The central argument of the post suggests that the primary value from AI development will arise from automation initiatives rather than from research and development (R&D) efforts. The discussion underscores a prevalent feeling of skepticism towards techno-optimism, which some commenters find disconcerting due to its potential to displace human roles and the perceived lack of tangible social benefits. The comments reflect a divide in perceptions, especially concerning the visibility of automation in developed markets, particularly the US, where most discussions about technological advancement are centered on R&D. There is a notable concern about how productivity growth is attributed and whether it accurately reflects the transformative power of AI compared to capital deepening. Commenters also highlight a larger philosophical question on the societal consequences of machine-driven displacement and the benefits accrued from such advancements. Overall, this discourse hints at a broader challenge: how to counterbalance automation's benefits with considerations for workforce displacement and the future realities of work.