Prompt:
Tesla Corporation (TSLA) stock has been in demand over the past year, tripling in value between July 2019 and January 2020, despite reporting losses in two of the last four quarters. Autonomous vehicle technology is poised for introduction in urban and long haul applications by companies such as Plus.ai. In an interview with Quartz, Bill Gates suggested that taxing robot output could help cover the shortfall in social services due to lost jobs and help pay for the increase in social services and support needed by displaced workers. An article in The Atlantic Magazine (A World Without Work) lays out the impact of automation on jobs and eventually on the default social contract in most capitalist societies. A review of a book with the same name provides additional insight.
Please research the topic of automation and its impact on an individuals ability to monetize their human capital. Given the idea that humans need to contribute to society to feel fulfilled and happy, please respond to the following:
a) What is your personal philosophy about firms using automation without regard to its impact on society?
b) What type of a political and economic system do you think might be best suited for a society where automation can provide the bulk of peoples needs? What about Bill Gates suggestion on taxing robot output? Keep in mind that robots do not consume (assuming they are not sentient in the way humans are) and that demand for products comes from people with the ability to pay.
c) As automation reduces the importance of labor cost as a basis for competitive advantage (and perhaps eliminates it), how do you think the global competitiveness landscape for manufacturing will change?
d) Finally, how may cultural (e.g. Hofstedes dimensions) and ethical factors (e.g. Utilitarian) moderate the rate of adoption of these types of technologies in different countries. Data at moralmachine.mit.edu may be helpful.
This prompt asks you to think critically and examine a pressing issue in business and one which has global implications, the potential end of a long and relatively stable relationship between human capital and earning potential. Note that the question is normative and asks you to discuss the characteristics of a system that could deal with a situation where the material needs of society (transportation, services, shelter, facebook etc.) could be largely provided through automation, and that traditional unemployment rates/metrics dont apply. Your response to this assignment will require an integration of culture, ethics, as well as other topics discussed in this, and other classes.
This is not an analysis of current events. There is no one right answer. You will need research to support your responses.
This is a complex assignment, despite its short length. It requires you to identify your approach to the topic and integrate your values into your perspective, then develop your responses. Correctly and appropriately apply International Business concepts. You will probably need to revise and review it several times before submitting.
Include wordcount on top of first page. Wordcount requirement refers to length of paper not including cover page, references, figures, etc.
Use 12-point, readable font (i.e. Times New Roman).
Use double spacing and 1 standard margins.
Include functional and brief introduction (e.g. should include the organization of the paper, state the
problem/purpose, and preview of sections to follow).
Include title page and table of contents as well as a list of references.
Use headings/subheadings for organization use a consistent heading style for each level.
Use APA reference style, or any other standard reference style you are familiar with please cite all
sources.
Prompt websites needed:
https://www.theguardian.com/books/2020/jan/09/world-without-work-david-susskind-review
https://qz.com/911968/bill-gates-the-robot-that-takes-your-job-should-pay-taxes/
https://plus.ai
RUBRIC:
This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome Content: Answer prompt completely and clearly.
This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome Content: Correctly and appropriately applied International Business concepts
This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome Content: Used critical reasoning and logic to develop response
This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome Content: Supported arguments with appropriate evidence
This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome Grammar and Organization: Met wordcount limits. Proper spelling, grammar, professional and specific language. Appropriate citations.
This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome Grammar and Organization: Organized work clearly and logically, appropriate headings. Clear flow and transitions.
This criterion is linked to a Learning Outcome Extensions: Provided relevant insights and discussed implication, personal observations; Connections with topics and material from other courses; Brought in additional sources and references.
