A hybrid University of Southampton workshop examining how AI and automation are reshaping work, worker wellbeing and the meaning of working life.
Work, automation and ethics
Taking place on Tuesday 15 December 2026 at the University of Southampton’s Avenue Campus, with an option to attend online, this workshop approaches workplace AI as an ethical and social challenge, not simply a technical development. It will consider what happens as AI takes over tasks, optimises workflows and changes the relationship between workers, employers and the wider economy.
The programme centres on difficult questions raised by increasingly automated workplaces:
Are there distinctive harms or “bads” associated with automated working environments?
How should people live in a world where AI can replace most, or potentially all, tasks?
Could AI make work less meaningful?
What do changing workflows mean for workers and the economy?
Rather than focusing on a particular software platform, the workshop creates space for philosophical examination of automation’s consequences. It should be particularly relevant to researchers, students and practitioners interested in the ethics of AI, the philosophy of work, technology’s impact on workers, and the future organisation of economic life. No specific experience level or technical prerequisite is listed.
Speakers and format
The workshop brings together speakers from universities in the UK, Ireland and Germany:
Markus Rüther, University of Juelich / University of Bonn
The hybrid format allows participants to attend either in person in Southampton or remotely. Organised by Charlotte Franziska Unruh, the event offers an academically grounded setting in which to examine not only what workplace AI can do, but how its use may affect human agency, meaningful activity and working conditions.
Registration
Registration is required. Attendees must email the organiser by Tuesday 8 December 2026, clearly stating whether they plan to participate in person or online. The event listing gives a registration deadline of 9:00am; RSVPing through PhilEvents alone is not sufficient to register.…
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