A prominent economist argues that the increa\sing trend of automation in the workforce will lead to significant economic growth in the long term. He cites data indicating that countries with higher levels of automation have seen increased GDP per capita and lower unemployment rates. He further posits that while there may be short-term disruptions in job markets, the transition to an automated workforce will create new job opportunities in industries that do not currently exist.
However, some critics challenge this viewpoint by suggesting that the economist overlooks the subs\tantial unemployment caused by automation. They point to industries that have already seen massive job losses due to mechanization and argue that the displacement of workers has already begun to outweigh any potential benefits of economic growth.
Based on this argument, which of the following best evaluates the reasoning presented by the economist?