Will automation make us happier? – live chat

Join experts online on Thursday 25 February 1-2pm GMT to discuss how we can ensure the best possible outcome from automation

• Watch our new animation: The last job on Earth

Computer scientist Moshe Vardi recently told the American Association for the Advancement of Science that machines could put more than 50% of the world's population out of a job in the next 30 years. "We are approaching a time when machines will be able to outperform humans at almost any task," he said.

While we may not yet be facing total unemployment - robots still struggle to do what humans would consider basic, simple tasks such as folding towels - automation is already having profound effects on society and our personal wellbeing.