Elon Musk Claims Work Will Turn Optional Within 20 Years As AI Dominates All Production

International News: Speaking on entrepreneur Nikhil Kamath’s podcast, Elon Musk claimed that within less than twenty years, people may no longer need to work at all. He stated that jobs would become a matter of choice, like a hobby. Musk believes AI and robotics will reach a point where systems can provide everything required for human living. He used the example of growing vegetables versus buying them from the store, suggesting that in the future “if you can think of it, you can have it.” He added the shift could happen even earlier, within ten to fifteen years.

Why Musk Thinks This Change Is Coming

Musk sees rapid technological growth as the driving factor. According to him, machines will be able to perform physical tasks, solve problems and even handle aspects of emotional management. He predicts a future where AI becomes “smarter than the smartest human.” During a 2025 interview with Ted Cruz and Ben Ferguson, he projected that billions of humanoid robots will operate globally. He also estimated that 90 percent of driving would be autonomous, and goods or services would become “close to free.” For him, the challenge will shift from earning money to finding purpose.

How Does ‘Universal High Income’ Fit In?

In a 2023 conversation with former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Musk suggested that society would move beyond Universal Basic Income toward what he called “universal high income.” He argued that money would lose significance because machines would produce nearly everything. He described future technology as a “magic genie,” fulfilling all material requirements. In such a system, power generation could even become the new economic value. Musk believes that automation will not only eliminate work but also eradicate poverty.

Are Global Automation Trends Supporting His View?

While Musk’s expectations are extreme, reports confirm accelerating automation. According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2023, 23 percent of jobs will change by 2027 and around 83 million roles may be displaced. McKinsey’s 2023 study says up to 30 percent of working hours in the US could be automated by 2030. The International Monetary Fund warns that 40 percent of global jobs are vulnerable to AI. However, analysts stress that these projections suggest transformation, not total elimination of employment.

Why This Vision Doesn’t Align With India’s Reality

Experts say India’s economic structure and cultural values make work central to identity and survival. A large section of society depends on daily earnings. Government employment is still linked with stability and social respect. Labour often remains cheaper than machines, reducing the appeal of full automation. India lacks welfare systems that could support citizens without jobs. Therefore, for millions of informal sector workers, employment cannot simply become optional. Analysts explain that technology adoption will vary based on economic feasibility and social necessity.

Could Work Still Change In India?

India may gradually adopt aspects of Musk’s prediction in controlled formats. AI might reduce repetitive work and improve flexibility. Some industries could move towards automation where financially viable. But experts emphasise that a future where work becomes just a hobby is unlikely in India anytime soon. Instead, employment roles may shift rather than disappear. Technology may enhance efficiency or create new jobs in innovation and analysis. Adaptation must consider Indian demographics, family responsibility and income requirements.

What Does Musk’s Idea Really Mean For The Future?

Musk’s prediction carries symbolic value, urging society to rethink the future of technology and labour. While his global vision may suit advanced economies, India’s journey will differ based on its cultural, social and financial framework. Automation may increase, but employment will remain at the core of Indian life. Industries may evolve, not vanish. The future of work in India will likely involve transformation, not termination. As experts suggest, technology may redefine jobs—but won’t replace purpose, identity and daily livelihood in the near future.