Final answer:
Retraining programs are crucial for workers displaced by automation, providing necessary skills for new jobs and adapting to technological changes, aligning with the idea that such programs are a responsible approach to automation (option b).
Step-by-step explanation:
The question 'Worker retraining programs for employees who lose their jobs to robots ________.' addresses the issue of how to deal with labor market changes due to automation. Considering the information provided, the option b) Are an essential part of responsible automation. is the most accurate answer. Retraining programs are vital for assisting workers whose skills have become obsolete due to technological advancements. Factory workers often have industry-specific skills, making it challenging to transition to different fields without additional training.
Moreover, automation tends to replace routine and lower-skilled jobs, which necessitates the need for retraining for those affected to gain higher-skilled employment. Lastly, education is emphasized as the key to mitigating structural unemployment, suggesting that retraining provides a pathway to adapt to new job requirements and technologies.