
