Research on the Impact of Artificial Intelligence Development on the Wage Gap of the Labor Force: From the Perspectives of Labor Intensity and Task Cognition

Based on micro-level data from the China Labor-force Dynamics Survey (CLDS) and artificial intelligence (AI) patent data, this study explores the impact of AI development on wage disparities among heterogeneous labor groups. From the dual perspectives of labor intensity and task cognition, the paper analyzes how AI exacerbates income gaps by increasing labor intensity and enhancing task cognitive demands. It further investigates heterogeneity across regions, household registration statuses, and city sizes. The findings aim to provide empirical evidence and theoretical support for understanding the labor market impact of AI and for formulating differentiated policies to promote inclusive development. The study finds that: (1) While AI fosters economic growth, it also exacerbates income inequality. (2) AI widens the income gap between high- and low-skilled workers by increasing labor intensity and task cognition requirements. (3) Regional heterogeneity analysis shows that the income gap expansion is most pronounced in western regions, where AI suppresses low-skilled incomes in central areas and has weaker effects in eastern regions. The gap is also more pronounced among agricultural hukou holders and in large cities, while non-agricultural hukou holders are less affected.