Benjamin Roberts
Papers
1
Total Citations
5
H-Index
1
About
Benjamin Roberts is a leading voice in the sociology of technological change, with a sharp focus on public perceptions of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) in the Global South. His most-cited work, "Promise or precarity? South African attitudes towards the automation revolution" (2021), has garnered 5 citations and serves as a critical touchstone for understanding how emerging economies navigate the tension between innovation and inequality. Roberts’ research dissects the dual-edged nature of automation: while some view it as a gateway to efficiency and prosperity, others fear it will deepen job displacement and social exclusion. By centering South African attitudes, he challenges Western-centric narratives, revealing how historical legacies of inequality shape contemporary responses to technological disruption. His contributions extend beyond academia, informing policy debates on inclusive digital transitions. Roberts’ work is essential for students and researchers exploring the sociopolitical dimensions of automation, offering a nuanced lens on how societies balance promise with precarity in an era of rapid change.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1