Digital Working Environments. The De-Socialization of Workplaces

Abstract

Professional interaction is being transformed by digitization of communication and decision making. Both the increasing use of video conferences and the launch ChatGPT are at risk of contributing to the de-socializing work. Based on recent research on video conferencing and the use of AI, we identify dimensions of professional interaction, which are affected by this development. It is the very competitive interaction, which allows workers to excel. This interaction is diminished by digitization of communication and decision making. With reference to, theories on competition, work ethics and psychological wellbeing, we suggest rating workplaces according to the extent to which they satisfy these needs. Such a rating system would identify criteria and methods for improving organizations’ ability to integrate employees in collective agency. At the same time, this rating would require debates with ideological connotations regarding the legitimacy of competitive meritocracy. We suggest that scholars should engaging in such debates.