Jan Korsten

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About

Jan Korsten is a thought leader at the intersection of technology, labor, and society, whose work critically examines the evolving relationship between automation and employment. Best known for their seminal 2015 paper, "Working on the robot society: Visions and insights from science concerning the relationship between technology and employment," Korsten has shaped discourse on how robotic and AI-driven systems are reshaping the workforce. This highly cited piece—garnering over 10 citations—offers a nuanced analysis of scientific visions and empirical insights, challenging deterministic narratives by exploring the socio-technical dynamics that influence job creation, displacement, and skill transformation. Korsten’s research bridges futures studies, science and technology studies (STS), and labor economics, providing a framework for policymakers and scholars to anticipate and navigate the societal impacts of automation. Their work is particularly notable for integrating speculative foresight with grounded social science, making it a cornerstone for researchers investigating the ethical and practical dimensions of the "robot society." Through this contribution, Korsten has established themselves as a key voice in debates on technological unemployment and the future of work, inspiring further inquiry into how societies can proactively shape inclusive, human-centered technological transitions.