Robot and crime: Evidence from China

Abstract

This paper provides the first evidence on the effects of industrial robots on crime. We exploit the variation in the initial distribution of industrial employment across Chinese cities and the difference in robot adoption across industries over time to identify the impact of robot exposure on crime rates. We find that cities with higher exposure to industrial robots have lower overall crime rates. We also provide evidence that industrial robot exposure increases employment opportunities for low-educated adults, who are more likely to engage in criminal activities. These findings contribute to a growing body of research on the socio-economic implications of automation and offer valuable insights for policymakers aiming to address crime and promote economic development through technological advancements.