A recent study by Pew Research Center indicates that American perceptions of artificial intelligence (AI) are largely cautious. Fifty percent of respondents expressed more concern than excitement regarding AI integration into everyday life, a slight decrease from 52 percent in 2023, but a notable increase from 37 percent in 2021.
Participants articulated specific worries about AI, primarily that it might hinder creativity and interpersonal connections. Only 18 percent supported any role for AI in dating and matchmaking, with a mere 3 percent comfortable with it having a significant influence. While there is some acceptance of AI in analytical roles—such as data analysis for weather predictions or medical research—many respondents prefer that AI remain excluded from their personal lives. Approximately two-thirds of those surveyed want AI completely removed from their romantic pursuits, and 73 percent believe it should not provide guidance on religious matters.
Concerns about the dissemination of misinformation were also prominent, with 18 percent rating it as their top issue, second only to the perceived detrimental effects of AI on human abilities and social connections. A majority of respondents emphasized the need to identify AI-generated content. However, 53 percent reported a lack of confidence in their ability to do so.
Interestingly, younger Americans showed greater concern about AI’s potential negative impacts. Among those under 30, 57 percent expressed severe concerns about AI eroding skills, compared to 46 percent of individuals over 65 who share similar worries.
Overall, the data reflect a general skepticism toward AI. A significant 61 percent of respondents expressed a desire for more control over the role AI plays in their daily lives, yet 57 percent feel they currently have little to no control over its integration.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/ai-artificial-intelligence/780184/pew-research-americans-want-ai-out-of-their-personal-lives