Human Resource Development in the Era of Artificial Intelligence: A Common Good Approach

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming how and under what conditions employees learn, work, and develop their careers. This has strong implications for human resource development (HRD), because AI goes beyond technology itself and presents social and ethical issues concerning whose capabilities are recognized, whose learning is supported, and whose career futures are protected. In this paper, we develop a perspective on HRD in the era of AI through a common good lens. A common good approach to HRD not only supports employees vulnerable to job displacement by providing them with skills and mindsets beneficial for their sustainable employment and careers, but also contributes to society by developing human capital and a sustainable labor force, as well as enhancing the wellbeing of the workers and their families. This approach requires organizations to balance both efficiency and human relationships and align organizational goals (economic and social) with common good outcomes for individuals and society. It transforms HRD from a traditional HRM function into a dynamic, justice‐based, relationship‐oriented, and sustainability‐driven system. We outline several new research avenues to advance the HRD field through a common‐good lens.