The computer age is visible in productivity statistics
Multiple recent empirical studies confirm that the computer age and digital technologies, particularly ICT and artificial intelligence, have measurably impacted productivity and efficiency statistics.
The claim that the computer age is visible in productivity statistics is specific and empirically testable. The retrieved literature contains several robust recent studies documenting positive links between information technology, AI, digital transformation, and firm or regional productivity (e.g., Papers [0], [6], [7], and [10]). While some literature historically discussed a 'productivity paradox', contemporary empirical evidence clearly supports the visibility of the computer age in productivity data. Therefore, the balance verdict is SUPPORTED.
Hongsheng Zhang, Yueling Wei, Shuzhong Ma. Overcoming the “Solow paradox”: Tariff reduction and productivity growth of Chinese ICT firms. 2021. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.ASIECO.2021.101316
Paper [0] shows that information and communication technology (ICT) firms achieved rapid total factor productivity growth after overcoming initial adoption hurdles.
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Han S, Sun X, Zhong S. Applications of artificial intelligence and urban innovation performance: A quasi-natural experiment based on the pilot zones for the innovative application of artificial intelligence.. 2025. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0329729
Paper [6] demonstrates that artificial intelligence applications significantly promote urban innovation performance and efficiency.
Song P, Li J, Wu N. How digital transformation in "diverse directions" activates enterprise total factor productivity: A mechanism study based on dynamic capability reconfiguration.. 2026. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0347212
Paper [7] finds that digital transformation overall significantly promotes enterprise total factor productivity, with AI yielding the strongest effects.
Yu H, Tang L, Qin Z, He Z, Huang Y, Ruan J, Wang S. AI policy instrument and urban carbon emission intensity: Spatial analysis of Chinese cities.. 2026. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.isci.2026.116228
Paper [10] identifies improvements in labor productivity as a main pathway stemming from artificial intelligence policy instruments.
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