Unveiling the impact of digital transformation: a study on key disciplines, technological unemployment, and neo-Luddism in the textile industry

Abstract

Purpose – The primary aim of this study is to identify and analyze the key digital transformation areas and determine their impact on technological unemployment in the textile sector. In addition, this study explores whether digital transformation contributes to neo-Luddism or Robot Breaking. Design/methodology/approach – The advent of digital transformation has raised significant concerns, particularly concerning technological unemployment. This study focuses on conducting an analytical hierarchical process (AHP) analysis to determine the impact of different disciplines within digital transformation on technological unemployment. The investigation specifically delves into the ongoing transition to Industry 4.0 within the textile industry. This study uses a mixed-method approach, consisting of a literature review, bibliometric analysis, eight expert phenomenological interviews, and AHP. Findings – This study revealed that artificial intelligence, machine learning and deep learning are the most crucial disciplines that will affect the concept of neo-Luddism. The fact that technological unemployment in the textile sector is examined with AHPAnalysis makes this study unique. Originality/value – This study contributes to Industry 4.0 literature by examining the nexus of technological unemployment in textile manufacturing and the emergence of neo-Luddism.