Americans are more than happy to let artificial intelligence fill the void that is mundane, day-to-day tasks. But when it comes to the more existential aspects of being human, well, AI can just stay away.
That’s according to a new Pew Research poll, which found that Americans are growing increasingly wary of the role AI plays in our everyday lives, and what it means for our creativity and ability to foster meaningful relationships.
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Conducted between June 9 and 15, the survey examined the views of 5,023 U.S. adults. It also painted a comparative picture, as Pew has been conducting similar polls since 2021.
Are people getting sick of AI?
The biggest takeaway? Half of U.S. adults –– compared to 37% in 2021 –– are more concerned about the increasing use of AI in daily life. Now, about the same number who were concerned in 2021, 38%, say they’re equally as excited as they are concerned, while 10% are reportedly more excited to embrace the AI revolution.
Along the same vein, 57% of respondents said the threat of AI to the social fabric is high, compared with 25% who hold the opposite view. Additionally, roughly 60% of American adults want more control over the AI in their lives, as opposed to the 17% who say they’re comfortable with the AI status quo, and 38% who don’t know how to feel about it.
And when it comes to AI media, Americans are on the offensive. Seventy-six percent say it’s extremely important they can identify images, video and text created using AI tools. Unfortunately, 53% feel they aren’t equipped to make those judgments.
What AI is acceptable?
None of this is to say Americans are throwing the AI-generated baby out with the bathwater, though. When it comes to certain aspects of society, artificial intelligence is still regarded as useful.
Take, for instance, forecasting weather, which saw a 74% approval rating. Likewise, searching for financial crimes and/or government benefits fraud, both of which were acceptable to 70% of respondents. Developing new medicines also has a 60% approval rating.
However, when it comes to governing the country, judging whether two people are compatible, or doling out religious advice, AI better clear the way. Each of those saw dismal approval ratings of just 27%, 18% and 11% respectively.
