The Lights in the Tunnel by Martin Ford

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Martin Ford’s book The Lights in the Tunnel can throw light on the possible development of the economy during the twenty-first century. In particular, this author examines a variety of issues that originate primarily from technological progress. On the whole, the writer presents various thought experiments that engage readers and make them think about the future of the global community. This paper is aimed at examining the arguments that Martin Ford puts forward.

In the chapter called Green Light, Martin Ford examines the opportunities that can emerge due to increasing automation. In particular, he argues that technological improvements can lead to the situation when people will need to work “only part-time, or in some cases not at all” (Ford, 2009, p. 196). One of his major premises is that by achieving the state of the automated economy, the advanced countries will be able to address poverty in various regions of the world.

The main issue is that the technological changes and automation of the economy enables countries to increase production that can meet the global demand for goods. In addition to that, the author examines several constraints that are related to labor, land, technologies, availability of natural resources, and environmental constraints. They can slow the transformation of the global economy.

Nonetheless, the author believes that technological solutions can help people overcome these challenges. For instance, Martin Ford believes that technological advances can make economies more energy-efficient (Ford, 2009, p. 203). In his view, consumption will not be regarded as a form of privilege (Ford, 2009, p. 205). More likely, it will become a form of self-expression. These are some of the main questions that the writer explores in this chapter.

Additionally, the author discusses some of the most common misconceptions regarding the automation of technologies. For instance, the writer refers to the so-called Luddite fallacy. In this case, one can speak about the assumption that technological progress eventually results in unemployment (Ford, 2009). The problem is that in the course of history, the improvement of production tools usually created new jobs. It did not adversely affect the welfare of people.

Secondly, the writer argues that even the most skilled jobs can be broken down into a set of relatively simple activities that can be automated (Ford, 2009, p. 217). Therefore, one cannot assume that some social groups will not be affected by the technological process. Finally, it is often argued that businesses are not likely to become fully automated because this change requires considerable investment (Ford, 2009, p. 215).

Nevertheless, one should keep in mind that they could be forced to implement this policy because of various economic pressures, especially competition. Furthermore, the author examines common concerns that the wages of workers will decline due to growing rates of automation. The main issue is that the sophistication of production tools can significantly decrease the cost of goods. This is why this tendency should not be perceived as a threat.

It is possible to argue that the author’s arguments are both interesting and thought-provoking. They prompt the readers to think about the connections between social, economic, and technological phenomena.

There are significant limitations that should not be overlooked by the readers of this book. In particular, the author does not take into account the risk of conflicts between different countries, including those, which are advanced in terms of economy and technology. As a rule, such conflicts can profoundly undermine the development of the economy.

Similarly, one should not forget about the possibility of civic conflicts within a community. In many cases, they can significantly slow down the development of many businesses. This is one of the pitfalls that should be taken into account.

Moreover, it is critical to remember the risks of such events as technological or natural disasters. They also can shape the development of the economy; they can affect various practices of businesses such as production methods, waste management, or quality control. Therefore, the trends discussed by Martin Ford are not completely predictable.

Thus, some of Martin Ford’s predictions may prove to be false. Finally, it is important to remember that the profound changes envisioned by the author can be possible if the government significantly increases its control over the economy. Such an intervention may not be tolerated by entrepreneurs and corporate organizations. This is another issue that should not be overlooked.

Overall, Martin Ford creates a comprehensive survey of those trends which are most likely to emerge in the twenty-first century. Additionally, the writer can dispel many of the myths and stereotypes about automation. Admittedly, some limitations should not be disregarded.

The author views the development of the economy as a deterministic system that functions according to a certain pattern. In many cases, its functioning is not deterministic. Nevertheless, despite these limitations, the book is still worth attention since it prompts readers to examine many of important social trends. These are the main details that can be singled out.

Reference

Ford, M. (2009). The Lights in the Tunnel: Automation, Accelerating Technology and the Economy of the Future. New York, NY: Acculant Publishing.

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The Lights in the Tunnel by Martin Ford

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