The media paints AI as a universal solution, but the spark of human connection, our life force or soul, defies machine replication. As we navigate this new era, the question of human-machine coexistence looms.

For a deeper dive into the soul of our social architecture, Harvesting Happiness Podcast host Lisa Cypers Kamen speaks with a Professor of Sociology at Johns Hopkins University and the 2024-25 Vice President of the American Sociological Association, Dr. Allison Pugh.

Allison discusses the research that led to her latest book, The Last Human Job, and the dilemma of human connective labor when data collection is prioritized.

Allison Pugh, PhD — Studying Human Connection:

• The book, The Last Human Job, unpacks the new ‘feeling’ economy and how humans in business will adapt to it.  {3:59}
• Connective labor is the term for humans working to connect deeply with one another. {7:42}
• The issue of prioritizing data metrics and standardized practices over human connection. {12:01}
• The human-machine connection lacks an emotional feedback loop. {21:55}

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Meet Our Guest:

Allison Pugh, PhD, is a Professor of Sociology at Johns Hopkins University and the 2024-25 Vice President of the American Sociological Association. She writes about how people forge connections and find meaning and dignity at work and home. Allison’s work has been widely published in The New Yorker, Time magazine, The New Republic, Aeon, The Harvard Business Review, and more. Professor Pugh builds a compelling case for preserving human work in an increasingly automated and mechanical world.

Searching for more about the soul of our social architecture, human connection? VIsit www.harvestinghappiness.com today!