Artificial Intelligence, Labour, and Human Existence: Philosophical Concerns

Abstract

Work is a basic human need essential for sustaining existence. As one of the primary human activities, work is necessary for the sustenance of life and forms a fundamental part of human species-being. Through work, humans create and recreate themselves, develop tools to enhance their capabilities, and build societies to improve their sustenance. However, when work is forced, and its products are appropriated and controlled by others, humans become alienated, struggling merely to exist. At this point, work transforms into labor—a painful, daily routine for survival. Philosophers argue that if the appropriation of the products of work and the exploitation of humans as mere tools are not addressed, the resulting societal crisis could undermine the very existence that work is meant to sustain. This paper employs the Marxian theoretical framework to argue that artificial intelligence (AI), initially invented to aid humanity and make work and existence easier, could become an albatross if its development remains unchecked.