As the tech industry continues to tout the transformative power of artificial intelligence in enhancing productivity, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) is calling for a shift in how these advancements benefit the workforce. In a recent discussion with podcaster Joe Rogan, Sanders emphasized that the efficiencies gained through AI should translate into more personal time for employees, allowing them to reconnect with their families and communities.
“Technology should serve to uplift everyone, not just the executives and shareholders,” Sanders stated. He proposed that as workers become more productive thanks to AI, their work hours should be reduced to 32 hours a week instead of facing layoffs. This approach aims to ensure that the benefits of technological progress are shared equitably among all workers.
The idea of a shorter work week resonates with many, offering a refreshing alternative to the relentless pursuit of profit that often characterizes corporate culture. For those in the tech elite, the potential for AI to enhance productivity might suggest a pathway to increased output and profitability, but for the average worker, it could mean a chance to balance work and personal life more effectively.
“This isn’t a radical notion,” Sanders pointed out, highlighting that several companies worldwide have successfully implemented shorter work weeks. In the UK, for example, a pilot program involving 61 companies and approximately 2,900 employees tested a four-day work week in late 2022. The results showed that, among the 23 companies that reported financial data, their revenue remained stable, with an average increase of 1.4% during the trial period.
In addition, organizations like Kickstarter have adopted a four-day work week since 2021, while Microsoft Japan’s experiment in 2019 resulted in a remarkable 40% boost in productivity. These examples illustrate that a shorter work week can lead to both employee satisfaction and business success.
“Let’s harness technology to enhance the lives of workers,” Sanders concluded. “This means providing more time for family, education, and personal pursuits—whatever brings joy and fulfillment.”