Public opinion in the age of automation : South Africa and the Fourth Industrial Revolution

Abstract

The fourth industrial revolution, a socio-technical ideal of a positive and desirable future, was institutionalised in national settings across the world. It‘s potential impact on South Africa has been repeatedly questioned. Without a doubt, technology in the current era affects every element of human life to a depth and breadth unimaginable to man. Using data from the South African Social Attitudes Values (SASAS), this research explored the variables impacting public perceptions towards the fourth industrial revolution. The paper employed a quantitative methodology (regression-based analysis) and found that attitudes are shaped by diverse demographic variables: age, gender, race, and employment status. The main premise was the opposition citizens expressed towards human labour being replaced by robotic services. This article argues that the urgent need for modern technology must be balanced with a careful consideration of societal goals and values before advancing new innovations. To mitigate potential negative outcomes, it is crucial for the South African government and relevant authorities to consider the concerns and objections raised by citizens.