The Push for a Four-Day Workweek: Bernie Sanders Calls for AI Companies to Prioritize Workers
As AI companies continue to tout how their products are transforming productivity, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) is challenging the tech industry to prioritize workers over profits. In a recent conversation with podcaster Joe Rogan, Sanders emphasized that the time saved through AI advancements should be returned to workers in the form of a shorter workweek.
“Technology should enhance the lives of workers, not just benefit the top executives and shareholders,” Sanders stated. “If AI is boosting your productivity, instead of laying you off, I propose reducing the workweek to 32 hours.”
This proposition may be met with enthusiasm by many individuals, but it could be cause for concern for those entrenched in the corporate mindset that values constant profit maximization. However, Sanders believes that employees should have the opportunity to enjoy a better work-life balance.
While AI-driven efficiency gains may tempt companies to either assign more tasks to employees or cut down on staff, workers could potentially complete their current workload in less time without sacrificing pay. This could afford them the chance to engage in personal activities like attending their child’s sports game.
“This is not a radical idea,” Sanders reassured. “There are companies worldwide that have successfully implemented this approach.”
In the United Kingdom, for example, a total of 61 companies with approximately 2,900 employees participated in a four-day workweek pilot in the latter part of 2022. Among the 23 companies that disclosed financial data, the revenue remained relatively stable, with an average increase of 1.4%.
Companies like Kickstarter have already adopted a four-day workweek since 2021, while Microsoft Japan conducted a four-day workweek trial in 2019, resulting in a reported 40% boost in productivity.
“Let’s leverage technology to benefit workers,” Sanders urged. “This means granting you more time with your loved ones, friends, for personal development, or whatever you desire.”
