Doorman fallacy
Template:Short description The doorman fallacy refers to the error of reducing a complex human role to a basic function, and replacing it with a cost-effective automation while disregarding the broader, though not directly visible, value they provide.[1][2]
Origin
The term "doorman fallacy" was coined by Rory Sutherland in his 2019 book Alchemy. The term "doorman" refers to an example provided in the book about a hotel that replaces its doorman under the assumption that his sole function is to open and close the door, replaceable with an automated door. This overlooks the doorman's indirect functions, such as guest-recognition, security, and status signaling. Retaining the doorman would signal the hotel's premium status, allowing them to charge more, meaning the potential cost-saving measure might end up costing the hotel more than it saves.[1][3]
Use in AI
The concept has gained prominence in light of the increasing role of generative AI in automating and even replacing human roles in the workplace. Layoffs in white-collar jobs from the implementation of AI have already occurred. In 2025, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia laid 45 customer service staff off, replacing them with an automated AI voice bot. The bank reversed its decision amidst pressure from a workers' union, admitting it: "did not adequately consider all relevant business considerations and this error meant the roles were not redundant".[4]
See also
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 Sutherland, Rory (2019). Alchemy : the surprising power of ideas that don't make sense. London. ISBN 978-0-7535-5137-0. OCLC 1091689287.
- ↑ Lipnickas, Gediminas (3 November 2025). "The ‘doorman fallacy’: why careless adoption of AI backfires so easily". The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/the-doorman-fallacy-why-careless-adoption-of-ai-backfires-so-easily-268380.
- ↑ "Rory Sutherland's doorman fallacy" (in en-GB). https://www.mfpwealthmanagement.co.uk/blog/doorman-fallacy-rory-sutherland.
- ↑ Subin, Samantha (2025-10-22). "AI is already taking white-collar jobs. Economists warn there's 'much more in the tank'" (in en). https://www.cnbc.com/2025/10/22/ai-taking-white-collar-jobs-economists-warn-much-more-in-the-tank.html.