Bernie Sanders Advocates for 4-Day Workweek in AI Productivity Boom
▼ Summary
– Senator Bernie Sanders advocates for AI-driven productivity gains to benefit workers by reducing their workweek to 32 hours instead of cutting jobs.
– Sanders argues that technology should improve workers’ lives, allowing more time for family and personal pursuits, not just corporate profits.
– Some companies, like Kickstarter and Microsoft Japan, have successfully implemented four-day workweeks, showing productivity gains or stability.
– A UK trial involving 61 companies found that a four-day workweek maintained revenue levels, with a slight 1.4% average increase.
– Sanders emphasizes that using AI to shorten workweeks without pay cuts is a practical, not radical, idea already being tested globally.
As artificial intelligence reshapes workplace productivity, Senator Bernie Sanders is pushing for a radical yet practical shift: a four-day workweek that lets workers reap the benefits of technological advancement. The Vermont independent recently made his case during an appearance on Joe Rogan’s podcast, arguing that AI-driven efficiency gains should translate into more free time rather than just higher corporate profits.
Sanders emphasized that workers deserve to benefit from productivity boosts instead of facing layoffs or increased workloads. “If AI helps you get more done in less time, why not shorten the workweek to 32 hours?” he asked. “This isn’t some fringe idea, companies worldwide are already proving it works.” His vision challenges the traditional corporate mindset, where efficiency gains often lead to cost-cutting rather than improved quality of life for employees.
The concept isn’t just theoretical. A UK trial involving 61 companies and nearly 3,000 employees tested a four-day workweek in 2022, with most participants reporting no drop in revenue, in fact, some saw slight increases. Similarly, Microsoft Japan’s 2019 experiment yielded a 40% productivity jump, while crowdfunding platform Kickstarter has maintained a four-day schedule since 2021 without sacrificing performance.
Sanders framed the issue as a matter of priorities. “Technology should serve people, not just profits,” he said. “Imagine having an extra day each week, for family, hobbies, or just recharging. That’s progress.” His proposal taps into growing frustration over stagnant wages and burnout, offering a tangible way for workers to share in the rewards of innovation.
While critics argue shorter workweeks could hurt competitiveness, real-world examples suggest otherwise. The debate reflects a broader question: Should AI enrich shareholders exclusively, or should it also improve lives for the people using it every day? Sanders’ stance makes one thing clear, the future of work doesn’t have to mean longer hours or fewer jobs. It could mean more time for what actually matters.
(Source: TechCrunch)
