About the Session
The Question We’re Avoiding
For decades, automation threatened specific jobs. This time may be different.
Artificial intelligence, humanoid robotics, agentic systems, and autonomous infrastructure are converging faster than any technological transition in modern history. For the first time, technology may be capable of replacing large portions of human labor across all sectors simultaneously.
If labor is no longer the primary mechanism for distributing income, an uncomfortable question emerges: How does society distribute purchasing power in a post-labor economy?
Three ideas are beginning to surface in policy circles:
- Universal Basic Income
- Universal Human Income
- A range of hybrid economic models
Some see these ideas as the path to a post-scarcity society. Others see them as the first step toward economic dependency and loss of human agency. Some believe the entire premise is flawed.
Several economists and technologists argue that the window to address these questions may be far shorter than we expect—perhaps as little as three years before automation accelerates beyond our ability to adapt.
This Session Is Not a Lecture
This is a ReThinkers dialogue. We will not assume the answers. Instead, we will pressure-test the underlying assumptions.
Together we will explore:
- Is large-scale technological unemployment realistic—or exaggerated?
- If realistic, what is a realistic timeline?
- Could UBI or UHI stabilize capitalism—or destabilize it?
- What happens to purpose, identity, and innovation if income becomes detached from labor?
- Could abundance create a renaissance of human creativity—or a crisis of meaning?
- What responsibility should technology leaders have in shaping these outcomes?
Expect Provocative Questions
During this conversation we will challenge several assumptions:
- What if the real issue is not unemployment but the collapse of wage growth?
- What if automation compresses income long before it eliminates jobs?
- What if the biggest risk is political instability rather than economic collapse?
- What if UBI is not a solution—but a temporary bridge?
Why This Matters for Technology Leaders
Technology leaders are not just observers in this transition. We are building the systems driving it.
Understanding the potential societal consequences is not just policy theory—it is part of responsible leadership in the age of intelligent systems.
Facilitated By
Bill Waas
Co-Chair, SIM ReThink Everything! SIG
Join the Conversation
ReThinkers sessions are designed for open, respectful exploration of difficult ideas.
Expect thoughtful disagreement. Expect new perspectives. Expect to leave with more questions than answers.
Because the future will not be shaped by those who assume certainty. It will be shaped by those willing to think differently.
SPACE IS LIMITED: This session caps at 25 participants to ensure quality discussion. Register early to secure your spot.
Since seats are limited, please do not sign up and not show up.
About SIM ReThinkers
SIM ReThinkers brings together forward-thinking IT leaders to explore emerging technologies, strategic challenges, and leadership practices. Sessions foster peer learning, strategic dialogue, and actionable insights for navigating digital transformation.
Cost to Attend
- Free for SIM Members.
- Employees of SIM Members are welcome to attend for free.
Attendee Support
If you have trouble registering or need to renew your SIM membership, email sim@simnet.org.
If you require special assistance, call 800.387.9746 or email rethink@simnet.org.
