AI Expert Sounds Alarm: Most Jobs Could Vanish Within a Decade
The Coming AI Job Apocalypse: What It Means for Workers
Chen Deli, senior researcher at Chinese AI firm DeepSeek, delivered sobering predictions during a panel discussion at the Wuzhen Summit. "We're in AI's honeymoon phase," he observed, "where it boosts productivity but still needs human oversight." His tone darkened as he outlined what comes next.
A Timeline That Should Worry Us All
The researcher painted a concerning picture:
- 5-10 years: AI reaches capability to replace numerous jobs
- 10-20 years: Most remaining occupations face automation risks
"This isn't just about efficiency gains," Chen stressed. "We're looking at potential social upheaval on an unprecedented scale."
East vs West: Diverging Perspectives on AI Risks
The Chinese perspective contrasts sharply with Silicon Valley's typical enthusiasm. While Western tech leaders often highlight AI's benefits, Chen and his colleagues emphasize urgent safety considerations. "Unchecked development could backfire spectacularly," he warned attendees.
DeepSeek itself embodies this cautious approach. Founded just last year, the company has made waves by developing powerful AI models that outperform many Western counterparts while using significantly less computing power. Their success comes partly from massive training datasets that enable automation in fields ranging from manufacturing to chemical regulation.
The Global Domino Effect
Chen's warnings extend beyond China's borders. As DeepSeek's technology spreads globally through free or low-cost applications:
- Traditional industries face radical transformation
- Silicon Valley giants lose market share
- Unemployment fears intensify worldwide
The researcher called on tech companies to evolve into "guardians of humanity" rather than pure profit-seekers. His participation in this government-backed conference signals official endorsement of this balanced approach to innovation.
Key Points:
- Job displacement timeline: Significant impacts expected within 5-10 years
- Cultural divide: Chinese researchers express stronger caution than Western counterparts
- DeepSeek's role: Emerging as global leader in efficient AI development
- Call to action: Tech firms urged to prioritize social stability alongside innovation