We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Anton Korinek
The course introduces you to cutting-edge research in the economics of AI and the implications for economic growth and labor markets. We start by analyzing the nature of intelligence and information theory. Then we connect our analysis to modeling production and technological change in economics, and how these processes are affected by AI. Next we turn to how technological change drives aggregate economic growth, covering a range of scenarios including a potential growth singularity. We also study the impact of AI-driven technological change on labor markets and workers, evaluating to what extent fears about technological unemployment are well-founded. We continue with an analysis of economic policies to deal with advanced AI. Finally, we evaluate the potential for transformative progress in AI to lead to significant disruptions and study the problem of how humans can control highly intelligent AI algorithms.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/bixw38/the
What's inside
Syllabus
What is Intelligence?
Welcome to the Economics of AI! This week, we are starting with an analysis of the nature of intelligence, its relationship to agents and goals, and the basics of information theory. We will also take a quick look at recent advances in AI and what they entail for our economy. These are materials that are not typically covered in economics courses, but they are crucial for understanding the profound changes that AI will trigger in our economy. We will build on them in the economic models that we will cover in the following modules. As you are working through the course materials, please share your impressions in our discussion forum. The forum also has a section in which I want to invite you to discuss the most up-to-date technological advances in AI and speculate how they will affect us.
Read more
Syllabus
What is Intelligence?
Welcome to the Economics of AI! This week, we are starting with an analysis of the nature of intelligence, its relationship to agents and goals, and the basics of information theory. We will also take a quick look at recent advances in AI and what they entail for our economy. These are materials that are not typically covered in economics courses, but they are crucial for understanding the profound changes that AI will trigger in our economy. We will build on them in the economic models that we will cover in the following modules. As you are working through the course materials, please share your impressions in our discussion forum. The forum also has a section in which I want to invite you to discuss the most up-to-date technological advances in AI and speculate how they will affect us.
Read more
Modeling Technological Progress
Welcome to week 2 of the Economics of AI! I hope that you have enjoyed the material so far, and that it has changed your outlook on AI. This week, we are going back to a more traditional economic theme: how to capture technological progress in economic models.We will pay particular attention to the possibility of labor-saving progress and to the increasing role of information goods, which differ fundamentally from more traditional factors because they are non-rivalrous. Given the growing importance and use of micro data, we will also cover the economics of production networks, which allows us to capture the effects of innovation at a more granular level. Please share your take – including any difficulties that you have with the materials – on the discussion forum. (And if you are on top of the material, I hope you'll go there to help your fellow classmates :)
AI and Economic Growth
Welcome to week 3. After last week’s materials on modeling technological advances, we are turning to their effects on economic growth, which has traditionally been the main driver of people’s living standards.
Humanity has spent much of its history in a Malthusian state in which our material means were just enough to survive. The Industrial revolution marked a sea change and gave rise to continuous growth as captured by e.g. the Solow model. Will growth in the Age of AI follow a similar trajectory? Will it give rise to super-exponential growth or a singularity? Or will it throw us back into a Malthusian state?
Labor Markets and Inequality
Welcome to week 4 of the Economics of AI, in which we will zero in on the implications of technological advances such as AI for labor markets and inequality.
We’ll start by looking at the effects of progress on labor markets in a neoclassical model. Next we’ll investigate the scope for technological unemployment and find that we should perhaps be even more concerned about inequality. After going over the developments in labor markets of recent decades, we’ll ask what it would mean for humanity if labor was phased out at in the future.
Economic Policy in the Age of AI
Welcome to week 5. We are using this week to examine how economic policy can respond to the economic challenges generated by advances in AI – based on an in-depth analysis of the relationship between technological progress and welfare.
The economic policy responses that we’ll analyze include not only measures to enhance efficiency, such as technology policy, antitrust, or intellectual property regimes, but also measures to make the distribution of income more desirable, including pre-distribution and instruments of redistribution such as a UBI. We’ll also investigate how to steer technology into more desirable directions.
The Economics of Transformative AI
Congratulations on making it to the sixth and final week of our course, in which we will focus on two topics that are a bit more futuristic. First, we will examine how to think about an economy in which humans aren’t the only intelligent agents. Second, we will use the tools from economics to analyze the AI control problem. We conclude by highlighting the important role that thoughtful economic analysis can play in creating a better future.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Covers important topics like technological unemployment and control of AI algorithms
Examines the relationship between technological progress and economic growth, an important topic in economics
Taught by Anton Korinek, who is an expert in the economics of AI
Suitable for learners with a background in economics who want to specialize in the economics of AI
Requires learners to come in with a foundational knowledge of economics
Save this course
Save The Economics of AI to your list so you can find it easily later:
Save
Save
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in The Economics of AI with these
activities:
Connect with AI economics researchers or professionals
Show steps
Gain insights and guidance from experts in the field
Show steps
-
Identify potential mentors through professional networks or online platforms
-
Reach out and ask for guidance or collaboration
-
Meet regularly to discuss AI economics concepts and research
Read 'The Economics of Artificial Intelligence' by Ajay Agrawal, Joshua Gans, and Avi Goldfarb
Show steps
Gain a foundational understanding of the economic principles driving AI
View
HBR's 10 Must Reads on AI (with bonus article...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read and summarize each chapter
Participate in online discussion groups
Show steps
Expose yourself to multiple perspectives by engaging with peers online
Show steps
-
Join online discussion groups dedicated to AI and economics
-
Read and participate in discussions, asking questions and sharing insights
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a notebook or online repository for the course
Show steps
Organize course materials for easy reference and revision
Show steps
-
Collect materials such as lecture notes, readings, and assignments
-
Categorize and organize the materials
Practice mathematical models
Show steps
Gain deeper comprehension of theoretical concepts by applying them
Browse courses on
Math
Show steps
-
Find exercises and problem sets related to AI economics
-
Solve the problems and compare your solutions with others
Complete online coding exercises on AI economics
Show steps
Gain hands-on experience applying AI economics concepts to real-world problems
Browse courses on
Math
Show steps
-
Find online coding platforms that offer AI economics exercises
-
Solve the exercises and compare your solutions with others
Develop a blog or website on AI economics
Show steps
Improve comprehension and communication of AI economics principles
Browse courses on
AI
Show steps
-
Choose a specific aspect of AI economics to focus on
-
Research and write articles or blog posts explaining the concepts
-
Share the content with others and gather feedback
Connect with AI economics researchers or professionals
Show steps
Gain insights and guidance from experts in the field
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify potential mentors through professional networks or online platforms
- Reach out and ask for guidance or collaboration
- Meet regularly to discuss AI economics concepts and research
Read 'The Economics of Artificial Intelligence' by Ajay Agrawal, Joshua Gans, and Avi Goldfarb
Show steps
Gain a foundational understanding of the economic principles driving AI
View
HBR's 10 Must Reads on AI (with bonus article...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read and summarize each chapter
Participate in online discussion groups
Show steps
Expose yourself to multiple perspectives by engaging with peers online
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Join online discussion groups dedicated to AI and economics
- Read and participate in discussions, asking questions and sharing insights
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a notebook or online repository for the course
Show steps
Organize course materials for easy reference and revision
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Collect materials such as lecture notes, readings, and assignments
- Categorize and organize the materials
Practice mathematical models
Show steps
Gain deeper comprehension of theoretical concepts by applying them
Browse courses on
Math
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find exercises and problem sets related to AI economics
- Solve the problems and compare your solutions with others
Complete online coding exercises on AI economics
Show steps
Gain hands-on experience applying AI economics concepts to real-world problems
Browse courses on
Math
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find online coding platforms that offer AI economics exercises
- Solve the exercises and compare your solutions with others
Develop a blog or website on AI economics
Show steps
Improve comprehension and communication of AI economics principles
Browse courses on
AI
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a specific aspect of AI economics to focus on
- Research and write articles or blog posts explaining the concepts
- Share the content with others and gather feedback
Career center
Learners who complete The Economics of AI will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
AI Engineer
AI Engineer
An AI Engineer designs, develops, and deploys AI systems. This course is an excellent fit for anyone in this career field, as it exposes learners to AI's economic implications. This understanding will help you to build AI systems that deliver a strong return on investment.
Data Scientist
Data Scientist
A Data Scientist makes use of data to inform decisions. This course provides context on how the data that you are analyzing is generated. It will also help you to understand how the data may change in the future, which could help you to make more forward-looking, actionable recommendations.
Machine Learning Engineer
Machine Learning Engineer
A Machine Learning Engineer develops machine learning models. This course is helpful because it will help you to identify situations in which machine learning models can be used to solve problems.
Quantitative Analyst
Quantitative Analyst
A Quantitative Analyst develops and implements mathematical and statistical models to analyze and solve problems. This course will help you to develop your skills in these areas.
Economist
Economist
An Economist researches economic issues. This course will help you to stay up-to-date on current economic issues and trends.
Data Analyst
Data Analyst
A Data Analyst makes use of data to inform decisions. This course provides context on how the data that you are analyzing is generated. It will also help you to understand how the data may change in the future, which could help you to make more forward-looking, actionable recommendations.
Software Architect
Software Architect
A Software Architect designs computer software. This course helps build a foundation in the economics of artificial intelligence. Understanding the economics of AI will help you to make better decisions during the architectural design phase regarding what AI components to include in your software design and what features to deprioritize.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analyst
A Policy Analyst develops and analyzes public policies. This course may be useful for gaining a better understanding of AI's economic implications.
Financial Analyst
Financial Analyst
A Financial Analyst analyzes the financial performance of companies and industries. This course may be useful for gaining a better understanding of the financial implications of AI.
Consultant
Consultant
A Consultant provides advice to businesses and organizations. This course may be useful for helping you stay up-to-date on the latest technological trends that you can recommend to your clients.
Market Research Analyst
Market Research Analyst
A Market Research Analyst analyzes market data and trends. This course may be useful for gaining a better understanding of how AI is affecting markets.
Teacher
Teacher
A Teacher educates students in a particular subject. This course may be useful for providing you with the background that you need to teach the economics of AI to your pupils.
Journalist
Journalist
A Journalist writes and reports on current events and issues. This course may be useful for gaining a better understanding of AI's economic implications.
Sales Manager
Sales Manager
A Sales Manager leads and manages a team of sales representatives. This course may be useful for gaining a better understanding of AI's impact on the sales process.
Operations Manager
Operations Manager
An Operations Manager plans and oversees the day-to-day operations of a business. This course may be useful for gaining a better understanding of the challenges posed by AI.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/bixw38/the
Reading list
We've selected 11 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
The Economics of AI.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of deep learning, covering topics such as convolutional neural networks, recurrent neural networks, and generative adversarial networks. It valuable reference for anyone who wants to learn more about the latest advances in deep learning.
Provides an overview of the economics of artificial intelligence, covering topics such as the impact of AI on economic growth, labor markets, and inequality. It good resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the economic implications of AI.
Save
Provides a critical look at the potential economic impact of AI, arguing that it could lead to mass unemployment and inequality. It good resource for anyone who wants to think more deeply about the challenges and opportunities that AI poses for our economy.
Save
Provides a philosophical exploration of the potential impact of AI on humanity, arguing that it could lead to a new era of human flourishing. It good resource for anyone who wants to think more deeply about the ethical and existential implications of AI.
Save
Provides a thought-provoking exploration of the potential risks and benefits of superintelligence, arguing that it could pose a existential threat to humanity. It good resource for anyone who wants to understand the potential dangers of AI.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the potential impact of AI on the economy and society, arguing that it could lead to a new era of economic growth and prosperity. It good resource for anyone who wants to understand the economic implications of AI.
Save
Provides an overview of the potential impact of AI on warfare, arguing that it could lead to a new era of more precise and efficient warfare. It good resource for anyone who wants to understand the geopolitical implications of AI.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history and development of AI, arguing that we are on the cusp of a new era of AI that will revolutionize our world. It good resource for anyone who wants to understand the potential of AI.
Save
Provides a thought-provoking exploration of the potential impact of AI on humanity, arguing that it could lead to a new era of human flourishing. It good resource for anyone who wants to think more deeply about the ethical and existential implications of AI.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the ethical issues raised by AI, arguing that we need to develop new ethical frameworks to guide the development and use of AI. It good resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the ethical implications of AI.
Save
Provides a visionary exploration of the potential future of humanity, arguing that AI could play a major role in shaping our destiny. It good resource for anyone who wants to think more deeply about the future of humanity.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/bixw38/the
Share
Similar courses
Here are nine courses similar to
The Economics of AI.
Inclusive Growth: Labor Markets, Gender, and Technology
OpenCourser.com/course/qgd3t8/inclusive
Inclusive Growth: Labor Markets, Gender, and Technology
Most relevant
Inclusive Growth
OpenCourser.com/course/rldjln/inclusive
Inclusive Growth
Most relevant
经济学原理（微观部分）
OpenCourser.com/course/ie6e15/Jing
经济学原理（微观部分）
Most relevant
The Superpower Grand Strategies: Winning the Globalization Game
OpenCourser.com/course/l6pqqp/the
The Superpower Grand Strategies: Winning the...
Most relevant
Narrative Economics
OpenCourser.com/course/73y43s/narrative
Narrative Economics
Most relevant
The AI Awakening: Implications for the Economy and Society
OpenCourser.com/course/sqq2gu/the
The AI Awakening: Implications for the Economy and Society
Most relevant
Environmental and Natural Resources Economics
OpenCourser.com/course/7dk0e4/environmental
Environmental and Natural Resources Economics
Most relevant
Economics and Policies of Climate Change
OpenCourser.com/course/ytup8o/economics
Economics and Policies of Climate Change
Most relevant
Macroeconomics Performance Indicators
OpenCourser.com/course/6amvhg/macroeconomics
Macroeconomics Performance Indicators
Most relevant
Effort
6 weeks of study, 6 - 12 hours/week
Level
Advanced
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Virginia
Instructor
Anton Korinek
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
Français
Português
Deutsch
Italiano
中文
العربية
한국어
日本語
हिंदी
Nederlands
Svenska
Pусский
Türkçe
Polski
Ελληνικά
українська мова
Bahasa Indonesia
ไทย
қазақша
Good to know
Covers important topics like technological unemployment and control of AI algorithms
Examines the relationship between technological progress and economic growth, an important topic in economics
Taught by Anton Korinek, who is an expert in the economics of AI
Suitable for learners with a background in economics who want to specialize in the economics of AI
Requires learners to come in with a foundational knowledge of economics
Our mission
OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.
Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.
Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.
Affiliate disclosure
We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.
Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.
Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.
© 2016 - 2024 OpenCourser