The New Bazaar AI and the Human Touch
18 snips
Feb 9, 2026 
Adam Ozimek, chief economist at the Economic Innovation Group and commentator on automation, discusses AI’s economic tradeoffs and why some work resists automation. He explores the persistence of live service and caregiving, the Olive Garden as a model for task division, AI companions and misuse, and policy and personal strategies for adapting to AI-driven change.
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Player Piano Example
- Adam describes the player piano: a 1890s machine that automated piano playing but still required a human to pump it.
- He notes many people still prefer live piano players despite the long-standing automation.
What The Human Touch Means
- Adam defines the "human touch" as the qualities people value: presence, unpredictability, and personal connection.
- He argues these qualities explain why humans remain preferred in many roles despite automation.
Automation Expands Access, Not Eliminate Live Demand
- Automation expands access to music but doesn't eliminate demand for live performances across price tiers.
- Adam sees demand for human touch as widespread, not only limited to superstars.
