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Artificial intelligence and autonomy at work: empirical insights from Germany

Author

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  • Oliver Giering

    (Technical University of Berlin)

  • Stefan Kirchner

    (Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg)

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a prominent topic regarding the digitalisation of work and its diffusion is expected to radically change job quality. Overall, there exists a large discrepancy between discursive expectations and quantitative empirical evidence. In this article, we use a novel module from the German Socio-Economic Panel to examine the overall prevalence of AI at work, the determinants that increase the likelihood of AI use, and its association with autonomy. The results show that 38% of German workers use AI, and AI use is associated with the use of specific digital technologies. Workers in high-level, non-routine occupations are more likely to use AI, particularly in comparison to manual workers. Moreover, the association between AI and autonomy is merely superficial and cannot be properly evaluated without considering workplace preconditions.

Suggested Citation

  • Oliver Giering & Stefan Kirchner, 2025. "Artificial intelligence and autonomy at work: empirical insights from Germany," Journal for Labour Market Research, Springer;Institute for Employment Research/ Institut für Arbeitsmarkt- und Berufsforschung (IAB), vol. 59(1), pages 1-15, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:jlabrs:v:59:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1186_s12651-025-00401-5
    DOI: 10.1186/s12651-025-00401-5
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    JEL classification:

    • J00 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - General - - - General
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • O3 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights
    • O33 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences; Diffusion Processes

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