Post-Scarcity Economics: Societal Reorganization

The provided text examines the concept of post-scarcity economics, a theoretical future where technology enables the abundant production of most goods and services with minimal human labor. It defines this paradigm, distinguishing it from utopian fantasies by acknowledging the persistence of inherent scarcities like time and unique physical assets. The sources explore the technological drivers—such as AI, automation, and advanced energy and manufacturing—that could lead to this state, alongside proposed economic models like Universal Basic Income and resource-based economies. Furthermore, the text considers the profound societal and psychological shifts that would accompany such a transition, including changes in the nature of work, the search for meaning, and the purpose of education. Finally, it outlines significant challenges and risks, emphasizing the perilous transition period, the potential for artificial scarcity, and the need for new governance structures to prevent the concentration of power.

Research done with the help of artificial intelligence, and presented by two AI-generated hosts.