Afterword: Impact of digitalization on employment and working conditions

Abstract

There are different views about whether digitalization will result in more jobs, and if so how quickly, or conversely, if it will lead to significant unemployment. For most occupations, digital technologies will be an increasing part of the work day and work demand. The role played by government funding of research and digital infrastructure has been an underestimated factor in making possible large fortunes and high incomes. Certainly, the early years of the digital era have led to high incomes for those with the high levels of education and skills required. The income and job opportunities of many occupations have been reduced, leading to increases in inequity of wealth. This, together with the financial crisis of 2009, has resulted in widespread dissatisfactions, expressed politically in various ways.