URGENT UPDATE: A seismic shift in the job landscape is unfolding as AI technologies evolve at an unprecedented pace. A striking essay by Matt Shumer, CEO of an AI firm, has gone viral, attracting over 83 million reads within a week and raising critical questions about the future of work.
Published on February 19, 2026, Shumer’s piece warns of the disruptive potential of AI, claiming society is not prepared for the rapid changes ahead. The essay, titled “Something big is happening,” captures a growing anxiety among workers and industry experts as AI begins automating tasks once thought to require human intervention.
The urgency of this issue has been magnified by recent demonstrations of AI capabilities. In a viral video, a user showcased a new AI product that completed a four-hour workday in just 90 seconds. The AI managed everything from drafting a report to sending an apology email—all with minimal human input. The astonishing efficiency of this technology is prompting critical reactions, with one commenter asking, “What’s the point of even having a job if a machine can do it in 90 seconds?”
These developments raise profound questions about the essence of work. As AI takes on more responsibilities, the focus on the end product may overshadow the intrinsic value of the creative process. Tim Duggan, author of “Work Backwards,” emphasizes that work is not just about output; it provides structure, identity, and connection, elements crucial to our humanity.
While many embrace AI for improved efficiency, the rapid pace of adoption raises concerns about whether this trajectory aligns with societal desires. The threat of losing jobs to machines is real, and experts warn that without international guidelines on AI development, we may be hurtling towards a future many do not want.
Shumer’s essay, despite its biases, resonates with widespread fears about the technology’s implications. As AI continues to evolve, the conversation around its role in our lives is more urgent than ever. The question remains: do we genuinely want a world where machines replace human labor, or is there a way to harness AI’s power while preserving the value of human work?
As this situation develops, it is crucial for policymakers, businesses, and individuals to engage in discussions about the future of work and the ethical implications of AI’s capabilities. The future of jobs hangs in the balance, and the time to act is NOW.
