— And What Society Can Do to Fix It
By Praja.lk Editorial Team
The world is changing fast. Technology and globalization are creating a new kind of economy. Some people are doing very well in this new world. But many others are left behind. American economist Robert Reich explains this clearly through his theory of three types of workers: symbol analysts, routine producers, and in-person servers. We can also see these same groups in Sri Lanka.
Who Are the Symbol Analysts?
Symbol analysts are people who work with ideas, numbers, and information. They are engineers, software developers, architects, researchers, and financial experts. In Sri Lanka, we can think of professionals in IT companies, doctors in private hospitals, or consultants in international organizations. These people are doing well because their work is important in a modern economy. They can earn money not just in Sri Lanka, but by working online for foreign companies too.
Who Are the Routine Producers?
Routine producers do work that is repetitive. Machines or people in other countries can easily do this work. In Sri Lanka, these are people in garment factories, office assistants, or workers who enter data into computers. Their work is important, but it is paid less. Many of these jobs are at risk due to automation and outsourcing. For example, if a company can get the same data entered by software or a cheaper worker abroad, they may stop hiring locals.
Who Are the In-Person Servers?
In-person servers are people who provide services that need physical presence. They are the waiters, cleaning staff, security guards, delivery workers, or domestic helpers. In Sri Lanka, this includes tea pluckers, three-wheeler drivers, and shop assistants. Their jobs cannot be done by machines or sent to other countries, but they are usually paid very low. During the COVID-19 lockdowns, we saw how important they are, yet how unprotected and underpaid they remain.
Why Is This a Problem?
People who are symbol analysts are getting richer. But the others are struggling. The gap between the rich and poor is growing. In Sri Lanka, young people from rural areas or low-income families find it hard to enter the modern job market. They lack access to quality education, English skills, or digital tools.
What Can We Do?
Robert Reich says we must make the economy fairer. In Sri Lanka, we can do this in a few ways:
- Improve education and training – Not just university degrees, but also skills training and English for rural youth. For example, a young woman from Monaragala who learns graphic design and English can earn money online.
- Support small businesses and entrepreneurs – Many Sri Lankans have talents in cooking, sewing, or farming. With support and access to markets, they can become self-employed.
- Raise minimum wages and protect workers’ rights – In-person workers should earn a living wage and have job security. We need stronger labour laws and better enforcement.
- Invest in digital access – The internet should be affordable and fast for all, not just in Colombo. This will help rural youth become part of the global economy.
- Create pathways to high-value jobs – Offer scholarships, mentorship, and job placement programs for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Conclusion
The new economy brings both opportunities and risks. If we do nothing, only a few people will benefit. But if we plan well, educate fairly, and protect workers, we can build a more equal Sri Lanka. As Robert Reich reminds us, the economy should serve the people — not the other way around.
