In Fear Not the Coming of the Robots by Steven Rattner, he discusses the nearly incalculable number of technological advancements in recent years and their effects. With a background in economics, Rattner is credible when he speaks of fears of robots taking the jobs of humans. His purpose in writing this article is to show the public that these automated robots should not be feared and he is able to prove this argument through his use of opposing viewpoints, and his providing of logical reasoning. Early on in his article, Rattner speaks of figures in history who have stated that technology would disrupt society such as Queen Elizabeth and John Maynard Keynes. He says, “So far, of course, they’ve all been wrong. But that has not prevented a cascade of shrill new proclamations that — notwithstanding centuries of history — “this time is different”: The technology revolution will impair the livelihoods of millions of Americans.” (Rattner). Through this viewpoint which stands against his ideas, Rattner is able to create a sort of counter argument that he is able to refute. By previously stating several instances throughout history in which people have feared technology, he is able to set up his argument so he can then point out how all these negative effects never occurred. Later speaking of efficiency he exhibits logic, writing, “Becoming more efficient (what economists call “productivity”) has always been central to a growing economy. Without higher productivity, wages can’t go up and standards of living can’t improve.” (Rattner). By telling the people that technology has increased efficiency, he is able to highlight how this is beneficial. If we are able to become more efficient, jobs will actually become more profitable, not less profitable as some fear, disproving the fears of his opposition. Overall, I believe that Rattner achieved his purpose as he was able to provide effective logic and refute opposing viewpoints which made it easy to understand even by someone who does not have a background in economics.
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