A philosophical look at Confucian humanity in the Age of Robots

Purpose This study aims to discuss whether the lasting Confucian philosophy could be used in responding to the consequences of technological impacts on jobs in the Age of Robots from a human resource management and development (HRMD) perspective. Design/methodology/approach Related literature concerning traditional Confucian philosophy and the power of Confucianism was examined. Key perspectives on this topic relating to smart technology were analyzed. Whether Confucian humanity could be used to promote ethical behavior and continuous improvement in the workplace in the Age of Robots was then discussed. Findings Three propositions were made: humans can better coexist with artificial intelligence (AI) and robots if humanity is valued, cultivated and practiced; some concepts of traditional Confucian philosophy can be applied to support management, employees and organizations to go through the technology-driven social change; and managements and human resource professionals can be the change agent and adopt Confucian paradigm for employees’ and organizational effectiveness in the Age of Robots. Research limitations/implications Future research on human–machine interactions and strategic plans to apply Confucian humanity on job restructuring in robotic workplace is recommended. Practical implications For organizational development implication, human resource professionals may identify business opportunities, develop human–machine interactions strategic plans, build out creative process and promote moral behaviors and ethical conduct with a growth mindset. Social implications For corporate social responsibility, management and human resource professionals can upskill and reskill employees to develop talents, avoid technology unemployment and advance their human skills to be competitive in the robotic workplace. Originality/value This study highlighted how human workers should work like a human, not as a robot, by building a lifelong character through a moral refinement process for self-fulfillment, social responsibility and social stability.