The meaning of life in a world without work – Yuval Noah Harari (2017) (www.theguardian.com)

In a thought-provoking discourse, historian Yuval Noah Harari argues that as artificial intelligence continues to surpass human capabilities in various jobs, a significant number of people may find themselves not just unemployed but unemployable by 2050. This shift may lead to what he refers to as a "useless class," raising complex questions about societal meaning and purpose in a future where traditional work is scarce. While some new professions may emerge, they will likely demand creativity and flexibility, posing challenges for those from more conventional job backgrounds. Harari suggests that the increasing reliance on virtual realities, akin to "deep play" in social constructs like religion or consumerism, could provide a possible framework for engagement and fulfillment in a post-work society. He highlights examples such as ultra-orthodox Jewish communities in Israel, where members find substantial life satisfaction despite a lack of traditional work, supported by government subsidies. This perspective emphasizes that meaning in life is not exclusively tied to work but can be cultivated through imaginative experiences, whether they manifest as advanced virtual environments or new ideologies. Thus, as the landscape of work evolves, so too will the ways in which individuals derive meaning from their lives.