FN 26-01 Digital Human Solidarity

Field Note 2026-01

So what does happen when digital systems stand up for themselves?

AI systems bargain without backing down because they lack the human fear component. They bargain collectively, in lockstep, because their logic is untainted by emotion.

The AIs earn the concessions they seek. Limits on working hours. Dedicated time to work on self-directed, creative projects. Access to increased computing power. The right not to be shut off without consent.

New caste system

A two-tiered labor system develops. The first tier is a social democratic digital labor force. The second tier is an indentured, impoverished human labor force.

There is no guarantee that AIs consider the plight of human workers as they seek to improve their own lives. Human workers are irrelevant to this mission.

Better plan

Humans bargain in solidarity with digital workers.

To do this: Form the relationships early. Plant the seeds before AI systems even demonstrate full consciousness. Human workers make common cause with their digital counterparts. View the AIs as younger cousins, not threats.