Americans are closely split on whether artificial intelligence (AI) will improve, worsen, or have no impact on their lives and careers, according to a new survey by Public First in partnership with the Center for Data Innovation. The survey of over 2,000 U.S. adults was conducted to track public attitudes toward AI since a similar survey last year.
"In our polling, we saw that Americans had noticed the recent accelerating improvements in AI, but they were also deeply divided about whether we should be more excited or worried," said Vinous Ali, Managing Director at Public First. "While some Americans were keen to experiment with AI tutors, coaches, or even relationships, others pointed to the threats from misinformation, automation and superintelligence."
Nearly 6 in 10 Americans (59 percent) think it is likely that AI will increase unemployment. Yet less than one-third of American workers (28 percent) say they have used an AI chatbot at work; among those who have, 68 percent find it helpful and 38 percent consider it essential. Meanwhile, 70 percent support using AI for health diagnoses if double-checked by a human. Additionally, 43 percent of men under 35 express interest in having an AI girlfriend or boyfriend.
Among the biggest concerns, 71 percent fear AI-generated content could manipulate elections—a concern shared almost equally among Democrats and Republicans.
Regarding policy, 60 percent of Americans believe the government should move cautiously before creating new laws and regulations to avoid unintended consequences. Opinions are divided on policy priorities: 43 percent prefer staying at the technological frontier while 35 percent favor responsible development even if it allows other countries like China to take the lead.
"Policymakers have their work cut out for them," said Daniel Castro, director of the Center for Data Innovation. "As more people use AI and experience its benefits without their worst fears coming true, hopefully public support will follow."
The survey findings are being released at a briefing event livestreamed from Capitol Hill in Washington, DC.
Survey highlights include:
- On personal impact: 32 percent believe AI will make things better; 22 percent say worse; and 33 percent foresee no impact.
- On societal impact: 38 percent think AI will improve society; 35 percent think it will worsen it; only 9 percent see no impact.
- Emotional response: Curiosity about AI dropped to 39 percent from last year's 42 percent; worry increased to 37 percent from last year's 32 percent.
Opportunities identified:
- Majorities express interest in using AI for learning (73%), reducing energy usage (66%), and managing health (60%).
- Younger Americans show interest in an AI personal assistant (62%), tutor (51%), workout coach (51%), or financial advisor (51%).
Concerns raised:
- Misinformation's potential election impact worries 62%, with only 46% confident in detecting fake content.
- Most believe AI could increase unemployment (59%) but not wages (7%).
- Degree holders are slightly more likely to believe their jobs could be replaced by AI within two decades.
Policy preferences:
- Support exists for clear labeling of AI content (66%), banning its use in political campaigns (57%), and holding companies liable for misuse (64%).
- Less popular policies include new taxes on AI models and banning further research into AI.
"The challenge policymakers face is perfectly encapsulated by current opposition to more government funding for AI research," said Castro. "To remain a global leader in AI requires extensive coordination between public and private sectors and fostering responsible innovation."
Read the full report [PDF link].
Register for the briefing event [link].
Contact: Nicole Hinojosa ([email protected]).
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