‘There will always be work’

Joël Luc Cachelin believes that our society needs updates. These include energy supply for AI, knowledge management, humanity's historical competence and the protection of the diversity of its ideas, among many other things. In this interview, he answers questions about the world of work, among other topics.

Does our world of work need an ‘update’ – and if so, what needs to be revised?

The world of work is constantly changing and therefore needs regular updates. At the moment, I see three key drivers: artificial intelligence, ecology and the growing need to work from home. Innovative employers are addressing these issues.

What new skills do we need in a digital society?

They are the same ones we have been talking about since the beginning of the digital transformation. They can be defined, for example, using the 4-K model: creativity, communication, critical thinking and collaboration. Skills that machines do not have and that are based on our human characteristics are important: emotions, the senses and ideas.

What role does work play in a world where machines can do many things better than we can?

Work will always exist because people like to be active. But also because ‘work’ is ultimately a human question of definition. As a society, we determine who we pay for what. What value do we place on care, nature or urban development? There is an infinite amount to do here, which shows that we are dealing with a political issue that has been strongly influenced by capitalism for several years.

What can be said about the future?

The future is not only shaped by digital technologies, but also by other megatrends such as demographic change and the pursuit of greater sustainability. And the future is not only made by humans, but also by animals, viruses, water and other non-human actors on Earth.

What else would you like to tell our readers?

The more people think about the future, the better.