AI is Making Us Work More
- AI, intended to free workers, is causing longer work hours and increased pressure, spreading 996 culture to Western AI startups.
- AI tools never tire, creating psychological pressure to constantly work and increasing feelings of guilt during rest.
- Historical advances like lamps and bulbs extended work hours; AI similarly shifts "can work" into "should work."
- Philosopher Byung-Chul Han's "Burnout Society" concept shows internalized self-discipline drives overwork, amplified by AI's "excess of positivity."
- The hyper-productivity loop leads to burnout, reduced creativity, and diminishing returns despite increased effort.
- Rest is framed as resistance and vital for innovation, which thrives on reflection, not constant activity.
- The key challenge is adopting a healthy culture around AI use that avoids exploitation and preserves human well-being.