Title: Robotics: its impact on employment and labour relations

Authors: Yunus Kathawala, Alan Brandyberry

Addresses: Professor of Management, Lumpkin College of Business, Eastern Illinois University, Charleston, IL 61920, USA. ' Doctoral student, Lumpkin College of Business, Eastern Illinois University, Charleston, IL 61920, USA

Abstract: This paper attempts to determine the effects of robotic use in manufacturing on employment. Current trends in the utilization of robots, displacement of workers, changes in job content, and labour relations are addressed. These issues are discussed in relation to the effects on individual workers and the overall employment situation. Finally, predictions of the future effects of robotics on employment are discussed.

Keywords: robotics; computer aided design; computer aided manufacture; CAD; CAM; CADCAM; job content; working conditions; employment; manufacturing industry; labour relations; robot utilisation; worker displacement.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTM.1989.026027

International Journal of Technology Management, 1989 Vol.4 No.6, pp.681 - 688

Published online: 26 May 2009 *

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