Elon Musk Predicts Work May Become Optional in the Future

US entrepreneur Elon Musk has suggested that advances in artificial intelligence and robotics could make working a choice rather than a necessity in the coming decades. Speaking at a US-Saudi investment forum, Musk predicted that work could become optional, feeling more like a hobby than a requirement. He drew an analogy with people who choose to grow their own vegetables, stating that future work could be akin to playing sports or video games.

Musk’s prediction is tied to the development of advanced AI and robotics, which he believes could render money less meaningful. “I think at some point, currency becomes irrelevant,” he said. However, he acknowledged that significant work is still required to reach this future, where technology and society would need to undergo substantial changes.

Musk’s optimism is partly driven by Tesla’s development of Optimus, a bipedal humanoid robot designed to perform repetitive and potentially hazardous tasks. The company envisions Optimus working in various settings, including factories, warehouses, and homes. Musk has claimed that humanoid robots could become a massive industry, potentially surpassing the cellphone market.

Despite Musk’s enthusiasm, skeptics have expressed doubts about his 10 to 20-year timeline, citing previous unfulfilled predictions, such as widespread robot-taxis and crewed Mars missions. Robotics experts also highlight the complexity and expense of developing general-purpose humanoid robots capable of safe and reliable performance in real-world settings.

Musk’s comments come amid growing concerns about the impact of AI and robotics on employment and the economy. Corporate giants have already eliminated tens of thousands of jobs due to automation, intensifying the need for discussions about the future of work. As the development of AI and robotics continues to advance, it is essential to consider the potential consequences and benefits of a future where work may become optional.