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Travis Kalanick affirms humans will thrive in AI age until super AGI arrives

Mar 19, 2026, 1:00 AM10
(Update: Mar 19, 2026, 1:00 AM)
American entrepreneur
peer-to-peer ridesharing, food delivery, and transportation network company headquartered in San Francisco, California

Travis Kalanick affirms humans will thrive in AI age until super AGI arrives

  • Travis Kalanick expressed that humans will continue to be valuable until super AGI is developed.
  • He used plumbers as an example, asserting their essential role in infrastructure ensures their job security.
  • Kalanick's perspective is aligned with other tech leaders who believe AI will enhance human productivity rather than eliminate jobs.
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In a recent discussion on the TBPN podcast, Travis Kalanick, cofounder of Uber and CEO of CloudKitchens, expressed optimism regarding the interplay between artificial intelligence and the job market. He argued that until the advent of super artificial general intelligence (AGI), human skills will retain value and will likely become even more sought after. Kalanick illustrated this point using the example of plumbers, emphasizing that even if all other jobs were automated, plumbers would remain indispensable given their critical role in infrastructure development. As society continues to expand and modernize, the demand for such essential services will only increase, leading to greater job security for those in these roles. Kalanick acknowledges the potential for complete human job replacement by AGI in the future but reassures listeners that currently, the job market remains vibrant and adaptable. His 'white pill' perspective suggests that innovative solutions will emerge over time, easing anxieties regarding a major career disruption in the near term. Other leaders in the tech industry, such as Demis Hassabis of DeepMind and Sam Altman of OpenAI, have similarly predicted that AI will create new job opportunities and enhance human capabilities. They envision a future marked by unprecedented abundance, where AI-driven technologies not only solve pressing global issues like disease and energy crises but also usher in an era of advanced human productivity. Their belief is that AI will complement human skills rather than replace them, allowing for a harmonious coexistence that empowers individuals to pursue more fulfilling careers. The general sentiment among these CEOs is that while fears surrounding AI and job automation are understandable, they are ultimately optimistic about the transformative potential of AI in shaping a prosperous future for humanity.

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