---
title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: Here's a startling fact: in the 45 years…"
description: "\"Here's a startling fact: in the 45 years since the introduction of the automated teller machine, those vending machines that dispense cash, the number ..."
image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/81d/david-autor-14811_bank_here-s-a-startling-fact-in-the-45-years_590823.jpg"
---

#  Here's a startling fact: in the 45 years since the…

![“Here's a startling fact: in the 45 years since the introduction of the automated teller machine, those vending machines that dispense cash, the number of human bank tellers employed in the United States has roughly doubled, from about a quarter of a million to a half a million.” quote by David Autor](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/81d/david-autor-14811_bank_here-s-a-startling-fact-in-the-45-years_590823.jpg)   [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/81d/david-autor-14811_bank_here-s-a-startling-fact-in-the-45-years_590823.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/81d/david-autor-14811_bank_here-s-a-startling-fact-in-the-45-years_590823.jpg)

> “Here's a startling fact: in the 45 years since the introduction of the automated teller machine, those vending machines that dispense cash, the number of human bank tellers employed in the United States has roughly doubled, from about a quarter of a million to a half a million.”

[David Autor](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/david-autor/)

## About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Automation can increase demand for certain jobs, leading to more human tellers despite machines handling cash.

**In simple terms:** Automation can create jobs, not just replace them.

Key Takeaway

Recognize that tech may shift labor, not eliminate it.

Themes

technology labor market automation economic paradox

Mood

analytical neutral

Type

economic observational

When to use this quote

- banking sector hiring
- policy analysis
- career counseling

Key Concepts

Job creation skill adaptation service demand

Questions to Reflect On

- How does automation reshape job roles?
- What policies support workers in tech-driven changes?

A Different Perspective

Automation may also cause job displacement in other areas.

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[Computers](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/computers/) [Human](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/human/) [Introduction](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/introduction/) [Machines](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/machines/) [Vending machines](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/vending-machines/)

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