Google is hiring an economist to understand how advanced AI could affect our wallets

In a bold move to explore the economic implications of advanced artificial intelligence, Google DeepMind is on the lookout for a "Senior AI Economist." This role aims to investigate how the advent of artificial general intelligence (AGI)—where machines achieve human-level problem-solving—could reshape economic landscapes. The job listing highlights the need for a candidate with a robust background in economics, tasked with leading research into post-AGI scenarios. Responsibilities include developing economic models and simulations that will scrutinize the future of scarcity and the distribution of resources in an AI-dominated world. The implications of AGI have sparked interest across the tech industry, with other companies like Anthropic also searching for talent to analyze AI's impact on labor markets and economic growth. Demis Hassabis, CEO of Google DeepMind, has frequently discussed the potential for AGI to create a state of "radical abundance," while also cautioning about the societal risks if these changes are not managed appropriately. At a recent gathering in Davos, Hassabis emphasized the need for economists to consider the profound transformations AGI could bring to money, capitalism, and corporate structures. He has urged for the establishment of an international body composed of diverse experts to oversee AI development responsibly, akin to CERN for particle physics. Hassabis posed a critical question: who is tasked with creating this guiding institution? As the world stands on the brink of significant technological advancement, the need for thoughtful analysis and foresight has never been more urgent. The quest for insight into the economic challenges posed by AI continues, as industry leaders recognize that understanding these dynamics is essential for future prosperity.