AI supports the union movement’s case, including ChatGPT.
AI supports the union movement's case, including ChatGPT.

Unions and A.I.: Harnessing Technology for the Benefit of Workers
Artificial intelligence (A.I.) has become an increasingly prominent topic in recent years, with concerns arising about its potential impact on workers and the role of unions in this new technological landscape. However, history has shown that unions have consistently fought for the well-being of workers, adapting to and moderating the effects of technological advancements. In this article, we explore how unions can play a crucial role in shaping the future of work in an A.I.-driven world.
A.I.’s Potential Impact on Workers
The introduction of A.I. into the workforce has raised questions about job displacement and the ethical implications of increased automation. In response to these concerns, Chat GPT, an A.I. language model, highlighted the importance of unions in protecting workers’ rights and adapting to the changing job market. It emphasized the need for safeguards, job guarantees, ethical guidelines, and training programs to ensure a smooth transition to A.I.-driven workplaces.
While the impact of A.I. on workers is unpredictable, Chat GPT acknowledged the crucial role of governments and unions in balancing the drive for corporate profitability with fair distribution of the benefits generated by A.I. technology. Unions have a track record of mitigating the negative effects of technological changes, as seen in previous economic transformations.
Unions: Champions of Workers’ Rights Throughout History
Throughout history, unions have consistently fought for the rights of workers amidst technological advancements. When assembly lines were first introduced, followed by automated and robotic assembly lines, unions in the 1930s organized sit-down strikes to demand recognition and protect workers’ power.
An exemplary case is the shipping industry’s transition to standardized containers in the 1950s, which significantly reduced labor needs. Harry Bridges, leader of the International Longshore and Warehouse Workers Union (ILWU), addressed this change by demanding that workers receive a “piece of the machine” and benefit from modernization. The ILWU’s strong stance forced the shipping industry to share its new profits, resulting in improved job security, higher wages, safer workplaces, and reduced working hours.
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Today, port workers are facing a similar challenge as they confront the rise of robots and A.I. on the docks. They are ready to exercise their collective power to negotiate equitable deals that protect human workers and ensure fair compensation.
Unions’ Rational Approach to A.I.
Contrary to popular belief, workers’ unions are not seeking to ban the use of A.I. Instead, they aim to strike a balance that allows them to enjoy the benefits of this technology while safeguarding their livelihoods. Writers and actors, represented by the Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA, are currently on strike to ensure they have measured control over A.I.’s impact on their professions.
Unions in the energy sector have also fought for a “just transition” as renewable energy jobs replace carbon-based energy jobs. Under the Inflation Reduction Act, these new jobs will provide fair wages and benefits, transforming them into quality union jobs.
Furthermore, unions are actively advocating for labor law reforms that protect workers’ fundamental rights to unite in the face of A.I.-based union-busting practices, such as those witnessed at Amazon. Tech workers have also recognized the importance of unions, organizing and raising their voices to prevent A.I. abuse within their own industry.
The Power of Collective Voice
Unions play a vital role in shaping the impact of A.I. and technology in general. As A.I. continues to advance, it is crucial for humans to determine the course of its development. The question is whether these technological innovations will reinforce inequality or benefit society as a whole. By ensuring workers have a strong, united, and collective voice, unions can harness future technologies for the betterment of working people and society.
Samuel Gompers, the American labor leader, famously stated that unions wanted “more of the opportunities to cultivate our better natures.” Chat GPT offers a succinct interpretation of this quote, summarizing the aspirations of the labor movement for a society that values education, intellectual growth, justice, compassion, and personal fulfillment. Ultimately, the aim is to create a better and happier world.
In conclusion, while the introduction of A.I. poses challenges and uncertainties, unions have historically proven their ability to navigate technological changes and secure improvements for workers. It is essential to recognize the crucial role unions can play in shaping the future of work in an A.I.-driven world. By championing workers’ rights, unions can ensure that A.I. technology is harnessed for the benefit of all, rather than solely serving corporations seeking greater profits.
Edward M. Smith is a former national union leader and currently Chairman and CEO of Ullico Inc., a labor-owned insurance and investment company.
Note: The opinions expressed in this article are solely the views of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and beliefs of Fortune.
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