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Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just a concept from science fiction—it’s a part of our daily lives. Whether it’s in our smartphones, home assistants, or workplaces, AI is becoming increasingly influential. But while technology experts are largely optimistic about its potential, the general public remains more cautious. A recent study by Pew Research Center sheds light on these differing views, exploring the perspectives of both U.S. adults and AI professionals.
Diverging Views: Public vs. Experts
The most striking finding in the report is the stark contrast between the public’s and experts’ outlooks on AI. While AI experts are overwhelmingly positive about the impact of AI on society, the general public has more reservations.
Experts are much more likely to believe AI will positively impact the U.S. over the next 20 years—56% of experts hold this view compared to just 17% of the general public. Moreover, experts are significantly more excited about the integration of AI into everyday life. A substantial 47% of experts express excitement about AI, while only 11% of the public shares that sentiment. On the other hand, 51% of Americans are more concerned than excited about AI, a figure much higher than the 15% of experts who feel the same.
The Impact on Jobs
AI’s impact on jobs is a major source of concern, particularly among the general public. While 73% of experts believe AI will positively affect how people do their jobs, only 23% of the public shares that optimism. The divide deepens when it comes to specific occupations. For example, a large portion of both experts and the public agree that jobs like cashiers and factory workers may be at risk due to automation. However, the general public is more likely to anticipate AI-related job losses in professions such as teaching, medical fields, and the arts—areas that experts believe are less likely to be heavily impacted.
Concerns About Control and Regulation
Despite the differences in enthusiasm, both the public and experts agree on the need for greater control and regulation of AI technologies. Over half of U.S. adults (55%) and experts (57%) say they want more oversight over how AI is integrated into daily life. There is a widespread concern that government regulation will be insufficient, with both groups expressing doubts about the government’s ability to adequately regulate AI development and deployment.
The issue of regulation is even more pressing when we consider the potential ethical concerns AI raises. Issues like bias, representation, and data misuse are at the forefront of many minds. According to the study, 66% of the public and 70% of experts are deeply concerned about the spread of inaccurate information by AI systems. Furthermore, bias in AI decisions remains a significant worry for both groups, with 55% of the public and 55% of experts acknowledging their concerns.
Gender and Representation in AI Development
Gender representation within AI development is another point of contention. Both the public and experts feel that men’s perspectives are better represented than women’s in AI design. While 75% of experts believe that men’s views are taken into account, only 44% believe the same for women’s views. The underrepresentation of minority racial and ethnic groups, including Black and Hispanic communities, is also a concern. The public tends to believe that White adults have the most representation in AI, with about 40% of U.S. adults acknowledging this, while experts are slightly more confident, with 75% of them feeling that White adults’ views are better represented.
Navigating the Future: How to Proceed with Caution
As AI continues to evolve, experts and the public alike agree that careful management is necessary. While AI technology holds immense potential, it also brings along a set of risks that need to be addressed through regulation and oversight. Both groups worry that AI will outpace regulation, leading to unintended consequences. They advocate for policies that ensure the responsible and fair deployment of AI systems, especially in areas where personal privacy and bias could have significant impacts.
The Role of Public and Expert Collaboration
For AI technology to have a positive impact on society, both the public and experts must work together. Experts may have a deeper understanding of AI’s potential, but it is the public’s concerns and experiences that can guide the direction of its development. As the landscape continues to shift, there is an urgent need for more collaboration between developers, policymakers, and the general public to ensure that AI systems are designed and implemented ethically.
Conclusion
AI is here to stay, but the path forward isn’t straightforward. While experts are optimistic, the general public’s concerns about AI’s potential to disrupt jobs, increase bias, and reduce human connection must not be ignored. Government regulation, public participation, and expert oversight are all key to ensuring that AI serves society in a way that benefits everyone, without leaving anyone behind. It’s clear that we need to be vigilant, informed, and proactive in shaping the future of AI.
Author Profile
- Syed Tahir Abbas is a Master's student at Southwest University, Chongqing, specializing in international relations and sustainable development. His research focuses on U.S.-China diplomacy, global geopolitics, and the role of education in shaping international policies. Syed has contributed to academic discussions on political dynamics, economic growth, and sustainable energy, aiming to offer fresh insights into global affairs.
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