The Automation Paradox

What is the main argument James Bessen presents regarding automation?

• • Automation causes widespread unemployment in all fields.

• • Automation only affects blue-collar workers.

• • Automation creates job opportunities if workers adapt.

• • Automation reduces job growth in all industries.

According to Bessen, how does automation affect employment in the legal industry?

• • It significantly reduces jobs for lawyers and paralegals.

• • It eliminates the need for paralegals entirely.

• • It has led to job growth despite software being used.

• • It has had no effect on the employment of legal workers.

Which of the following is NOT a benefit of automation mentioned in the passage?

• • Lowering the cost of products and services.

• • Increasing unemployment in all sectors.

• • Attracting more customers through reduced prices.

• • Creating jobs in computer-using occupations.

What does the example of ATMs and bank tellers demonstrate?

• • Automation only affects physical jobs, not white-collar jobs.

• • ATMs decreased employment opportunities for bank tellers.

• • Automation can lead to growth in jobs rather than unemployment.

• • Automation always leads to job cuts.

What challenge does automation pose in the near term, according to the passage?

• • Total elimination of jobs.

• • A need for workers to learn new skills.

• • No effect on the job market.

• • Jobs becoming completely automated.

Automation causes massive unemployment in all white-collar professions.

• False

• Maybe

• No idea

• True

The legal industry has seen job growth despite increased use of electronic discovery software.

• False

• Maybe

• No idea

• True

Automation always leads to job loss, with no exceptions.

• False

• Maybe

• No idea

• True

The McKinsey study found that 5 percent of jobs are at risk of being fully automated in the near future.

• False

• Maybe

• No idea

• True

Automation in the Industrial Revolution increased manufacturing jobs.

• False

• Maybe

• No idea

• True