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Automation and the future of work: An intersectional study of the role of human capital, income, gender and visible minority status

Author

Listed:
  • Búi K Petersen

    (Sobey School of Business, Saint Mary’s University, Canada)

  • James Chowhan

    (School of Human Resources Management, Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies, York University, Canada)

  • Gordon B Cooke

    (Faculty of Business Administration, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada)

  • Ray Gosine

    (Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada)

  • Peter J Warrian

    (Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy, University of Toronto, Canada)

Abstract

This study extends prior research assessing the impacts of advancements in automation on employment by focusing on the effect on various population groups. Employing a human capital and intersectionality lens, and a moderated-mediation analysis of Canadian 2016 Census data, this study finds the effects of automation differ significantly depending on the intersections of income level, gender and visible minority status, differences that for the most part are explained (or mediated) by human capital, especially education. The article discusses several public policy implications related to the roles of individuals, employers and governments in addressing the resulting labour market challenges.

Suggested Citation

  • Búi K Petersen & James Chowhan & Gordon B Cooke & Ray Gosine & Peter J Warrian, 2023. "Automation and the future of work: An intersectional study of the role of human capital, income, gender and visible minority status," Economic and Industrial Democracy, Department of Economic History, Uppsala University, Sweden, vol. 44(3), pages 703-727, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ecoind:v:44:y:2023:i:3:p:703-727
    DOI: 10.1177/0143831X221088301
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Włoch, Renata & Śledziewska, Katarzyna & Rożynek, Satia, 2025. "Who's afraid of automation? Examining determinants of fear of automation in six European countries," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 81(C).
    2. Yang, Jia & Pei, Yu & Qiang, Wei, 2024. "The impact of automation on human capital investment," Finance Research Letters, Elsevier, vol. 62(PB).

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