A recent study examining the opinions of 1,000 artificial intelligence specialists alongside 5,400 members of the general public has exposed a significant divide in perceptions about AI. Among experts, 56% foresee a positive influence from artificial intelligence on the United States over the next two decades, contrasted sharply with just 17% of ordinary citizens who hold the same hopeful viewpoint.
In addition, AI professionals largely express enthusiasm regarding AI’s integration into everyday life, with 47% showing excitement compared to merely 11% of the general populace. On employment prospects, 64% of Americans anticipate AI-driven job losses, whereas only 39% of specialists agree to this extent. Interestingly, both groups concur that roles like cashiers and journalists are particularly vulnerable; however, differing predictions surface for other occupations, with experts anticipating higher risk for truck drivers but lower impact on teachers and doctors.
Concerns have also been raised about the inclusivity of AI design processes. Nearly three-quarters of the experts surveyed believe the perspectives of men are sufficiently incorporated, whereas only 44% say the same for women’s viewpoints. Likewise, the voices of White and Asian adults are perceived as better represented compared to those of Hispanic or Black individuals. Despite these differences, there is one area of agreement: both AI specialists and the broader public recognize a pressing need for improved regulatory measures, highlighting worries about inadequate government supervision.