Communications of the ACM · 2025
Economist · AI & Labor · Expert Witness
Jonathan Hersh, PhD
I study how technology—especially artificial intelligence—reshapes work, productivity, and economic opportunity. I’m a tenured professor of economics and management science, a data scientist, and a consultant working at the intersection of AI, labor markets, and real-world decision-making. My work combines rigorous economic research with modern machine learning to understand how new technologies actually change behavior, outcomes, and incentives. My work begins with peer-reviewed research and extends into legal, policy, and public discourse.
I help legal teams quantify damages and explain AI/platform economics under scrutiny—and help journalists translate technical issues into clear stories.
Published In & Featured By
Expert Witness
- Economic damages and liability analysis in AI, platform, and technology disputes
- Expert reports, depositions, and trial testimony
- Conflicts check and initial assessment within days
Media & Speaking
- Research featured in top academic journals and discussed in major media outlets including NPR
- Clear explanations of AI’s impact on jobs, platforms, and the economy
- Available for interviews, background conversations, and rapid-response commentary
Research
My research focuses on the economic impacts of technology, with particular emphasis on artificial intelligence, labor markets, and applied machine learning. I publish in peer-reviewed journals, work with large-scale administrative and behavioral data, and regularly collaborate with engineers, data scientists, and policymakers.
Review of Economic Research on Copyright Issues · 2025
From Bootleg to Binge: User Migration and Legal Demand Following Brazil’s MegafilmesHD Shutdown
Explorations in Economic History · 2023
Sweet diversity: Colonial goods and the welfare gains from global trade after 1492
Expert Witness
Expert analysis and testimony in disputes involving AI systems, platform economics, API access, economic damages, and technology-driven market power. My opinions are grounded in methods accepted by courts and published in peer-reviewed journals.
Media
My work and commentary have been featured by major media outlets, including NPR, where I’ve discussed how AI is changing work and economic opportunity.
Media & Press ResourcesWriting
Artificially Optimistic
AI will make the world better. Getting there will be messy. An economist and machine learning scientist writing honestly about work, displacement, and the human side of the AI economy.
Read on SubstackBook
AI Proof Jobs
I’m currently working on a book focused on how artificial intelligence is transforming work—and what workers, firms, and policymakers can do to adapt. The book draws on economic research, real-world case studies, and hands-on experience working with AI systems in practice.
View Book PageContact
For expert witness matters, media inquiries, or academic collaboration. Conflicts check available upon request.
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