A promise or threat? : the labour market effects of a fourth industrial revolution

Abstract

"As a result of the coming changes because of the fourth industrial revolution there is a lively discussion about possible structural changes in the world of business and work. Along with the opportunities Industry 4.0 brings with it, above all potentially negative labour market effects are in the centre of the debate. The current study examines the impacts of technical progress from a historical perspective and sheds light on the possible consequences for the world of work in general, as well as for professions and various qualification groups in particular. Studies conducted over the last years see highly qualified persons as the winners and the middle classes as the losers of the technological revolution - particularly in the Anglo-Saxon area. However the most recent studies judge the development of artificial intelligence to be the greatest challenge for the world of work. According to this, activities that require complexity, creativity and social intelligence are most likely to be secure. In connection with the German model, great potential is to be found in the areas of high-quality consumer goods, chemical products and machinery and systems because of Industry 4.0. Having said that, the right framework conditions will be necessary for this in the form of a good 'operating system' that can be expressed in the extension of infrastructure, the educational system as well as legal and data security. In addition there will be an increased demand on a willingness towards flexibility on the part of the workforce. However a more humane world of work would still be possible if the atmosphere in the company is good. Possibilities of in-house flexibility, worker participation as well as a functioning social partnership could help to counteract the insecurity of the world of work 4.0." (Author's abstract IAB-Doku)

Cite article

Möller, J. (2016): Verheißung oder Bedrohung? Die Arbeitsmarktwirkungen einer vierten industriellen Revolution. In: G. Bäcker, S. Lehndorff & C. Weinkopf (Hrsg.) (2016): Den Arbeitsmarkt verstehen, um ihn zu gestalten : Festschrift für Gerhard Bosch, p. 49-59. DOI:10.1007/978-3-658-12159-4_6