Emre Balikci, a lecturer in the economics department, published a guest editorial in the Idaho Statesman on March 26 titled, “Humans trust hard work. That’s why AI’s efficiency is its weakness.” He writes that while AI offers immense efficiency, it lacks the perceived value of human craftsmanship because humans instinctively trust hard work and personal care, giving status to these values as they signal authenticity.
Balikci studies global political economy and institutional economics. His research applies status analysis to understand consumer preferences in markets as varied as house appliances and real estate.